Last updated March 11, 2020
The unpredictable spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) presents near-term risks that must be confronted prudently and with priority interest for the concern and safety of the Siena community. There have been no cases of the virus on campus, nor have any students, faculty, or staff reported symptoms. However, with students and community members traveling nationally and internationally over spring recess, there is a heightened risk of exposure. Therefore, in an effort to better monitor and evaluate the progress of the outbreak, we have made the decision to extend our spring recess for students by one week.
Classes for March 16-20 will be suspended and students are asked to remain off campus during the lengthened break. International students who did not return home for spring break, student-athletes who are competing in season, and students needing accommodation to complete their academic requirements (such as student teachers, nursing students, interns, etc.) may continue to reside in campus housing. Presently, our intention is to open campus to returning students on Sunday, March 22 at 9 a.m. with the resumption of classes scheduled for Monday, March 23. Faculty, in the meantime, are formulating contingency plans that will allow the College to move all courses online should circumstances warrant.
Additionally, gatherings on campus will be limited to fewer than 50 people starting Thursday, March 12, spectators will be prohibited from attending home athletic contests, and we are working to cancel or reschedule all public events through March 29.
Although there are no reported cases of coronavirus disease in the Siena community, there have been positive tests in nearby areas, and these social distancing actions are consistent with containment best practices. We will continue to work closely with the New York State Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and will adjust course as necessary.