Message from the Dean: Looking ahead to fall

August 13, 2020

The start of a new school year is just a few weeks away. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first college year (welcome!) your last (congratulations!) or your 37th (that’s me!), a new academic year is something exciting! This one will also be something different and something important. I’m so happy and grateful that we are doing this together.  

More than ever, the world needs students who are curious about science and passionate about how solutions come from understanding science in its larger contexts. Whether you are continuing your Briggs education, or just beginning, your education couldn’t be more relevant to our world.  

The campus will look different this fall. Your courses will be different as well. But one thing that hasn’t changed is that we are a community and that we are committed to supporting one another. Your professors are ready to connect with you and have worked hard on creating ways to ensure you have the close and supportive Briggs experience even while being physically distanced. Your advisors are available with online drop-in advising sessions the first two weeks of the semester. College staff are working closely with Holmes Hall staff to make sure you are safe and that you can remain engaged and active. Regardless of whether you are in Holmes Hall or learning from home, we will make good on our promise to you: to provide a community of support. 

Across the world and across all walks of life, people are grappling with challenges presented by the COVID-19 global pandemic. You are as well, I am sure. Yet, even in these difficult times, I remain optimistic. Why? Because of you. I see your tenacity, potential, and optimism. I believe in the contributions you will make to answer challenges today and in the future. Your time at Lyman Briggs will help prepare you to do just that. 

Spartans are known for looking out for one another. That compassion matters now more than ever. I am proud to know that Briggsies will continue to pursue excellence while being leaders in the university, promoting connection and safety.  

Together, we wil.

Michele H. Jackson

Dean, Lyman Briggs College