Campus Message - March 16, 2020

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16 March 2020

Coronavirus Update from President Carvajal [10:00 PM March 16, 2020]

Good evening Blazers,

Earlier this evening an email was sent concerning the latest decision by the University System of Georgia regarding changes to campus operations resulting from COVID-19 outbreak.

This announcement contained information about classes moving to an online format. Students will receive detailed information regarding this change – including all steps VSU is taking to foster student success in online coursework – before instruction in most academic programs resumes on Monday, March 30, 2020.

This announcement also discussed the closure of residence halls and that students are not allowed to return to campus until they receive permission from Valdosta State to do so. We understand that this announcement was sudden, and that students have many questions. For our students’ safety and convenience, students who live in university residence halls should delay their return until they receive specific instructions from VSU regarding a plan to return to collect their belongings.

Please trust that we are working quickly to provide this information as soon as possible. Students, in the meantime, please know that your belongings are safe and if you are currently on campus you do not need to leave until more information is provided.

Students, you will receive information soon regarding guidance on refunds for housing and dining. VSU will remain open to ensure continuity of certain services, but most public events will not be held.

Finally, while no decision has yet been made regarding Spring Commencement, guidance will be distributed as it becomes available.

Thank you for your patience,

RIchard Carvajal,
President, Valdosta State University

REPORT HEALTH CONCERNS

Key term: Close Contact - this is defined as being within six (6) feet of an individual for more than 15 minutes regardless of whether a face covering is worn.

EMPLOYEES DO NOT come on campus if you believe you have been in close contact with a person having COVID or yourself having symptoms or receiving a positive diagnosis. Instead, notify your supervisor of your absence, seek medical services from your primary care provider, and self-report your information by completing the online form or contacting HR directly at 229-333-5709.

STUDENTS DO NOT come on campus nor go directly to the Student Health Center if you believe you have been exposed to COVID. Instead, call the Health Services at 229-333-5886 to speak with a triage nurse over the phone. Additional guidance will be provided on how to access the health center facility. The health center remains open for walk-in patients with non-COVID medical needs.

Members of the campus community should report all instances of close contact with a person having COVID or themselves receiving a positive diagnosis of COVID. To assist with reporting, a COVID Self Reporting link has been added within MyVSU.

If you have been instructed to self-isolate or quarantine, you should do so at your permanent home for the period given unless it should be extended due to remaining symptoms.

Report a Social Distance Concern