A Message from Interim President Dr. Brian Lenzmeier
I am excited to share some updates on planning and work conducted across the University, as well as some highlights central to our approaching academic year. Thank you for the continued support and encouragement you provide, guiding our faculty, staff, and me as we prepare for a time of promise for our students.
Dear Alumni and Friends,
I am excited to share some updates on planning and work conducted across the University, as well as some highlights central to our approaching academic year. Thank you for the continued support and encouragement you provide, guiding our faculty, staff, and me as we prepare for a time of promise for our students.
Enrollment & Retention
First, I am excited to share a first- to second-year retention rate on the Storm Lake campus continues to increase, as well as the fact that 230 new students have already deposited, ahead of last year’s strong showing.
COVID-19 Planning
With a growing student body on our residential campus, we will be disciplined in following physical distancing guidelines and safety protocols, details I’ll share with students and employees throughout the coming weeks as our plans develop and evolve. The University will only host internal, BVU events through December 2020. Any external events scheduled to be hosted by external parties on campus have been cancelled, postponed, or will be conducted virtually. Athletics will follow NCAA guidelines.
Virtual Graduation
As the future of the pandemic remains unknown, we opted to honor graduates via a Virtual Commencement ceremony on June 20. We still plan to celebrate in person with the class of 2020 when it is safe to do so.
Phase II Forum Renovation
Construction in Siebens Forum continues to progress ahead of schedule! Ballou Library is being updated, and the Center for Academic Excellence and the IT Department will move into the Library. Common Grounds coffee shop also received a facelift. Thank you to our generous benefactors who seek to improve the campus experience without adding to the cost of tuition for students.
In closing, I want to thank all of you for your support and faith, factors behind the success of Buena Vista University. I look forward to our school year beginning, seeing our students back on campus, and having the chance to share with them my heartfelt gratitude for the University we love.
Best regards,
Brian