Campus News
Observing and celebrating Ramadan, Passover, and Easter
Students observing these holy days may miss class or request adjustments to assignments or scheduled assessments. Some may limit or avoid the use of technology during certain portions of their observance.
Dear Colleagues,
This week, members of our Muslim community began observing Ramadan, which commenced at sundown on Tuesday, February 17, and is expected to conclude around Thursday, March 19, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.
In the coming weeks, members of our Jewish and Christian communities will observe Passover and Easter.
Passover (Pesach) begins at sundown on Wednesday, April 1, and ends on Thursday, April 9.
Western (Catholic and Protestant) Easter will be observed on Sunday, April 5. Eastern (Orthodox) Easter will be observed on Sunday, April 12.
Students observing these holy days may miss class or request adjustments to assignments or scheduled assessments. Some may limit or avoid the use of technology during certain portions of their observance. Students fasting during Ramadan from dawn to dusk may also require additional scheduling consideration.
Earlier today, the dean of students shared a message with students reminding them to notify their instructors in advance if they anticipate an absence or need an adjustment related to religious observance.
Consistent with university policy, we encourage you to provide reasonable accommodations to support equitable course outcomes when religious practices conflict with the academic calendar. At the same time, absence for religious reasons does not relieve students of responsibility for completing required coursework.
If you or other members of our instructional community request accommodation for religious observance, please consult with your department chair or college provost.
Thank you for supporting a learning environment that reflects our shared values.
Sincerely,
Paul
Paul Koch
Interim Campus Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor