Feb. 4: COVID-19 Update from Fr. John

Dear Community Members,

I write to follow up on my note from yesterday. Over the last few days, we have seen a concerning increase in the number of positive test results for COVID-19. While our positivity rate is still relatively low and the College is managing these cases, we need to take immediate measures to continue to ensure the health and safety of our community. Therefore, as of today, Thursday, February 4th at 6:00 p.m., the College is moving to all-remote learning until Monday, February 15th.

During this time, all students on campus are being asked to quarantine in their residence hall rooms, and campus will be closed to the public and visitors. Students, who are commuters, will only have access to campus for their bi-weekly testing. There will be subsequent communication from senior leaders later today, providing additional information.

Student, faculty, staff, and community safety remains our first priority. It is critically important that all of us adhere to the College’s health and safety protocols, especially at this moment when we see both an increase in cases on campus, as well as a lack of compliance from some members of our community. I do want to reiterate that any violations of campus quarantine or isolation protocols will result in disciplinary action.

Across the country and the state, coronavirus numbers are dropping as vaccination becomes more prevalent. By adopting a strict quarantine over the next ten days, my hope is that we can resume in-person classes, while continuing to physically distance and wear masks. I truly hope that these measures will allow us to be able to keep our students, and most especially our seniors, on campus to complete the spring semester.

I recognize that this is not how we wanted to begin the semester and ask for your understanding and full cooperation. Please know of my prayers during these challenging days and let us find ways to support and care for one another.

Sincerely,

(Rev.) John Denning, C.S.C.
President