Photo by U.S. Army Photo
Earlier today, an email was sent by WCU President Christopher Fiorentino to all students and faculty concerning the decision to move all classes online for the duration of the spring 2020 semester. This decision was made due to the spread of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus. At this time, no cases of COVID-19 are present on-campus, however, 11 cases have been reported in Pennsylvania as of March 10.
President Fiorentino said in his email that this decision was made as a “proactive” measure to “minimize social contact” in accordance with the CDC’s guidance.
At this time, regular online classes will proceed as scheduled, however, classes that were expected to meet in-person will not begin until March 30. All residential buildings on campus will close, and students will be asked to collect their belongings at a different time. Twitter updates have reported that students living in residence halls have been told that they will receive a 50% reimbursement for their living expenses. More information has yet to be released about residence life at this time, and so far, no updates from University Student Housing (USH) have been provided.
In a follow-up email to all WCU organization presidents sent by Charles Warner, the Senior Director of Student Leadership and Involvement, all clubs and student organization meetings will be canceled for the duration of the spring semester as well.
The Quad will continue to update our website on a weekly basis and provide updates as they come.