Update XXXVII – June 3, 2021, 11:50 am

N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper updated his executive order relative to COVID-19 and lifted many restrictions to reflect the latest public health guidance from the NCDHHS and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on May 14th. As has been the case under previous executive orders, college and university presidents retain the authority to impose public health requirements on their campuses that are more restrictive than those of an executive order in light of the unique circumstances and community conditions of the campus. Accordingly, Chowan University is updating its campus community expectations as follows.

Please read this message carefully since it contains important updates as we prepare for a full return to campus for fall semester.

·  Face coverings are still required on campus indoors for faculty, staff, visitors and students, who have not been vaccinated.  Employees, students and guests who are vaccinated have the option to wear masks or not. This matter will be revisited with an update to campus by July 1.
·  Reminder: You are not required to wear a mask if you are alone in an enclosed room, such as an office with a door, or while you are actively eating or drinking.
·  Social distancing is no longer required in classrooms and other meeting areas.
·  Masks are no longer required outdoors.
·  Mass gathering limits are lifted but we still recommend wearing masks at crowded large indoor events and live performances.
·  It is still strongly recommended that unvaccinated individuals continue to wear a face covering at all times when in the presence of others.

While the governor’s latest update reflects the great strides that North Carolina has made against COVID-19, the CU community must continue to do our part to protect ourselves and others. Vaccinations are strongly encouraged and available at most pharmacies and local health departments. (More detailed information on this is forthcoming.)

Thank you for continuing to do your part to keep the Hawks community safe. The senior staff monitors what is happening in North Carolina and in our immediate area. We will make adjustments for the campus as deemed appropriate.

Update XXXVI – January 27, 8:30 pm

Governor Roy Cooper and the North Carolina Department of Health announced that North Carolina will extend the Modified Stay at Home Order that requires people to stay at home between 10 pm and 5 am through at least February 28, 2021.  Travel to and from work; to obtain food, medical care, fuel or social services; or to take care of a family member is exempted. See full release here. 

Update XXXV – January 6, 9:45 pm

Governor Roy Cooper and the North Carolina Department of Health announced that North Carolina will continue the Modified Stay at Home Order after a rapid increase in North Carolina’s key COVID-19 trends. The Order requires people to stay at home between 10 pm and 5 am remains in effect until at least January 29, 2021.  Travel to and from work; to obtain food, medical care, fuel or social services; or to take care of a family member is exempted. See full release here. 

Update XXXIV – December 8, 3:45 pm

Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen announced that North Carolina will begin a Modified Stay at Home Order after a rapid increase in North Carolina’s key COVID-19 trends. The Order requires people to stay at home between 10 pm and 5 am and takes effect Friday, December 11, and will be in place until at least January 8, 2021.  Travel to and from work; to obtain food, medical care, fuel or social services; or to take care of a family member is exempted. See full release here. 

Update XXXIII – November 13, 2:25 pm

Message to students, faculty and staff:

In this email:

• Update on precautionary isolation 
• Preparations to depart campus for break
• On-campus testing (for departure and spring semester)
• Post precautionary isolation form 
• Information for the spring semester

Thank you for your continued cooperation during this period of precautionary isolation. With your continued cooperation, we plan to resume normal operations on Monday, November 16. Classes will resume their delivery method used before the isolation period (if your class was in person, it will resume in person, online will be online, etc.).  The dining hall will resume in person operations beginning on Monday breakfast and will continue to offer to-go options. 

While there have been challenges this semester, the determination and perseverance of the Chowan family have allowed us to continue our valuable on-campus living and learning environments, with modifications in place. As we continue our final two weeks on-campus we must continue to wear our masks (indoors and outdoors), wash our hands, practice social distancing, and complete CampusClear.  We will adhere to the Governor’s executive order limiting indoor gatherings to 10 or less which goes into effect at 5 pm today. The exception to this order is classrooms, which have been modified to adhere to CDC guidelines. 

Preparations to Depart Campus for Break
As we prepare to leave for Thanksgiving break and transition to the planned online academic calendar for the remainder of the fall semester, we must continue to ensure we protect ourselves and others before returning home.  Through the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), Chowan University is providing free COVID testing to the Chowan University students, faculty, and staff during the last week of on-campus classes before Thanksgiving break.  This is following the NCDHHS and higher education’s commitment to a safer holiday break. These BinaxNOW Antigen tests are nasal swab tests but do not require a lab for analysis and results are available in 15 minutes. The University will be communicating exit testing of those on campus instructions early next week.

Should you have chosen to quarantine/isolate at home during the period of precautionary isolation and you choose to remain at home for the remainder of the semester, you must notify the University by completing this form. Additional email communication will be sent from Dr. Moore with specific instructions as it relates to classes.

Spring Semester 
As we conclude the semester, we have begun planning for the spring semester which starts in January.  Prior to returning to campus from the break, faculty, and staff will be tested, and students will be tested upon arrival during a staggered check-in. Details for spring check-in and testing for faculty, staff, and students will be communicated in the coming weeks. In addition, the University will implement random surveillance testing of at least 5% of the campus community on a weekly basis beginning in the spring semester.

As we all prepare for break, please review the NCDHHS Guidance for Safer Holiday Breaks. More detailed interim guidelines from NCDHHS can be found here. 

Thank you for your continued cooperation and care for self, others, and this place.

Update XXXII – November 11, 4:00 pm

Message to students, faculty and staff:

Thank you for your continued cooperation during this period of precautionary isolation.   Our on-campus active, positive cases remain low, but there was a rise in quarantine numbers last week.  This week we have seen an increase in positive cases of asymptomatic people. 

It is imperative that we remember the procedures that we have in place to protect ourselves, this place, and others.  Wearing your mask, washing your hands, practicing social distancing, and completing CampusClear are vital to our campus community health.  

As a member of our campus community, you must be familiar with the COVID-19 procedures that can be found on chowan.edu/reopening and subsequent pages.  Should a campus community member choose to get tested off-campus, you must follow our self-monitoring and quarantine protocol and notify the University of your results (students contact the Wellness Center and employees contact Human Resources). 

All students, faculty, and staff are required to complete CampusClear whether or not you are on campus (this includes students and faculty learning/teaching remotely). This is necessary, so we can adequately report and provide services to those in need. 

CampusClear is part of our comprehensive strategy for controlling the spread of COVID-19. It only takes a few seconds to self-screen, and your participation helps to keep our campus safe for everyone by giving the University a clear indication of our campus health. You can download the application on your phone (and it will remind you daily) or complete the questionnaire online. Please be sure to self-screen daily, even if you have no symptoms. 

It is important to know that yesterday, North Carolina Governor, Roy Cooper, announced that North Carolina’s indoor mass gathering limit will be lowered to 10 people in an effort to drive down North Carolina’s key COVID-19 metrics. This state decision will go into effect on Friday, November 13, and will be in place through Friday, December 4. 

A University status email will be sent on Friday, November 13 to the campus community with updated plans as we continue to monitor our current situation. Please remember isolation is still in effect until Sunday, November 15. 

Thank you for your continued cooperation and care for self, others and this place. 

Update XXXI – November 10, 5:00 pm

North Carolina Governor, Roy Cooper, announced that North Carolina’s indoor mass gathering limit will be lowered to 10 people in an effort to drive down North Carolina’s key COVID-19 metrics. This state decision will go into effect on Friday, November 13, and will be in place through Friday, December 4. See the full announcement here. 

Update XXX – November 3, 4:00 pm

Message to students, faculty and staff: 

We have made it eleven weeks into the semester due to your continued diligence in following the COVID-19 protocols.  The procedures we have in place are to protect the University. We must continue to take steps to protect the health and safety of our campus and the campus community. 

While our active positive cases on campus remain low, the number of students in isolation has risen.  Out of an abundance of caution, Dr. Peterson, with consultation from the Senior Team and our medical personnel, has decided that all students* will be required to be in isolation beginning at midnight tonight (November 4th) through Sunday, November 15th. 

During this isolation period: 

Classes will continue and will be delivered online. 
You should remain in your residence hall with the exception to get fresh air, a meal from an on-campus dining facility, or to exercise on an individual basis.
Dining services will provide take-out service during normally scheduled hours.  
The Jenkins Center will be closed during the isolation period. 
The Hawks Nest will be closed during the isolation period for student activities, Murfs will remain open. 
Whitaker Library and computer labs will remain open. 

The University is not closing the campus; however, this is a necessary step to protect our campus, our students, our faculty, our staff, and this place.

*Any student who has been placed in quarantine or isolation by University medical professionals must continue to follow the specific guidelines you were given.  These students will receive a separate email from Residence Life reiterating the specific guidelines. 

Faculty and Staff should continue to follow the University COVID-19 Employee Protocols. Any questions should be directed to your supervisor/Vice President.

Wearing your mask, washing your hands, practicing social distancing, and completing CampusClear are vital to our campus community health. It is imperative that we continue these practices so that we can continue the semester. Our continued care for self, others, and place shows our commitment to remaining Chowan strong, and safer together. 

The University administration will continue to monitor the situation and provide further instructions, as needed. Students, faculty, and staff should continue to monitor their Chowan email for additional updates.

Update XXIX – September 30, 5:00 pm

Today NC Governor Roy Cooper “North Carolina will ease cautiously some restrictions while continuing safety measures to combat the spread of COVID-19 as the state’s metrics remained stable in September.”  The state will move into phase III begins Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. and continues for three weeks through October 23. The full release can be found here.  All current Chowan University guidelines remain in place.

Update XXVIII – September 7, 7:00 pm

Many steps to protect the health and safety of our campus have been taken, but it takes the effort of the entire community to protect our campus.  With the return of employees and students, the likelihood of positive COVID-19 tests increases. We have expectations to be embraced and practiced on a consistent basis by our students, faculty, and staff. These expectations will guide us as we move through the semester. Each person’s full commitment to their own well-being and an effort to maintain the safety and health of others is at the heart and soul of these expectations. 

In order to effectively communicate, Chowan University has created a notification page (chowan.edu/covid19notifications). On this page, the campus community will find information on positive cases, alert protocols, and contact tracing.  All students, faculty, and staff who report COVID-19 symptoms or who are exposed to the virus must follow the testing, contact tracing, and quarantine protocols established by Chowan University. These protocols can be found on the chowan.edu/reopening webpage under “Safety Practices > Self Monitoring and Quarantine Protocol.”

All students, faculty, and staff are expected to wear the face masks correctly, practice social distancing, wash hands or use hand sanitizer frequently, and practice basic health standards and CDC guidelines.  Chowan University protocols surrounding COVID-19 are posted online at chowan.edu/reopening.  It is imperative that the University community complete the daily #CampusClear survey on the app or online.  Responsibility to follow the University policies falls to individual faculty, staff, students, and campus guests in order to promote a good social order with mutual care and respect for others.

We are “Chowan Strong – Safer Together.” 

Update XXVII – September 3, 12:00 pm

Chowan University’s Provost, Dr. Danny Moore released the revised Spring 2021 Academic Calendar along with the announcement that the in-person Commencement for the Class of 2020 has been postponed a second time to May 2021. Read the full information here. 

Update XXVI – September 1, 4:00 pm

Today NC Governor Roy Cooper “North Carolina will take a modest step forward move into Phase 2.5 starting this Friday, September 4th at 5pm. Mask mandates and other prevention methods remain in effect and are even more important to contain the virus.”  The full release can be found here.  All current  Chowan University guidelines remain in place.

Update XXV – August 17, 5:15 pm

As part of our comprehensive strategy for controlling the spread of COVID-19 on campus, we are deploying #CampusClear, a daily self-screening application. Everyone in our learning community is required to use #CampusClear to gain access to campus. It only takes a few seconds to self-screen, and your participation helps to keep our campus safe for everyone. Likewise, please be sure to self-screen daily, even if you have no symptoms. 

Click here to install it on your device. If you are unable to access the application on your device you may use the web app address below to access the web application https://web.ivy.ai/app/campusclear. 

Update XXIV – August 5, 4:30 pm

Today NC Governor Roy Cooper “announced that North Carolina will remain paused in Safer At Home Phase 2 for another 5 weeks as students and staff return to schools, colleges and universities and the state doubles down on efforts to decrease COVID-19 numbers.” The full release can be found here. 

Update XXIII -July 28, 10:00am

An email was sent to all students from our health care professionals. It includes the following notifications: 

• -Given the increase of COVID 19 cases throughout the country, we are also requesting our students throughout the United States to self-monitor for at least 10 days prior to coming to campus.
• -When you arrive on campus, you will be required to participate in a health screening before you check-in. The screening will include having your temperature checked and answer pertinent questions. The Chowan community will be expected to complete a daily self-health screening prior to attending classes, or beginning your day on campus.}
  Students will be required to sign the community compact, Chowan Strong- Safer Together. The compact is our agreement to care for self, others and this place. In addition, students will be given two face masks during check-in. Face masks are required in all public spaces.
• In an effort to better meet the needs of our students, the Wellness Center has extended its hours from 9 am – 4 pm when classes are in session. 

Update XXII -July 21, 12:00pm

While extensive research and planning for protecting the health and safety of our campus are behind efforts to resume in-person classes and other aspects of the on-campus experience for fall, we know that this situation is ever-evolving and we will continue to provide updates as new information and guidelines are finalized. Chowan officials want to be available for you to answer any questions, concerns, or suggestions you may have.

We will host a weekly Zoom meeting through check-in week on Tuesdays at 6:30 PM EST (July 28th, August 4th, 11th, & 18th). To join these meetings click here – you may join up to 5 minutes prior to start time. 

Update XXI -July 15, 5:00pm

Today NC Governor Roy Cooper extended the state’s Phase II for three more weeks, sharing his “re-opening priority is the school building doors, and in order for that to happen we have to work to stabilize our virus trends.” The full release can be found here.  

Update XX -June 29, 4:30pm

The University will continue to develop and revise guidelines that address the expectations of all members of the community, personal safety practices, staffing options, workplace environments, emotional wellbeing, on-campus visitors, modification of facilities, and workplace education.

The University has a coronavirus information page (this page) to share updates with the campus community. In addition, the University will soon launch a fall 2020 reopening webpage to include the academic calendar, personal safety practices, modified campus events, guidelines for campus visitors, and information on academic life, residential life, student/campus life, and athletic life.

The University is preparing a public health plan that includes COVID-19 testing and tracing protocols, quarantine guidelines for students diagnosed as positive and for students who had contact with a diagnosed individual, and self-isolation guidelines for an employee who is diagnosed as positive or who has been exposed to or come in contact with an individual who has tested positive.

Academics: 

The University has released a modified fall 2020 academic calendar and will modify the spring 2021 the academic calendar, and continue to modify as needed to respond to the constantly shifting landscape of COVID-19.

To facilitate social distancing, University faculty will employ a mix of instructional delivery methods to include in-person, hybrid, and remote, while maintaining instructional excellence in all courses.

Health and Safety Practices:

The University is developing a be kind and be vigilant campaign to promote the monitoring of COVID-19 symptoms, wearing face coverings, practicing good personal hygiene and handwashing, and practicing social distancing.

To provide safe spaces where learning, teaching, serving, engaging, living, playing, and working together can thrive, the University will modify facilities to include limiting capacity in spaces; closing, where possible, informal gathering places; creating visual cues to direct community members where to enter, exit, stand, etc.; installing, where possible, barriers to ensure physical distancing; and removing furniture in public spaces.

To provide meaningful, safe and healthy experiences for all members of the community, the University will reimagine every dimension of the Chowan experience, including student organizations, residential life, dining services, athletic events, special programs, performances, exhibitions, admissions events, commencements, alumni and philanthropic activities, etc.

The University will implement standards, processes, and responsibilities for routine cleaning and disinfecting high-touch points and public spaces, such as classrooms, lobbies, and restrooms, etc.; for identifying areas to be deep cleaned following a presumptive for confirmed COVID-19 case; for distributing cleaning and disinfecting supplies to employees who have the responsibility of disinfecting their workspace on a regular basis several times per day; and for installing hand sanitizer dispensers at strategic points throughout campus. 

The University will develop written guidelines and protocols to address the return to work and accommodation for staff who may have underlying conditions that put them at a greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

The University is working diligently to implement the above recommendations as well other recommendations that will flow from the Task Force working groups – Health and Safety, Academic Procedures, Facilities, and Social Distancing, Communications and Events, Student Life and Services, Athletics – while remaining nimble and flexible to changing conditions.

Update XIX -June 24, 6:00 pm

Today, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper announced that North Carolina would remain in Safer at Home Phase 2 for three more weeks and made mandatory that face coverings must be worn when people are in a public place. See the full state update here.

Faculty, Staff, students, and any campus visitors must follow University and state guidelines on face masks.  University personnel must continue to follow the “Campus Reopening Guidelines.”

Update XVIII -June 1, 3:00 pm

Chowan University continues to monitor current public health information and review guidance issued by a variety of public health agencies. With the assistance of the dedicated members of the University community, we have developed scenarios for how Chowan will provide an education to our students this fall that focuses on our mission of teaching, learning, engaging, mentoring, serving, and advising.

Today we are announcing revisions to the fall semester academic calendar. Below are the highlights of the revised calendar:

• Classes will begin Tuesday, August 25, as already scheduled.
• To complete as much of the semester before Thanksgiving as possible, we will NOT hold a Fall Break and the Thanksgiving Break will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 25.
• The last week of instruction, November 30-December 4, will be held online as Study Days. On a Study Day, instructors may hold study sessions, conduct labs, require presentations, etc., remotely. These days are designed to review and reinforce previous course work. No new material is introduced on a Study Day. A Study Day is also used to study for exams, complete papers and projects, make remote presentations, etc. 
• An online Final Examination period will begin Monday, December 7, and end on Monday, December 14. Reading Day is scheduled for Wednesday, December 9. No exams will be given on December 12-13.

Read more. 

Update XVII – May 29, 9:00 am

Chowan University’s Vice President for Athletics, Patrick Mashuda, announced Thursday the formation of a small working task force within the athletic department in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  “The overall health and safety of our student-athletes and staff are our number one priority so forming this task force will help prepare for a hopeful return to play in the Fall semester,” stated Mashuda.  Read more.

Update XV – May 21, 11:00 am 

Yesterday evening, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper announced that North Carolina will move into a “safer at home” Phase II of reopening beginning Friday, May 22nd at 5 pm. 

For staff and faculty currently performing duties remotely, the University has asked respective Vice Presidents to strategically phase employees return to campus to ensure the health and safety of the entire campus community. Those who are on campus and those who return are required to continue to adhere to the CDC safety protocols and the Chowan Campus Reopening Guidelines.

Update XIV – May 12, 12:30 pm 

As the global understanding of COVID-19 evolves, it is imperative that the University research and recommend safe, effective, and efficient ways to reopen for fall 2020. On Monday, May 11th, Dr. Peterson named thirteen key personnel who will lead a task force that will coordinate the University’s preparedness, operational effectiveness, and continuity as it relates to the reopening.   The team will be guided by safety, science, health officials, and Chowan’s educational mission, with a priority to balance the significant value of on-campus living and learning with an equal responsibility to protect community health and safety. Read more here. 

Update XIII – May 4, 2020, 3:00 pm

Chowan University is preparing to be open for fall 2020.

President Peterson shared with the Board of Trustees in a virtual meeting on April 30th that the University intends to safely resume in-person teaching and residential life for the fall 2020 semester. Along with the senior team, he has been working through various scenarios to resume on-campus operations this fall. The plans are contingent upon the situation surrounding the pandemic and guidance from Governor Cooper and, state and local health officials.  

On April 23rd North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper extended the state’s stay at home order through May 8th and introduced his plans for a three-phase lifting of restrictions based on virus trends.  The University will continue to operate as it has since the stay-at-home order took effect in March with faculty and staff working primarily remotely and classes delivered online. For staff currently performing duties remotely, the University plans to follow state recommendations and announce a plan to strategically phase employees return to campus to ensure the health and safety of the entire campus community. Summer courses, as they have been historically, will be delivered through online instruction. 

The overall theme across all sectors throughout the pandemic has been uncertainty and transformation.  As a primarily residential campus, Chowan students have adapted to a new way of learning and engaging with peers, most, including faculty, citing that they are eager to return to campus. The University recognizes that while the plan is to resume classes in person, it will be under a “new normal.” The top priority of the University is and will remain, the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff. 

“As we have throughout this ever-changing situation, we will keep you informed on procedures and decisions as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic” reassured Dr. Peterson.  The administration is planning and preparing to ensure a safe return for students, employees, and visitors.  The University will provide additional return-to-campus information updates as soon as possible. 

UPDATE XII- April 24, 2020, 12:00 pm

Yesterday, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper extended the state-wide “stay-at-home” order through May 8th.  The University will continue to operate as it has since the stay-at-home order took effect in March with faculty and staff working primarily remotely and classes delivered online. Those who remain on campus and those who come to perform essential services are required to continue to adhere to the CDC safety protocols.  

The University remains focused on continuing business operations as well as online academic support through the rest of this semester, as well as our on-campus housing and dining services to students who need them.  As the semester comes to an end, students are reminded to follow the Residence Life check out process created to ensure we follow best practices. 

As a reminder, we have an FAQ page that includes best practices and protocols. 

UPDATE XI- April 17, 2020, 9:00 am

In order to prioritize the health and safety of all of our campus residents and staff, while also maintaining social distancing guidelines, students who are not currently on campus will be required to follow the outlined process for Residence Life end of the year checkout. 

UPDATE X- March 27, 2020, 5:30 pm

This afternoon, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper announced a state-wide “stay-at-home” order requiring all non-essential businesses to cease operations beginning Monday, March 30th at 5 pm. Chowan University’s leadership anticipated this development and has enacted the changes to comply. The Executive Order allows institutions of higher education to continue to maintain certain on-campus activities throughout the stay-at-home time period.  Within this context, we remain focused on continuing business operations as well as academic support such as delivering classes and academic services online that are scheduled for the rest of this semester and our on-campus housing and dining services to students who need them. 

All faculty and staff will continue to follow the guidelines provided by your respective Vice President/Supervisor this past week regarding telework. Students will receive additional updates from Residence Life before the stay at home order takes effect.

Those who remain on campus and those who come to perform essential services are required to continue to adhere to the CDC safety protocols. This includes, but is not limited to social distancing, working in isolation, frequent handwashing, and frequent disinfection of surfaces. Chowan University’s custodial services remain proactive in ensuring that areas and surfaces are clean daily. While this order takes effect on Monday, we encourage the Chowan University community to adhere to the governor’s directives beginning today. 

Students will receive additional updates from Residence Life before the stay at home order takes effect.

UPDATE IX- March 25, 2020, 1:11 pm 

Message from Dr. Kirk E. Peterson, President:

In consultation with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership, Chowan University has become a virtual university, completing the remainder of the spring 2020 semester in an online learning setting. At this time, the University is not closing campus operations, but taking the necessary precautions to protect the campus community. Many offices and resources have or will move to remote assistance.

While we are in unprecedented times, the University maintains its commitment to her students. Central to our mission is maintaining the most sacred ceremonies, such as commencement. We recognize this event happens but once in a lifetime. Accomplishing this task is monumental in the current state of uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commencement 2020, originally scheduled for May 9th, has been postponed until December 19, 2020. The December 19th Commencement will honor candidates for graduation from December 2019, May 2020, July 2020, and December 2020. However, on May 9th, the University will hold a virtual celebration for those who were slated to receive their diploma that day.

We also understand there is frustration, disappointment, and fear of the unknown. As President, I can assure you that Chowan University has a dedicated faculty and staff, and our students are remarkable at overcoming adversity. Like many higher education institutions, we are doing our best to navigate these uncharted territories amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our goal is to do our best in responding to questions and be prepared for the unexpected, but the reality is this is an ever-evolving situation, and frankly, we may not have all of the answers to some of your questions at this time.  

The University will soon communicate additional information to students regarding campus operations and procedures. In the meantime, questions that we are able to answer at this point can be found at chowan.edu/coronavirus-faqs. This page will be updated as warranted. Please know we have a moral obligation and have made it a priority to assist students who have no other place to go. We realize that for some of our students, we are not just an educational institution, we are their home—a provider of a place to sleep, meals, and health care.

As I have stated before, Chowan has successfully overcome many challenges throughout her history. By working together and supporting one another, we will overcome these circumstances.

With continued faith in our future,
Kirk E. Peterson, President 

UPDATE VIII – March 23, 2020, 3:00 pm  (Spring 2020)

Out of an abundance of caution and following the executive order from North Carolina Governor, Roy Cooper, beginning at 3 pm today, the Jenkins Center will be closed until further notice.

UPDATE VII – March 20, 2020, 4:00 pm (Spring 2020) 

Message from Dr. Montrose Streeter, Vice President of Student Affairs:

As we end your extended spring break and transition on remote learning on Monday, please review the important guidelines as they relate to residential living. 

Students may return to campus from spring break to learn remotely, should you desire. Due to the current state and federal government restrictions along with recommendations from the CDC, all students should be aware of the following steps that the University has implemented to those who remain on-campus during this period of remote instruction:

• -In order to be allowed to return to campus, students must register via the Google survey sent by Residence Life. Students who stay on-campus should follow the guidelines of the CDC, especially in regards to sanitation and avoiding groups of more than ten people. Please practice social distancing at all times (at least 6 feet).
• -No overnight non-student visitors are allowed on-campus during this period of remote learning.
• -The state of North Carolina has limited food services to take-out and delivery. This restriction applies to Chowan dining services. Therefore, dining services will offer only limited take-out/grab-and-go options, with no seated dining until the restrictions are limited. 
• -The Hawk’s Nest and Jenkins Center are open.  
• -Students who have returned home and do not plan to return during the remote learning period may request to have paychecks forwarded to their home address. 
• -Public Safety will continue services, however, due to staffing limitations and in order to follow guidelines, Public Safety will not be able to offer courtesy rides during this period.
• -The Wellness Center is asking students seeking care to first contact them by phone rather than visiting in person. During normal hours,  Monday- Friday from 10:00 am through 2:00 pm contact 252-398-6248. After hours, students should call 252-398-1234.
• -The Counseling Center is open.   You can reach Yolanda Majette at majety@chowan.edu during normal business hours (Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm).  As always, crisis counseling is available 24/7 by calling Public Safety at 252-398-1234.   Please see her message below. 

Message from Yolanda Majette, University Counselor: 

This has been a difficult time for us as a community and a nation.  I want to offer support to our campus community as we cope with this difficult time.  It is common to experience frustration, fear, anger, anxiety and many other emotions during times of uncertainty.  

Dealing with this health crisis can have an impact on your emotional and mental health, so I wanted to provide you with a list of resources to assist you over the next few weeks.  The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has provided resources on how to take care of our mental health during a stressful situation. Please utilize these resources if needed.

Hotlines
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741-741
Self-Harm Hotline 1-800-366-8288
National Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656-4673
National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency 1-800-622-2255

COVID-19 Mental Health Resources
Managing Anxiety and Stress During COVID-19 Outbreak (CDC)
Taking Care of Your Emotional Health (CDC)
Tips For Social Distancing, Quarantine And Isolation During An Infectious Disease Outbreak (SAMHSA)
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine Coronavirus Information and Resources Guide

Apps for anxiety

Breathe2Relax
Headspace
Mindshift

If you would like to search for a therapist near you, PsychologyToday and PsychCentral can provide you with a list of therapists in your area.  

I hope this information is helpful.  We will get through this with continued prayer and support of one another.

UPDATE VI – March 17, 2020, 3:52 pm  (Spring 2020)

The top priority of the University remains the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and community.

As of 5:00 pm today (March 17, 2020) and extending until further notice, Thomas Dining Hall will provide take out service to students, faculty, and staff.  Patrons will be able to go to the dining hall, get their meal and then leave the facility.  Meals in Thomas Dining Hall will be served as scheduled.  Murfs will remain closed.

This action follows North Carolina Governor, Roy Cooper’s, executive order effective this afternoon.  As a result, we are able to minimize the number of people gathering in this facility. Social distancing is increasingly important and the University is following state, local, and CDC directives in this regard.   

The University administration will continue to monitor the situation and provide further instructions, as needed. Students, faculty, and staff should continue to monitor their Chowan email for additional updates.  

Today, Conference Carolinas has made the difficult decision to cancel its spring championships and the remainder of its athletics competitions through the end of the 2019-20 academic year.

Originally Conference Carolinas desired to keep open the possibility of returning to athletics competition and host its spring championships in April, but it has been determined that this is no longer viable due to the continued evolution of the COVID-19 public health threat. Read more here.

UPDATE V – March 17, 2020, 9:15 am (Spring 2020) 

The University has been carefully following the developing situation with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in conjunction with medical experts, in close coordination with the state and local public health experts. To date, we have had no reported cases or self-reports of exposure.  Decisions made are based on available data and careful analysis of mandates and guidelines concerning COVID-19. 

• -University Offices will remain open during normal business hours.
• -Housekeeping and maintenance staff are providing extra sanitation measures and distributing educational pieces around campus.
• -Chowan University will transition all courses to online learning beginning Monday, March 23, at 8:00 a.m. All classes will be held online through Sunday, April 5th. Should the University decide to extend the end date for online learning, faculty and students will be notified no later than Monday, March 30.
• -Thomas Dining Hall is serving students having enacted their restricted service which helps reduce the number of touchpoints in the dining hall. 
• -Residence Halls remain open. Residence Life emailed a residential student survey, please complete this survey as soon as possible, it is required for you to return to campus. Contact reslife@chowan.edu with questions regarding the completion of the survey.
• -The Hawks Nest, Jenkins Center, and Whitaker Library remain open but may be under altered hours. 
• -To minimize the risk of exposure, the University has eliminated non-essential travel for faculty and staff.

We realize this situation presents challenges for many students, faculty, and staff and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. We are committed to ensuring all of our students, especially our graduating seniors, can meet their academic requirements. 

We encourage everyone to continue to be diligent in following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations to help decrease the spread of the virus. We would like to emphasize that Chowan University remains open during this time. 

The University administration will continue to monitor the situation and provide further instructions, as needed. Students, faculty, and staff should continue to check their Chowan email for additional updates, and monitor the website at chowan.edu/coronaviru, and CUHawkAlerts.  The top priority of the University remains the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and community. 

UPDATE IV – March 13, 2020, 4:15 pm (Spring 2020) 

Chowan University’s top priority is the health and safety of our students, staff, and faculty and the University community. 

The decisions announced by the University yesterday, allow the time to take additional measures to protect the health and safety of our campus community. 

University Operational Decisions as of March 13th:

• -Spring break for students is extended through March 22, 2020, with a return-to-class date currently set for Monday, March 23rd.|
• -Faculty will report back on Monday, March 16th. 
• -University Offices will remain open during normal business hours. 
• -All athletic events are suspended until further notice.
• -For the approved students who remained on campus during break, Thomas Dining will begin serving students Sunday, March 15th at dinner under limited operation. 
• -Altered Hawks Nest and Jenkins Center hours will be communicated via Chowan email.
• -Whitaker Library will continue spring break hours next week. Any alterations will be sent via Chowan email. 
• -At this point, we are still planning to hold commencement. If this changes because of COVID-19 conditions, we will notify candidates for graduation immediately.
• -Residence Life emailed a residential student survey, please complete this survey as soon as possible (sent from reslife@chowan.edu on 3/12/20 at 12:49 pm).
• -Housekeeping and maintenance staff are providing extra sanitation measures and distributing educational pieces around campus.
• -In accordance with CDC recommendations, we do not recommend anyone travel to or from any country with a Level 2 or 3 advisory issued.
• -To minimize the risk of exposure, the University will eliminate non-essential travel. 

The administration will continue to respond and work proactively for the health and safety of our campus community and we ask that our constituents do the same. Communications will be delivered to the campus community regarding decisions made by the University in a timely manner. 

Current Students: 

Check your Chowan email as it is our primary notification system in case of a campus emergency and for class cancellations. You are strongly encouraged to register for Chowan University’s HawkAlert system at chowan.edu/cuhawkalert.

Residential students, please respond to the Residence Life survey titled: REQUIRED: Spring Break 2020 EXTENDED Residential Survey.

Prospective Students 

The Admissions Office will remain open during normal business hours, but we encourage families to visit at a time when we can offer a full campus-visit experience. We understand this is a challenging time for people and communities across the world. We are here to support you in any way we can and encourage you to reach out to us at 252-398-6230 or enroll@chowan.edu. 

Community Members:

Chowan University will continue to use the guidelines set forth by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).  For up-to-date information, please visit their website at the CDC Coronavirus Update.  This situation changes almost daily.  Please continue to visit the Chowan University website for updated directives or protocols related to campus activity. 

All updates will be sent via email, posted on the website at chowan.edu/coronavirus, and sent via CUHawkAlerts. 

Community-related questions should be directed to news@chowan.edu, faculty should contact Dr. Moore, students should contact studentaffairs@chowan.edu, and staff should contact their supervisors/area Vice President. 

UPDATE III – March 12, 2020, 8:55 pm (Spring 2020) 

Conference Carolinas has made a difficult decision due to the evolving COVID-19 public health threat to suspend all athletic competitions until further notice.  The suspension goes into effect immediately and includes both home and away competition happening as early as Friday, March 13th and extending until further notice.  

The CIAA made the tough decision to cancel this weekend’s CIAA Bowling Event III in Richmond and the CIAA Bowling Championship which was to be held in Virginia Beach, March 21-22.

For the full athletic update, please click here. 

UPDATE II – March 12, 2020, 10:30 am (Spring 2020) 

Chowan University’s top priority is the health and safety of our students, staff, and faculty. The University has been carefully following the developing situation with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and it is clear that the virus is spreading. We have had no reported cases or self-reports of exposure at this time. We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our campus and community.

Though the risk remains low to our campus, in response to developments in our state, Chowan University has decided to extend spring break for students for another week, through March 22, 2020, with a return-to-class date currently set for Monday, March 23, 2020. Faculty should report to work next week on their regular schedules. Staff will continue with normal business. 

At this time, in-season athletes will maintain their current schedules, subject to possible changes as warranted by the health situation or decisions by the Conference Carolinas, CIAA, or opponent schools.

These decisions allow the University the time to take additional measures to protect the health and safety of our campus community. Another update will be sent this evening. 

All updates will be sent via email, posted on the website at chowan.edu/coronavirus, and sent via CUHawkAlerts. 

UPDATE I – March 10, 2020, 5:00 pm (Spring 2020)

Chowan University’s top priority is the health/safety of our students, staff, and faculty. 

At this time, Chowan University is continuing normal operations. However, following a request to all universities and colleges by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to consider suspending study abroad programs, the University completed a careful review of its travel study trip to Portugal and Spain in May and made the decision to cancel it.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has set up a website to assist in educating the public on the virus: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.   Below is information on the virus from the CDC:

What is the virus?

2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a newly identified coronavirus that is causing an outbreak of pneumonia illness. It was first identified in December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, and has since spread to multiple other countries, including the United States.

How does COVID-19 spread?

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) or through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Read more from the CDC.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure and may be flu-like, ranging from mild to serious, and include:

• -Fever
• -Cough
• -Shortness of breathing

Person-to-person spread is occurring, although it’s unclear exactly how it is transmitted and how easily the virus spreads between people.

Recommendations for people with respiratory symptoms:

• -If you have symptoms of fever, cough, and/or difficulty breathing and in the last 14 days:
• -You traveled to/through China.
• -You traveled to any of the countries with a CDC Level 3 Travel Warning.
• -You had close contact with someone who has laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 within 14 days of symptom onset.

How do you prevent COVID-19 spread?

There is no vaccine to prevent this virus, and the CDC advises that the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to COVID-19.

Here are everyday actions to help prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses:

• -Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• -Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• -Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• -Stay home when you are sick.
• -Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• -Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
• -Consider alternatives to shaking hands.
• -Unless you are sick with cough, sneezing, and fever, it is not advised to wear a mask.

What should you do if you show symptoms?

The CDC recommends:

• -Stay home except to get medical care
• -Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
• -Call ahead before visiting your doctor
• -Wear a facemask if you are sick
• -Cover your coughs and sneezes
• -Clean your hands often
• -Avoid sharing personal household items
• -Clean all “high-touch” surfaces every day
• -Monitor your symptoms

As the University returns from Spring Break on March 16th, we recommend the following if you show symptoms:

Residential Students

• -Stay in your residence hall room and do not go to class, Thomas Dining Hall, or other shared spaces on campus.  The University will make arrangements to deliver meals to you.
• -Call the Student Wellness Center at 252-398-1227 Monday-Friday between 10 am and 2 pm, and they will advise you on resources and next steps.  If you experience symptoms after hours or over the weekend, please call 252-398-1234 to get in touch with the  Professional On-Call Staff Member.
• -The Wellness Center or the Professional On-Call Staff Member will notify the Registrar’s Office should your condition warrant communication to your professors regarding missed coursework.

Commuting Students

• -Stay home and do not come to campus.
• -Call your primary healthcare physician and they will advise you on resources and next steps.
• -Contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs at 252-398-1227 or via email at studentaffairs@chowan.edu who will contact Registrar’s Office should your condition warrant communication to your professors regarding missed coursework.

Employees

• -Stay home and do not come to campus.
• -Call your primary healthcare physician and they will advise you on resources and next steps.
• -Inform your supervisor that you will be away from the office and return when your physician has confirmed you are well.
• -Supervisors should contact their area Vice President upon notification of a sick employee

In accordance with CDC guidance for travelers returning from China, Italy, South Korea, Iran or any other country that is subsequently designated by CDC as Level 3 for coronavirus while you are traveling, please be aware that you will be required to self-quarantine — at your permanent address or away from Chowan’s campus — for at least 14 days before returning to campus. If this applies to you, contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs at 252-398-1227 or via email at studentaffairs@chowan.edu

These flyers will be around campus to assist in the education of our students, faculty, and staff:

Facts About COVID-19
What you need to know about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Stop the spread of germs 
What to do if you are sick with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

CARES Act HEERF Funds Update as of October 1, 2020: