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In a changing world, our mission remains the same

 

Southwestern Adventist University looks forward to opening our campus safely for all Knights.  We are committed to an on-campus experience that includes in-person classes, student events and activities, athletics and worship together as a campus family.  

Due to an increase of cases of COVID-19 in the local community, face coverings will be required in indoor settings on a temporary basis. In spaces outside of required areas, individals can choose to wear face coverings based on individual needs.

We are all in this together! Thank you in advance for adhering to all protocols and respecting each other. Please remember to communicate concerns and practice compassion. 

Thank you,

Ana Patterson
President

View the latest COVID-19 Update here.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need to wear a mask on campus?

Masks are required in indoor settings on a temporary basis. In spaces outside of required areas, individals may choose to wear face coverings based on individual needs.

What if COVID-19 gets worse, will SWAU still remain open?

Administration regularly monitors community spread of COVID-19. If the county or state issues an order or if community spread rises to a point that is deemed unsafe, then we will consider moving to LEVEL-YELLOW or LEVEL-RED in our implementation plan. This could include partial or full online instruction.

I'm an International student, my country is affected by COVID-19, can I still enroll at SWAU?

International students are welcome to enroll.  However, travel restrictions are in place for certain countries and the future of travel restrictions is uncertain.  It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of any restrictions from their country of origin.  All students will be screened and monitored by Student Health Services.

When do you decide to send a student to be tested for COVID-19?

The sickness protocol states that anyone who “suspects that they have been in direct contact with someone who tests positive for COVID-19 or who develop any new symptoms of illness including fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, new loss of taste or smell, vomiting or diarrhea and/or sore throat” should immediately self-isolate and report to Student Health Services. They will then be referred for testing. Patients may be tested for a range of illnesses (flu, strep throat…) in addition to COVID-19.

What happens if a residence hall student is put under quarantine? Do they stay in their room? Do they have to find somewhere else to stay?

The university has designated quarantine/isolation areas on campus . All meals and any necessary items will be delivered  to the individual. Once they report to Student Health Services, then they will receive further instructions and assistance.

Will nurses and education majors still be able to do their clinicals or student teaching?

The nursing and education departments will work closely with schools and hospitals to follow all guidelines they have established. Any changes to these programs will be communicated to students from their respective departments.

If a student is quarantined, will there be accommodations for classwork?

If a student is placed inquarantine or isolation, accommodations will be made for class attendance. Communication with professors is critical to ensure that a student stays up to date with any coursework.

What if my roommate gets sick? Who moves out? Or do we both quarantine?

If a student tests positive for COVID-19, they will immediately be isolated. Anyone who has been in close contact with a positive person, such as a roommate or household member, should quarantine for the recommended amount of time designated by the CDC. Anyone experiencing symptoms, or suspecting close contact, should report to Student Health Services to be tested.

What about cleaning shared desks in classrooms and shared computers in the labs?

Each individual (faculty, staff and students) is asked to wipe down any areas before and after use. Sanitizing wipes will be provided by the university in all classrooms and computer labs. Our janitorial staff will be increasing cleaning frequency to all areas and this is one way we can each work together to keep our areas clean.

Will students have access to the library, the Write Spot and CASA?

Yes, the library, the Write Spot and CASA will be open and online resources are also available. Common areas and high touch surfaces will be disinfected regularly. For more information on how to access library resources online and library updates visit https://library.swau.edu/.

Will students be able to meet with professors in person during office hours?

Yes, Please contact individual professors to set an appointment.  Meetings may occur in larger venues such as classrooms or conference rooms to ensure that physical distancing is maintained.  

Who can I contact if I have another question relating to COVID-19?

For any additional questions, please email the COVID-19 Taskforce Team at COVID@swau.edu and your question will be routed to the appropriate department.

External Resources