A Letter From Dean Dopson

March 23, 2020

 

To The Collins College Community, 

When the world is fundamentally shaken, what do we need to do?

That question had to be answered by all of us – in every hour, of every day this week. I have witnessed a truly outstanding commitment to our students, to the important work that happens at The Collins College, and to each other.

I cannot tell you how proud I am of our college. I have seen countless examples this week of people coming together, putting their own needs aside, and working to find solutions to problems they never expected to face, and questions they never expected to have to answer.

Together, The Collins College faculty, staff, TAs and student assistants made sure that students will be able to complete their courses this term. The need to make such a significant shift at an unprecedented speed was a challenge successfully met, and you have my deep appreciation.

We have made the decision to practice recommended social distancing and “Safer at Home” orders for the health and safety of everyone. All employees of The Collins College, student workers included, are working remotely and all courses have transitioned to a virtual format throughout the rest of the semester.

I also wanted to acknowledge the devastation this pandemic has made on the hospitality industry and its enormous impact on our students, alumni, and industry partners alike. Please know that we are working diligently to connect students to resources that will help everyone get through this difficult time. As students, you are our number one priority, and we are not only committed to your success, but to your wellbeing. If you need to connect with anyone from the college, view a list of contacts here. 

Together we are meeting the challenge. But this is just the beginning. There will come a day when this is all over when we can look back and reflect on our strength as individuals, as a community, and as an industry – and we will all be amazed at how far we’ve come.

Until that day, my commitment is that we will continue to make the best decisions we can, even in circumstances that are changing in ways and at a speed that would have been unimaginable just a short time ago.

I ask that you continue to support each other, take care of yourself and your family. Please remember that you are a part of a broader community and that we all need to look out for each other, especially those who are most vulnerable in such difficult times. 

My heartfelt and ongoing thanks to each of you for all that you contribute and for being an important member of The Collins College community.

Warmest Regards,

Lea R. Dopson
Dean & James A. Collins Distinguished Chair
The Collins College of Hospitality Management
Cal Poly Pomona