News and Notes

Finals are behind us and we’re now in the countdown to our first in-person commencement in over a year. Amid this swirl of activity, I am taking time to look back and recognize how far we’ve come over the past nine months — an experience none of us could have possibly predicted.

The last days of the spring semester are upon us, and I wish all of our students the best on their finals this week. It has been an extraordinary year, marked by unparalleled challenges and accomplishments. You are almost at the finish line. Don’t forget to try to take some moments to reflect and look back at how far you’ve come – as individuals and as members of the Buckeye community.

I want to take the opportunity to address questions and concerns and provide information on the ways we are working to address safety issues on our campuses.

The verdict is now in for the trial concerning the murder of George Floyd. This, no doubt, releases many emotions and feelings due to the tragedy that occurred on May 25, 2020. I hear and honor these feelings. Now more than ever, we need to take care of each other and engage peacefully and respectfully.

The pace of life is picking up quickly due to the warmer weather. We’ve been through a lot over this past year and, like you, I’m eager to return to something close to normal.

We are writing to provide an important update on the use of the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine.

Our plans to reinvigorate campus life this fall are taking shape as we look forward to an autumn semester of engaged classroom learning, thriving student activities and community events that bring us together, and we need your help to reactivate our Ohio State traditions.

Ohio State University President Kristina M. Johnson is no stranger to leading in tumultuous times. Johnson competed for a spot in the Olympics, advised the Obama administration during one of the largest marine oil spills in history, and started leading the university in the middle of a deadly pandemic.

Spring is finally here! It’s a time to celebrate new beginnings as we shake off winter and embrace the warmth and opportunities of the season.