An annual event at YSU that would normally attract an overflow crowd was a little different this year as University President Jim Tressel had only a virtual audience.

It was no surprise that President Tressell dedicated much of his 40-minute address to how the campus has responded to the pandemic and it's plans going forward.

He based his remarks on an acronym G.R.O.W. for gratitude, reassurance, opportunity and working together.

Gratitude includes financial support, from the government, the YSU Foundation, donors and alumni.

He reassured students that service to them won't waver.

"EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE AVAILABLE THAT YOU'VE EVER HAD, YOUR ADVISING OPPORTUNITIES, YOUR CAREER SERVICES OPPORTUNITIES, ALL OF THOSE THINGS WILL BE IN PLACE FOR YOU."

Tressel emphasized the importance of the penguin pledge to make safety the number one criteria.

"WE'RE GOING TO MAKE SURE THAT WE HAVE CREATED A VERY SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL OF YOU TO COME BACK TO WORK HERE, TO COME BACK TO STUDY HERE."

In closing, Tressel said working together will bring success.

"TO MAKE SURE THAT WHEN WE COME OUT OF THIS ysu IS GOING TO BE THE GREATEST UNIVERSITY IT'S EVER BEEN."