Baylor's strength in challenging times

Dear Baylor Family,

During the rapidly changing circumstances of our nation’s response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), I have reflected upon Baylor’s mission statement as a compass to guide the University’s actions and path forward. We continue to be a place dedicated to educating men and women for worldwide leadership and service by integrating academic excellence and Christian commitment within a caring community.

We have made some difficult decisions over the past two weeks as COVID-19 has gripped our country, and most recently, our campus community with three positive cases. Our students will complete the remainder of the semester via online instruction. While this is not completely new to Baylor, it challenges us to think differently about how we extend the sense of community that is a hallmark of a Baylor experience. Our faculty and staff are up to the challenge, and I have seen remarkable creativity, resilience and care as they prepare for this transition.

We also have suspended all University activities, events – including Athletics – conferences and large gatherings through the end of the spring semester. We’ll miss seeing our alumni and friends at Baylor Alumni gatherings and other University events over the coming months. As with our students, we’ll seek new and innovative ways to deepen the relationships that sustain us.

Our calling, as a community of faith, to serve Christ and seek God’s wisdom remains the unshakeable foundation of our life together as an educational institution. This calling is absolutely vital to us as we continue to address the challenges of today and look to our future, always acting for the long-term benefit of Baylor and our students.

I suspect many of you have questions as to how the coronavirus has affected the University’s day-to-day operations. I invite you to visit baylor.edu/coronavirus, where we have developed in-depth timelines and frequently asked questions regarding our decisions. You can also email us at coronavirus@baylor.edu.

As we walk through these challenging days together, let us remember to heed Jesus’ command to “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). Let us be kind, gentle and compassionate and help each other and our communities through these difficult and emotional circumstances.

For a period of time, we are of necessity forced apart in person; however, our hearts remain United throughout the Baylor Family, and our bonds will forever be strong. We eagerly look forward to the day when we can gather again in fellowship.

Thank you for your prayers for our students, faculty and staff, and your support of Baylor University.

Sincerely,

Linda A. Livingstone, Ph.D. President