SJSU's Response to CSU Announcing Plans for Mostly Virtual Fall 2020

Sent: May 12, 2020
From: President Mary A. Papazian

SJSU campus community,

As you may know, California State University (CSU) Chancellor Timothy P. White announced today that all 23 campuses in the system will transition to a Fall 2020 semester where many classes will be virtual. Smaller classes, labs, dance studios, music instruction, art programs, research experiences, graduate seminars, and clinical opportunities may be held on campus if they can be adapted to meet physical distancing and other public health guidelines. As these courses make up almost 25% of our fall catalogue, we will need to review them carefully before we are able to make final decisions regarding how they will be delivered. 

While SJSU campus leadership had been strategizing for the best case scenario of returning to as much face-to-face instruction as possible, at the same time we also had been building flexibility into our plans to meet a variety of scenarios. Our commitment is to ensure that every student has an option for an SJSU education that works for them this fall. Additionally, to best serve students, faculty and staff who require different options for continuing their education or work during this pandemic, we will optimize class and work schedules, facility usage, and access to resources.

As we continue to develop plans for the Fall 2020 semester within the guidelines announced by Chancellor White and in alignment with our public health authorities, we will update the campus community regarding the following areas of focus: 

  • Teaching and learning
  • Student academic support programs
  • Student life, housing, and co-curricular programming
  • Athletics
  • Technology and business operations
  • Research and innovation
  • Phased return to campus

I understand that the CSU’s decision may, on the one hand, be disappointing to many students, faculty and staff and may, on the other hand, bring relief to others. When thinking about the college experience, the time spent on campus outside of class is just as meaningful as the time spent in the classroom. I can assure you that SJSU is innovating ways that campus life can extend to wherever you may be during the fall semester. We are united as Spartans, and together we will navigate the Fall 2020 semester with resiliency, determination and strength.