salemstate.edu
WELCOME BACK 20 Dear Viking Student, Welcome to the 2020-2021 academic year! Certainly, this will be a year like no other. I hope you recognize the resilience you have shown by making it through a uniquely challenging spring semester, whether you are returning to college or joining us for your first year. I know that for many, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought sorrow, financial challenges, disappointment over canceled plans, and more. I have been amazed, but not surprised, by the way Salem State University’s students have persevered under these circumstances. Salem State’s priorities since the outset of this pandemic have been safety and continued academic success for our students. We have been working all summer to plan for a fall that upholds this commitment. We are asking you to join us in this effort by completing an online training about safety best practices and protocols. More information about the care being taken as we partially repopulate campus is available here. I know that this semester will not look the way you had once envisioned, however, the value we offer—talented, expert faculty and committed support staff—will remain intact in our in-seat, remote, and hybrid courses and services. As we begin the academic year amid a pandemic, our country also reckons with the dire need to confront anti-Black racism and all forms of racism. At a time of increased physical separation this fall, we must continue bringing our community together to hold dialogues, look inward, and take actions that will advance racial equity on our campus. Salem State’s students have frequently advocated for campus reforms and we have improved because of them, but we still have much more work to do. I remain committed to making our campus as inclusive as we are diverse. Although events will be held differently from the past, it’s important for you to stay engaged. We have many in-person and virtual activities planned, including events around the presidential election this fall. These include non-partisan voter registration drives as we work to uphold our national record for high student voter engagement. The outcome of this election will perhaps be more impactful than any other in recent history. Please exercise your right to vote so that your voice is heard. Finally, please remember that our faculty, staff, and administrators, including myself, are here for one reason: you. We hope you will use the many resources available to you as a Salem State student. These are featured throughout this brochure, and I highlight just a few Key Resources on the next page. Success is rarely achieved alone. We are resilient Vikings, but part of that resilience is supporting one another. Thank you for choosing Salem State, and I look forward to being part of making this academic year one in which you learn, grow, and challenge yourself, all while remaining safe and healthy. Sincerely, John D. Keenan President
INDEX
Key Resources 2 Student Guide to On-Campus Safety During COVID-19 2-4 Residence Life Move-In Dates 4 Social Media 5 Welcome Back Commuters 5 First Year Experience 6-7 To Do 8 Student Accounts 8 Faculty Advisor 8 Add/Drop Registration 8 Educational Records 8 Book Advances 9 Health Insurance 9 Graduating this year? 9 Center for Academic Excellence 9 Academic Advisors 9 Peer Tutors 9 Disability Services 10 Connect to a Counselor 10 PEAR Program 10 Laptop Support 10 Center for Creative and Performing Arts 11 Parents and Family Council 11 Berry Library and Learning Commons 12 Salem State Bookstore 13 Sustainable SSU 13 Center for Civic Engagement 14 Community Service Initiative 14 Gassett Fitness and Recreation Center 15 LEAD 16-17 BEES and Brotherhood 16 Identify Specific Welcome Back 16 Bystander Intervention 16 Student Government Association 16 Food Pantry 16 Student Involvement Fair 17 Fraternity and Sorority Life 17 1 • WELCOME BACK
KEY RESOURCES • NAVIGATE APP AND STUDENT EMAIL Please check your SSU email regularly and be sure to download the Navigate student app via Google Play, the App Store or on your desktop. It allows you to make appointments with campus support areas, connect with faculty, your advisor, and more. • THE STUDENT NAVIGATION CENTER Contact your one-stop shop for questions about billing, financial aid, class registration, and more at navcenter@salemstate.edu or 978.542.8000. • THE CENTER FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Access advising, tutoring, mentoring, supplemental instruction, and more at advising@salemstate.edu or 978.542.5500. • YOUR FACULTY ADVISOR Whether you have declared a major or have come in as an undeclared explorer, you are assigned an advisor who can help you navigate the path to degree completion. • COUNSELING AND HEALTH SERVICES Telemedicine and limited in-person visits are available by contacting 978.542.6413 or 978.542.6410. Please be sure to contact counseling and health services if you believe you have been exposed to the coronavirus.
STUDENT GUIDE FOR ON-CAMPUS SAFETY DURING COVID-19 We are excited to welcome you back to campus! Things may look and feel different. Our new policies and processes for responding to the COVID-19 pandemic are rooted in keeping all our community members as safe as possible and align with city, state, and federal guidance. However, we cannot eliminate the risks and need your help in preventing the spread of illness on campus. Everyone needs to participate in the prevention strategies to protect one another and we appreciate your partnership in keeping our community safe.
SYMPTOM MONITORING REQUIREMENT On days you expect to be on campus, you MUST self-check for any symptoms suggestive of COVID. Should you have any symptoms or a known exposure, you must stay home and contact counseling and health services for further guidance. There are various symptom self-check apps, Johns Hopkins self-checker is a short and simple recommended app. Possible COVID symptoms could include any of the following: o
Cough
o
Fever
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Chills
• LEADERSHIP, ENGAGEMENT, ADVOCACY, AND DIVERSITY (LEAD Office) Learn about how to get involved on campus by contacting LEAD at lead@salemstate.edu or 978.542.6506.
o
Fatigue
o
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
o
Repeated shaking with chills
o
Runny nose or new sinus congestion
• DEAN OF STUDENTS CARLA PANZELLA AND STUDENT LIFE To ask questions and share feedback about campus life, student engagement programs and more, contact studentlife@salemstate.edu or 978.542.6401.
o
New loss of taste or smell
o
Headache
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Sore throat
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Muscle pain
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New GI symptoms
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FACE MASKS/ CLOTH FACE COVERINGS Face masks or face coverings must be worn by all students while on-campus when in the presence of others and in public settings. Cloth face coverings should be worn in any public indoor setting, even when physical distancing is maintained. Cloth face masks should be washed daily and before wearing again.
PHYSICAL DISTANCING Keep at least six feet of space between you FEET and others. Since people can spread the virus before they know they are sick, it is important to stay away from others when possible, even if you have no symptoms. Students on campus must follow these physical distancing practices: • Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people at all times, especially if in contact for more than 15 minutes. • Avoid confined spaces, prioritize use of elevators for accessibility. • Do not gather in groups. • Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings. • Follow university directional and occupancy signage.
HANDWASHING Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, or touching your face. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. According to the CDC, gloves are not necessary for general use and do not replace good hand hygiene.
AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE Students do not need to wear goggles or face shields as part of general activity on campus. Staying home when ill, physical distancing, cloth face coverings, good hand hygiene and avoiding touching your face are the most effective COVID prevention strategies.
CLEANING/DISINFECTION Students should avoid sharing spaces and items with others, to all extents possible. If using a shared workspace or item, you should wipe down the surface before and after use with an EPA approved disinfectant. Examples of shared items and spaces could include copiers, printers, pens, computers, A/V and other electrical equipment, coffee makers, desks and tables, light switches, doorknobs, etc.
GATHERINGS Avoid large gatherings. If gathering inperson, maintain physical distancing to all extents possible. Wear cloth face coverings at all times. Understand that outdoor gatherings are safer than prolonged indoor gatherings.
TRACK ON CAMPUS ACTIVITY AND CONTACTS • If you are identified as having been exposed to the virus or are diagnosed with COVID, you will likely be asked to share information about who you’ve been in close contact with and where you’ve been, both on and off campus. It will be easier to recall this information if you are mindful of this and keep either physical or mental notes of this information. • Don’t bring any unnecessary guests or visitors on campus. Non-SSU visitors could unknowingly bring infection to campus and increase the risk for our SSU community.
TESTING We encourage all students, with even the mildest symptoms, to be tested for COVID-19. Testing should become the new normal, should you have any symptoms or exposures, and can help us identify the virus early in attempts to prevent spreading and outbreaks. There will be limited on campus testing options in the fall. Health services can also help connect you to off campus testing resources. Once you’ve been tested, you MUST notify health services, so that we can review our university policies and ensure you have the healthcare you need.
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PREVENT OTHER ILLNESS To reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses on campus, it is strongly recommended that you receive your flu vaccine this year, as soon as you are able. Health services will provide nocost flu vaccines to students in the fall. Please also ensure your immunizations are complete and meet our state and university requirements. You can verify this information in your health services portal.
YOUR PERSONAL HEALTH
• De-densified campus • Establish cleaning and disinfection guidelines and schedule • Updates to HVAC systems to improve airflow • Reconfigure spaces to encourage physical distancing • Provide cloth face masks • Provide additional disinfectant supplies and hand sanitizer in classrooms and offices
• Make sure your health insurance is active. • All students must enroll in or waive out of the student health insurance plan. For questions about the health insurance requirements, contact the Student Navigation center. • Students with any underlying medical condition(s) that make it difficult to adhere to any of the public health requirements or who may be at increased risk for severe COVID-19 infection if exposed, should consult with Disability services to discuss possible accommodations.
COVID-19 PREVENTION REQUIREMENTS
• Updated signage to remind all to follow public health guidance • Updated Health and Safety policies for 2020-2021 • And more…
ON CAMPUS CONTACT INFORMATION COUNSELING and HEALTH SERVICES 978.542.6413 or your health services portal chsportal.salemstate.edu DISABILITY SERVICES 978.542.6217 access@salemstate.edu
Symptom Self-Checks Cloth Face Coverings
STEPS THE UNIVERSITY HAS TAKEN TO MAKE CAMPUS SAFER:
STUDENT NAVIGATION CENTER 978.542.8000 navcenter@salemstate.edu
Physical Distancing
Avoid Large Gatherings and Track Campus Activity
Handwashing
Prevent Other Illness
UNIVERSITY POLICE and SAFETY 978.542.6111 for on-campus emergency 978.542.6511 for non-emergency
Cleaning/Disinfecting
Personal Health
INSTAGRAM @salemstatewellness
Residence Life Move-In Dates* *Each student received a specific Move-In Time via their SSU Email in Early August
Move In Date Thursday, August 27 Upperclassmen/Transfer Friday, August 28 Upperclassmen/Transfer Saturday, August 29 Upperclassmen/Transfer Sunday, August 30 First Year and Upperclassmen/Transfer Monday, August 31 First Year WELCOME BACK • 4
Buildings Moving In
Time
½ Atlantic Hall
8:00 am - 2:30 pm
½ Atlantic Hall
8:00 am - 2:30 pm
Viking Hall Bates Complex ½ Marsh Hall Peabody Hall ½ Marsh Hall Bowditch Hall
8:00 am - 4:00 pm 8:00 am - 4:00 pm 8:00 am - 2:00 pm 8:00 am - 3:00 pm 8:00 am - 2:00 pm 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Connect with us on Social Media! Flagship Social Networks
Good Morning Commuters!
Salem State University
We look forward to welcoming all students back from a safe social distance, each morning for the first week of classes. Faculty and staff volunteers will be there with resources available.
Sponsored by the Commuter Club!
Salem State University (official main page)
Wednesday, September 2 from 8 am – 10 am on each campus
Thursday, September 3
@SalemState
from 8 am – 10 am on each campus
Friday, September 4 from 8 am – 10 am on each campus
Tuesday, September 8
Snapchat SalemState
YouTube
Salem State University
Salem State University
from 8 am – 10 am on each campus
Viking Virtual Resource Fair Wednesday, September 9 from 4-5 pm Trying to navigate your way to campus resources? Visit the virtual fair to learn about campus resources available! The first 25 people who attend will get a free t-shirt! Visit with virtual tables to find out all that’s available to students! Email commuter@ salemstate.edu to get a link to the fair. Sponsored by the Commuter Club!
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All members of the Salem State community are provided with a university email account and are required to use their Salem State email account for all university business communication. Your Salem State email account is the main way you will be contacted by the university, faculty, staff, and student organizations.
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Are You Checking Your Salem State Email?
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Firsts Matter First Year Experience Office Contact Information:
Zoom information will be emailed and posted on the Class of 2024 FB page to new first-year and transfer students in early September. Meet Your Major occurs for all majors from 11 am–12 pm in (Zoom information will be sent via email and posted on the Class of 2024). Students should note that:
Social Media Mathew Chetnik, Director Salem State Class of 2024 • If you are currently double-majoring, you should choose one of the majors to attend and follow up with the mchetnik@salemstate.edu First Year Success department afterward to gather information for the other at Salem State Franklin Chilaka, major Assistant Director @FYSuccess • Education majors will meet with their second major/ salemstate.edu/firstyear interest area from 11 am–12 pm and then meet from 12–1 firstyearsuccess firstyear@salemstate.edu pm with the School of Education (see below for specifics) FYsuccess 978.542.2618 • Exploratory Program students have a special meeting from 11 am–12 pm. If an Exploratory student is (1) sure of their intended major, and (2) sure that they will be Tuesday, September 1 | 11 am-2:15 pm accepted to that major they can attend that major's session. Otherwise, all Exploratory students should Opening Day: Convocation and attend the Exploratory Program session. If you have First Year Reading Experience questions, contact FYE at firstyear@salemstate.edu for All students are invited to the official welcome from advice on which session to attend. 11 am - 12 pm and first-years will meet with their faculty from Education Majors 1 - 2:15 pm. Both events are mandatory for first-year students. Education majors will follow the information outlined Zoom links will be sent via email on Monday, August 31. below in selecting which session to attend from 11 amMonday, September 14 | 11 am-1 pm 12 pm session. From 12-1 pm, education majors will meet separately with the School of Education via Zoom. Meet Your Major
Mandatory First-Year Events
Mandatory event for all first-year and new transfer students New first-year and new transfer students will meet with their academic department virtually as part of the annual Meet Your Major event. This mandatory event for all new students is an opportunity to: • Introduce students to the faculty within the department • Review the curriculum requirements, recommendations, and opportunities so that students understand the path to graduation • Identify the faculty advisors for each student and overview the process for contacting and meeting with them • Discuss major-specific information like minors, concentrations, internships, and more • Hear from upper-class students within the major • Learn about upcoming events, activities, student organizations, resources, and other department-specific initiatives or opportunities that students will want to take advantage of to help complement their academic experience WELCOME BACK • 6
11 am-12 pm Early Education and Care Please attend any academic department Meet Your Major session of interest to you which will complement your plan of study within education. Educational Studies Please attend any academic department Meet Your Major session of interest to you which will complement your plan of study within education. Education and Double Major (4 + 1 Program) Please attend another Meet Your Major event to serve as your double major. Please make sure your selection falls specifically within the College of Arts and Sciences. High School Education (4 + 1 Program) Please choose a subject of interest such as English, history, mathematics, etc. Specialized Education (4 + 1 Program) Please choose a subject of interest such as Spanish, art, theatre, etc.
MORE NEWS FROM THE FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE!
f irsts STUDENT SUCCESS SERIES All students are invited to take advantage of the fall student success series, a schedule of workshops designed to support both first-year and returning students in achieving their college goals. On September 1, students will be able to access the full semester schedule in Canvas to determine which workshop topics they want to attend—from learning tricks to utilizing Zoom to enhancing your note-taking skills, from time management tips to discovering the best apps to support your goals these workshop are quick and easy ways to begin enhancing your success skills. This is YOUR opportunity to take control of your grades!
CAREER PREPARATION WORKSHOPS It's never too early to begin planning for your dream career, in fact studies show that students who engage with career planning during their first semester in college are more likely to achieve their goals. First-year students and new transfers will attend one of four hour long sessions this fall designed to get you on track to achieve your goals. Sign up information will be sent via email on September 10 and students may select from one of the following days/times:
Tuesday, September 29 at 4 pm Monday, October 19 at 11 am Wednesday, October 21 at 12 pm Thursday, October 29 at 5 pm MAJOR/MINOR WEEK OCTOBER 5 - 9 Are you thinking about changing or declaring a major? Want to learn how a minor can help make you a stronger candidate for your dream job? This year’s online Major/Minor Week will feature sessions where you can speak with departments about their majors and minors: get advice from current students, talk with advisors about how this will impact your progression, learn how study abroad can fit into your plans, formally declare a major/minor, and more. Watch for more details later in September!
Questions?
MAJOR
MINOR
WEEK
email firstyear@salemstate.edu 7 • WELCOME BACK
Faculty Advisor Students’ primary advisor is a faculty member who will be assigned to them by mid-September. An email will be sent to students with that information. Students will need to meet with their faculty advisor during the advising period from October 15 through November 5, prior to registering for Spring semester classes.
First day of classes is Wednesday, September 2 • Pay tuition bill by August 12 • Submit completed immunization form to counseling and health services • Sign up for eRefund • Enroll in or waive out of university health insurance plan • Complete any financial aid to-do list items at navigator.salemstate.edu • Get ClipperCard ID card and download the GET app
Questions? Ask the Viking at salemstate.edu/ask or contact the student navigation center salemstate.edu/navcenter Email: navcenter@salemstate.edu
Navigate App Download the Navigate Student mobile app, it’s free in the Apple Store or Google Play. Find contact information, get university updates, schedule appointments, connect with classmates, and more! If you are not able to download or need an accessible version, visit the Desktop Website. Log into your Salem State account and click the Navigate link the black bar on top of the screen WELCOME BACK • 8
Add/Drop The day school add/drop period runs from Wednesday, September 2 through Wednesday, September 9. You may rearrange your schedule by adding or dropping courses via Navigator. Dropping an Undergraduate Day class after September 9 will result in a class withdrawal grade of W. If you need assistance adjusting your schedule, academic advisors will be available for consultation drop-ins via Zoom that students can sign up for in their Navigate account.
Student Accounts Your tuition bills are accessible online through Navigator in the Financial Account tile. For instructions on how to access your bill, make your payments online, establish a monthly payment plan, setup e-refunds to be direct deposited into your checking or savings account, and to set up authorized users to view and pay your bill, please visit Ask the Viking salemstate.edu/ask. Please note: we do not mail out paper bills. Updated monthly e-bills are generated online, usually during the second week of the month, and you will receive a notification via your Salem State email so please check your Salem State email regularly.
Educational Records and Your Privacy The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ensures the confidentiality of your education record and restricts the disclosure of your information to third parties, including your parents or other family members. If you want us to share any information about your educational record with your parents /guardians, you will need to complete a FERPA release via Navigator by clicking on the Profile tile. To find out more about your rights under FERPA, please visit salemstate.edu/ferpa to read the full FERPA policy.
Book Advances A book advance is issued as an advance from your refund, where the student’s total anticipated financial aid award for the semester is greater than their total semester balance. Individuals who are eligible can receive up to a $600 book advance. To view eligibility, students should log into their navigator account and choose Bookstore Advance Lookup under the Financial Aid tile.
Health Insurance Health insurance coverage is mandatory for undergraduate students registered for nine or more credits and graduate students registered for 4.5 or more credits. The university offers a health insurance plan. You must either enroll in this plan or waive out of it by showing proof of your own comparable insurance. For more information on the health insurance plan, please visit Navigator; choose Student Health Insurance under the Financial Information tile to enroll in or waive out of the insurance plan.
Graduating this Year? Don’t Forget to Apply! Applications for graduation are now open for fall 2020 in Navigator, and will be open for spring and summer 2021 on September 1, 2020. Applications for students completing this fall are due on October 15, and we also strongly encourage all students planning on graduating in May or August 2021 to submit applications as soon as possible in the fall semester. If you apply in September or October for May or August, you will receive a review of your remaining requirements so you can stay on track for the spring semester. Log into your Navigator account and click on “Apply for Graduation” under the Academic Progress tile to complete your application. Be sure to review your degree tracker report and visit the advising office in the Berry Library and Learning Commons with any questions you may have. For more information on graduation application deadlines, please visit salemstate.edu/graduation
Center for Academic Excellence The Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) helps students achieve academic success by providing a variety of academic services. These academic services include advising, tutoring, mentoring, supplemental instruction, and collaborating with other departments to ensure that students have the appropriate academic supports to be successful at Salem State. The Center for Academic Excellence is located on the first floor of the Berry Library and Learning Commons. Here are some key academic resources available to all students:
Academic Advisors We would like to remind students that Academic Advising is located within the Center for Academic Excellence on the first floor of the Berry Library and Learning Commons. In an effort to best serve our students and establish advising relationships, in addition to your faculty advisor from your major discipline, you have an academic advisor in the Center for Academic Excellence,visit our website: salemstate.edu/ advising. Additionally, Advising Peer Mentors, students who are trained and supervised to assist undergraduate students navigate the university landscape; are available to meet with students in the Center for Academic Excellence. Through shared experiences, peer mentors are in a great position to provide support both academically and socially. Peer advisors assist in familiarizing students with the university’s core curriculum, majors and minors, as well as course selection/registration process.
Peer Tutors How to request a FREE Peer Tutor Peer Tutoring helps you become a more independent, self-confident, and efficient learner so that you are better prepared to meet the academic rigors of college. Peer Tutoring is a free service provided to all Salem State University undergraduate students. Typically, students have the option of online or face-to-face peer tutoring, but in Fall 2020, peer tutoring will be offered online only through our online tutoring system, GoBoard. Text and video instructions are available at salemstate.edu/tutoring. Students must sign up in advance for one-hour appointments using TutorTrac. See the “Request a peer tutor” link on your Navigator account. Contact Megan Penyack with any questions regarding the Peer Tutoring program: mpenyack@salemstate.edu; salemstate.edu/tutoring. 9 • WELCOME BACK
Disability Services
Laptop Support
Disability Services promotes an accessible educational and campus-wide experience by coordinating services and accommodations for students with disabilities. Our staff works with students to provide appropriate accommodations in the classroom setting. In order to receive accommodations, students must register with the Disability Services office. Students may schedule an appointment to meet with an academic counselor via Zoom by emailing disability-services@salemstate.edu.
Connect to a Counselor from Wherever You Are Counseling and health services is open virtually M-F 8:30 am-5 pm. Call us to make a Same Day Connection teletherapy visit with one of our treatment coordinators. You’ll get same day support, and we’ll help you connect to one of our counselors or any other ongoing care you need to boost your success at SSU. We’re particularly ready to help students navigate the challenges of 2020, whether it’s loneliness from social distancing, burnout as a social justice advocate, racial trauma, or loss of a loved one. Call us at 978.542.6413 or message the general CHS Counseling mailbox at chsportal.salemstate.edu.
salemstate.edu/sits 978.542.7110
All incoming students are required to have a laptop computer. In conjunction with Salem State’s wireless network, a laptop computer allows students access to the university’s online services anywhere on campus. Information technology services (ITS) offers free walk-in laptop support for all current students in room 159 in the Classroom Building on Central Campus. Walk-in hours for laptop support are 9 am–8 pm, Monday through Thursday, and Friday 9 am–4 pm. Students are encouraged to stop in for help with wi-fi connectivity, virus remediation assistance, operating system issues, anti-virus and other software concerns, general troubleshooting, and other technology related questions. You can also contact the ITS helpdesk at 978.542.2036 or it-helpdesk@salemstate.edu.
About PEAR:
PEAR Program Coordinator: Jessica Stevens PEAR Confidential Advocacy Line: 978.594.7089 *Active 8 am-8 pm during the academic year Email: pear@salemstate.edu Office phone: 978.542.2987 Website: salemstate.edu/pear WELCOME BACK • 10
The PEAR (Prevention, Education, Advocacy, and Response) Program serves all Salem State students who have experienced sexual violence, dating/domestic violence, and/or stalking. PEAR confidential advocates can support survivors, provide information about students’ options and rights, and connect students to resources on and off campus. All services are free, trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and culturally inclusive. You can contact PEAR advocates via the advocacy phone and check the website for virtual office hours: salemstate.edu/pear. PEAR also helps coordinate prevention and education programs at SSU on topics including bystander intervention, healthy relationships, communication, and affirmative consent. Follow the Salem State Wellness Instagram account for health and wellness information, resources, and programming at SSU: @salemstatewellness
Center for Parents and Family Creative Council Going Virtual and Performing Join us for these upcoming events: Artss
Join the Parents and Family Council! We offer timely resources and guests at our meetings to help you support your student. We are moving our meetings to Zoom this year. Register for meetings on the Salem State webpage and links will be emailed out for upcoming events.
Connect with us on social media:
SalemStateArts @ssu_arts
The Center for Creative and Performing Arts sponsors events in art, creative writing, dance, music and theatre throughout the academic year. Join us and cheer on your fellow students in their performances, experience the work of guest artists or have the opportunity to see and hear what our faculty artists create. Admission is always free for Salem State students! Check out the fall schedule at salemstate.edu/arts.
• Thursday, September 10 AVP and Chief of Police Gene Labonte
• Thursday, September 17 Meet President John Keenan
• Thursday, September 24 “Getting Involved on Campus and in the Community” with:
• LEAD Office Director, Thomas Alexander and
• Executive Director for the Center for Civic Engagement, Cynthia Lynch
Contact Information:
This group serves as a fun forum for parents to communicate ideas, questions and concerns to the university. The council is a sounding board for the university when planning family activities and programs. Our informal group meets monthly on Thursday evenings. The Parents Council also promotes several events throughout the year, where parents are invited to campus to attend free events with their students and/or to network with other parents. We invite parents to join this group and/or participate in our parent activities throughout the year.
Karen Gahagan, director, kgahagan@salemstate.edu
For more information about the Parents and Family Council, please contact Bruce Perry from academic affairs at bperry@salemstate.edu
Angelina Benitez, project manager, ctr_abenitez@salemstate.edu
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Berry Library and Learning Commons The Frederick E. Berry Library and Learning Commons is a modern facility that offers a welcoming and comfortable learning environment. It houses various student services, as well as computer workstations, books, journals, media, and librarians and staff ready to help with your study and research needs. Here are some of the top things to know about the library this year:
Library Access and Safety Precautions As long as in-person classes are meeting, the library will be open to all Salem State University students, faculty, and staff by ClipperCard (your Salem State ID) and open by appointment for other visitors. Everyone in the library is required to wear a mask. Make sure to carry your ClipperCard with you at all times when on campus.
Library Hours of Operation Beginning August 31, 2020, Berry Library will be open to the SSU community from Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Due to the pandemic, the library will be closed on holidays and on weekends. For the most up-to-date hours of operation, go to salemstate.edu/ library/hours or call the recorded hours line at 978.542.6808. We follow state regulations regarding COVID-19 and University oversight, so if public health trends change in Massachusetts, hours of operation could be subject to change.
E-Books, E-Journals, and Online Research Consultations Library materials are available virtually 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Go to salemstate.edu/library to search for e-books, articles in databases, and research guides for subject-specific help. If you have a question, put in a WELCOME BACK • 12
library service desk ticket; or, if you need research assistance, contact a librarian directly to receive help over email, over the phone, or to make an appointment for an online research consultation.
and a flat-screen display with Apple TV and HMDI connections. Make your reservation online and then come to the Library Help Desk on the first floor to check out the key-card at the time you have reserved.
WiFi and Computer Access
Special Study Areas
The library has strong WiFi access throughout the 4 floors of the building. All tables have embedded outlets for easily keeping your laptop powered up. If you don’t have a laptop, there are desktop computers throughout the building, which are spaced at least 6 feet apart. Please sanitize your workstation both before and after use. Disinfectant stations (disinfectant spray and paper towels) can be found on each floor.
Reserve a Study Room Online Do you need a quiet place to use reliable WiFi to attend a class being held over Zoom? The library has 12 individual study rooms that you can reserve online at salemstate.edu/library. All study rooms are restricted to no more than 2 people at all times. Reservations can be made up to one week in advance and rooms may be reserved for up to two hours at a time (four half-hour time slots). Each room has a powered conference table, 2 chairs, whiteboard walls,
Although we’ve had to temporarily close the use of some study spaces, the library typically has a room for family study, a community study room, and a meditation room on the 2nd floor. During normal operating conditions, the meditation room is accessible by ClipperCard and keys for the other rooms are kept at the Library Help Desk. The library also has a comfortable, 2-person lounge area called the IDEA Den on the first floor which usually has a small rotating collection of browsable books on multiculturalism, diversity, inclusion, and social justice. We look forward to being able to reopen these special areas of the library when it is safe to do so. Please look for wellness, inclusion, and diversity resources to be highlighted on our webpage this semester while our spaces are temporarily offline.
Sustainable SSU Sustainability is a vital part of the culture at Salem State. Whether you decide to major in sustainability, take a class, or attend one of the many lectures or events on campus, it is easy to make sustainability part of your educational experience.
Get Involved
Bookstore Central Campus SalemStateShop.com
Avoid Long Wait Times For safety precautions, the number of customers allowed in the Bookstore at one time will be limited, please be prepared to wait in line outside the bookstore to shop or to pick up your pre-paid orders
Order Online Order online and ship to your home to avoid lines, or pick up at the store. Enter your student ID when you visit txbk.info/salem to see and order your full course materials list. You can also print the list out and bring it to the store with you to shop. (Expect longer wait times at store)
Join one of the student clubs related to sustainability such as Sunrise or MASSPIRG. Apply for a sustainability internship or scholarship. Attend one of our celebrated Earth Days events.
Commute Green • Bring your bike and helmet to campus. Both Salem and Marblehead have miles of bike paths and designated bike lanes and central campus is right on a bike path. • Bus 455 crosses campus going from the Wonderland T-stop to downtown Salem where you can catch the train to Boston. Charlie Cards are available at the Clipper Card Office while supplies last. They save you $.30 on bus rides and $.50 on the subway. See the MBTA website for how to add value to the cards. • 19 parking spots host EV charging stations.
Live Green Financial Aid is Available Financial aid opens August 1st and can be used online and in-store. Eligible students will receive an email notification when funds become available.
More Than Just Textbooks Shop online for our large selection of: • Dorm / Living Supplies • School Supplies • Technology - Apple, Dell, HP, Beats and MORE • SSU Gear • Face Masks and Covers
• Bring your water bottle to campus and fill it at one of the 34 water refill stations across campus. • Do your part in the dorms: Turn off lights and electronics; use a power strip; wash clothes in cold water; take shorter showers; and follow recycling signage.
Much more at salemstate.edu/ sustainability 13 • WELCOME BACK
Center for Civic Engagement The Center for Civic Engagement sponsors programming designed to promote advocacy, activism, community involvement, social justice, and civic participation. Civic Engagement is embedded in the fabric of what it means to be a Salem State Viking and is an important part of the student experience. This fall the campus will be abuzz with Election 2020 programming. Students will have the opportunity to register to vote and engage in social activities such as debate watch parties, films, and forums, to learn about contemporary political issues and get excited to vote on Tuesday, November 3. There will be virtual drop-in sessions to help students register to vote, vote-by-mail, and learn about the issues. The Center for Civic Engagement, located at MH 316A, will also be open on Monday-Thursday, from 10 am-2 pm. For more information about Election 2020 see: salemstate.edu/ssuvotes
Community Service Initiative Do you like to volunteer? Community Service Initiative is a student organization focused on volunteering and community service. Join us! We meet virtually on Tuesdays at 5pm. Email service@ salemstate.edu to be included in our meetings.
Virtual Volunteer Fair Wednesday, September 16 | 3-5 pm Sponsored by Community Service Initiative and the Center for Civic Engagement
Massachusetts General Election Calendar Deadline to Register to Vote for the General Election Early Voting at Salem City Hall, The Annex
October 17 - 30, 2020
Deadline to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot for the general election – Application must reach Salem City Hall – 96 Washington St. Salem General Election at Salem High School **Bus Provided from SSU
October 24, 2020
October 28, 2020
November 3, 2020
Vote-by-Mail must be postmarked or put in the Vote-by-Mail drop box at the fire station on Loring Avenue by November 3, 2020
Contact Information: Cynthia Lynch, Executive Director, 978.542.2873, clynch@salemstate.edu Kate Adams, Assistant Director, 978.542.2545, ctr_kadams@salemstate.edu Meier Hall 316A salemstate.edu/civicengagement cce@salemstate.edu
Social Media:
Salem State University Center for Civic Engagement
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@salemstateCCE @salemstatecce
Find out about what volunteer agencies are available locally! The first 25 people who attend will get a free t-shirt. This virtual fair will feature the opportunity to “virtually visit” with local community service agencies at different “virtual tables.” Some may be looking for volunteers to come to their site; some may be looking for volunteers locally; some will not yet be ready for volunteers but you may want to learn about them for when it is safe to volunteer there.
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Campus Life and Recreation
Gassett Fitness and Recreation Center
Gassett Fitness Center at Salem State University Gassett Fitness Center
salemstate.edu/campusrec The Harold E. and Marilyn J. Gassett Fitness and Recreation Center, which opened in November 2013, is a fully-equipped fitness center providing top-tier cardio, strength, and functional training equipment, locker rooms, recreational courts, and a studio for group exercise classes and other activities.
Facility Hours As SSU navigates the challenging landscape presented by the current pandemic, the university has made the decision to delay the opening of the Gassett Fitness Center and access to fitness equipment will not be open until further notice. The campus community should expect the fall semester to begin with the fitness center closed. We will continue to engage students through recreational and co-curricular experiences that enhance student success, connection and sense of belonging, as we navigate the challenges of COVID-19. Please contact Kelly Janos at kjanos@salemstate.edu with any questions.
Programs and Events The Department of Campus Life and Recreation offers a diverse range of cocurricular engagement opportunities throughout the fall and spring semesters. Fall 2020 will bring a variety of new offerings such as “Take & Make” DIY kits, “Ship to You” offerings so you can participate from the convenience of your current location, virtual events and in-person events following state, university and public health guidance. Watch for weekly offerings and save the date for some of our exciting and FREE fall events including: • Take & Make Canvas Bags (8/31)
Group Exercise Program
• Vikings BINGO Night (9/3)
Group Exercise classes kick-off on Tuesday, September 8 with weekly indoor, outdoor and virtual offerings. The full schedule and class descriptions will be available on our website.
• Novelty Event (9/9) • Sunset Yoga & Ship to You Kites (9/10) • Take & Make Rock Painting (9/15) • Ship to You Food Kit (9/24) • Gassett After Dark (9/25) • Take & Make Cooking Class (9/30) • Virtual Meditation and Mindfulness (10/7) • Ship to You Flour Sack Hand Towels (10/8) • Tie Dye & Pumpkin Painting (10/15) • Murder Mystery & Ship to You S’mores (10/22) • Take and Make Witches Brooms (10/26) and SO much more!
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Bold Educated Empowered Sisters & the Brotherhood Our women of color and men of color initiatives on campus are excited to welcome you to campus. If you identify as a student of color and are looking for community, getting involved on campus, meeting amazing people, and so much more, please consider joining the BEES and Brotherhood. Students will be able to participate in monthly programming, free swag, opportunities for tickets to different venues, and so many more culturally enhancing activities. If interested in learning more, please contact Junior Peña at Junior.Pena@ salemstate.edu.
Identity Specific Welcome Back Sessions! Join the LEAD Office for welcome back sessions taking place during the first week of courses. These sessions are intended to provide a virtual space to connect with staff, faculty, and students who identify as Asian/Asian American/ Pacific Islander, Black/African American, and Hispanic/ LatinO/A/X. Each session will be no longer than an hour and provide you with plenty of connection for your time here at Salem State University! If interested in learning more, please contact Junior Peña at Junior.Pena@salemstate.edu.
Bystander Intervention The Vikings CARE Bystander Intervention Program called “Step Up!” This program involves learning how to be an active bystander and speaking out/stepping up when you see or hear something that is problematic, such as a fight between a couple, helping a friend who has had too much to drink, confronting someone who uses racist language, and much more. Prosocial bystander behaviors can be used for all types of scenarios, including gender-based violence, bias/ discrimination, hazing and bullying, alcohol and other drugs, disordered eating, and more. It also means looking out for one another and being a good community member, which includes wearing a mask in public, physical distancing, and following all public health guidelines to protect others during a pandemic. If interested in requesting a training, please contact Jessica Stevens (Jstevens@salemstate.edu) and Junior Peña (Junior.Pena@salemstate.edu). WELCOME BACK • 16
Student Government Association The Salem State Student Government Association is the official governing body for the student body and the primary voice for students. We are elected by the students and exist for the students. SGA meets as a general body each Tuesday at 4:30 pm in the MLK Room in the Ellison Campus Center. All students are welcome to come and make their voices heard, or simply observe how a meeting runs! We have five committees that SGA Senators and any Salem State student may serve on: Civic Engagement, Sustainability, and Community Service; Finance; Rules; Social Justice and Inclusion; and Public Relations. These committees work throughout the academic year on issues pertinent to their mission and goals. Interested in joining the organization or seeking assistance with issues on campus? Please feel free to contact us at any time at SGA@salemstate.edu, or find us in our office located in the basement of the Ellison Campus Center!
Food Pantry More than 30% of college students in the U.S. face financial challenges at times that may include worrying about having enough to eat. Here at Salem State, we want our students to be able to focus on their academic success without the burden of food insecurity. The Salem State University Food Pantry exists to serve students who may need such assistance by providing a variety of non-perishable foods as well as toiletries and hygiene products. The Pantry is located on the first floor of the Ellison Campus Center next to the office of Counseling and Health Services, and is open Monday-Friday from 7:30 am-10 pm. For any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please email abrennan@ salemstate.edu or visit the LEAD office in the Ellison Campus Center room 218E.
The Food Pantry accepts donations at any time! Please leave all items on the silver shelves outside of the Pantry at your convenience, and email abrennan@ salemstate.edu to make us aware of your donation. Thank you!
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Student Involvement Fair Hosted by the LEAD office This event invites you to discover the many student organizations on campus and ways to get involved. This event will be held virtually on Wednesday, September 2, 2020 from 2 pm – 5 pm, register by visiting this link – Unable to make the live event? Explore all of our opportunities by visiting Presence – salemstate. presence.io/organizations
Fraternity and Sorority Life Fraternities and Sororities are values-based organizations that work to live the values of their founders and uphold the Salem State fraternity and sorority pillars of excellence: service and philanthropy, scholarship, community, and leadership. Being involved in fraternity and sorority life provides ample opportunities to develop into a successful citizen leader. Please reach out to Melissa Arroyo at marroyo@salemstate.edu with any questions. To learn more about Fraternity and Sorority Life at Salem State University, please visit: salemstate.edu/campus-life/studentinvolvement-and-activities/fraternities-and-sororities
Stay connected with LEAD Facebook – Salem State University: LEAD Office Instagram – @SSULEAD Twitter - @ssulead
Salem State University is committed to equal access for students, staff and visitors, and encourages all to participate in its programs and activities. People who anticipate needing accommodations due to a disability, or who have questions about access, may contact disability services at access@salemstate.edu. 17 • WELCOME BACK