Dean's Community Message

March 31, 2020

Dear College of Engineering Community,

It’s day two of week three of remote learning, teaching and working—and it’s the last day of March! It has been quite the month, to say the least. One thing that’s getting me through is reflected in today’s quote, submitted by Sree Pasumarthi, project manager in the Office of Engineering Research Administration. Remember, to submit a quote, just email me.

“The future depends on what you do today.”
—Mahatma Ghandi

We’re in an unusual situation, isolated from one another and our normal activities. It is hard. The longer we’re in it, the harder it can seem. However, Ghandi’s quote reminds me that today’s minor sacrifice of simply staying home can make a world of difference for the health of others tomorrow. Is it hard? Sometimes. Is it worth it? Absolutely.

Also, somehow, it seems that we’re busier than ever! Between classes and work and navigating the ever-changing rules and regulations of life today, it’s important to take a moment to breathe.

Jim Breakall, professor of electrical engineering, submitted three free, musical escapes for us to enjoy in those moments:

I also encourage you to take a moment to appreciate each other. Katie Moats, an English major, published an open letter to professors in Onward State that nicely encompasses what we are all feeling: we are trying, we know you all are trying, and that’s the best we can do for one another.

Here are today’s updates:

PPE Donations

Penn State has set plans in action to donate any excess/available personal protective equipment (PPE) to front-line health care workers. According to Lora Weiss, senior vice president for research, any supplies available at the commonwealth campuses will be given to local community hospitals. Supplies at University Park will be distributed to University Health Services, Penn State Health, and Mount Nittany Medical Center. If you have available supplies in your unit, please contact Ruth Webber at rim100@psu.edu to conduct an inventory prior to distribution.

Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)

CAPS is still fully operational, even remotely. To access services, students should call 814-863-0395. For more information, please visit the website. Also, if you’d like to help someone else gain the support they might need, the Red Folder initiative is a resource available to faculty, staff, and others who interact with students to recognize, respond effectively to, and refer distressed students to CAPS at Penn State.

Gender Equity Center Programs

The Gender Equity Center, a unit of Penn State Student Affairs, is one of many entities working to make sure the education and connections continue for not just students but the entire Penn State and surrounding communities. Starting this week, the center is offering virtual engagement opportunities to help Penn Staters continue to engage in community.

Please stay connected. Additional information is available on the University’s informational site as well as the College of Engineering resources site. Connect directly with me LinkedInand follow the college on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Continue to email questions and comments to L-COE_CORONA_CRISIS_TEAM@engr.psu.edu.

Be well!

Justin Schwartz
Harold and Inge Marcus Dean, College of Engineering