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Student Update: Coronavirus - March 16, 2020

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University of Denver

News  •

Dear Students,

In the midst of all that is happening with Coronavirus and the implications on our community and campus, I wanted to take a moment to say, I believe in you. Your courage, patience and generosity of spirit have all shown through in this crisis and I am deeply grateful, and proud, of each of you. Though we are facing a tough time filled with uncertainty and unexpected challenges, I want to reassure you that we are committed to doing everything we can to support your health and well-being during this time.

As you prepare for finals and a well-earned break, I want you to have the information you need as you juggle multiple priorities.

Transitioning to online and remote final exams

As you know, we are offering winter quarter final exams online or remotely. Please reach out directly to your faculty members if you have questions about finals.

Our offices are still open to support you.  If you would like support with time management or organization, you can schedule an appointment or take advantage of resources by visiting this academic coaching website.

Health and well being

If you have symptoms of cough, fever, and shortness of breath, during business hours, call the Health & Counseling Center nurse triage line, 303-871-2615.  Our afterhours medical staff may be reached through the HCC mainline, 303-871-2205.  Please be sure to call first before showing up at the clinic. Our medical staff will help you determine best next steps.

Additionally, students have the opportunity to connect with a Student Outreach & Support (SOS) Case Manager to determine which support resource is best for their situation by calling 303-871-2400 or reaching out online at sos.du.edu.

We are asking everyone to practice social distancing by aiming to stay 6 feet away from others as much as possible. Though young people are thought to be at lower risk for severe disease from COVID-19, they can easily spread it to others. Do not go into any social setting when you are sick. 

Remote access changes (as of Tuesday, March 17)

The University will adjust building access. Because we anticipate significantly fewer people on campus, exterior doors will be locked.  You may access facilities with a valid ID card. If you do not have your ID card, please visit the card office in South Driscoll.

Ritchie Center operations (as of Tuesday, March 17)

In the best interests of decreasing the probability of spreading COVID-19, we will close the Ritchie Center through the end of spring break. We will make a decision about when to reopen at a later time.

Campus Shuttle Service (as of Tuesday, March 17)

The Campus Shuttle will be suspended temporarily through at least April 10.

Student workers

If a non-benefited employee is scheduled to work in the next pay period, which starts on March 16, and is unable to work due to a COVID-19 related reason, their supervisor will complete the employee’s timecard as if the employee had actually worked those planned hours. Please note that these hours do not count toward overtime calculation. Non-benefited employees who were not scheduled to work during this time will not receive pay. Student workers, including those with a work study award will be treated as any other non-benefited employee during this period.

Residential students are required to complete the mandatory travel and housingsurvey they have received. Please check your clutter or quarantined emails if you do not see it.  If you still cannot find that survey link, please call the HRE mainline at: 303-871-2246. 

Please continue to visit DU’s Coronavirus website for frequently asked questions (FAQ) and answers and other useful information. We are updating the FAQ frequently.

Take good care of yourselves, your friends and your families.

Sincerely,

Lili Rodriguez
Vice Chancellor of
Campus Life and Inclusive Excellence