News and Notes

President Drake shared a number of updates related to the university's continued efforts to grapple with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. These include the planning of autumn courses, the extension of off-cycle salary increase and hiring pauses, the mailing of spring 2020 diplomas and more.

As a member of our Ohio State community, in recognition and celebration of Juneteenth, please set aside a part of your day today to contemplate and reflect on the meaning of emancipation, the importance of freedom, and the obligation that we all share to make this world a better place.

This week, President Drake shared information with the university community about a pilot testing program for those returning to campus as well as updates related to student housing and dining for autumn semester.

Together, we grieve for George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor — and so many other black and brown people who have lost their lives as a result of institutional racism. Today, I announced several steps Ohio State is taking to address this issue and be the model inclusive community of the future.

President Drake shared information with the Buckeye community about plans to resume in-person classes in autumn 2020.

President Drake updated the Ohio State community on the latest in the university's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including upcoming interim budgets, a planned furlough policy, a pause in annual merit and compensation increases and continuing efforts to support students. The university is not planning to institute furloughs at this time.

In lieu of a regular update to the university on matters related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, President Drake encouraged Buckeyes everywhere to reflect on the horrific events of the last week and what our community can do to create lasting change.

We must work as one to live up to our values and to create the just society that is our birthright.

During this Memorial Day weekend, President Drake updated Buckeyes on the university's transition back to on-campus operations, Pelotonia and summer camps, and congratulated the recipients of the 2020 Distinguished Staff Awards.