Latest communications from CMU

Dear friends and colleagues,

As we move into June and continue to plan for the fall semester, I want to take this opportunity to update you on what summer will look like on our Mount Pleasant campus.

I have several updates to share with you today related to campus operations through the beginning of the fall semester. More details follow on each of these:

• Most campus buildings and offices will reopen June 15.
• Phased return for employees will continue, with a timeline revision.
• Summer II classes will resume as scheduled.
• Most campus events remain canceled or postponed through Aug. 6.

Reopening CMU offices and buildings

Returning our campus to a "new normal" will begin June 15, when most buildings and offices on campus will reopen for normal business hours. This includes public buildings such as the Bovee University Center and Park Library.

While most will reopen in June, offices will not be fully staffed until later in the summer. More details on employees' return to campus are included below.

The reopening and staffing of academic offices will be determined — and communicated to necessary employees — by each college dean.

Phased return for employees

To achieve a reopening of campus buildings, we must continue with our phased return to campus for CMU employees, which was announced last month. With our plan outlined above, as well as another extension to Michigan's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order through June 12, the timeline of this plan will once again be adjusted.

Tier 1 employees (as outlined in the plan) can now begin returning to campus June 15. I also encourage supervisors to work with employees who are essential to have on campus before June 15 to facilitate an earlier return.

Further guidance on returning to the workplace — with a focus on protecting yourselves and others — will be provided to you soon.

Summer II classes

As we reviewed Summer II session (June 29-Aug. 6) classes, we realized that very few are face to face, and for those that are, class sizes are small. Thus, we determined that we could safely hold them on campus and in person, as scheduled, following guidance and protocols from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including social distancing, face coverings, self-monitoring and sanitation practices.

These face-to-face classes will involve implementation of the HyFlex model — which combines face to face instruction with remote access, providing students a means to decide how they wish to access the learning experience — supplemented with alternative delivery modes, where appropriate.

Campus events

Most on-campus events are postponed or canceled through Aug. 6 based on current CDC guidance and direction from state and local health agencies. Events past that date are being evaluated, and a further decision will be communicated as soon as possible. Any other on-campus gatherings or meetings must limit attendance to ensure social distancing.

Remaining committed to health and safety

While we are eager to reinvigorate our campus, we remain committed to the health and safety of our campus community. We will do all we can to slow the spread of the virus and flatten the curve in our community and in Michigan.

This means we — and our plans — must remain flexible and adaptable. We will continue to closely monitor the spread of COVID-19 and will take immediate action if necessary. We also are planning for the fall semester, and I'll communicate more on that as plans come together.

Be well,
Bob Davies, president

Our plan for fall 2020

May 11, 2020

Dear students, colleagues and friends:

Even before we wrapped up the spring semester last week, many of you reached out to me with questions about our next steps, especially our plans for the 2020-21 academic year at Central Michigan University. Today, I am pleased to announce our intention to reopen CMU’s main campus and satellite locations this fall for face-to-face instruction. This decision was not made lightly; it comes following many weeks of discussion and thoughtful planning.

Our Emergency Management work group, with guidance from local and state health officials, is finalizing a plan for a strategic, phased return to campus based on two primary imperatives:

• Protecting the health and safety of every member of our university community.
• Providing exceptional learning opportunities for students, both in and outside of the classroom.

We also are focused on preserving CMU’s unique atmosphere and culture. We know many students choose CMU with hopes of participating in our many campus programs and activities, and we are excited to once again offer a robust on-campus living and learning experience.

Safety first

COVID-19 has changed the way higher education is delivered and requires us to think creatively and innovatively about our future operations at CMU. We know the fall semester will look very different than it has in previous years: Safe social distancing is here to stay, and it will affect everything about living, eating, working, playing and learning at CMU. Here are a few of the ways we are preparing for the future:

• Last week, the Office of Residence Life announced a plan to reduce occupancy rates in residence halls to provide more room for social distancing and has established areas to immediately isolate and quarantine individuals who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19.
• Campus Dining is reviewing practices in our residential restaurants and retail locations and will adapt to comply with the updated best practices for safe food service.
• Facilities and maintenance teams have adopted new practices for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and spaces across campus.
• Health officials continue to guide plans related to health screening and testing.

Provost Schutten and several academic leaders are developing plans to examine safe layout options for classrooms, labs and other venues for teaching and learning. This may include holding class in new locations, reducing class sizes and other adaptations. They are considering options for course delivery, including in person, face to face with remote access or hybrid delivery, as well as remote-only instruction as needed.

The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff remains our top priority, and we will continue to follow guidance from local, state and national health leaders as we move forward with plans to resume in-person instruction.

Phased return for CMU employees

Last week, our faculty and staff received information about our phased return to campus for CMU employees. Many essential staff have been working on campus throughout the semester, and more will begin to return later this month if Michigan’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive order is lifted. We will continue to develop and communicate detailed plans to help everyone, including students, prepare for fall.

We will continue to closely monitor the spread of COVID-19 and will take immediate action if a new threat to health emerges. We are committed to slowing the spread of the virus and flattening the curve in our community and in Michigan.

Committed to our values

Our university is committed to the ideals of innovation and excellence. We have the right people and the right resources for a successful academic year, whether it occurs on our campus, in one of our satellite locations or online.

I look forward to working — and seeing — you again soon. Until then, take care, be well and Fire Up Chips!

Bob Davies, president

CARES Act funding for students

April 30, 2020

Dear students,

As you may have heard, the federal government has made funds available to colleges and universities, through the CARES Act, to address the financial hardships resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Central Michigan University will receive approximately $14 million from this Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, and the U.S. Department of Education recently released guidance as to how these funds may be used.

The first half of these funds will be provided to students who have experienced financial challenges during the crisis. These funds can help students with expenses incurred when campus operations were disrupted due to coronavirus, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care and child care.

CMU will distribute these funds to students with demonstrated financial need, and we have developed the following initiatives to provide support:

• Main campus undergraduate students who were registered in the spring 2020 semester; who qualify for financial aid; and whose cost-of-attendance is greater than the Expected Family Contribution determined by their FAFSA — Free Application for Federal Student Aid — will receive $500 through an undergraduate need-based student grant.
  • Students do not need to apply for this grant.
  • The grant will be provided to eligible students according to the refund preferences they selected with Student Account Services and University Billing.
  • Most eligible students will receive their funds by Friday, May 15.
  • Students who have not yet filed a 2019-20 FAFSA may do so before June 30 in order to qualify for need-based aid.
  • This money will not be applied to tuition, fees or any outstanding balances.
• CMU also will set aside a portion of the funds for a CMU CARES Student Assistance Fund.
  • Students may apply for assistance beginning May 18, and grants will be awarded based on individual need.
  • Funds will be distributed weekly beginning May 27.
  • This assistance will be available to main campus undergraduate students who have completed a FAFSA.
  • We will send a link to the application form by May 18.

The second half the CARES Act funds may be used to offset costs incurred by the university due to the COVID-19 crisis. To date, we have not received a timeline from the federal government to know when we will receive these funds, and we await clear guidance as to how those funds may be used.

If you have questions about the CARES Act funding, please email cmucaresact@cmich.edu.

We know many of you have been negatively affected by COVID-19 and its impact on our region, and we will continue to look for ways to support you throughout the year. In all we do, your success and well-being are our top priorities.

Take care,
Bob Davies

April 10, 2020 (updated April 13, 2020)
From: Tony Voisin, Interim Vice President, Enrollment and Student Services

Dear CMU student,

We recognize that the coronavirus and Michigan's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order have deeply impacted everything about your routines for learning, working and even living. These are challenging times, and we want you to know that CMU is here to support you as you navigate the days and weeks ahead.

We have created a special page for students on the Coronavirus Information Center website that outlines resources and services available to our students. In addition, we want to ensure that you are aware of the following benefits, services and updates that will help you finish the semester strong.

Housing and meal credits

Most students who live in on-campus housing are eligible to receive credit for housing and meals; students who remained living on campus from March 22 to May 9 and those who received a full room-and-board scholarship are not eligible for credit.

The credit amount takes into account differences in housing types listed below and include credit for residential meal plans. Flex dollars are factored into the cost of residential meal plans, and the credit amount listed below includes credit for those flex dollars.

These credits will be applied to student accounts in May. The credit will first be applied to any outstanding balances on the student's account; any remaining credit will be refunded to the student according to the refunds preferences they selected with Student Account Services and University Billing.

Housing and meal credits

• Residence Hall — $1,200 per student
• Graduate Student Housing — $650 per student
• Northwest Apartments — $450 per student
• Kewadin Apartments — $700 per student

Other credits

Students, faculty and staff with commuter meal plans will be credited based on remaining meal swipes.

Students, faculty and staff who purchased flex dollars will have their balances roll forward to the new academic year. May graduates with unused flex dollars should email the Central Card Office at centralcard@cmich.edu for credit options. Students with full-ride scholarships may not be eligible for credit.

How we determined the credit amount

About half of the cost of operating CMU's residence halls are variable and half are fixed. Variable costs differ daily and can, in part, be based on consumption — things like food and utilities are variable. Fixed costs are incurred for the entire year and include things such as debt payments for the residential buildings, insurance and staff who continue to support students, such as Care Advocates and full-time Residence Life staff.

CMU announced the transition to remote learning on March 19, meaning some students gave up approximately 46% of their spring semester in their on-campus residence. Roughly half of the costs associated with this time are variable, roughly 23%. Using this amount — and rounding up to the benefit of students — we arrived at the credit amounts listed above. While this calculation does not reflect a true daily prorated amount, it does represent credit for the variable costs that would have been incurred during the days students were not living on campus.

This closely aligns with the approaches of colleges and universities throughout Michigan.

Deferred deadlines for payments

To recognize the financial hardships that students may face during these difficult times, CMU will not assess fees for late payments in April and May.

CMU also will not place holds on student accounts that have past-due balances for April, allowing students to proceed with registration. Additionally, to empower students to plan ahead for future semesters, all students with past-due accounts with a balance below $2,000 will still be allowed to register.

CMU is offering deferments, extensions and flexibility to students in current payment plan agreements. We are here to help you: If you are struggling financially, please contact the Student Account Services and University Billing Office to develop a plan that meets your educational and financial needs. Call 989-774-3618 or email billing@cmich.edu.

Plan ahead

In times of uncertainty, it can be reassuring to establish a path forward. We encourage all students to consider the option of multi-semester registration, which can shorten the path to degree attainment, ultimately saving time and tuition dollars.

You now have the option to search and register for courses through Spring 2021, but you will not be asked to pre-pay. Each semester will have its own fee payment deadline, and financial aid disbursements will remain the same each semester.

Make an appointment to speak with your academic advisor if you have questions.

Grading options for Spring 2020

COVID-19 poses unprecedented challenges for learning, and we recognize that your academic performance may reflect hardships related to the move to remote and online-only learning. CMU is offering an extension of the withdrawal deadline and a Credit/No Credit option for grades. You have until May 20th to choose an option, giving you time to review your grades before making a decision.

We strongly suggest you discuss your options with your academic advisor before making any decision that may impact your educational progress or financial aid.

Reach out for help

Through this difficult time, it is natural to feel sad, frustrated and even angry. As we are all practicing safe social distancing, you also may feel lonely and isolated. We all need someone to talk to during tough times — if you need help, please reach out.

Our Counseling Center continues to offer appointments by videoconferencing and phone. Call 989-774-3381 to make an appointment. You also can make an appointment to speak with a CMU Success Coach, connect with the CMU Care Team or talk to the university ombudsperson.

We are here for you. Please let us know how we can support you!

Take Care,

Tony Voisin
Interim Vice President, Enrollment and Student Services

Friends and Colleagues,

Late yesterday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced an extension of Michigan’s "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order through April 30. This continues to be difficult, but we truly believe the extension of the order is necessary to protect the health and safety of the people of Michigan during this unprecedented time.

As a university, we anticipated this extension and have planned for how it may continue to impact our operations. Here's what you should know:

• Through the end of April, CMU will continue to safely operate to the fullest extent safely possible, and remote classes will continue through the end of the Summer I session.
• As the extended order restricts travel between residences, the university’s original plan for students to move belongings out of their residence hall rooms is being revised. The new plan will be communicated soon.
• On-campus operations continue to be performed remotely, wherever possible.
• Individuals working in essential roles that must be conducted on campus — as identified by university leadership — should continue to fulfill their responsibilities. Everyone else will continue to work remotely, if possible.
• As I announced Wednesday, benefit-eligible employees whose leadership have reduced their work hours or who have been informed by leadership that there is no work to perform may continue to record paid administrative leave through May 15, if needed to fulfill their normal work schedule.

To date, we have identified less than 50 individuals who qualify for full-time paid administrative leave; most others continue their important work on our campus or remotely. This is a testament to the adaptability of our employees and flexibility of our leadership on campus.

Thank you, again, for all you do to keep CMU open and operating during this difficult time. Our students benefit every day from the work you do.

We will continue to update you on coronavirus announcements and resources. Please find these at our online Coronavirus Information Center anytime.

Be Well,

Bob Davies, President

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

As Central Michigan University operations continue during the COVID-19 pandemic, two priorities continue to be front and center: supporting student success and keeping our communities healthy and safe.

To meet these vital objectives, and in line with guidance from state leaders and public health officials, CMU has two additional announcements for our campus community today:

• All Summer I classes, May 18-June 25, will be remote/online-only.
• All events through June 25 are canceled or postponed.

Summer classes

All face-to-face classes at our main campus in Mount Pleasant — and at all of CMU’s satellite campuses throughout the U.S. — will move to a remote/online format for the Summer I session — May 18-June 25. This means students should not return to campus for Summer I classes.

Decisions will be made at a later date regarding specialized labs, courses at the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island and the June 29-Aug. 6 Summer II session.

Campus events

All events and gatherings scheduled to take place on CMU’s campus are canceled through June 25. This includes all summer camps, including sport camps. No new events will be scheduled on campus through June 25.

In addition, Special Olympics Michigan has postponed its State Summer Games — originally scheduled for May 28-31 on CMU’s campus. They are currently working on rescheduling and modifying the State Summer Games with a tentative placeholder for the week of July 20, 2020.

Looking ahead

CMU leaders continue to consult daily to manage the university’s response to COVID-19 and to address the future of CMU’s operations. We are thinking ahead to late summer and fall and will make additional decisions as we learn more about the spread of the virus. This continues to be a rapidly evolving situation, and CMU will continue to make decisions based on guidance from state leaders and public health officials.

In all our planning, our top priorities remain student success and our educational mission.

As we continue to move forward together, please take time to take care of yourselves. You can find support resources — as well as campus updates — on our Coronavirus Information Center page.

I want to take this opportunity to once again express to you my appreciation and admiration. You — our students, faculty and staff — continue to fire up with CMU's trademark cooperative spirit at an unprecedented time. Your patience, attention and understanding make a difference.

Be well,

Bob Davies, President

Dear students, colleagues and friends,

As the son of a historian, I often find it reassuring in turbulent times to look to the past to see how others have navigated challenging circumstances. I find this quote from automaker and entrepreneur Henry Ford particularly apropos: “When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”

In the past month, it has often felt as though the wind was blowing against us all with storm-worthy force. Yet Central Michigan University continues to move forward.

Daily, we carry out our mission and adhere to our core values. We are strong and resilient. As a community, we opt to bend instead of break, and we continue to adapt to overcome adversity. In short, we choose to take off against the wind.

One of the chief complaints often leveled against higher education is that we are slow to change. I would argue that in the past few weeks, higher education has adapted more quickly — and more successfully — than nearly any other industry. I am immensely proud of how our CMU community has responded.

Faculty who never imagined teaching online have reimagined classes in mere days, learning new tools and technologies quickly so they can continue to offer incredible learning opportunities for our students.

Staff who depended on weekly or daily face-to-face meetings have shifted quickly to video conferences and phone calls to ensure their work continues. They’ve developed creative ways to host virtual meetings, events and activities for students, keeping them engaged with our university community across the miles.

And our students, who are among the most active and social people I have ever encountered, are finding dozens of unique ways to stay connected with their instructors and with one another. I am inspired by the way they continue to pursue their passions from their residence hall rooms, apartments and homes around the country.

These adjustments have not been easy. We’ve all experienced frustrations and hiccups along the way, and there have been more than a few long days and sleepless nights for everyone.

Yet we persevere. We move forward. It has been stressful — and successful. It is often said that hard times don’t build character, they reveal it. We can all be proud of what this challenge has revealed about our university community.

Lessons learned

We have always been a community of lifelong learners, and these past few weeks have proven to be a very effective learning lab for many of us — often in surprising ways. I think back to my State of the University address in November: I called for big, bold ideas; innovative and creative thinking; and options to serve students in new ways. What I didn’t know then was that we’d be implementing quite so many changes quite so quickly.

Yet, for all the discomforts this situation has caused, I hope it also gives you an opportunity to reflect on how we operate. This crisis has been an unasked-for experiment for CMU, allowing us to explore new ways of learning, teaching, living and working. We now have proof that we are capable of far more than we previously knew.

I invite all of you to join me in both contemplating what we’ve learned and considering how we apply these lessons as we move forward. Let’s look at what this situation has revealed about our operations and the structures we have in place and think about how we could build upon them to strengthen CMU. Ask: What actions have we taken and what elements have we added, that we could — and should — include in the future? What have we learned about ourselves, about our strengths and weaknesses, that we can leverage or address as we continue to serve our current students and expand into new areas?

I invite you to share your answers with me. You can send them as an email to president@cmich.edu or by submitting them through this online feedback form. I look forward to reviewing your ideas and sharing them with our strategic envisioning process working groups.

Let’s emerge from the crisis stronger than ever before.

Uniting across distance

In the weeks ahead, as we navigate uncertainty together, our networks of support will be more important than ever.

It can be hard to feel close to others when we’re maintaining a minimum distance of 6 feet, working in shifts to minimize contact, or completing assignments and work from home to stay healthy. It is in our human nature to be social, and you may feel the pains of isolation after several weeks of separation from classmates, colleagues and friends. You likely already are feeling them.

This is why it’s so important for CMU Chippewas to continue to Take Care of one another. We must look for ways to foster a sense of community and remain socially close even as we are physically distant.

Consider how you can creatively reach out to connect with others. Our Counseling Center has some outstanding suggestions in a recent video shared online, and I’ve received some excellent tips from students, faculty and staff in the past week.

Here are a few of my favorites:

• The Office of Student Activities and Involvement hosts events for students at 2 p.m. every weekday, such as a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate game and discussion groups.
• The Office of LGBTQ Services' “pen pal” program connects students and uses a daily #CMUCaresinCommunity hashtag on social media.
• Alysa Lucas, from the Department of Communication, uses tools like the Marco Polo app to record short video messages for friends and has been sending letters and cards by mail.
• Alex Kappus, in the Office of Student Success, holds regular video conference calls with his team to check in and continue their important work.
• Kelly Murphy, from the Department of Philosophy and Religion, suggests scheduling video chats with friends and family so you can look forward to seeing familiar faces.
• Jonathan Glenn, from the Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute, has been recording inspirational videos to share with students on Twitter.
• Stephanie Hodges, from the Office of Global Engagement, uses Microsoft Teams to stay connected through quick chats and meetings.

And if you need someone to talk to, please remember that our Counseling Center and Employee Assistance Program are here for you. Don’t wait to ask for help!

You also can find many more support services and resources on our Coronavirus Information Center website.

We’re about a month away from the end of the semester, and I urge everyone to finish strong. By now, hopefully you’ve developed some routines and processes that help you manage this new normal. Use all the tools available to you to make this a GREAT semester.

Be well, take care and, always, Fire Up Chips!

Bob Davies

To the Class of 2020:

In a month of troubling headlines, I am grateful to have some good news to share with you today. In my last message, I assured you that we would find a way to celebrate your outstanding achievements together — and now we have.

We have chosen the weekend of August 15, 2020 as the new date for your commencement ceremony. I hope you and your friends and family will return to campus to celebrate with us!



As we prepare for the event, we’d like to know how many of you may participate. Please use the online form below to indicate your willingness to attend. Know that this is not an official RSVP — it’s just a way to help us plan for the approximate number of guests.

Complete online form
You will receive additional information about the ceremony soon. As a reminder, your degree will be confirmed once final grades have posted — so be sure to finish this semester strong! Your certificate will be mailed to you 6–8 weeks after final grades are posted and your degree is awarded.

I hope you can join us. I look forward to congratulating you in person, graduate.

Be well and Fire Up Chips!

Bob Davies, President

Dear August Graduates,

Congratulations on reaching the final steps of your academic journey at Central Michigan University.

I know many of you are preparing for your final classes, wrapping up assignments and beginning to prepare for life after college. I am excited for you and proud of the hard work you have done during your years at CMU.

Since our May events had to be postponed due to the coronavirus and its effects, we will now hold the spring commencement ceremonies during the weekend of August 15. This event will include ceremonies for all undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and certificate programs.

Our August graduates have historically participated in our December commencement ceremonies, but I’d like to offer you a second option this year: Join us the weekend of August 15 for our newly rescheduled spring commencement!

You have a choice! Please use the online form below to let us know if you would prefer to participate in graduation events in August or December.

Complete online form
We will send additional information to you soon. In the meantime, continue to work hard and put in your best efforts. Finish this semester strong!

Be well, and Fire Up Chips!

Bob Davies, president

Colleagues and friends,

Thank you for your continued patience and support as we navigate new changes this week. I know none of this has been easy, but you are adapting and adjusting beautifully. Thank you for putting students and the safety of our community first!

I have some brief updates to share with you about our plans for commencement, honoring CMU's "gentle" traditions and a new fall wellness break.

New date for spring commencement

We are moving forward with plans to hold our spring commencement ceremonies during the weekend of August 15.

Today, I sent a special message to the members of the Class of 2020 to let them know to plan for the event, and I hope you, too, will plan to participate. We could all use a little good news, and I can think of nothing better to look forward to than the celebration of our students’ academic achievements.

More details will follow in the weeks ahead, but please mark your calendars now. It would be wonderful to see you at McGuirk!

Gentle Thursday and Friday

While we aren’t able to hold many of our traditional spring campus activities, we will still honor Gentle Thursday and Friday next week Thursday, April 2, and Friday, April 3.

This long-standing tradition was introduced in the late 1960s, and was designed to support students and faculty, ease anxieties ahead of exams, and prepare for the final push toward the semester’s end.

This means no classes, no new assignments and no tests on these two days. Instead, faculty and staff should be available to answer students’ questions and offer assistance, encouragement and support remotely.

Please also use those days to be gentle to yourself! Take a little time to breathe in the fresh air, rest and practice some much-needed self-care.

Fall wellness break

This semester has certainly demonstrated the value of protecting our mental health. I am pleased to announce that we have decided to adopt a new fall wellness break, designed to give our students a little breathing room in the fall semester.

This year’s two-day break will occur Monday, Oct. 19, and Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020. As with spring break, the university will remain open but will hold no classes. We will have more information about the wellness break to share with you soon.

What it means to be essential

I’d like to close this message with a reflection on the term "essential employee." For the purposes of maintaining campus operations during periods of reduced operation, the word essential takes on a very specific, and important, meaning. The HR website has more information about essential roles and responsibilities — please take a moment to review their FAQ page for more.

However, I want each of you to know that I consider every member of our community essential. We all play an important role in creating our CMU community — whatever your job title or duties may be, you are an essential part of this university. YOU are valued. You are important. And you are essential to CMU.

Having said that, please don’t come to campus if you are not required by your supervisor to do so; instead, stay home. Continue to do important work where and when you are able. Stay healthy, stay home and stay safe.

And, as you continue to work to make CMU a great university, keep me posted on how things are going. Grab your cellphone and take a selfie from your workspace. Post it to your favorite social media platform and tag me: @cmichprez. Tell me how you’re adapting, and share your tips and advice for success.

Things will continue to change, we will continue to adapt, and we WILL emerge from this stronger than before.

Thank you for all you do for CMU.

Be well, and Fire Up Chips!

Bob Davies, President

Dear Students, Colleagues and Friends:

This afternoon, we learned that two members of the Central Michigan University community have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). These are the first confirmed cases of COVID-19 directly related to the CMU community.

The individuals have been identified as students. After traveling to a different state for spring break, one returned to a campus residence hall — and has been on campus in the last 24 hours — and the other returned to a permanent residence in another city. The student on campus is now isolated in accordance with guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and will return to their permanent residence tomorrow.

We wish both students a full and speedy recovery.

CMU Health medical experts and other leaders on campus are working to investigate anyone who may have been in close contact with the student.

To all of our students and employees currently on campus, particularly those living and working in the Towers community and Beddow Hall:

• Please take extra care to practice exemplary personal hygiene and take personal accountability for protecting yourself and others.
  • Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer if soap and water is unavailable.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and put distance between yourself and other people.
• If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of respiratory illness consistent with COVID-19 or have been diagnosed with the virus, please do not come to or remain on campus. Contact your health care provider immediately. The CDC recommends that patients should not visit a health care center without first calling.
• You may submit questions or concerns by email at coronavirus@cmich.edu.

Currently, extensive deep cleaning of campus areas this individual may have visited is underway.

Ensuring the anonymity of the individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 is important. If you are aware of their identities, please respect their privacy so they can focus fully on their health and the care they need. Please abide by all rules related to personal health information (HIPAA) and expectations for the responsible use of social media.

As has occurred in cities and on college campuses around the world, we expect to learn of more cases among the members of our campus and community. We will continue to work with local health officials to monitor new cases as they are identified and to contact individuals who may be impacted or affected by any new cases.

We are committed to doing all we can to support these students and our community through this difficult time and to slowing the spread of the coronavirus and flattening the curve.

Knowing that a person within our community has tested positive for COVID-19 may leave you feeling worried or anxious. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out:

• Students can call the CMU Counseling Center at 989-774-3381 to schedule an appointment or learn more about counseling resources.
• Faculty and staff can contact the Employee Assistance Program.
• Anyone may submit a Care Report to CMU Cares to share concerns about the health or well-being of another student or employee.

Remember, you can always find the most up-to-date information available from CMU on our updates webpage, and the CMU Health website contains an evolving list of answers to frequently asked questions.

Once again, I thank you — our students, faculty, staff, families and friends — for stepping up to meet an unprecedented challenge with CMU's trademark cooperative spirit. Your continued patience, attention and understanding will make a difference.

Be Well,

Bob Davies, president

Following governor's order, CMU continues essential operations

As the world, our nation and our state continue to respond to the rapidly spreading threat of COVID-19, we continue to face new challenges as a university — challenges we've never had to face before.

This morning, Gov. Whitmer issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order for the state of Michigan, effective at 12:01 a.m. tomorrow for at least three weeks, an aggressive measure designed to combat the spread of the virus.

During this time, CMU will continue to operate to the fullest extent safely possible, and remote classes will continue through the end of the semester.

This means that all on-campus operations are suspended except for those that cannot be conducted remotely. Individuals working in essential roles that must be conducted on campus will need to continue to fulfill their responsibilities. We are working with supervisors to define and identify these roles and personnel. We will reach out to them with additional information as soon as possible. 

For the rest of us, we will continue to work remotely if possible. If you have questions or concerns about your ability to work remotely, please contact your supervisor.

In addition, we should all do our best to stay home, unless it is to get outdoors to exercise; care for ourselves and others; and to obtain necessary supplies, as outlined by the executive order. Self-care, both physical and mental, is critical during this time. Remember, resources are available virtually and via telephone if you need someone to talk to — you can find them on our COVID-19 FAQ.

Important university updates related to this order:

• CMU residence halls and apartments will remain open for students who are currently on campus. Residential students currently residing off campus should NOT return to campus to move out prior to their scheduled move-out appointment. Within the next seven days, you will receive an email with a link to sign up for a move-out appointment with a revised window. The delay in the move-out process will not impact the room and board credit.
• Only come to work if your supervisor has told you to do so to fulfill an essential function. You are allowed to come to campus if you are supporting an essential operation on campus, as identified by supervisors. 
  
• Student employees and graduate assistants: Talk with your supervisor. Unless you have been identified by your supervisor as an essential employee, you should not report to work. Further details related to graduate assistants can be found on the faculty personnel services website.

You should not do the following:

• Do not host any in-person events or gatherings of any size through the end of spring semester.
• Do not come to work if you are sick even if you have been identified as an essential employee. Please stay home and call your supervisor immediately if you feel unwell.
• Do not come to work if you are on approved administrative or other approved leave.
• Do not come to work if you have been asked to work remotely. 
• Supervisors are expected to work with their staff to ensure operations in their departments continue. Employees who are not required to work on campus but cannot work from home due to the nature of their jobs, can request paid administrative leave. Further details will be communicated to supervisors soon.
• Information technology support services are fully operational — faculty and staff who need assistance while working remotely should contact the Help Desk at 989-774-3662.
• Do not come to work to retrieve items from your office or visit colleagues. No one but essential employees should come to campus after Tuesday, March 24, at 12:01 a.m. Do not report to campus unless you have permission from your supervisor.  
  

You likely have many questions that remain unanswered. We will share additional information with you in the days ahead — thank you for your patience and understanding as we move quickly to adapt.

I've said it numerous times, but this is an unprecedented situation. Campus leaders are continuously working to answer questions and to do what's right to protect the health and safety of our university community while ensuring we deliver the high-quality education we promised to thousands of CMU students.

I am proud of the way our university community has responded to this crisis. I am confident our faculty, staff and students will adapt to these new measures with the same resolve, understanding and cooperative spirit shown many times already amid these rapidly changing circumstances.

Continue to check our website for updates and send any questions you may have to coronavirus@cmich.edu.

Please continue to take care of yourselves and others. Your well-being is paramount. We will get through this together. That's what CMU Chippewas do.

Be well,

Bob Davies, President

Students, Colleagues and Friends:

I have several important announcements to share with you today, but first I want to acknowledge and thank the Central Michigan University community. No one asked for these challenges — they are tough, but together we are tougher.

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we navigate these turbulent times.

As we continue to do our part to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19, I have a few significant updates to share. More details follow on each of these:

• Online-only classes will extend through the end of the semester.
• May 2020 commencement ceremonies are postponed.
• All summer Study Abroad programs are canceled.

Extending online classes

To align with U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations to prevent the spread of illness, we have suspended face-to-face instruction and have extended the shift to online-only classes through the end of the spring 2020 semester. With this decision, all tests, exams and quizzes also will be conducted in an online format.

We offer many resources for students to remain successful in online classes and resources for faculty who are looking for support for online teaching. Please take advantage of these resources — your success is paramount.

Campus will remain open and operational, as previously communicated.

Our faculty have done a phenomenal job of moving swiftly to the online modality, and I applaud our students for being flexible and adapting to something that, for many, was unexpected. I appreciate all your efforts to adjust to these unusual circumstances.

As online classes continue, residence halls will remain open for residents who have no alternative housing options. We will continue to offer limited dining services for takeout only; please review information on Campus Dining’s webpage.

Residence Life will send additional information to student residents later today with details on how students can move out if they aren’t currently living in the residence halls.

As communicated a few days ago, we know many of you have questions and concerns related to refunds for residence halls and dining. The decision to extend online-only classes through the end of the semester undoubtedly raises even more. On this point I will reiterate: We will provide proportional and appropriate credits toward your bill.

With this recent development we can finalize our initial process and timeline for credits. We will share additional updates as soon as we can.

Commencement postponed

Although graduation is my favorite event of the year, I have made the difficult decision to postpone our May commencement ceremonies.

Out of an abundance of caution, CMU will adhere to the guidance from the CDC, which advises against hosting gatherings of more than 50 people for at least the next eight weeks. The health and well-being of our graduates and their families are my most pressing concerns.

Your academic achievements are still extremely important and worth celebrating. I promise that we will find a way to celebrate this remarkable accomplishment with our graduates, which may include ceremonies in August. We will share additional information as soon as we have details in place.

In the meantime, I urge you to talk with your families and to cancel any plans to come to campus for graduation. Students who were scheduled to participate in May commencement ceremonies will soon receive an email with additional information.

Summer Study Abroad

Given the recent, rapid changes in travel advisories, border closures and mobility restrictions around the world, we have decided to cancel all summer 2020 Study Abroad programs. I hope this gives our students time to make alternate summer plans, which may include finding an internship or registering for a summer class.

I know this is disappointing news for students and faculty who were looking forward to international adventures, but I believe it is the most prudent choice. We will work with students to minimize the financial impact of this change; students who had applied for summer Study Abroad programs will soon receive additional information from the Office of Global Engagement.

Thank you

Just a few days ago, I shared a video message acknowledging the difficult ways the coronavirus has changed our lives

We cannot control the many changes the coronavirus has forced, but we can control how we respond to them. We all have the power to choose how we respond to difficult circumstances. I am proud that we are choosing to unite. We are choosing to treat each other with compassion and understanding.

And we are choosing to continue to carry out our mission to educate and serve students.

I know that not every decision we make will be perfect: We are responding to unprecedented challenges, and sometimes there are no perfect solutions. I want to assure you that every decision will be made with the intent to both protect the health of our community and serve our students.

This has been one of the most difficult challenges our university has ever faced. I know many of you feel frustrated, frightened — even angry, perhaps — and those feelings are valid. Please know that I hear you, and I understand. And, more importantly, I am grateful. I appreciate how you choose to unite as a CMU community to weather the storm together. I am inspired by the support and compassion you offer to one another and to me.

We will continue to update you as this situation progresses. Please check our coronavirus updates webpage often for the latest information and review our frequently asked questions page. And if you have additional questions or concerns, please email coronavirus@cmich.edu.

Be well,

Bob Davies, President

Latest updates

• Vital Source has launched free e-book access to support students studying remotely. Visit VitalSource for more information or sign into your virtual bookshelf.
• Park Library is closed to members of the public and students until further notice. Learn more on the CMU Libraries' blog.
• CMU employees may enter Park Library through the north entrance for work-related purposes only; your CMU ID card is required to access the building. Many online services are still available:
• All CMU-sponsored events or gatherings of more than 50 people are canceled until further notice — this includes registered student organizations. No new events will be scheduled on campus until further notice. 
• Campus dining updates:
• The Fresh Food Company residential restaurant (located in the East Community) will be open to serve take-out only meals for students with a meal plan. 
• Starbucks and the Burrito Bowl (located in the Bovee University Center) will be open with limited hours for take-out only. Please check the CMU Campus Dining website for additional information. 
• The CMU Student Food Pantry has initiated new food distribution practices. Students may request food using the online distribution request form. Food will be bagged and labeled by Volunteer Center staff and placed on tables outside the Student Food Pantry for pick-up Wednesdays 3-5 p.m. and Fridays noon-2 p.m.

What to do if you know or work with someone who has been to an impacted area/is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19

Familiarize yourself with the facts about COVID-19 to help reduce any associated fear or stigmas toward affected communities or returning travelers. Remember:

• The disease can make anyone sick regardless of their race or ethnicity.
• Some people are at increased risk of getting COVID-19.
• Someone who has completed self-isolation or has been released from isolation does not pose a risk of infection to other people.
• You can stop COVID-19 by knowing the signs and symptoms identified on the CDC website.
• There are simple things you can do to help keep yourself and others healthy, including washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; covering your coughs and sneezes; and avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Encourage the individual to contact a health care professional.
  

In addition, to better understand coronavirus, please take time to review this presentation by biological anthropologist Catherine Willermet, faculty member in our Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work.

Protect your health and the health of others

Although classes have shifted to an online format, the university is not closed. As a reminder, to continue to protect the health of our community, do not come to campus if you can answer yes to either of the following questions:

• Are you experiencing fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, cough or shortness of breath?
• Have you been directed to self-quarantine based on recent travel or exposure? This would include anyone returning from travel to or through any country with a CDC level 3 or higher health notice. Learn more on the CDC website.
  

Also, practicing social distancing is critical during this time. According to the CDC, the virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person and the best way to prevent illness is to avoid close contact that fosters exposure.

This means that it is critical to avoid gatherings and large crowds, both business and personal. Don't go to parties or crowded establishments. Be thoughtful about your interactions with others. We can all do our part to help lessen the spread of the virus.

Preparing for an outbreak

While there are no known cases of COVID-19 in Mount Pleasant or on CMU's campus, CMU Health and the CMU Police Department are engaged with the Central Michigan District Health Department and local health care systems to coordinate potential response plans for our campus and the greater Mount Pleasant community. These groups meet regularly to ensure campus is prepared to respond to an outbreak locally.

Students: Residence hall/dining refund requests

We understand many of you have questions and concerns related to refunds for residence halls and dining. Please know we are discussing and studying these concerns. With a student-centered approach at the forefront, we will provide proportional and appropriate refunds.

We are gathering data and monitoring the coronavirus situation as it unfolds. We look forward to sharing updates as we develop the process and timeline for refunds.

Faculty and staff: Continuing our important work — working remotely or flexible schedules

As university operations continue, CMU is committed to supporting our students' successful completion of their academic pursuits, while keeping our communities healthy and safe. We understand there are many questions about how we can best maintain operations during these times, and university leadership are meeting daily to address rising issues and concerns.

We urge all CMU units to take every measure possible to encourage employees who are able to work from home to do so. Supervisors are empowered to determine what functions are essential and who is needed to complete these functions to maintain normal operations. This may mean either working remotely or other flexible work arrangements. 

For employees, answers to many of your questions may be found on the Human Resources FAQ. 

As we prepare for Central Michigan University's spring break to come to an end, please remember the following before returning to campus:

Let's take care of each other

To continue to protect the health of our community, do not come to campus if you can answer yes to either of the following questions:

• Are you experiencing fever of 100.4 or higher, cough or shortness of breath?
• Have you been directed to self-quarantine based on recent travel or exposure? This would include anyone returning from travel to or through any country with a CDC level 3 or higher health notice. Learn more on the CDC website.

Residence halls open tomorrow, if you need a place to stay

In keeping with CDC guidance, CMU strongly recommends that students return to their permanent residences off campus to help maintain your health and that of other members of the campus community.

We recognize, however, that residence halls and university apartments are the only housing option for some students. Because of this, all residence halls and university apartments will reopen Sunday, March 15, at noon, to those who must come back.

Stay up-to-date on coronavirus related information from CMU on the coronavirus updates page. In addition, answers to many questions you have are available on the Coronavirus: What you need to know page.

Dear Students, Colleagues and Friends:

First and foremost, I want to thank the CMU community — our students, faculty, staff and families — for your patience and support during this time as all of us deal with what now has been defined as a pandemic. I appreciate your understanding that we are truly operating in uncharted territory, and the circumstances change constantly and quickly — nearly every hour.

There are currently no identified cases of COVID-19 at CMU; however, the number of confirmed cases in Michigan is on the rise. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency to maximize efforts and resources to slow the spread of the virus, including a closure of all K-12 schools until April 6.

In light of ongoing developments, Central Michigan University leaders have decided to extend online-only classes until Monday, April 6. In addition, CMU will reopen residence halls for residents who need a place to stay, effective Sunday, March 15, at noon.

Here are details about the latest updates:

Classes and academics

Local and global health authorities including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to recommend social distancing as one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of infection. To support this, CMU is maintaining the shift to online formats for all classes until Monday, April 6. We will continue to monitor the situation daily and adjust this as necessary.

Faculty soon will receive another communication from Provost Mary C. Schutten with further information and guidance related to online learning.

Residence halls and university apartments

We recognize residence halls and university apartments are the only housing option for some students. Because of this, all residence halls and university apartments will reopen Sunday, March 15, at noon. In keeping with CDC guidance, CMU continues to recommend that students with permanent residences off campus remain there at this time.

To continue to protect the health of our campus community, any student who answers yes to either of the following questions should not return to campus or their residence hall or university apartment:

• Are you experiencing fever, cough or shortness of breath?
• Have you been directed to self-quarantine based on recent travel or exposure? This would include anyone returning from travel to or through any country with a CDC level 3 or higher health notice. Learn more on the CDC website.
  

Students will need their CentralCard to access their hall through the lobby door. Please note that staffing services in residence halls and campus apartments, including front desk operations and food service, will be adjusted according to reduced residency.

The Fresh Food Company residential restaurant in the East Community (Celani, Emmons, Fabiano, Herrig, Saxe and Woldt Halls) will be open to serve meals to students with a meal plan. Regular meal options and serving hours will be limited.

Additional dining and food options may be available; please check the Campus Dining website for details.

Students experiencing food insecurity and hunger may continue to receive assistance from the CMU Student Food Pantry and may still request and use meal swipes.

Students who follow our recommendation to live off campus but need to retrieve essential items from their residence hall rooms may do so beginning at noon Sunday when the halls reopen.

We understand many of you have questions and concerns related to refunds for residence halls and dining. Please know we are discussing and studying these concerns and will — with a student-centered approach at the forefront — soon make decisions about proportional and appropriate refunds.

Study abroad and travel

Effective immediately, faculty and staff interstate and international travel for university purposes is suspended until further notice, unless it is deemed essential by the appropriate division vice president.

In addition, the university decided this week to cancel all study abroad for spring 2020, including trips scheduled to depart during the remainder of the semester. Decisions regarding summer 2020 study abroad programs will be made soon. Students with questions may contact the Office of Global Engagement.

Employee guidance

As this situation is ever-evolving and complicated, we understand there are many questions related to staff employment during this time. Thank you for your patience as we work to finalize answers to these questions. Our human resources team has been working continuously with other leaders on campus to develop guidance for staff, which is outlined in this FAQ.

As a reminder, CMU is closely monitoring guidance from the CDC and World Health Organization. We will continue to follow recommendations from these agencies and will share the latest available information on this page. You may also communicate with CMU by email at coronavirus@cmich.edu.

I sincerely appreciate the efforts of a group of university leaders who meet daily to address the issues and make recommendations to me based on the latest information. We are all focused on serving our students and meeting and supporting the needs of our faculty and staff. The coronavirus presents unprecedented challenges for all of us, and I understand you will have questions about new developments and university actions. As we work as swiftly as possible to respond to the changing situation, questions may sometimes outpace answers. I urge everyone to practice patience and compassion as we move through this together.

Be well,

Bob Davies, President

As the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues, our top priority continues to be the health and safety of the CMU community. There are currently no known cases of COVID-19 at CMU, but as announced early this morning, there are now two confirmed cases in Michigan.

Out of an abundance of caution, and to prevent and contain the spread of the coronavirus, all CMU classes will move online after spring break through March 20. This means students should not return to campus following spring break. All face-to-face classes at our main campus in Mount Pleasant — and at all of CMU’s satellite campuses throughout the U.S. with the exception of those on military bases — will move to an online format. A decision regarding classes for the following week will be made by Thursday, March 19, at 4 p.m.

The Emergency Management team, composed of leaders and subject matter experts throughout campus, is collaborating daily, focusing on preparedness and response. We continue to follow guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and our state and local health authorities.

The campus will remain open, and business operations will continue with appropriate measures to protect the health of the university community. We will continue to post updates on this page regularly. Below is information related to residence halls, campus events, staffing considerations, travel and more.

Students and families

• Residence halls will remain closed for all but international students and student-athletes until Sunday, March 22, at 9 a.m. However, the East Community (Celani, Emmons, Fabiano, Herrig, Saxe and Woldt Halls), Graduate Housing, Northwest Apartments and Kewadin Village, will remain open for students already on campus. Limited food service will be provided; more information about food service can be found on this website.
• Students needing to retrieve essential items from their residence hall rooms may stop by their Residence Hall Director’s office on Sunday, March 15, or Monday, March 16, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. to make arrangements to access their room; they will not be allowed to spend the night in their living unit, however. Students with any additional questions should call the Office of Residence Life at 989-774-3111.

Faculty and staff

• Faculty will receive a letter shortly from Provost Mary C. Schutten, providing additional information and guidance for moving their classes to an online format. We are evaluating classroom experiences such as labs and performance classes, and the university will provide specific guidance in the coming days. Guidelines will be reviewed daily and updates and/or modifications will be shared as more information becomes available.
• As campus remains open and operations will continue, staff are expected to report to work.
• Additional information about COVID-19 reporting, guidance for managers and supervisors, employee-leave management, and associated workplace issues — including telecommuting options — will be sent in the coming days.

Events and services

• All CMU-sponsored events or gatherings of more than 100 people are canceled through March 31 — this includes registered student organizations. Athletic events will follow NCAA and Mid-American Conference (MAC) guidelines.
• No new events will be scheduled on campus through March 31.
• Additional information on campus services through March 23:
  • The Student Activity Center is closed.
  • The Park Library will be open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The after-hours study room will be open from 7 a.m. on Monday through 5 p.m. on Friday. Ask-a-Librarian will be available regular hours online.
    
  • The Counseling Center remains open and also provides online counseling services.
    

Travel

• University-sponsored domestic travel through March 31 is canceled. Discretion should be used in booking further travel.
• The restrictions of university-sponsored travel to China, Italy, Iran and South Korea, previously announced on March 3, remain in effect.
• We continue to strongly recommend and encourage you to be cautious about your personal travel choices, particularly for international travel.

As noted above, this situation is evolving every day, and all CMU guidelines are subject to change as we learn more. I appreciate your understanding and continued cooperation as we make necessary decisions to keep everyone safe.

Please check this page regularly for the latest information and updates. Answers to many of your questions may be found on our Coronavirus: What you need to know page. Additional questions can be addressed to coronavirus@cmich.edu. Remember, above all, to care for yourself and others and wash your hands frequently.

I also want to thank the individuals and teams who are working countless hours to address this rapidly developing issue. Thank you also to our students, faculty, staff and community for all you do to promote a safe and healthy Central Michigan University.

Be well,

Bob Davies, President

With the university's spring break approaching, it is important for all Central Michigan University students, faculty and staff to stay informed about the spread of coronavirus. Fortunately, there have been no cases reported in Michigan but we are taking precautionary measures for the well-being of our CMU community.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, the coronavirus is spreading quickly — it is now in more than 70 locations around the world, including the United States. The CDC notes that risk of exposure in the U.S. is currently low, although that is not the case in many international locations.

We strongly recommend and encourage you to be cautious about your travel choices during spring break and beyond, particularly for international travel. If you are considering international travel this spring, please monitor CDC travel information and advisories — as well as university updates — before you depart, due to the evolving nature of the outbreak.  

For guidance, consult these CDC frequently asked questions for travelers.

If you plan personal travel to a country with a CDC level 3 or higher health notice, CMU is mandating a 14-day self-quarantine before you can return to campus. If you are traveling to China, you'll encounter further restrictions, as mandated by the CDC. In certain cases, the U.S. Customs might impose a 14-day quarantine at designated sites. If you have questions about self-quarantine, please contact your health care provider or local health department.

University leaders, in collaboration with multiple offices across campus, also decided yesterday to immediately suspend all study abroad trips scheduled to depart during the remainder of the spring 2020 semester. This decision, which follows recommendations shared by the CDC, has been communicated to applicable students and faculty. We are monitoring the coronavirus worldwide and its possible impacts on summer 2020 Study Abroad programs — no decision has been made yet regarding summer programs. Students with questions about Study Abroad programs may contact the Office of Global Engagement.

In addition, all other faculty and staff CMU-sponsored travel to countries with CDC level 3 health notices is suspended until further notice. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates. More information related to travel restrictions, self-quarantine and more can be found on the Coronavirus: What you need to know page.

CMU has an emergency preparedness team consisting of leaders from across our campus who are meeting regularly to review information from outside experts to assess how the virus may affect our campus.

The safety and security of our students, faculty and staff are our No. 1 priority. Thus, following recommendations shared yesterday by the CDC urging higher education institutions to take precautions, CMU is immediately suspending all study abroad trips scheduled to depart during the remainder of the semester.

This follows decisions to suspend programs in China, South Korea and Italy. To ensure the safety of our entire campus community, students returning from programs in these countries are being mandated by CMU to self-quarantine for 14 days before they can return to campus. Students currently studying in countries with a CDC level 2 or lower health notice are not required to return to the U.S.

In addition, all other nonessential CMU-sponsored travel to countries with CDC level 3 health notices is suspended. These countries currently include China, South Korea, Iran and Italy. We will continue to evaluate faculty/staff requests to travel abroad on a weekly basis.

These were not easy decisions to make. I greatly value the experiences that study abroad and international travel bring to our students, faculty and staff and understand how this will personally affect those who were scheduled to travel. But, we must put health and safety first.

Our Office of Global Engagement staff is communicating directly with affected students and we are doing everything we can to minimize disruption to their academic studies and their lives. This includes discussion about alternative paths to earn their course credits and/or to be reimbursed for their trips.

We are monitoring the coronavirus worldwide and its possible impacts on summer 2020 Study Abroad programs. Anyone with questions about Study Abroad programs may contact the Office of Global Engagement.

Faculty who have questions about international travel restrictions should contact their deans and staff should speak with their supervisors.

For more information on the coronavirus, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.

We will continue to utilize this page and other communication channels to communicate with students, their families, faculty and staff about the coronavirus.

Be well,

Bob Davies, President