On Tuesday, Aug. 24, 2021 — the first day of classes of the 2021-22 academic year — Interim Executive Dean David Horn sent the following message to all Arts and Sciences students.

Dear Arts and Sciences students,

Whether you are starting your first semester or are back with us again, welcome to Ohio State and the College of Arts and Sciences. We are so glad you are here.
 
This fall, we are excited to be welcoming more students back to campus, strengthening our relationships, and building our inclusive community. Over the past week, I have enjoyed watching the energy return to campus — especially seeing students move in, greet friends on the Oval, participate in Convocation, and check out their classroom, lab, and studio spaces. Starting today, we join you to begin the academic work of the year ahead and challenge you to ask new questions about yourself and the world around you.
 
Things will continue to look and feel a little different as we start the year, and it will be our shared responsibility to actively care for one another — not just with Safe and Healthy practices, but also with patience, flexibility, and good humor. While the start of a new academic year is a hopeful time, it also is a period of transition that can present challenges. Ohio State has a wide variety of resources to support your mental health and wellness. I encourage you to make yourself aware of the offices and programs, some of them student-led, that are available to you.
 
The faculty and staff of Arts and Sciences are also here to support you along your journey, whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student. You will have plenty of chances to get involved while making connections with your instructors, working in labs and studios, performing in recitals, getting out into our community, and building lifelong friendships.
 
I send you my best wishes as you start your first week of classes, and I hope that I may have the opportunity to meet many of you soon.
 
David Horn
Interim Executive Dean