Things are getting back to normal at Belmont, and students can expect in-person classes and activities — as well as the return of October break — in the fall semester.
In an email sent to students and faculty Tuesday, President Bob Fisher confirmed the university’s plan to resume in-person classes, returning students to the classroom at full or near-full capacity.
“Should the COVID-19 pandemic shift or evolve in a way that suggests a different approach, we will not hesitate to make adjustments to our fall plans,” wrote Fisher.
Students who suffered from burnout this year can also rest assured that the fall academic calendar allows for observance of traditional holidays. Students will also be able to take fall break over the long weekend of October 18-19.
A draft of the tentative fall 2021 academic calendar can be found on the university website, with the first day of classes scheduled for August 25.
Other changes will be coming to campus in the fall, including the re-opening of the campus fitness center. Student organizations and activities will also be able to meet in person.
Fisher wrote that the changes will bring back a more robust campus life.
With more COVID-19 vaccines becoming available to students in the coming weeks, many will be headed home for summer fully vaccinated. The university has received 1,500 total doses of the single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine so far, with the next mass vaccination clinics taking place on Thursday and Friday of this week.
“In the meantime, please keep your guard up, continue to follow the advice of public health officials, and sign up for your COVID-19 vaccine at Belmont!” wrote Fisher.
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This article was written by Anna Jackson and Sarah Maninger.