Coronavirus Update March 11

Based on rapidly developing events, for the week following spring break, March 23-27 we will shift all classes to an online, e-learning system. There will be NO in-person classes that week.

Students unable to go home for spring break and this additional week will be able to stay in their residence hall, but need to register with their Resident Director.  All residential students will receive a message from Housing concerning how to register your location during e learning week, so we know where to best contact you.

We are working with Chartwells to have limited food service available at the MP during that second week.

BACKGROUND:  The World Health Organization (WHO) just declared COVID-19 a pandemic.  We have been monitoring the WHO information for the last several weeks, along with CDC and State Department advisories.  I was on a call with other ICI (Independent Colleges of Indiana) presidents a little while ago, and most schools are maintaining a “business as usual” approach until deemed appropriate/necessary to change.  I believe going online for the week of 3/23-27 is prudent now.  We will continually monitor the situation, globally and locally, and provide updates as warranted, with one on or before March 25 addressing when to return to campus.

SPECIAL EVENTS:  A number of you are involved in Tri-S, athletic, music, theatre and dance events over the next several weeks.  If you’re a student, please check with your coach, director or faculty/staff lead on the status of your event(s).  These and other unique activities/events will be decided on a case by case basis.

Offices will remain open and faculty and staff will be expected to carry out their duties during this time. Please know that any faculty or staff member who believes they are particularly vulnerable to getting the coronavirus should talk to their immediate supervisor and/or dean about performing their assigned job duties remotely. Our commitment is to provide safety and care for our AU community while we carry out our mission.

Thanks for your flexibility and resourcefulness.  Our prayer is that everyone in the AU family remain safe and healthy.

President John S. Pistole