In accordance with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s recommendations, Kent State University President Todd Diacon announced today the reduction of operations at all Kent State campuses beginning Monday, March 16, 2020, at 5 p.m., until further notice. This includes the Kent State University at Ashtabula campus, which will close facilities during this time.
Minimizing the number of people on campus is a proactive step designed to prevent the spread of coronavirus and keep the campus community safe.
“Our planning, preparation and response to the rapid spread of COVID-19 is evolving at a rapid pace, but everything is done through an abundance of caution,” said Dean and Chief Administrative Officer Susan J. Stocker, Ph.D. “The health and safety of everyone is priority number one. We are continuing to deliver a high-quality education to our students. Our staff and faculty are working hard to develop coursework that will allow our students to continue.”
Kent State began delivering remote instruction today for all classes that had previously been face-to-face, and online courses will continue uninterrupted. Additionally, clinical rotations for students in nursing and allied health programs are suspended.
Kent State Ashtabula will continue to deliver services like advising, financial aid, counseling, tutoring and supplemental instruction for students from Student Services and the Academic Success Center remotely via telephone, email and Blackboard.
Students are encouraged to check their @kent.edu email and www.kent.edu/advisory for regular updates.
“Our primary focus during this time is to continue to support students as effectively as we can and continue to address their needs,” Stocker said. “This is a challenging transition for some, and an uncertain time for many, and we want to make sure to continue to make resources available to them.”
Continue to Take Preventative Measures
- It is imperative that we take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Avoid large gatherings and follow social distancing recommendations of 3-6 feet.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with your arm or a tissue.
- Avoid exposure to others who are sick.
- Stay home while you are ill (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.
- Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Additional information can be found here:
"The health and safety of our Kent State community is of the highest importance. During this challenging time, let’s all remember to show kindness and respect in all we do because Flashes take care of Flashes."
- President Todd Diacon
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