Dear graduate students,

As stated in this week’s Return to Campus update, the university will remain in Phase 2+ Return to Campus plan as the city of Nashville transitions to phase 3 of its Roadmap to Reopening Nashville plan on October 1.

Guidelines in the Vanderbilt plan are stricter than those of the city in order to best ensure the health and safety of the campus community.  By the collective efforts of students, faculty and staff, the university continues to have lower COVID-19 positive case percentages than the city and state.

I want to personally commend you for your ongoing efforts in keeping our infection rate numbers low.  Because of your commitment to safety protocols, we are able to successfully move forward with the fall semester.

As we make slow but steady progress toward a life more familiar, I ask you to continue to be thoughtful and intentional in your choices. Though the city is relaxing recommendations, the threat of COVID-19 still looms.

We all must continue to adhere to Vanderbilt safety protocols both on and off campus.  Wearing face masks or coverings and maintaining physical distancing are critically important in slowing the spread of COVID-19.

You are a valued member of the Vanderbilt community. We are invested in your personal and professional success. Mindfully adhering to health and safety protocols will keep the momentum to your success on track.

Stay healthy and safe,
Bunmi

Bunmi Olatunji
Interim Dean of the Graduate School

Need assistance?  Send us an email if you need support or would like guidance on identifying available university resources.

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^{Stay informed:  visit the Return to Campus website, FAQ page for graduate students,  Research@Vanderbilt and the COVID-19 Dashboard for current updates on the Vanderbilt community. Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19—learn more at Anchor Down, Step Up.}