Coronavirus Update: Planning for Every Scenario

As the University prepares for spring break, there has been a lot of news developing about COVID-19. Please be assured that while it may seem as if the University is operating as usual, an emergency preparedness team has been monitoring developments daily and updating policies and procedures that will prepare Rowan for all scenarios. 

We have developed a webpage that will serve as the official source of information on the University’s COVID-19 response. Please visit often, as it will be continually updated and will include the latest information regarding Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance and our preparations.

Here are the steps we’ve taken and/or requests for the University community.

Planning for a Disruption:

The University has procedures in place if anyone needs to miss class or work, and is well-prepared if the virus impacts our community. Each of us needs to be flexible and patient, however.

Academic Affairs is committed to ensuring every course can be completed, whether the class meets in-person or the course is completed online. Human Resources will share telework and staffing plans if necessary. Plans are in place to support students, if the need arises. Food service plans have been developed. Additionally, we are monitoring events that bring visitors to our campus, and will postpone or cancel if the need arises.

Students Studying Abroad:

We had 20 students studying abroad this semester. To date, six students who were studying in Italy have returned and were given the option to take online courses for the balance of the semester so they maintain their academic progress. The International Center is in regular contact with the remaining students, each of whom was offered help with returning home, but chose to finish their academic programs abroad.

Canceled Trips:

We canceled several University-related student and faculty trips to high-risk areas that were scheduled throughout the balance of this semester and early summer. While we are generally following CDC guidelines for travel, we have taken a more cautious approach and are no longer accepting travel requests for international trips.

Although the state of New Jersey issued certain travel restrictions for its employees, public higher education employees are not affected by that directive.

There are currently no restrictions on domestic travel; however, we are closely monitoring University-funded plans. 

At this time, we strongly encourage students and employees to carefully reconsider their University-related travel plans they may have scheduled for the balance of the semester. Identify alternative gathering plans, if available, through the hosting agency.

CDC travel advisories are changing daily. If you have not done so already, please report any planned University-related trips to your department and division heads. We would appreciate it if personal international travel plans are reported to mytravelplans@rowan.edu so that the University can help keep you up to date on travel advisories.

Students and employees who are taking part in a University-related trip that are still scheduled to depart do not have to go if they feel uncomfortable about traveling at this time. Please notify your trip leader immediately if you do not plan to participate, so cancellations can be made.

Keeping Rowan Healthy

In order to minimize the spread of illness, Housekeeping and Gourmet Dining staff have increased their sanitizing efforts. But we need your help.

Please take common-sense precautions to protect against the spread of this illness.

It’s simple. Wash your hands. Cover your coughs. Refrain from shaking hands at this time. Monitor your own health. The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to a cold or flu. If you feel unwell, stay away from others, call your primary care provider for advice, and notify the Wellness Center.

All academic and administrative buildings should have hand-sanitizing units at entrances. If they have been removed or need to be filled, please contact Housekeeping at 856-256-4650 or housekeeping@rowan.edu.

It’s also important to monitor your own mental health. It’s normal to feel anxious or stressed. Know the signs of stress, how to relieve stress, and when to seek help. If you are feeling overwhelmed, please contact the Wellness Center at 856-256-4333.

While Rowan is fortunate to have its own infectious disease and medical experts, we also are working with local and state officials and are closely following CDC guidance when developing contingency plans.

If we must activate those plans, we will notify you through Rowan Daily Mail, Extra Daily Mail, or the Rowan Alert emergency notification system. If you are not enrolled in Rowan Alert, please do so now through Self-Service Banner. 

Here are more ways to reach us if you have questions:

• Faculty: Contact the Office of the Provost at 856-256-4012.
• Students: Glassboro campus students should contact the Dean of Students at 856-256-4283. CMSRU, SOM and GSBS students should contact the offices of their respective deans.
• Wellness Center: 856-256-4333
• Visit www.rowan.edu/virusinfo

 We’re committed to keeping our community healthy. Thank you for your attention and your help with this critical matter.