Return to Campus Update: January 2021

The COVID-19 task force has initiated a proactive response to mitigate the increased risk of infection by asking departments to provide maximum flexibility in allowing employees to work remotely when job duties allow, and by scheduling exit and re-entry testing (more details below). 

Spring Semester

• We plan to return to campus as scheduled on the academic calendar, with face-to-face classes beginning on January 13, 2021. Some classes will utilize a hyflex model (instructors will advise students) when appropriate.
• The spring academic calendar has been modified, which includes eliminating spring break and replacing it with several wellness days throughout the semester. See the new spring calendar at the bottom of this webpage or view it here.
• Group gathering sizes, outside of the classroom, should not exceed five people and will be evaluated as the semester progresses.

Residence Halls

• For the first two weeks, all residential students will be required to wear masks when not in their rooms or using the showers. This will be evaluated again after January 25.
• The strict no-visitor policy remains in effect.
• Students may socialize anywhere inside their own building, maintaining six-foot distancing and while masked. Gatherings are limited to five in a group.

Re-Entry Testing (FACULTY AND STAFF)

• The university will be offering re-entry testing exclusively to faculty and staff on January 11 from 9 a.m.-noon in the Reardon lobby. Sign up here.
• If you do not participate in AU’s free testing, please make arrangements to get a valid COVID-19 test administered three to five days prior to returning to work on campus. (If you will be working remotely, the COVID-19 test is optional.)
• Those who test positive must report their results via this link before returning to campus in person and will be given individual and confidential counsel.
• If you have been vaccinated against COVID-19, please provide proof of vaccination here.
• If you tested positive over the holiday break, you still must register your previous test results in this link.

Re-Entry Testing (STUDENTS)

• Please provide a valid (PCR), negative COVID-19 test administered three to five days prior to returning to campus. Test results need to be uploaded here. 
• If you have been vaccinated against COVID-19, please provide proof of vaccination here.
• If cost or test availability is a factor, accommodations will be provided (please email covid19@anderson.edu if concerned). 
• Failure to report a valid test to this link will result in denied access to all buildings on campus. This includes but is not limited to our dining services, residence halls, the KWC, social clubs, and athletics. Also, you will only be able to participate in your classes virtually. Ability to resume your classes and extracurriculars can only be redeemed via a valid COVID test or evidence of vaccination. 
• Although non-infectious, those of you who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 90 days will continue to test positive. Therefore, you are waived from the requirement to produce a negative test result upon your return, but you still must register your previous test results in this link.

Community Care Covenant 

• As a community that cares and takes responsibility for each other, we are asking that all faculty and staff re-sign the Community Care Covenant prior to returning to campus for the spring semester. This requirement is another step in keeping campus open and the campus community healthy.

VeriFLY app

• In June 2020, the Anderson University campus community began requiring use of the VeriFLY app, a health screening solution to prevent the spread of COVID-19 cases on campus. The VeriFLY app allows each student, faculty, and staff to obtain a valid pass to access Anderson University campus facilities. This app is one of many measures we will be taking as a campus community to address public health and safety against the coronavirus and is required for use by all students, faculty, and staff. 

Food Service

• For students living on campus and enrolled in a university meal plan, “grab-n-go” meals will be available. All food venues will be open for pick-up only until further notice.

Kardatzke Wellness Center (KWC)

• On Wednesday, January 13, the KWC will reopen to current faculty, staff, and students only.
• Hours of operation: 
  • Monday-Thursday, 6 a.m.-11 p.m.
  • Friday, 6 a.m.-7 p.m.
  • Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Sunday, 1-11 p.m.
• Potential gathering size limitations could potentially be put in place if required by the Madison County Health Department.
• Face coverings/masks and physical distancing are required. 

We understand that you will have questions. 

Continuing to prioritize the safety of our campus community is going to take everyone’s patience and a commitment to ensure the wellbeing of ourselves and others. We will be communicating important updates, so you are advised to regularly check your email and AU’s coronavirus website regarding important COVID-19 updates. 

Spring Academic Calendar