Dear Assumption Faculty and Staff,
With the implementation of what we hope to be temporarily enhanced safety protocols, I wish to provide the University community with an update on the current COVID-19 situation on campus, as well as information on campus events scheduled for tomorrow and Friday that will transition to virtual or hybrid.
Since the beginning of the semester, 113 individuals have tested positive for COVID-19 with over 60 cases reported in the last week. Fortunately, the University has not identified widespread classroom transmission of the virus at this time. Contact tracing indicates that transmission is occurring primarily when unmasked indoors in environments such as residence areas, off-campus apartments, local establishments, etc. We do know that following the safety protocols works in discouraging the spread of COVID-19.
Here’s what we need members of the campus community to do:
- Complete the symptom tracker in the AU Mobile App each day you are on campus.
- Stay home if you are not feeling well.
- Wear a mask, indoors and outdoors. Not on your chin, but over your nose and mouth.
- Get tested twice a week if you are vaccinated, three times a week if you are unvaccinated.
- For students, make a reservation to dine in Taylor to ensure de-densification of the dining hall.
- Wear your lanyard and University identification while on campus.
- If you are not vaccinated, get the vaccine.
LLC REDEDICATION
Due to the increased positive cases of COVID-19 on campus, the rededication of the Living Learning Center scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, at 3:30 p.m. will transition to a virtual event. A link to view a video of this recorded event will be shared with the community on Friday. The reception scheduled for after the event has been canceled to discourage large gatherings of individuals on campus.
CONVOCATION
President Cesareo is scheduled to deliver the Convocation address on Friday at 3 p.m. in the Jeanne Y. Curtis Performance Hall during which recipients of the Presidential Awards will be formally recognized.
You are invited to watch the address and awards ceremony virtually here or in the performance hall. Note that only 50 individuals can be accommodated in the performance hall to ensure social distancing. The reception following the Convocation has been canceled to discourage large gatherings.
I know this is a difficult time for members of our community. I know many are growing weary of the safety protocols, but we know that they work. We know the Assumption community can successfully endure this challenge. As other colleges and universities have transitioned to remote learning, Assumption is still offering in-person classes and events for students, thanks to your efforts to follow the safety protocols.
Sincerely,
Deb Cady Melzer, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs, Dean of Students
