To: OSU faculty and staff
From: Edward J. Ray, President
Date: May 5, 2020
OSU faculty, staff and students,
Many members of the university community – both students and employees – continue to face serious personal, family and financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During this time, Beaver Nation’s caring, can-do and resilient spirit is stepping up remarkably to support those in need. I am writing with a deep sense of appreciation to share an update on such efforts underway, indicate how you can reach out for help if you are in need, and share how you might provide assistance if you are able.
We estimate that up to one-third of OSU’s students will be financially impacted by the pandemic. To date, more than 2,300 OSU students have applied for federal CARES Act and OSU emergency funding relief through the Financial Aid Office. Unfortunately, federal regulations do not allow us to distribute CARES Act funds to students enrolled solely in Ecampus prior to March 13, 2020, students who are not U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens, DACA and undocumented students, and those not eligible for federal financial aid.
As well, I know that some faculty and staff are experiencing hardship.
All OSU students and employees are important. To assist as many community members as possible, the OSU Foundation – in collaboration with the university – has launched a fundraising initiative called Beavers Care with donors contributing over $500,000 to date in emergency funding for students and employees. We also are committing additional institutional resources to support students in need.
While students should apply for assistance through the Office of Financial Aid, employees may apply for COVID-19 relief assistance through the Office of Human Resources.
I am grateful to the OSU Foundation and the many generous donors who have stepped forward to make contributions. University senior leaders and OSU Athletics coaches have joined me to personally pledge over $932,000 to support student emergency aid, faculty and staff assistance programs and the university’s auxiliary units most severely impacted by COVID-19.
You already may have made a gift. If you have not, I ask you to consider making a personal contribution to the Beavers Care initiative. I know these are uncertain times for each of us but believe that any amount you can pledge will make a difference for someone in need.
Today is an opportune time to do so as the world comes together in a global day of giving in response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19: #GivingTuesdayNow. By contributing online to Beavers Care, you can direct your gift to any OSU area you choose, including a student emergency fund in the Dean of Students’ Office, college or OSU unit of your choice, or the faculty and staff fund. You also can make a gift to Beavers Care through payroll deduction if you are an employee.
By collaborating, we will support those in need and inspire others to assist those among us who are struggling.
Thanks for all you do as members of the Oregon State University community. I hope that you, members of your family and your friends are well during these challenging times.
Sincerely,
Edward J. Ray
President