Meet the University Chaplaincy | July 05, 2023

Hello Jumbos!

This week, we're introducing the University Chaplaincy at Tufts, starting with the featured video message from University Chaplain Elyse Nelson Winger and Muslim Chaplain Najiba Akbar. Their message highlights the inclusive nature of the University Chaplaincy, which supports all Tufts community members across our many religious, philosophical, and spiritual identities.

A vibrant on-campus hub, University Chaplaincy programs include worship services, concerts, and lectures, as well as leadership development and service opportunities. Their mission is to:

The University Chaplaincy team represents dynamic and diverse traditions: Africana Spirituality, Buddhist, Catholic, Hindu, Humanist, Jewish, Muslim, and Protestant. Each chaplain is available to support all Tufts students. You might seek out a conversation with a chaplain if you are exploring spirituality or faith, have questions about your future, or want to check in during a difficult time.

The University Chaplaincy currently collaborates with 15 student-run religious and philosophical communities. You can learn more about these communities and all University Chaplaincy programs through their website as well as their Facebook and Instagram accounts. (Fun Fact: The University Chaplaincy hosts the Illumination Ceremony for incoming students, a beloved Tufts tradition.)

Later today, you will be receiving the Spiritual Interest Survey. This is an opportunity to share more about yourself with the University Chaplaincy. Complete the survey for a chance to win a gift card.

Thanks for continuing to check your New Student Checklist regularly! Following are some of the important deadlines this month: 

July 7 – A&S BA/BS students: Advising Survey due
July 26 – A&S BA/BS students: Academic Essentials modules and quiz due*

July 7 – BFA and Combined Degree students: Schedule your required advising session. (Appointments begin the week of July 10.)
July 7 – BFA and Combined Degree students: Academic Essentials modules and quiz due*

July 7 – Engineering students: Advising Survey due
July 28 – Engineering students: Academic Essentials modules and quiz due*

July 31 – Academic Integrity Tutorial completed

July 31 – Deadline to waive student health insurance if you are already covered by insurance. (NOTE: Disenrollment and/or refunds are not available after July 31.)**

 *All students must complete Academic Essentials prior to scheduling a meeting with their advisor. 

**If someone will be assisting you with waiving insurance with proof of comparable health insurance and/or paying tuition (the first bill will be available for viewing in your checklist this month), you can provide access via "Invited Viewer" in your SIS account.

Please be sure to send your official AP, IB, and/or A-Levels scores to Tufts by August 1.

No worries! All webinars have been recorded and posted to our Orientation Programs and Communications web page. You'll find an archive of all of this summer's messages there, too!

Please contact Student Services at 617-627-2000 or StudentServices@tufts.edu.