CLC News The news and events from Central Lakes College
March 12, 2020
Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,
Minnesota State is continuously reviewing a range of strategies to limit the spread of COVID-19 and its impact on our campuses and the communities in which we live and serve. I am committed to taking all steps necessary, in consultation with administrative and statewide faculty leadership, to protect the health and safety of our faculty, our staff, and our students. I am also tremendously grateful to all of the faculty and staff for the sacrifices you have had to make, as well as for the hard work you have engaged in to address this challenging and dynamic situation.
All faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to heed the guidance of the Minnesota Department of Health, and in particular, staying home when sick, covering your cough, and practicing good hand hygiene.
Today, I am announcing that the 32 Minnesota State colleges and universities that are currently on Spring Break will suspend classes March 16-22, with classes resuming March 23.
The five Minnesota State colleges that have Spring Break scheduled the week of March 16-20 will suspend classes March 23-29, with classes resuming March 30.
While there will be no classes during each campuses’ extra week, administrators, faculty, and staff will spend that week exploring alternative modes of delivery and adjust campus learning spaces to ensure the safety of our communities. All campuses, including residence halls, dining facilities, and student support services will remain open and appropriately staffed, including student workers. Our goal is to accommodate students and help them continue their education despite interruptions caused by COVID-19.
Minnesota State-Related Travel
Minnesota State suspended all school and business-related international travel effective February 28.
In addition, we are now suspending all out-of-state business travel for students, faculty, and staff, effective March 16. For in-state travel or other events, please carefully assess, along with supervisors, the conditions of destination communities to carefully consider the potential risks to yourself, participants, fellow students, families, and friends. Event hosts and coordinators should also be engaged in this assessment. If you choose to travel, ensure you have essential items you might need if you are not able to return immediately, such as medications, laptops, or other items needed to continue your studies.
Campus Cleanliness
The cleanliness of our campuses is a key element in keeping our faculty, staff, and students healthy. The facilities and maintenance teams at all the campuses are adhering to updated guidance from the CDC to ensure comfortable and save campuses within which to learn.
Large Events
All events or other gatherings totaling more than 100 attendees are cancelled until May 1, and the situation will be re-evaluated.
The diversity of our student body and employees is one of our greatest strengths. As such, we are committed to ensuring welcoming and supportive campus environments for all of our students, faculty, and staff. It is vitally important we work together, follow the practices recommended by public health officials, and proceed with preparedness, calm, and understanding.
Once again, thank you for your hard work and your efforts to deliver an extraordinary education even during these challenging times.
For more information, continue to visit: https://minnstate.edu/coronavirus/index.html and your college/university website.
Sincerely,
Devinder Malhotra
Chancellor
Devinder Malhotra
Chancellor
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Minnesota State
30 East 7th Street, St. Paul, MN 55101
o: (651) 201-1696 | www.MinnState.edu
