Statement from Dr. Peter King, FMU provost - March 19, 2020

Message from Dr. Peter King, provost of Francis Marion University, to students.

As you are aware, FMU is in a new and unusual situation due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster’s executive order of March 15 has officially closed the university through at least March 31, except for essential activities. The university extended spring break through Tuesday, March 24. We will resume classes on March 25 using online instruction. Classes will be delivered online until Friday, April 10, at which time the situation will be reassessed based upon the Governor’s actions.

The safety of the campus community is our priority, but we’re also focused on doing all we can to ensure our students can complete the spring semester. Our faculty is working diligently to implement online instruction. Expect to hear specific details from your instructors no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, March 23.

Many classes will be delivered through Blackboard, or other online systems so an internet connection will be vital. Wi-Fi is available on the FMU campus and the Rogers Library and the Academic Computing Center will both open while online instruction is being offered, even if the campus remains closed. Those of you who live farther away will need to rely on local sources. The Campus Technology Helpdesk (843-661-1111) will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. to assist students with, and offer advice on, securing connections. You should also ask your professors for assistance if necessary.

The Center of Academic Success and Achievement (CASA) will be sending an email soon offering useful tips on studying at home and participating in online classes. CASA staff is also available to answer questions and provide assistance, daily from 8:30 to 5 p.m. (843-661-1400).

As noted, the FMU library will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. The reference desk and library databases are accessible online through the library website (https://www.fmarion.edu/library/).  The campus bookstore will also be open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Online classes will begin next Wednesday. Check your g.fmarion.edu email account often to stay abreast of new information. The specific format for each class will be included in the information from your professors. Please be attentive about checking your email regularly.

Don’t forget to contact the Campus Technology Helpdesk or your professor if you need assistance.