Jordan Smart

Salisbury University Town Hall

The Town Hall meeting, hosted by the President of Salisbury University in collaboration with the SGA and Graduate Student Council, focused on institutional communications and pandemic response. Key discussion points included the ongoing strategy for providing the best possible university experience while prioritizing safety through mask-wearing and social distancing, leading to lower positivity rates compared to county/state/nation benchmarks. Progress in diversity and inclusion efforts, highlighted by the hiring of the Chief Diversity Officer, was also noted. Student representatives provided updates on planned graduate student workshops, the revitalization of the Volunteer Center, and the continuation of the 'Actions Not Words' resolution efforts concerning curriculum change and diversity. Substantial time was dedicated to addressing student and employee concerns regarding COVID-19 protocols, including the availability and eligibility for the vaccine rollout (Phase 1C for educators and those over 65), the policy against mandatory COVID-19 vaccination, protocols for reporting social gatherings, increased testing frequency for certain populations (like student-athletes), and the distinction in COVID restrictions between varsity and club sports. Concerns about limited eating/microwave space for commuter students and the impact of recent departures from the Counseling Center were also addressed.

Extracted from official board minutes, strategic plans, and video transcripts.