Thursday, August 11, 2022
Dear Students,
COVID-19 Rates Rising in Allegheny County
Allegheny County’s COVID-19 positivity rates have remained high this week, placing the county in the “high” level based on the CDC community guidelines. Note that as a result, indoor masking is recommended for all venues by the Allegheny County Health Department. Details on the “County View” may be found by clicking here.
These changes warrant your vigilance and continued commitment to the common good as part of the University’s COVID-19 response. For the latest guidance on prevention measures, please see information from the CDC by clicking here.
If you have symptoms, please quarantine and/or isolate per CDC updated guidance here. Students who test positive should remain in place and immediately contact Health Services by calling (412) 578-6474.
New This Week:
COVID Recommendations for Students
The CDC recommends that all students returning to institutions of higher education complete return testing before arrival. Therefore, the University is recommending that all students confirm a negative test result for COVID-19 infection three days prior to or shortly after arrival. This will contribute to the common good and help us get off to a great start to the academic year. The University will be offering on-site administered rapid testing free of charge provide by our partner Integrated Health 21 as we begin the academic year.
New Semester Assistance
As the year begins, students and families frequently have questions. We are here to help! If you have general questions, are not sure who to ask, or have a general concern, please contact the Student Affairs Office at 412-578-6087 or Student HUB at 412-578-6389. Please leave a message if you get voicemail and we will promptly return your phone call! We are looking forward to having you back on campus!
Pittsburgh Regional Transit Access for Students
Starting Aug. 15, you will have access to unlimited, fare-free rides on any Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT, formerly Port Authority Transit) system through the newly mobile U-Pass program. With a bus stop right outside our front door, you can explore Pittsburgh and all it has to offer completely fare-free and without hassle.
Get started in three simple steps:
- Download the Ready2Ride app
- Create a Ready2Ride account with your Carlow email address
- When boarding, on or after August 15, launch your app and show the driver your pass
Pittsburgh Regional Transit provides services to Oakland, Pittsburgh and throughout Allegheny County. Transportation systems include bus, light rail vehicle, and Pittsburgh’s famous incline. View online schedules by clicking here.
Lot & Driveway Closures
Please be advised that the main driveway will be closed on Friday, Aug 12 from 6 a.m. to noon to install a replacement rooftop unit on Antonian Hall. It is very important that nobody enters or walks in the swing zone. This area covers the University driveway from after the first-floor entrance on the University Commons up to the University driveway in front of Aquinas. Additionally, the swing zone includes the stairs between Tiernan Hall and the University Commons.
Access from Parking Lot B to and from Dougherty and Frances Warde Halls can occur by using the steps near the fish pond west of Dougherty Hall. If elevator assistance is needed, go through University Commons using the first-floor entrance/exit doors.
Separately, Lot C will be closed Thursday, Aug. 11 at 6 p.m. through 6 a.m. on Aug. 13 for repairs.
Reminders:
Introducing MyCarlow!
MyCarlow is the new student-facing portal application that allows you to view your academic progress, dining and printing monies, academic resources, campus resources and much more. Made by students for students, MyCarlow replaced Isadora on Aug. 1.
MyCarlow serves as a one-stop shop where students can find, among a myriad of communication tools, such as the three applications that students use most frequently: CelticOnline, Email, and Self-Service. Don’t forget to download the MyCarlow mobile app available on the App Store and Google Play!
Fall Registration
Students are encouraged to register for Fall 2022 classes at their earliest convenience, as we will soon begin evaluating sections to determine whether consolidation needs to occur. If you have a hold and are unable to register, you may find details in Self-Service. You may also contact the Student HUB, 412-578-6389, for assistance.
New Crisis Line Number
As a new resource for those that want to connect for help and support during a mental health, substance use, or suicide crisis, the U.S. launched a new three-digit phone number for users to call – 988. People can call or text 988 or chat online (988lifeline.org) to be connected to trained counselors. Find more information about the 988 by visiting their website.
Fall 2022-23 COVID-19 Policy Reminder
The University will continue to require vaccination for any student who does or will take part in an on-campus courses or activities. Students may request a medical or religious waiver. Those granted a waiver will be expected to complete weekly testing through Health Services. If you have not yet submitted your COVID vaccination information or exemption, please use the form here. Questions may be directed to Health Services (412-578-6474 or hcs@carlow.edu) and Student Affairs (412-578-6293 or studentaffairs@carlow.edu).
Carlow Fitness Center Summer Hours
As a reminder, the fitness center in St. Joe’s is open:
- Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Friday – Sunday: Closed
Help Needed? Submit a Care Report
Students occasionally struggle with affordability, academic barriers and connecting to community resources. If you become concerned about yourself or others, please submit a report and let the Care Team know about any needs, questions or concerns. We are active throughout the summer months and will contact you, or those you refer, to help. You may also contact the Student Affairs office at 412-578-6293 or studentaffairs@carlow.edu.
Sincerely,
Timothy P. Phillips, PhD
Vice President of Student Affairs & Dean of Students