Unfortunately, we have all been impacted  in some way by the COVID-19 pandemic. For those of you and your loved ones who have taken ill, we extend our prayers for full recoveries. For those of you who have lost loved ones, our deepest condolences. We all share your pain. We are in this together.

The pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of many student events and the spring athletic schedule. Student Life is organizing a number of virtual programs including tomorrow evening’s Virtual Open Mic program.  

I have held discussions with the SGA leadership to determine how students can stay engaged through Zoom and other virtual  programming platforms.

A word to all our students: Continue to eat well, stay in shape and keep your grades up.

I am extremely pleased to inform you that Essex County College will receive nearly $7.8 million from the federal Coronavirus Aid Relief & Economic Security Act, popularly known as the CARES Act. Of that total, $3.8 million will be awarded to our students as emergency aid. The remainder, when received, will be used to assist the College to overcome the negative financial impact the pandemic has affected on our operating expenses.

1. Students, please take advantage of our wonderful Success Coaches who work hard every day.  They are available to answer your questions in such areas as registration, advisement, academic programs, and financial aid to name just a few. They are part of our front line in daily communication with our students to ensure they continue on the path toward completion.

2. Our annual Commencement, set  for May 29, will be rescheduled. The Graduation Committee is working hard to design a suitable forum this spring to recognize student achievements.

3. Our annual Scholarship fundraiser, scheduled for May 7, will be held October 22, 2020. I look forward to your attendance and support as we raise critical scholarship dollars for our students.

While many of you have been off campus, we have been working on a number of College projects that are underway or nearing completion.

We are designing plans for a new West Essex Campus.

As we wrap up our State of the College Address, I again hope everyone is staying strong.  

Please follow all CDC guidelines. Eat healthy, exercise, talk to your classmates, colleagues, family and friends. You will feel better staying connected through video chats and phone conversations. Stay informed with the latest news. However, don’t spend too much watching the news. You need a break from it. If you are feeling stressed and need someone to talk to, contact our  Wellness Center to speak to a trained professional. Remember, you have value and purpose. Now more than ever, social scientists, business leaders and health experts agree that education is the number one  way to improve the lives of you and your family.

“My health is your health.” When I stay home, I’m protecting you. and when you stay home, you are protecting me. That’s what it is all about. During this crisis, we need to discipline  ourselves so we can reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please don’t underestimate the dangers of this virus. Every life is precious. Every life matters. We are in this together. “My health is your health.”

​​In closing, Thank you Essex County College Coronavirus Alert Emergency Task Force for your hard work. Thank you to all members of the President’s Cabinet. And thank you to the members of the State of the College Address Committee: Alfred Bundy, Mohamed Seddiki, Juan Estrada, Wayne Yourstone and Jonell Congleton for making today’s event possible.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can submit them to ECC-QandA@essex.edu and they will be answered. 

Finally, we need all of you to stay focused on the importance of quality higher education. We will continue to work together to get through this crisis.

Please be safe and well.