Spotlights
GVSU classes go online until March 29
March 12, 2020
A message from President Philomena V. Mantella regarding COVID-19:
Dear campus community,
Our top priority is the health and safety of the Grand Valley State University community. Because the COVID-19 virus has spread to Oakland and Wayne counties in Michigan, Grand Valley will cancel classes March 12 -15. The university will convert to remote teaching beginning March 16, at least through March 29. We are taking this step for the well-being of our community, and have procedures in place to support students with their courses, and faculty and staff with their work. This virus demands we remain alert and make constant adjustments to our plans, and we will update our community as needed.
The university’s Incident Management Team is in close contact with local health officials and monitors the Centers for Disease Control directives. You will find updates on all COVID-19 information at www.gvsu.edu/coronavirus. I urge you to check it regularly.
Students – classes, housing and employment:
Students are encouraged to return to their permanent place of residence as soon as possible. This allows for social distancing as instructed by the Centers for Disease Control. Housing and Residence Life will support students who do not have a permanent or alternative residence by providing housing and dining on campus during this period. If you are in need of assistance, please call (616) 331-2120.
For those who will no longer be living in the residence halls or dining at the university, the fees already collected for those services will be adjusted as appropriate. For those who work on campus, discuss your individual situation with your direct supervisor.
Faculty and Staff:
At this time, the university will remain open and operating for employees. Faculty will continue receiving updates from Provost Maria Cimitile with specific instructions related to converting to remote teaching. Staff members will be expected to report to work unless they are ill or have made arrangements with their appointing officers.
Human Resources has more information for employees on its site: www.gvsu.edu/hro/covid-19-human-resources-faq-1036.htm.
Events:
The university is canceling large events of more than 100 people, including events organized by outside groups. If you have questions on events scheduled between now and March 29, contact (616) 331-6620 for events on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus, and (616) 331-2350 for events on the Allendale Campus.
Travel:
The university has suspended all Grand Valley-sponsored international travel at least through March 30, and we strongly discourage domestic travel for university business.
I realize the spread of the COVID-19 virus is concerning to all of us. Be assured, you will get the support you need to get through this pandemic that has found its way to our state. If you have questions that are not answered here: www.gvsu.edu/coronavirus or on the Human Resources site, you can email: [email protected].
We also have a phone line to answer other questions: (616) 331-INFO (331-4636).
I understand this is an uncertain time, but we are already seeing our community pull together to keep each other safe, healthy and calm.
Sincerely,
Philomena V. Mantella, President
For More Information Contact: Mary Eilleen Lyon in University Communications - (616) 331-2221