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Dear ENVD students, 

I hope this note finds you healthy and well during this part of the year. I am so proud of our Design Buff community. Overcoming the challenges and obstacles that have been set before us has not been easy, but we are creatively paving our own path during these uncertain times. Keep up the great work. 

On Oct. 22, the Provost announced dates and plans for the spring 2021 semester. As stated, the spring semester is being planned to mirror the fall semester, with an expansion of on-campus social programming organized by the university. From a public health and safety perspective, the campus will continue in its current mode through the spring semester. Learn more about academic instruction–modes and decision-making, campus life, student engagement and support, and public health expectations. 

All spring ENVD courses will be remote
ENVD leadership has spent considerable time discussing spring and how we can best execute your courses while respecting public health and safety requirements. The short answer is, we will be following the university’s plan, which we know can fluctuate depending on campus and public health orders. All ENVD electives, lectures, seminars and studios will be taught remotely next semester.

Through remote instruction, we can take advantage of various digital and technological resources, invite international guests to participate in critiques and discussions, as well as prepare for the new workplace setting. Remote communications and design work is becoming the new norm.

In-person discussions and desk crits can also be challenging when practicing the 6-foot physical distancing guidelines. Your faculty have learned they can give better critiques and discussions through Zoom. Digital organization and online resources also allow for a more complete record and documentation of progress and engagement. 

ENVD building and facilities will remain open
We will continue to offer amenities such as building workspace, the Creative Labs Center and Digital Media Center. The ENVD building will be open for you to access with your BuffOne card. Both centers will be available for tech and software support, as well as your go-to for printing, 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting and more. The CLC and DMC will continue to operate as a web-based and in-person service model. Learn more about what support and resources are available for you. 

The health of the ENVD community is our number one concern, and while remote learning is not the preferred method, we are making the best of it. It is a new learning environment for all of us, faculty, staff and students. We’re adapting and innovating every single day–two very important fundamental skills of a designer. 

Stay up-to-date with our COVID-19-Ready webpage.

Learn more about spring ENVD courses
As you register for your spring courses, you can review ENVD electives and studios on our website. Don’t hesitate to ask your instructors and advisors questions. 

Thank you for your patience and perseverance. 

Sincerely,
Paul Chinowsky
Director