A statement from the CSB and SJU Senates
This is a letter to the editor from the St. John's and St. Ben's Student Senates.
We understand this may be a very frustrating time as new guidelines are implemented on our campus for the next few weeks.
We hear you and we want you to know that your opinions and suggestions truly matter.
Right now, we are experiencing higher case numbers than ever before in the pandemic. As a result, numerous colleges, schools and businesses are reducing service hours to accommodate employment shortages.
As members of the CSB/SJU community, we must remain vigilant. It is essential to wear a quality mask correctly while in public spaces, get your booster shot and get tested.
If you’re looking for a job, we encourage you to consider finding an on-campus job that relieves some of the stress put on our essential workers.
As you have already seen, SJU Dining Services and CSB Culinary Services need student workers to keep our meal services open and available for students. Additionally, be kind to people in those crucial positions on our campus. The Senates give special thanks to our campus staff who are working hard and trying their best to keep our facilities open.
Our goal as Senators is always to listen and advocate for the needs of students to the administration, and this situation is no different. We want to be a listening ear always and we are committed to making your voices heard.
We simply ask that you are both respectful and constructive in your words and actions. We need to remember that the colleges are doing their best in order for us to remain on campus and in session and to have positive experiences as much as possible.
With that being said, the Senates are creating a more effective communication strategy between the students and the administration. In each of our Instagram bios, there is a link to a form where you can submit suggestions for how to ease the effects of the new restrictions. Please provide thoughtful responses as you see fit. The Senates will pass along your ideas to the administration.
As frustrating as this is, it is important to remember that we are not the only ones experiencing these changes and disappointments. We are hopeful that, with a dedication to safety, this wave will pass quickly, and the extra precautions put in place can be lifted. This can only happen if we all work together.