Dear Franklin Community,
This update includes an update on the situation in Ticino, reminders for students finishing quarantine, and an update about our latest collaboration with Sophia University in Japan. We are pleased to report that the infection rate has slowed somewhat in Ticino and in Switzerland at large. This is very good news and suggests that the current restrictions are having the desired effects. The vaccination campaign has begun, and the canton has been a leader in getting the elderly and people at risk vaccinated. We will keep you posted as vaccinations progress. In the meantime, please remember to wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth in all indoor spaces and any outdoor spaces where you cannot ensure social distancing. Likewise, social distancing is both required and a good practice in our efforts to keep the community safe. Finally, please remember to wash your hands often, air out the rooms you frequent, and stay away from group settings. If you are not feeling well or have questions about your health, please contact Chris Schmid at medical services.
Students, we all look forward to welcoming the newest members of the community as they finish their quarantine. If you have questions about when your quarantine ends, please check the Moodle site for details. If you have run into travel problems or have had to delay your return, please update the arrival form and let us know when to expect you. We remind you that classes remain online this week. Your professors will let you know about the status of lab courses, language labs, and small seminars returning in small groups to the classroom beginning on February 1.
Finally, Franklin is pleased to announce an informational session for students interested in spending the fall 2021 semester at our partner institution, Sophia University, in Japan. If you think you might be interested, please join Professor Sugiyama and Dean Sara Steinert Borella on Wednesday, February 3 at noon to learn about the requirements, possible courses of study, and how to apply. Mark your calendars and save this link.