Florida Board of Governors Approves FSU’s Fall 2020 Plan

June 23, 2020

The Florida Board of Governors approved Florida State University’s plan for Fall 2020 during its meeting Tuesday at the University of Central Florida in Orlando.

FSU faculty, staff and administrators consulted with state and local authorities and health experts to develop a detailed but flexible plan that allows the university to adjust its strategy if the situation in the community changes in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan follows the guidelines set forth in the State University System of Florida’s blueprint for reopening campuses.

Syd Kitson, chair of the Florida Board of Governors, applauded FSU’s Fall 2020 plan. The plan outlines new policies, procedures and oversight for teaching, learning and working, including strategies to protect individuals at a higher risk for developing adverse outcomes for COVID-19.

“This plan has incredibly impressive detail and answers a lot of questions,” he said.

During their presentation, President John Thrasher and Provost Sally McRorie both emphasized the importance of being able to adjust the plan if the circumstances dictate but said their goal is to offer as many face-to-face classes as is safely possible.

“We’ve talked about flexibility numerous times … I’m very appreciative of that because as you know, things are changing on a daily — and sometimes hourly — basis,” Thrasher said. “What we’re talking about today in our Fall 2020 plan could obviously be very different than when we start at the end of August.”

Thrasher also called on members of the campus community to do their part by following social distancing guidelines, wearing face masks or coverings and getting tested for COVID-19. He also said that FSU will launch a public health education campaign, “Stay Healthy FSU,” to reinforce messaging with students and the community.

“I’m a big proponent of individual responsibility, and I’m going to really focus on that with our students when they come back,” Thrasher said.