Today's Update: Tuesday, September 8

September 8, 2020

Dear Student Life Team, Last week I talked about the “What’s Your Why” campaign and shared why I wear a face mask and do everything in my power to stop the spread of COVID-19. 

I heard from a number of you who shared your why, and your responses and reasons are heart-warming. It shows we are all in this Together as Buckeyes, and caring for the people in our community is a shared value.  

Here are some of the “What’s Your Why” responses I received.  

My why – I care deeply about our students, faculty, staff and greater community.  I want to shine light and energy to help healing for us all - from the pandemic, racism, violence, fearful weather and more.  one huge step – I will wear a mask, stay distant, wash my hands and limit my exposure. 
Chris Rideout-Career Counseling and Support Services  

My why is: For Family, Friends, Myself, and My Fellow Man. I do not wish to see illness fall on anyone. 
Lujuana Carson-Housekeeping  

This is my “why.” My daughter looks like a healthy 20-something who could be a student on any college campus, but she was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis at age 7, which means she is immunocompromised. Keeping her and others who may have an invisible reason safe-guarded is why I wear my mask and frequently wash/sanitize my hands. 
Ellen Kocian-Facilities  

I wear my mask and socially distance because I believe the science. I not only care about the health and well-being of my family and friends, but also because I believe that we need to do this as a larger community in support of each other’s safety and health.  
Jodi Tobin-Disability Services  

My why is being able to continue to see the university and the students thriving and growing! I want every student who attends the university to feel the sense of community and togetherness that I felt as a student and now as an employee! 
Chelsae Nelson-Student Health Services  

Thank you to everyone who sent in their why. I’d like to share more, so feel free to send me yours so I can put them in another update for the rest of the team (and if you’d prefer I not share, that’s fine – I'd still like to hear from you!) It might also be fun to do another #MaskUp photo gallery, so if you have an interesting face mask and story, send me a picture and the information.  

Stay Scarlet and Great!  

Melissa