Stephen F. Austin State University

Hello, Lumberjacks.

As the semester draws to a close, I cannot thank you enough for the flexibility and resilience you have exhibited since Spring Break. The way you have responded to so many changes and challenges is awe-inspiring and has provided me with an excellent example of the SFA Way. Along with your faculty members, you have adjusted to online instruction and have discovered new and creative ways of learning. Many of you also have answered the call to serve others during this time of crisis, including our SFA nursing students and faculty who have been directly involved in slowing the advance of the pandemic in our local community. Thank you – we appreciate your willingness to serve!

Almost 1,500 of you were scheduled to walk across the commencement stage Saturday to be honored for reaching one of life's most important milestones. While our traditional spring commencement ceremony has been postponed, I am looking forward to the virtual ceremony which will be available at www.sfasu.edu/commencement on May 30. I believe we will all be inspired by this unique celebration for our graduates. Plans for August commencement are underway and will be announced soon.

All classes will be online this summer, and we are pleasantly surprised that our enrollment numbers are higher than typical for early May. I believe this is a reflection of the Lumberjack spirit – in the face of adversity, Lumberjacks are undeterred in pursuing their goals.

Your SFA administrators and faculty members will be working diligently this summer to prepare for the fall semester. Although we know online classes are an option if needed, we plan to be fully operational on Aug. 24 and will continue to keep you updated regarding our plans to open in a safe and responsible manner that complies completely with federal and state guidelines.

I wish you and your families a safe and happy summer!

Sincerely,

Scott Gordon
President
Axe 'em, Jacks!