University Communication to Students
Distributed: January 7, 2021
Dear Students,
Happy New Year! My hope is the holiday break afforded you some peace and renewal. As we approach the Spring semester on Monday, we do so within the unprecedented surge of the pandemic. Therefore, it remains critical that we apply with discipline the skills we learned in the fall to combat the contraction and spread of the COVID-19 virus. Please take a few moments to review this first communication of the Spring 2021 semester in full.
New This Week:
Classes Remote Through February 1
Due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, classes will be remote where possible through February 1. Questions regarding specific classes should be directed to the instructor of record. You may also find specific details about your course and how it will be delivered by viewing your schedule in WebAdvisor. In addition, please check out helpful videos with one specifically focused on understanding the way your course will be offered this Spring.
When in Doubt, Stay Where You Are
All Carlow students are encouraged to use caution during this time of the pandemic. If you are experiencing any symptoms, stay at home or in your residence hall room and consult Health Services (412-578-6174) or your Primary Care Provider. Also, please notify your faculty of your concerns to discuss keeping up with assignments. Doing so will keep the entire community healthy and safe.
Self-Quarantine and Self-Screening
All students are asked to self-quarantine 14 days prior to coming/returning to campus from the holiday break. Daily, and before coming to campus, all students must complete the daily screening application. Please visit the “Screening Schedule” box on our website for complete instructions.
Students attending on-campus classes will be asked to show verification of screening completion and a Low Risk – Green outcome.
Testing Required
All students who return to campus at any time during the Spring semester for on-ground classes are required to be tested twice. Testing will be available twice weekly, generally Mondays and Fridays, in the Frances Warde Hall Campus Assembly Room, and for cohort groups at designated times to help with efficiency. More information will be forthcoming.
Commitment to the Common Good
In general, and specifically when on campus, all are expected to honor our Commitment to the Common Good that includes always wearing a mask other than to eat, maintaining the recommended 6 feet of social distance, washing hands frequently with soap for 20 seconds and then rinsing thoroughly, and cleaning common surfaces before and after use with the disinfectant spray provided in common areas.
Campus Is Open
The State of Pennsylvania has encouraged remote work when possible. The campus itself is open and operational during business hours and after hours. Many at the University are working remotely, so please call via phone, reach out through Teams chat, or email before coming over. Some phones are ringing to computers, phone messages are being answered, and emails will be returned in a timely manner. Please leave a message or send an email to the respective office and allow a reasonable amount of time, as the semester beginning is quite busy. However, if you are having difficulties, please reach out to the Student HUB (412-578-6389), or Student Affairs (412-578-6293 or studentaffairs@carlow.edu) and we will be happy to assist.
Parking Passes Available
Information regarding Spring parking passes can be found on the Campus Policy Department webpage. Apply here.
Resources:
As the new year begins, look for communications next week regarding many campus resources available to support overall student success.
Campus Resiliency and Re-entry Information
All COVID-19 information on campus operations, weekly updates, and resources are available from the Carlow University Home Page Alert panel at the top. You may also click here.
Reminders:
Use the PA COVID-19 App
To help combat the surge and quickly identify contacts if you or one of your contacts tests positive for COVID-19, all State of Pennsylvania residents are urged to use the “COVID Alert PA” app. This free app can be easily downloaded to your cell phone from the Apple Store or Google Play.
All at Carlow University look forward to having you engaged in the educational learning environment and are committed to supporting your degree completion.
Stay safe and be well,
Timothy P. Phillips, Ph.D.
Vice President of Student Affairs & Dean of Students