COVID-19 Update to Parents: New cases of the virus have been reported in Virginia.

Although Shenandoah University does not currently have any confirmed cases of coronavirus, or COVID-19, new cases of the virus have been reported in Virginia.

Due to the spread of the virus and out of a concern for the health and well-being of the Shenandoah University community, our leadership team continues to closely monitor the latest advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is in regular contact with the Virginia Department of Health.

Since early February, a university task force made up of administrators, faculty and staff has met regularly to discuss and monitor the global and national spread of coronavirus and any potential actions that we will need to take in the possible event of viral contraction at our Winchester campus or two Northern Virginia locations.

To ensure the health and safety of our students, Shenandoah University is also:

Campus Cleaning

This spring break provides the university a good opportunity to deep clean and disinfect in areas that are not always accessible during normal operations, including all of the classrooms, restrooms and public areas on campus.

In addition, we have added extra alcohol-based hand sanitizing stations at areas of large congregation.

Exploring Online Classes

At this time, we are planning on holding Shenandoah’s classes on campus, but preparations are being made to move university operations and classes online if our campus community becomes impacted by the virus. We are making sure faculty have training and resources for best online teaching practices. We have advised students to take home their laptops over break in case classes go online or there is a disruption in their travel.

Reminding Students to Stay Healthy

We are encouraging students to practice good hygiene such as washing their hands with soap and water, coughing into their sleeves and keeping a safe distance from those who are ill. We are advising any student, faculty or staff who is sick with a respiratory illness and/or a fever or who has come in contact with someone with COVID-19 to stay home or contact their local health provider, including those at our Wilkins Wellness Center.

Suspending Spring Break International Travel

The university has suspended all university-sanctioned international travel over spring break. We believe that canceling travel at this time is the best decision given how rapidly the situation is changing and the potential issues that could arise, including possible travel restrictions and challenges returning home. We will try to reschedule these trips later this year.

Please know that your child’s health and safety is our top priority and that we will continue to monitor this situation as it unfolds.

You can learn more about coronavirus (COVID-19) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and view our updates at su.edu/coronavirus.