SAINT PETER, Minn. (March 17, 2020) — Gustavus Adolphus College will continue its suspension of in-person classes through the remainder of the academic year due to COVID-19, President Rebecca M. Bergman announced today. The College is currently preparing for a transition to online course delivery, which will commence on Monday, March 30 and continue for the rest of spring semester. Please see the information below for transition details.
“Now is our time to step up and be good stewards of the Gustavus community as well as our local, state, national, and world community,” President Bergman said in a message to Gustavus students, faculty, and staff. “We must aggressively practice social distancing to flatten the curve of this pandemic to protect our healthcare system and the most vulnerable among us.”
Residential Life
Students are being asked to leave campus as soon as possible unless they petition the College and are approved to remain in the residence halls. The Dean of Students Office will contact students with further information, including housing and meal plan cost adjustments.
Commencement Exercises
Gustavus will hold on-campus commencement exercises for the Class of 2020. While we hope this takes place on Saturday, May 30, the College is committed to celebrating the accomplishments of our soon-to-be graduates with an on-campus ceremony when circumstances allow.
Essential Services and Building Access
Dining Service will be open to employees and students with permission to remain in campus housing; hours and offerings may be limited. Health Service and the Counseling Center will be staffed; students are encouraged to call to discuss services. Campus Safety will continue to ensure a safe and secure campus. Gustavus Technology Services (GTS) will be available by phone at 507-933-6111.
Most campus buildings will be closed to students.
Events and Visitors
All events at Gustavus, whether sponsored by the College or an outside group, are canceled or postponed until further notice.
The campus is closed to all visitors and guests.
Faculty and Staff Information
Gustavus employees will continue to receive their normal pay and benefits through May 31 and will not be asked to use PTO/vacation in the event of personal illness or COVID-19 related responsibilities.
Faculty members should continue to prepare for online course delivery for the rest of the semester.
Staff employees will receive further guidance about preparing to work from home (if applicable) or providing staffing for continuing operations. Employees may be asked to assist with duties outside of their current responsibilities. If circumstances allow, staff employees may be recalled to on-campus work.
The College acknowledges that this is a fast-developing situation and will continue to monitor guidance from appropriate national, state, and local authorities. Additional communication will be sent to students, faculty, and staff as necessary.
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