Personal Conduct

Dear Students,

We know how much is going on and that you’re all in an unexpected and unprecedented state of transition. Campus has the vibe of move-out week right now, though without the joy of tradition that we expect at springtime here. It makes sense that you’re seeking ways to celebrate and say goodbye. At the same time, I ask all of you to conduct yourselves in ways that don’t put undue stress and strain on our dedicated staff, or our infrastructure. Middlebury employees are working tirelessly—around the clock—on your behalf in this most difficult time.

So, I’m asking for your help.

Before you leave campus, in the time you still have here, consider the following and encourage others to do the same:

• The spread of COVID-19 is real. Keep gatherings as small as possible in the interests of your health and the well-being of the entire College and town community.
• Do not play drinking games. These encourage the spread of germs. If you choose to drink, make sure to stay hydrated and nourished, which can reduce the likelihood that you’ll become ill from alcohol or other substances.
• You can prevent alcohol and injury transports to the hospital. Don’t put unnecessary and extra strain on our local medical resources.
• Step up and intervene if you see someone vandalizing our shared spaces, damaging buildings, trees, and more. I don’t need to explain this further.

I urge you to think about your actions and how you, personally, can contribute to making this transition less stressful on all of us. We need to work together.

Thank you.

Baishakhi Taylor

VP for Student Affairs and Dean of Students