Associate Dean's Message - December 13, 2021

Dear GSBS,

As Fall semester winds down I would like to take a moment, in the last Goods of 2021, to acknowledge what has been accomplished this semester and look forward to next year. Our class of first year students are successfully completing their first semester, both classes and rotations. The word on the street is that this is a great class who are poised to do great science. Additionally, we will have had more than 10 successful thesis defenses in which newly minted PhDs have presented exciting and forward-looking work. Finally, we have had a number of students awarded grants and other awards, showing the breadth and depth of our students’ research.

The end of the semester can be stressful, and the holiday break is a time to take a much-needed rest. The university is officially closed from December 24 – January 2. I hope you take this opportunity to step away from school and the lab a bit, take time to recharge and spend quality time with your family and friends.

On the COVID front, the University no longer requires the Daily Health Check. However, please be sure to self-monitor and, if you are feeling sick or have any symptoms that are of concern, remain home. All Tufts buildings still require masks indoors unless you are actively eating or drinking (and only during that brief period of time) or if you are alone in a small private room with a closed door. Please be sure your mask is fully covering your nose and mouth at all other times. The University will continue to hold booster and flu shot clinics in Boston and Medford. If you have completed your Pfizer or Moderna vaccine series more than six months ago or received a Johnson & Johnson vaccine more than two months ago, you are eligible for a booster. Visit the COVID Vaccine Information page for clinic and other COVID information.

Have a restful holiday break,

Dan Volchok, Associate Dean