Dec. 1, 2021

To the community, 

Given the rapidly changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent rise in coronavirus transmission in our community and throughout the Upper Valley, we have made the difficult decision to cancel any Dartmouth-sponsored indoor holiday celebrations planned for December. We realize that this decision is both abrupt and disappointing, however, as much as we want to be done with the pandemic, it is clear that this virus is not done with us.

Canceling celebrations and parties is a way for us to reduce the risk of virus transmission in our community. By limiting the spread of infection at social events, we can preserve our ability to continue in-person operations on campus. Many in our community are also understandably nervous about gathering in person to celebrate the holidays. With these factors in mind, please cancel any in-person, indoor social events this month. As has been the case throughout fall term, operationally necessary work-related events may continue as planned. 

We recognize that this request will be disheartening for those who have spent time and energy coordinating end-of-year celebrations, and we want to thank you for your efforts to create events that celebrate your teams’ hard work over this challenging year. However, due to the way that the pandemic has evolved in recent weeks, we believe that hosting in-person indoor holiday gatherings is not wise at this time. 

We hope you and your staff will find other ways to recognize the year’s accomplishments – perhaps virtually or in spirit. We continue to be inspired by the way our community has dealt with the challenges of this past year.  

We wish you and your families a happy, restful holiday.