We learned late yesterday of potential COVID-19 exposure on campus from one of our on-campus students. This student learned of positive test results shortly after the student’s last visit to campus on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Here are some important and related facts:
- All students and employees who either had exposure or potential exposure (within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes) have been advised.
- Those who were exposed have entered a 14-day self-quarantine and those who wish to take extra precaution may also decide to be tested and/or self-quarantine.
- The student was not on campus following the positive test, but was a participant in class while awaiting results — despite completing a wellness check.
- The college’s employees, however, followed the procedure as it was designed, including administering the required wellness check to protocol.
- Up to four employees and approximately two dozen students may have been in contact with the student.
- The student was on campus for 1.5 hours per day for the past two weeks in and around the college’s athletics facilities.
Because of the unique circumstances of this case, the unanticipated expansion of COVID cases since athletic participation was approved in the late spring, and concerns about athletic participation external to the campus, the following steps have been taken:
- All summer and fall athletics participation will switch to a remote-only format for the time being.
- The college will continue to review all in-person instruction and the participation protocol on a weekly basis and in alignment with CDC guidelines.
We again want to stress that the college believes there is no exposure beyond that which is described above. In addition, we emphasize that the college’s employees followed the procedures and protocols related to allowing students on campus.
Finally, we urge all members of our community to take seriously the requirements for social distancing, use of masks, and to stay home if they are exposed to someone who has tested positive, is awaiting test results, and/or is symptomatic. Here are some resources:
Sincerely,