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UT Austin: Our New Reality

March 18, 2020

Dear Longhorns,

The spread of COVID-19 has changed our lives for the months ahead. This is true for every member of Longhorn Nation. 

On the Forty Acres, we have had to make dramatic changes to how we educate students and conduct research to protect our students and the campus community. Yesterday, we announced that all classes will be online for the remainder of the semester, and we asked students not to return from spring break for their safety and in the interest of public health. This is our new reality, at least for the time being. One defined by uncertainty and change every day. 

This spring semester isn’t what we had anticipated, but I have already seen everyone pull together and persevere. And that’s what it’s going to take right now — a unified effort at UT, comprising students, faculty, staff and alumni. 

I know that many of you have reached out in recent days to express your concern and to offer support to those students who are struggling. I am grateful for these offers of generosity and kindness, for which we will follow up and see what we can do together. But for now, I just want to make sure that everyone in Longhorn Nation is taking care of themselves.  

On a personal note, I want to thank each of you who reached out to see how Carmel and I have been doing. We’re both fine and we’re so grateful for your concern. 

Your compassion reflects the extraordinary character of Longhorn Nation. Thank you! 

Sincerely,

Gregory L. Fenves
President

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