April 1, 2020

Dear Marquette Staff Colleagues,

The University Staff Senate (USS) hopes this email finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy as we write to offer comfort and communication.

Words that connect us matter more than ever, especially when anxiety is part of the new normal. YOU matter always, so know that your Staff Senate continues to hold virtual meetings to represent the well-being of all Marquette staff. This includes this week’s meeting with Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Joel Pogodzinski, who shared how grateful he is for the staff’s adaptability during this time of change.

We want you to be assured that he and university senior leaders are working daily through Marquette’s COVID-19 response team. The cross-functional team, which includes many individuals from across campus,  consists of five work groups that are tirelessly tackling all facets of the pandemic’s impact on the university — from moving all spring semester courses online to making decisions related to the domino-effect of having to do things differently. Our senior leaders are being as proactive as possible, practical and not overreactive. No one can predict implications of the virus beyond spring, and there is no existing roadmap to follow. What is certain is that they are working to mitigate the pandemic’s impact, particularly on the institution’s finances, and are committed, as Joel stated, “to balance our economics with our mission.” That means looking out for the people who make this university great, and it also means communicating information and decisions on a timely basis.

What does that mean for us as staff? It means looking after and connecting with each other. This is a stressful time that has us all concerned and in need of support. With so much uncertainty, it is important to remember that we can lift up others through a kind word, staying positive and staying informed by listening to credible sources of information, including the university’s COVID-19 website, Marquette Today and updates from senior leadership. For our part, your USS commits to reach out through messages of comfort and communication to help us feel connected as a group.

WE ARE MARQUETTE. Those words mean something — in good times and bad. Take comfort and find strength in being part of such a special community.

May God protect you and your loved ones.