May 11, 2021

To Farmingdale Students:

Recent developments, including increasing vaccination availability and new SUNY, state, and federal guidelines, have made it possible to begin restoring the traditional campus experience. A return to in-person learning is necessary for FSC to continue to deliver the exceptional educational and applied learning experiences for which we are known.

FSC expects to welcome students for in-person learning and living in the Summer and Fall 2021 semesters. Our residence halls will approach full capacity, and athletics and student activities will be restored, consistent with state and federal guidance. Of course, our face-to-face courses and programs will follow any relevant health and safety requirements that may be in place. Beginning in early July, the College will transition from primarily virtual to largely face-to-face classes, office hours, and services.

The academic schedule built by the Provost’s and Registrar’s offices maximizes the use of campus space to permit a safe return consistent with physical distancing requirements. For Fall 2021 we will not have our typical activity hour, as we needed to make use of all available space to accommodate current distancing requirements. We have, however, tried to minimize the number of courses and sections offered in that time block.

We have learned that SUNY students with an on-campus presence will be required to be vaccinated for the Fall 2021 semester contingent upon the vaccines receiving full FDA approval. COVID vaccines are widely available and I strongly encourage you to avail yourselves of the opportunity to be immunized. At this point we anticipate that the use of face coverings indoors and in group settings may remain in effect, as well as some level of COVID testing. Our understanding from the CDC is that fully vaccinated people need not participate in routine testing.

While we await further guidance from New York State and SUNY, we anticipate that students will have an extensive on-campus presence in fall including a return to on-campus activities and events. We look forward to seeing everyone back on campus this summer and fall.

John Nader
President