Sept 16: Weekly Update from President Nowaczyk

Sep 16, 2020 5:00 PM

As we reach the one-third mark in the semester, I hope we are settling into some routines, even in a situation that is anything but. Here are some updates:  

Second Universal Testing: On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 21-23, we will conduct our second population-level universal COVID testing. Check for an email from FSU COVID testing <info@baseline.mail.campuslabs.com>, sent around noon today, with signup information and instructions. (If you are a student who is entirely online and not on-campus, an employee not coming to campus for the entire semester, or you have previously tested positive for COVID-19 since July 1 and have documented your case with Brady Health Center or Human Resources, you are not required to test and will not receive an email.)  

Outside of the group mentioned above, testing is required for ALL students, faculty and staff at the Frostburg campus. The combination of surveillance testing and population-level testing is among the several key COVID-19 indicators the University is monitoring to determine the raising or lowering of our institutional recovery response levels. 

I again want to commend the team that is putting together this massive effort, as well as those who have stepped up to staff the stations in the Cordts PE Center, including an impressive showing from FSU Athletics. Thank you for your help!  

 

Feeling the Strain: If you are feeling the strain of the circumstances surrounding this year, know that you are not alone! We reached out to Dr. Susan Mandell, clinical director of FSU’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) for some advice.  

Here is what she offered: “My first point would be to normalize that we are experiencing an unprecedented event and might be struggling with the circumstances. To combat that, some things that can reduce our vulnerability to stress are: 

  • maintaining a routine,  
  • getting an adequate (not too much or too little) amount of sleep,  
  • eating a balanced diet,  
  • engaging in exercise,  
  • avoiding substances,  
  • taking care of our physical health, and  
  • engaging in activities that we enjoy.  

“Maintaining social connections, even virtually, is important. These daily habits can make a difference in our mood. Other tips are remembering to breathe and be mindful of what we are feeling, rather than trying to distract or avoid our feelings all of the time.” 

CAPS is hosting a weekly virtual support group on Fridays at noon for students through the rest of the semester. You’re invited to share your challenges/concerns in a safe and non-judgmental space. Access the support group at this link.  

And as always, CAPS is also available for individual support for students if needed. Call them at 301-687-4234.