By: Tomas Rodriguez
As the pandemic forced students to leave their residence halls coinciding with spring break, approximately 2,500 returned to campus in order to either check-out or retrieve personal belongings. They were allowed to do so stretching between May 8 and the 18.
University Police, along with Facilities and Residence Life and Housing outlined a plan that would help students move out safely by breaking down timeframes. The days were divided into two time slots –9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The number of students on campus averaged 250 per day.
Students had to choose from various options, which Residence Life and Housing then had to approve.
“We take the same precautions that we have since mid-March, including wearing face coverings when in close contact with other persons and disinfecting our patrol vehicles and equipment regularly,” University Police Interim Chief Kevin Velzy said. “As far as a college policy, we will continue to follow the guidelines of the CDC, and our government leaders.”
If the university was to outline a social distancing and face covering policy, students who did not comply would face disciplinary consequences.
“This is an interesting time for the entire world. We are all learning day by day how to adjust and move forward with caution based on the data we have, the research that is going on, and making the best decisions we can for the good of all,” Velzy said. “We hope that everyone, especially our students, are having a safe and productive summer, and we hope to have everyone back on campus as soon as practicable.”
An official statement from President Stanley as to what the final decision for the Fall will look like is expected to come in the following weeks.