Consistent with other highly residential university campuses and the upward trajectory the northeast and R.I. have experienced in the past two weeks, on Monday Bryant’s COVID-19 surveillance testing identified an uptick in positive cases. We informed the community and moved quickly to implement proactive measures including testing the full-population March 31 and April 1, with nearly 2,800 tests in 48 hours.
Since Monday’s rise in positive cases and in positivity test rate, we have had a significant decline in both. The decision to implement full population testing over two days was effective. The daily positivity test rate dropped from 2.5% to well below 1% and the 7-day moving average positively rate is on the decline once again.
Keeping our community safe through the end of the semester and Commencement will require ongoing commitment, but we can do it if we all continue to work together. Please make sure to be safe during this holiday weekend. If you leave campus and gather with family and friends, take care and exercise caution so that you return to campus healthy.
Essential protocols that limit social gathering size remain critical. Social gatherings are how COVID-19 spreads, and to keep everyone safe we are continuing increased Public Safety in our residents halls and townhouses. It is important that all members of the community continue wearing masks, maintaining social distance, frequent handwashing, and avoiding unnecessary trips off campus. If we all work together we can keep Bryant strong and finish strong.
