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SFU Spring 2020 Semester to Be Moved Online

To prevent the spread of Covid-19, SFU will continue its classes online for the remainder of the semester.

Loretto, PA (03/20/2020) — In light of Governor Tom Wolf's decision late yesterday, Saint Francis University has made the difficult decision to operate under a virtual model for the remainder of the semester. By moving all campus operations and classes online, the University will be doing its part to limit the spread of COVID-19 and ensure compliance with state and federal officials.

Below is a brief update on the decisions made today. Additional communications will be forthcoming as the situation unfolds.

  • The Saint Francis University virtual learning environment will be extended for all courses until the conclusion of the semester (Wednesday, April 29th). Exams will also be given virtually during exam weeks.
  • The university has initiated the planning of a virtual commencement in lieu of our previously scheduled, Sunday, May 10, ceremonies on campus. More information will be available in the coming weeks.
  • Buildings are closed and access to campus is restricted, except for those staff designated by their area Vice President who are then issued Campus Police 'Essential Personnel' badges.
  • University Police will remain on campus and are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Residential students will be notified of coordinated move-out procedures when they become available.
  • Saint Francis University is committed to issuing prorated refunds or credits for housing and meal plans.
  • All on-campus events are postponed and/or canceled until further notice.
  • Students studying in Ambialet, France will return to the United States and will be met by their parents.

Despite having no confirmed cases of COVID-19 on campus, public health experts expect the expansion of testing to disclose many new cases and anticipate that the novel virus will spread. Thus, we each have a shared responsibility to do whatever we can to protect the health and safety of our community members and slow the expansion of COVID-19.

University President, Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D., shared these thoughts with the University Community: "The decisions made today were carefully weighed and certainly are difficult to make. Please continue to take care of yourselves and those that remain in need. We are reminded by St. Francis of Assisi to walk with faith. Do not underestimate the power of prayer. Let us continue to pray with and for one another. May the Lord bless you and give you His peace."

All Saint Francis University communications, information and resources related to the Coronavirus can be found at www.francis.edu/coronavirus. Specific questions and concerns that may arise should be directed to covid19@francis.edu.

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