Marking the Successful End of an Unprecedented Semester

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

We made it!

Congratulations on reaching the close of a spring semester that no one could have expected or completely prepared for, but with Shenandoah pride and spirit, we not only met the challenge that confronted us, we rose above it!

Students, your dedication and creativity knew no bounds. You amazed us with your ability to accept the challenge of learning online. We admire the way you adapted to share your talents, skills, and compassion with the Shenandoah community and beyond.

Faculty, we thank you for adapting so quickly to deliver a virtual education. You set a high standard, and the students followed your amazing lead. Through your ingenuity and patience, Shenandoah maintained its academic excellence and will continue to graduate students who will go on to make a difference in the world.

Staff, we couldn’t have done any of this without you. You helped steer the ship during this tough time, all without batting an eye. We thank you all, especially those who continue to come to campus to keep it safe — from Public Safety to Physical Plant.

Although there will be no end-of-year celebrations in person, we hope that you join us online for our first-ever virtual graduation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Saturday. A number of special guests will share messages of hope and congratulations — messages that we sent specifically for our Shenandoah students. We will also present the graduating class with a unique gift that reflects how much they’ve shined during their time at SU.

In addition to our sincere appreciation, you all have our support and encouragement as you continue to navigate these uncertain times. Shenandoah is a collaborative and resilient university that has stayed focused on the mission of inspiring critical thinking, lifelong learning, compassion, and ethical, responsible contributions for the betterment of communities around the world. Shenandoah will prevail and, at the end of this crisis, each of us will emerge and rise stronger and ready for a new future.

Tracy Fitzsimmons, Ph.D. | President & Adrienne Bloss, Ph.D. | Provost