Status Change to Yellow

As you know, this past Tuesday, Northwestern changed its COVID resurgence status from Green to Yellow. Dr. Cureton's video message outlined several of the reasons why this temporary change was needed. We all have a strong desire to continue to remain in person, and this step can help us do so. The safety and well-being of our campus is something we all take responsibility for and contribute to. In the weeks ahead, the Resurgence Analysis Team and Academic Continuity Team will continue to monitor conditions on and off campus, recommending changes that serve the best interests of our students, faculty, and staff. You can always refer to the Current Status of Campus Protocols page for the most up-to-date information. Please join me in continuing to pray for the health of our students, fellow colleagues, and campus.

Seating Charts Needed

Thank you to those who have already posted seating charts to Moodle. These are incredibly helpful. Health Services has already needed to reference these to follow-up with students who are potential close contacts. However, in several cases, seating charts were not yet posted. If you have not yet posted your seating chart(s), please do so as soon as you can, and no later than Wednesday, September 1. Instructions for submitting seating charts can be found here. Accessing these in a timely manner will be key for Health Services to effectively support our students. 

Face Covering Expectations

On Thursday evening, all Traditional and DE on-campus students received a reminder email about the need to wear face coverings in various settings, according to our current campus protocols. For the good of our community, please be consistent in wearing face coverings in required settings and enforcing the protocol with our students. As you consider meeting with students in your office, please wear a face covering if you are unable to maintain 6' distance. You are welcome to post a sign outside your office requesting face coverings to be worn. If a student has been approved to receive an accommodation to not wear a face covering or mask, you will receive an email from Academic Achievement. Thanks so much for your support, Colleagues.

New Automatic Emails About Student Absences

Beginning this past Wednesday, 8/25, a new email notification process commenced to inform you of any student(s) who will not be in class due to a non-ADA adjustment or participation in an official UNW activity. You can see a sample email here. You will receive these emails only on the day of class for students who will not be able to attend in person. In these cases, please follow the lecture capture guidelines for supporting these students.

Upcoming Vaccine Clinic

Northwestern will once again be hosting a free vaccine clinic on campus, Friday, September 17. Additional details about the clinic, along with information on how to sign up, will be posted on theROCK. As always, please consult with your Health Care provider for guidance on vaccines. Northwestern does not require COVID-19 vaccination for students or employees.

Feedback About Returning to Campus

If you have any additional feedback you'd like to share about the return to campus this fall, you are invited to do so through this anonymous form (feel free to include your name if you'd like). We appreciate hearing your thoughts!