Keep Waynesburg Well

The strategies listed below are consistent with the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s guidelines and considerations for resuming in-person instruction and other operations at postsecondary institutions, as well as the guidelines from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control.

Waynesburg University will:

1. Expect all members of the University community to accept personal responsibility for protecting themselves and others by practicing safe behaviors and being considerate and respectful of others. 
2. Coordinate with local, regional, state and federal public health officials, as well as outside experts.
3. Safely resume in-person instruction.
4. Monitor health conditions on campus and within the campus community.
5. Mitigate and contain spread of the virus and inform the Department of Health in the event that transmission occurs on campus.
6. Create an environment conducive to healthy, safe and inclusive learning and working.
7. Communicate accurate and timely information to students, faculty, staff, and various other community constituents and partners through a multitude of channels.
8. Develop alternate plans for rapid implementation in the event of a resurgence.

Additionally, the University will implement: 

1. Practices related to hygiene, sanitation, and face coverings on campus;
2. Social distancing interventions and modifications to physical spaces;
3. Adjustments to academic, personnel and residence life policies and processes;
4. Modifications to calendars and course delivery options; and
5. Policies related to visitors, contractors, vendors, etc.

Since March 2020, a number of campus-wide teams have been evaluating all aspects of campus life and operations for a return to in-person instruction and on-campus operations, activities, and services. These teams have merged to form the  “Grow WU 2020-2021 Team.” The Grow WU 2020-2021 Team will continue its work throughout the summer, fall and spring to implement and adjust the Keep Waynesburg Well Health and Safety Plan. With the assistance of external experts providing professional, scientific, medical, legal, architectural, and logistical guidance and resources, this cross-campus team will work through subcommittees to develop specific plans to address the needs of the campus community and will continuously update processes and procedures as necessary to address issues and developments related to COVID-19. 

The University has been guided by federal, state and local agencies, including, the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the United States Department of Education, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Pennsylvania State Police, Waynesburg Borough Police, Greene County's Emergency Management Office, Pennsylvania’s Region 13 Critical Infrastructure Specialists, and other governmental and private agencies. 

Additionally, Waynesburg University has been in regular contact with peer institutions, directly and in conjunction with state and national associations of independent colleges and universities, as well as the Presidents' Athletic Conference member institutions.

The University has also collaborated with VEBH Architects, PC, an architectural design firm with over 70 years of experience in healthcare and educational design. VEBH serves businesses and communities throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Waynesburg University has consulted with Greene County’s Emergency Management Office as well as Pennsylvania’s Region 13 Critical Infrastructure Specialists to best align with regional COVID-19 mandates and crisis response expectations. This partnership also provides for potential resourcing and incident management support should a second wave of the pandemic overwhelm existing resources at the University.

Additionally, close coordination with local and state law enforcement (Waynesburg Borough Police and Pennsylvania State Police) has been established to ensure appropriate collaboration on health, safety, and crisis management needs. This includes formalizing the agreement with local EMS transport vehicles for transferring COVID-19 symptomatic patients to the hospital or a health care facility, as well as coordination with plans to move students off-campus into the community as on-campus housing needs are adjusted for 2020-2021 semesters.

Waynesburg University has entered into a formal partnership with the Washington Health System in order to consult with medical and infectious disease experts in our region who can best provide the needed resources to Waynesburg’s students and employees.

This partnership with a regional, professional health management system provides not only expert guidance on Waynesburg’s screening processes and self-assessment tools, but also important guidance and resources with respect to COVID-19 testing, temperature taking, and advanced hospital care for those who require it.

The campus-wide Grow WU 2020-2021 Team has evaluated all aspects of campus life and operations for a return to in-person instruction and on-campus operations, activities, and services. They will continue their work during the summer and throughout the fall and spring to implement and adjust the Keep Waynesburg Well Health and Safety Plan. 

Senior Staff - Mr. Douglas G. Lee, President

• Mrs. Laura Lawrence, Executive Assistant to the President

Academics - Dr. Dana Cook Baer, Provost

• Institutional Effectiveness - Dr. Marie Leichliter-Krause, Assistant Provost
• Registrar - Mrs. Vicki Wilson
• Graduate and Professional Studies - Dr. David Mariner, Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies
• Academic Support Services - Mr. Brian Carr, Director of Pathways Center
• Experiential Placements and Study Abroad, Ms. Sarah Bell, Career Development Specialist and Study Abroad Coordinator
• Faculty
  • Online/Distance Learning - Dr. Evonne Baldauff, Chairperson for the Chemistry & Forensic Science Department  & Associate Professor of Chemistry
  • Laboratory and Applied Instruction - Dr. Brad Davis, Assistant Professor of Chemistry
  • Humanities, English, and Communication - Dr. Chad Sherman, Associate Professor of Communication
  • Fine Arts - Mr. Andy Heisey, Chairperson for the Fine Arts Department & Associate Professor of Art
  • Science, Math, Computer Science, and Physics - Dr. Chad Sethman, Professor of Biology
  • Business, Criminal Justice, and Social Sciences - Dr. Gordon McClung, Chairperson for the Business Administration Department & Professor of Marketing
  • Nursing and Education - Dr. Kathy Stolfer, Chairperson for the Department of Nursing & Professor of Nursing

Finance and Business Office - Mrs. Laura Coss, Chief Financial Officer

• Mrs. Nicole Snyder, Bursar

Information Technology Services - Mr. William Dumire, Vice President for Information Technology Services and Chief Information Officer

Enrollment, Financial Aid, and Facilities - Dr. Shari Payne, Vice President for Enrollment

• Mr. Matthew Stokan, Director of Financial Aid
• Mr. Terry Sattler, Director of Facilities Planning & Management
• Mrs. Lesley Davis, Director of Aladdin Food Service

University and Alumni Relations - Mrs. Stacey Brodak, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and University Relations

• Website - Mrs. Ashley Wise, Director of University Relations
• Alumni - Mr. David Floyd,  Manager of Development and Alumni Relations

Emergency Operations Planning - Mr. James Tanda, Director of Security Operations & Emergency Management, Instructor of Criminal Justice

• Mr. Lucas Kiger, Assistant Director of Security Operations and Emergency Management
• Mrs. Kelly Wilczynski, Safety Coordinator, Academics & Chemical Hygiene Officer

Human Resources and Employee Safety - Mr. Tom Helmick, Director of Human Resources

Athletics and Recreational Facilities - Mr. Adam Jack, Director of Athletics, Chairperson for the Criminal Justice & Social Sciences Department, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice

Student Services - Mrs. Pat Bristor, Interim Dean of Students 

• Housing - Mr. Matthew Pioch, Director of Housing
• Residence Life - Mr. Chris Hardie, Assistant Dean of Student Services
• Service Learning - Mrs. Kelley Hardie, Assistant Dean of Student Services
• Counseling Services - Mrs. Jane Owen, Director of the Educational Enrichment Programs, Clinical Services & the Counseling Center
• Student Health Services - Mrs. Jennifer Dean, Nurse Director 

Campus Ministry and Chapel Services - Mr. Josh Sumpter, Instructor of Biblical & Ministry Studies, University Chaplain

COVID-19 Health and Safety Officer - Mr. Michael Cipoletti, Assistant Professor of Forensic Science

Hygiene and Sanitation Protocols:

• Waynesburg University will provide students, faculty, and staff with hygiene information and will clearly post information in high-traffic areas around campus.
• The University will put signs in key areas such as restrooms to remind members of the campus community and campus visitors to practice safe hygiene behaviors.
• Students, faculty, and staff will complete a screening assessment of their health on a daily basis.
• Common areas and high-touch areas will be cleaned more frequently, and the University will institute new disinfecting and cleaning protocols and provide adequate cleaning supplies to sanitize all areas. 

Face coverings must be worn by all students, faculty, and staff in all classrooms, public shared spaces on campus, particularly in common areas or situations in which a person is entering confined spaces with groups of other people. The University reserves the right to remove any individual from campus and/or suspend them from the University or terminate their employment if there is a failure to comply with this provision. 

Exceptions to the face-covering requirement include:

• Students or staff inside their own dormitories or housing units, except when in hallways or common areas of a housing unit
• Employees working independently in their own offices, 
• Individuals eating and drinking,
• Faculty members lecturing behind plexiglas barriers or face shields, and
• Outside areas in instances where one is able to maintain social distancing of 6 feet or more.

Individuals unable to wear face coverings due to a health condition or disability should be extra cautious about maintaining proper social distance and observing all other hygiene protocols.

Following CDC requirements, Waynesburg University has designated a COVID-19 Health and Safety Officer who will be in charge of executing policy: 

Michael Cipoletti
mcipolet@waynesburg.edu; (724) 852-3327
COVID Health and Safety Officer
Assistant Professor of Forensic Science

The COVID-19 Health and Safety Officer also will be responsible for overseeing the COVID-19 Tracing Team.

The University reserves the option to assign more than one COVID-19 Health and Safety Officer. 

Individual Safety Officers may be assigned to, and responsible for ensuring compliance with University policies with respect to, specific areas such as: athletics (sports, intramurals), student services (housing and residence life), academics (classes, clinicals and labs), personnel (faculty and staff), facilities, etc.  

The COVID-19 Health and Safety Officer and COVID-19 Tracing Team’s operational functions will include, but not be limited to, adherence to:

1. COVID Tracing requirements pursuant to CDC and PDE guidelines;
2. Maintaining a clear, transparent student-centered and employee-centered process while remaining mindful of their academic needs and work needs. 
3. Investigating faculty, staff and students utilizing the COVID Screening Questionnaire
4. COVID Safety Officer(s’) position description, chain of command, and decision-making guidance with operational and information security in mind
5. Compliance with state and federal privacy laws with regard to the collection, maintenance and destruction of  information of all surveyed, tested, or traced
6. OSHA compliance for employees
7. Any and all COVID safety related messaging, training, and education for faculty and staff such as convocation workshops, on-line training, (similar to mandatory Title IX training)
8. Any and all COVID safety related messaging, training, and education for students such as; orientation, returning students, commuters, (similar to mandatory Title IX training)
9. Collaborate with first and second-line employee supervisors, or Faculty, Advisors, Coaches, Student Services, etc. regarding coordination and execution of this process towards the goals of safety and compliance with as little disruption to the academic learning environment as possible.

Waynesburg University has established a trained team of faculty and staff members that will operate under the guidance of the COVID-19 Health and Safety Officer as a Tracing Team to assist with the COVID-19 tracing requirements pursuant to CDC guidelines. See above for more information on the COVID-19 Health and Safety Officer. Timely and appropriate notifications will be made to any person in close contact to a confirmed case based on tracing protocols. 

Following PDE and CDC guidance and in addition to implementing its tracing and tracking protocol (see graphic), Waynesburg University will notify and work with appropriate health officials, determine if a temporary suspension of in-person instruction is warranted, clean and disinfect all areas thoroughly, communicate case or exposure information with students, faculty, and staff, and ensure continuity of education and safe housing for all affected students.

Additionally, this same guidance requires the University to make confirmed case information readily available to the campus community. Confirmed case reporting will be accessible to students, faculty and staff via MyConnect. Please check there regularly to obtain the most up-to-date information regarding confirmed cases on campus. Once you login, click on the “Keep Waynesburg Well” tab. The MyConnect webpage will be updated promptly as new information is confirmed.

Should a positive transmission be identified on campus, Waynesburg has designated specific, separate housing which will serve for isolation purposes. These buildings are the Stone House and the Goodwin House which allows for multiple students or staff to be self-isolated with immediate availability to on-campus care by health, counseling, student services, and public safety officials.

If further care is needed either because of the number of students or more intensive medical treatment, the Washington Health System has been contracted to provide physicians, testing, consultation, and hospital room bed-space to accommodate Waynesburg students or employees should a COVID-19 reoccurrence overwhelm the University’s resources.

• Waynesburg University has restructured the ways that it will conduct learning and learning activities on campus by following guidance related to social distancing, adjusting class times, relocating classes, and repurposing physical spaces.
• Waynesburg will de-densify all classrooms and common seating areas by reducing occupant capacities to allow for safe distances of at least 6 feet to be maintained between individuals in classrooms.
• The University will use appropriate barriers (see-through barriers or face-shields) where additional accommodations are necessary and provide portable microphones to instructors to enhance the sound in larger classrooms.
• Logistical protocols in academic buildings and classrooms will be implemented and communicated to allow for safe entry, exit, and movement with signs and directional indicators to guide students and faculty. 
• The University will institute new disinfecting and cleaning protocols and provide adequate cleaning supplies to sanitize classroom spaces, furniture, study spaces, and common areas.  Common areas and high-touch areas will be cleaned more frequently.
• Instructors and students must wear face coverings in all academic buildings and classrooms, and students will maintain the same seating assignments throughout the semester to minimize the frequency of contact with other students.

Traditional dormitory and housing considerations have been modified in the interest of minimizing the potential for exposure and the spread of COVID-19 among students. All triple and quad type communal housing will be reduced to double occupancy in campus dormitories. Off-campus housing policies are being modified to provide students with a range of housing options toward the best interest of both the student experience and stopping the COVID spread. Other housing and residence life temporary policy changes are being implemented to safely accommodate the needs of students and staff during the COVID-19 era.

Move In

Students will move onto campus in phases. Move in will be extended over a longer period of time to respect distancing, hygiene, space, and PPE protocols in order to reduce density and crowd sizes per CDC guidance. This phased-in approach is recommended by CDC, PDE and DOH in order to reduce density and crowd sizes. It is also consistent with peer institutions for higher education. Specific details regarding move-in dates will be communicated to students directly via email. 

Additional Adjustments

• Resident Directors and Resident Assistants will receive COVID-19 training, communicate regularly with residents regarding institution policies and protocols related to COVID-19, and require residents to follow safe behaviors.
• Waynesburg requires social distancing and face coverings to be worn in any public shared spaces. Roommates living in individual dorm rooms do not have to wear face coverings when in the room together.
• Common areas and high-touch areas will be cleaned more frequently, and the University will institute new disinfecting and cleaning protocols and provide adequate cleaning supplies to sanitize all residence hall areas.  
• Waynesburg will de-densify and establish protocols for communal bathroom and shower facilities to ensure safe social distancing. Signs will be posted on such bathrooms and shower facilities identifying the number of occupants at a time. In some instances, fixtures will be taken out of service to reduce risk.
• Non-resident visitors will not be permitted in residence halls.  Waynesburg University students who are not resident students will be considered visitors for purposes of this policy. The University reserves the right to further restrict or eliminate visits to residence halls.  

The University reserves the right to remove any resident from the residence hall who fails to comply with these COVID-19 risk mitigation requirements.  
 

Aladdin Food Service will occupy space as usual in the Benedum Dining Hall on Waynesburg University’s campus in the fall 2020 and spring 2021 semesters. As an outside entity, it has already implemented COVID-era safety practices that are consistent with CDC and DOH best practices for restaurants and food providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aladdin’s published Health and Safety Plan is consistent with Waynesburg University’s Health and Safety Plan.

The modified COVID-19 era dining plan will be fully implemented prior to the start of the fall semester. Its new food preparation, dining service, and/or take-out (to-go) procedures will ensure the safety and well-being of each student, employee, or outside customer.

All modified practices will strictly follow the best practice recommendations from the CDC, the PA State Department of Health, and the PA Governor’s Executive Order on the re-opening of businesses, restaurants and related foodservice providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. This plan includes, but is not limited to:

• strict limiting of in-person contact while in the dining hall or taking out meals;
• appropriate social distancing by customers, dining hall employees, and others;
• prohibiting large groups of people sitting and eating together, distance-spacing between tables and limited chairs within each table;
• the wearing of masks or face coverings when moving to and from or within the dining hall  (may be removed to eat and drink);
• regular sanitation and cleaning of all high-touch areas with recommended strengths for COVID-19 sterilization;
• limiting hand-to-hand transmission of credit cards, currency, student IDs and similar high-touch items to limit the COVID-19 spread; and
• clear, posted signage for all customers regarding the COVID-19 mandates and modifications.

• Administrative Staff and Physical Plant employees will be encouraged to continue working remotely where possible and depending on division and institutional needs.  Division supervisors will develop, implement, and monitor work plans for their divisions. 
• Waynesburg will reconfigure office spaces and/or rotate work schedules to de-densify office space and maintain safe social distancing of at least 6 feet.
• Common areas and high-touch areas will be cleaned more frequently, and the University will institute new disinfecting and cleaning protocols and provide adequate cleaning supplies to sanitize all office spaces. 
• Waynesburg will encourage alternative methods of contact for advising meetings and administrative support services, such as Financial Aid and the Registrar.
• Please see visitor policy below for important information regarding guests, vendors and other visitors on campus. 

• ATTENDANCE POLICIES: Waynesburg University has reviewed and adjusted attendance requirements which will be reflected in each course syllabi. Attendance policies will be relaxed as students are expected to self-screen daily, report any symptoms, and simply stay away from others if they believe they are sick. This is essential to the slowing the spread in classrooms, meetings and other academic settings.
• HOUSING AND INSTRUCTIONAL ACCOMMODATIONS: Students with a documented medical need for housing accommodations or exemptions can apply for accommodations or an exemption through the Accommodations and Disabilities Office in the Pathways Center. The University will engage in an interactive process to determine if a housing accommodation or exemption is appropriate. Students who seek an instructional accommodation in the form of remote learning shall also submit their request to the Accommodations and Disabilities Office in the Pathways Center. The University will engage in an interactive process to determine if an instructional accommodation is appropriate under the circumstances. 
• ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS: Student Services will establish guidelines and protocols for safe student organizations and group meetings, including social distancing protocols, offering programming to encourage safe practices consistent with the health and safety plan, reformatting activities to support virtual events and activities, and engaging with students who are not on campus.  
• STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT: COVID-19 provisions have been added as an addendum to the Student Code of Conduct.
• Travel: The University’s daily screening and monitoring process will include travel restrictions, monitoring and approvals. Travel restrictions will include students returning to campus from areas with restrictions or designated as "hot spots," and travel by students for University business. Students will be advised of policies regarding return to campus and travel in a separate communication. 
• Room and Board Refund Policy: Please see the FAQs for the most up-to-date information.

• The Families First Coronavirus Response Act: This Act requires certain employers, including Waynesburg University, to provide employees with paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. View more information

• Absentee Policies: Waynesburg University will consider adjusting absentee policies as necessary for employees which will be reflected in the appropriate employee handbooks. In an effort to slow the spread of the virus, employees are required to self-screen daily, report any symptoms to supervisors, and if symptomatic, not report for work until they are cleared in writing by their supervisor. 
• Work Accommodations: Human Resources will coordinate with supervisors and work with faculty and staff on appropriate workplace accommodations, including possible remote work, alternative work schedules, special PPE, and/or physical alternations to work environments. Employees who may need an accommodation should contact the Human Resources Office.
• Travel:  The University’s daily screening and monitoring process will include travel restrictions, monitoring and approvals. Travel restrictions will include travel by faculty, staff or students for University business to hot spots. Prior approval will be required and reporting upon return should such travel be permitted. Supervisors must approve all conference, business, or recruiting trips. 
  • Employees who have traveled to areas with travel restrictions or designated as “hot spots” are strongly recommended to self-isolate for 14 days or submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test before returning to work.  The employee should work remotely, if possible, and should coordinate work with his or her supervisor. If remote work is not possible, the employee should consult with the Human Resources Office. Please see the FAQs for the most up-to-date information about specific travel restrictions or areas designated as “hot spots.”
• Reporting to work: Employees who have been approved to access campus by a Vice President or other division supervisor as part of a division “Return to Work Plan” must:
  • Complete the WU Campus Access Screening Form before accessing campus each day; 
  • If you have an elevated temperature, notify your supervising VP and DO NOT access campus until you have received clearance from your VP in writing;
  • Report immediately to your supervisor symptoms including, but not limited to, fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches – DO NOT access campus until cleared by your supervisor in writing;
  • If you have traveled to an area with travel restrictions or designated as a COVID-19 hotspot, you must self-isolate for 14 days or submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test before returning to work;
  • Wear a face covering when on campus property and use other appropriate personal protective equipment (if you need PPE, ask your supervisor);
  • You do not need to wear a face covering when you are working independently in your office, but you need to wear a face covering in common areas, in shared/meeting spaces, and anytime that you are in close contact with another person (6 feet or less);
  • You do not need to wear a face covering outside in instances where you can maintain a safe distance of 6 feet or more;
  • Report inability to wear a face covering because of a health condition or disability to your supervisor;
  • Maintain safe social distance from others (6 feet or more);
  • Practice safe hygiene by washing your hands often and sanitizing your work area frequently;
  • If the building that you are accessing is locked, and you do not have a key, please request access from Public Safety by calling 724-852-3303;
  • If you have keys to a building, please do not come and go without prior notification to your supervisor or to Public Safety;
  • After arriving on campus, notify your supervisor by email to let him or her know the time of your arrival, your destination and your time of departure;
  • When on campus property, work only in the approved area, do not congregate in common areas, and limit your contact with other facilities when possible;
  • Limit your time on campus to the time approved to perform only the work that you cannot perform remotely; and
  • Be respectful of Public Safety’s job, which is to gather necessary information to account for all buildings during this time of restricted access.

Although modified, this calendar maintains 15 weeks of instruction, as originally scheduled. In creating this schedule for the fall semester, safety was a paramount consideration. By finishing early and eliminating breaks, the University is making every reasonable effort to mitigate the potential for transmission of COVID-19 on campus and in the surrounding community. The academic calendar for Graduate and Professional Studies remains unchanged, with classes beginning August 24.

The majority of courses will be delivered through in-person instruction in classrooms reconfigured to ensure safe social distancing and with protocols for sanitizing and disinfecting physical surfaces and high-touch common areas. 

Depending on student and faculty needs, course content, and course enrollment, some courses may be offered 100% remote or in a hybrid format, with part of the class delivered in person and part of the course delivered remotely. For example, a course that has both theory and applied components might be offered in a hybrid format – the theory delivered remotely, and the applied portion delivered in-person. In some instances, classes may be live-streamed for remote access.

Faculty who teach courses with labs, experiential, applied or writing-intensive components and project/team/design formats are working to deliver the courses in the most effective, yet safe ways. 

Recognizing that there will be factors that will impact classes during the fall semester (such as a student or instructor who need to quarantine because of COVID-19 exposure or a resurgence of COVID-19), Waynesburg University has provided resources for faculty to create and design remote content for their courses to offer them in an alternative format should that become necessary. An instructional design team is collaborating with faculty to build courses that provide the same course content and learning opportunities as in-person classes.

Although subject to change, students will be advised of the intended course delivery in the course syllabus. 

While we enjoy having visitors on the beautiful Waynesburg University campus, to reduce the risk to our campus community, Waynesburg University will be limiting visitors to campus. Visitors include vendors, contractors, invitees, guests, and prospective students and their families or guests. Wherever possible, vendors should do their work remotely. If visitors must access campus, they must:

• schedule appointments in advance with the office they intend to visit;
• submit a Campus Access Screening Form (V) 24 hours prior to their visit;
• check-in at the Public Safety Office upon arrival to campus;
• wear face coverings when on campus property; and
• maintain safe social distancing of 6 feet or more. 

Visitors, including non-resident students, will not be allowed in the residence halls unless approved by the Interim Dean of Students. All visitors to residence halls will be required to check-in upon arrival to allow for contact tracing should that become necessary.

We do welcome prospective students! Find out more about scheduling a personal visit

Dear Waynesburg University Community,

I am writing to provide additional information about the plans to return to campus in the fall.

For the past several months, a number of campus-wide teams have been evaluating all aspects of campus life and operations for a return to campus.  These teams will continue their work during the summer and throughout the fall as the “Grow WU 2020-2021Team” in order to update processes and procedures as necessary to address issues and developments related to COVID-19.  In addition to utilizing the expertise and experience of Waynesburg University faculty and staff for this effort, we have also entered into a partnership with Washington Health Systems to provide us with professional medical guidance and resources. 

We have been in regular contact with peer institutions, directly and in conjunction with state and national associations of independent colleges and universities and the Presidents Athletic Conference member institutions.  We have also been obtaining almost daily information from federal, state and local agencies including: the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the United States Department of Education, the Centers for Disease Control, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and other governmental and private agencies.

Our goal throughout this extensive process was to develop a plan that is flexible, nimble, and within our resources that will allow our students the best possible learning experiences afforded at a Christian liberal arts institution, while at the same time protecting the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff and the surrounding Waynesburg community.  Greene County continues to have one of the lowest infection rates in the state.  We must work as a university community to do our part, to the extent possible, to foster an atmosphere that continues to protect the University and the community that surrounds it.  

We will be sharing more detailed information about the resumption of complete campus operations and the fall 2020 calendar in the weeks ahead.  In general, Waynesburg University is planning to resume complete operations for employees on July 15 and undergraduate classes on August 24, as scheduled.  There will be a recess for Labor Day on September 7 with evening classes resuming at 6 PM.  On-campus undergraduate classes will continue until November 20, which in most instances, will be the last date of on-campus instruction for the semester.  There will be two days of remote campus instruction on November 23 and 24 (some programs may require on-campus instruction), and final examinations will be administered remotely from December 1 through December 4.  The academic calendar for Graduate and Professional Studies remains unchanged, with classes beginning on August 24.

In creating this schedule for the fall semester, safety was a paramount consideration.  We are using the best possible information available at the current time.  By finishing early and eliminating breaks, we are making every reasonable effort to mitigate the potential for transmission of COVID-19 on our campus and in the surrounding community.  To this end, we will make a health and safety plan available to the campus community and on our website that outlines our measured and strategic approach to safely resuming in-person instruction, operations, services, and activities at Waynesburg University.

In addition to working on the operational health and safety concerns, we are also enhancing and growing learning opportunities through the work of a distance learning team.  Led by Dr. Evonne Baldauff, this cross-division team will develop additional remote learning opportunities for graduate and undergraduate curriculum.  With the help of a generous benefactor, the university has engaged several high-quality instructional designers that are working with our faculty to maximize instructional opportunities.

Waynesburg University has weathered many challenges in its 171 year history.  The core component throughout this time has been the strong commitment to the mission of this institution carried in the hearts and minds of the members of this community.  Let us pray for God‘s grace and truth to lead us, protect us, and sustain us.

Sincerely,

Douglas G. Lee

Dear Waynesburg University Community,

I am writing in light of the recent announcement by Pennsylvania Governor Wolf regarding the reopening of Pennsylvania. We have been developing plans to begin a return to campus activities in a gradual and safe manner and continue to update those plans as we receive additional information on the reopening of our region.

In addition to the state and CDC guidelines, we are in consultation with other institutions and medical professionals to develop protocols and procedures that will allow us to bring students, faculty and staff back to campus in the safest environment possible. As of this letter, Greene County has one of the lowest numbers of coronavirus cases per capita in the state, according to statistics provided by the state of Pennsylvania. With continued vigilance and plans that can be flexible and responsive to any further orders by state or federal officials, we will do the best things in the worst times.

Looking ahead to our next academic year, our plan and intention is to open the campus to our students in the fall. Toward this end, we will continue to develop and update plans and protocols that will contribute to the safety of our students, faculty and staff.

I also wanted to share these additional points with all of you:

• Work continues on bringing a Chick-fil-A to the campus in the fall. The timeframe has been slightly changed due to the stay-at-home order, but we are working hard to begin the renovations necessary to have this exciting addition on our campus.
• Also, work on the renovated Bee Hive that includes a 24-hour mini convenience store, fully renovated Starbucks and kiosk ordering system is moving ahead.
• Waynesburg University’s eHIVE, in conjunction with the University of Pittsburgh’s Small Business Development Center, will host a one-hour webinar on becoming a gig or a hobby entrepreneur. The eHIVE will also be sponsoring a “see it, solve it” pitch competition. Information on that event will be coming out in the next week.
• The University is collaborating with the nonprofit Keystone Initiative for Network Based Education and Research (KINBER) of Harrisburg and Morgantown-based ClearFiber Communications to string an 81-mile broadband cable through parts of Washington and Greene counties and Waynesburg University. This will bring high-speed internet access to a poorly served area of southwest Pennsylvania and improve learning opportunities for students living in those areas.

These are just some of the projects we have been working on in the last several months. They demonstrate our continued commitment to developing opportunities for the surrounding community, even in these challenging times.

There is more to talk about as we look ahead to the coming months, and you will be provided with continued updates as more information becomes available.

Mrs. Lee and I wish all of you and your families continued blessings. All of you remain in our prayers.

We look forward to seeing all of you.

Douglas G. Lee
President

Dear Students of Waynesburg University,

God Bless You.

Sincerely,

Douglas G. Lee
President

Dear Alumni and Friends of Waynesburg University,

During these past 10 days, our University, like every other institution in higher education, has faced challenges presented by the coronavirus outbreak in our nation.

Throughout this time, our concern and care have been for our students, faculty and staff, and also for all of you, the members of the larger Waynesburg University community. We have worked together to respond to the current public health crisis, with the safety of our students, faculty, staff and community as the impetus for each decision. 

I am grateful for the faith, leadership, collaboration, ingenuity and can-do spirit that I have witnessed from the faculty, staff and students. Many of you have reached to us with offers of support and to let us know you are thinking about and praying for our University. Thank you for that from the bottom of my heart.

Many of you are on the front lines of helping others as our nation and world confront this challenge. Some are serving in positions that are being called upon in an unprecedented manner, particularly those in health care and public safety. No matter our role, we are all facing this challenge collectively. We want you all to know that we are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. We are proud of the great work so many of you are doing to help others, a true hallmark of a Waynesburg University education.

We have been communicating to our students and assuring our incoming class that we will keep our traditions alive and well, and we look forward to welcoming them to the same experiences you had here. We are an institution that remains committed to educating students to live lives of purpose for the glory of God, a close knit community of support and encouragement.

We are also thinking ahead to emerging from this time as a leader in the new dynamics of education that will likely develop. The University is blessed to have individuals that have already stepped forward with resources that will allow us to grow in this new direction.

This is a historic moment for our country and also for this institution. Tied together by our strong mission and faith in God, the lamp of Waynesburg University is burning brightly. With your continued prayers and support, the growing reputation and impact of this University will dramatically grow from the midst of these challenging times.

Thank you for the role you have played in our institution’s rich history. We pray that you and your families stay healthy and well in the coming weeks and months.

God Bless You.

Sincerely,

Douglas G. Lee
President

Dear members of the Waynesburg University Community, 

Late yesterday afternoon, I participated in a teleconference with a number of Pennsylvania University Presidents and representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

The teleconference provided further insight that the measures we have implemented in the last several days are consistent with the Governor’s directives and also with our commitment to provide for the safety of our students, faculty, staff and the larger community.

This past week has been a challenging time for all involved in higher education. I am particularly grateful for the leadership and collaboration I have witnessed at all levels across this University. In the past 10 days, we have essentially transitioned to a virtual university, and I want to thank all of you for your unwavering dedication to this University and its mission. 

As we move into the new challenges the weeks ahead may present, let us continue to pray for God‘s continued providential presence not only for Waynesburg University, but for leaders and citizens at all levels across this world.

Douglas G. Lee
President

Dear Members of the Class of 2020,

I wanted to personally write to assure each of you, the members of the Class of 2020, that Waynesburg University is committed to having a Commencement on this campus for your class. 

I know this has been a very difficult time for all of you, and it is not what you expected your senior year to be. I am deeply sorry to each of you for that.

I also know that all of you appreciate how quickly the situation in Pennsylvania and across the nation has changed in just a matter of days. At this point, the state, local and federal agencies have placed in effect guidelines that are limiting the number of individuals and gatherings. The number has quickly declined from 200 to 25, with even smaller groups being encouraged. The best information we have at this time is that these restrictions are likely to last at least eight weeks.

Given all of this information and the uncertainty of what the immediate future holds, it is not safe or possible for commencement to be held on May 3, 2020. While we are postponing Commencement, we do intend to announce a new date as soon as we have enough information to do so. We will also provide enough notice so that you, your family, and friends can return to campus for the celebration.

Please know that each of you is a valued member of this university community. It is our intention to make your Commencement a celebration not only of your past achievements, but also one that is rooted in the knowledge that each of you will be entering society with the faith, vision and integrity necessary to lead the world of the not too distant future.

Please be patient and we will provide more information to you as soon as we can.

God bless each one of you, your family and your friends.

Sincerely,

Douglas G. Lee
President

Dear members of the Waynesburg University Community, 

On Friday, March 13, the first reported presumptive case of the coronavirus in Washington County was announced. Since that time, the case has been confirmed to be coronavirus and several additional cases have now been confirmed in neighboring Allegheny County. 

On Saturday, March 14, Governor Wolf ordered additional measures be taken to respond to the coronavirus situation, including the closing of all primary and secondary schools, and provided guidance on further measures on institutions of higher education in counties labeled as “aggressive social distancing counties.” Although at this time, Greene County has not been identified as one of those counties, we continue to monitor status and any potential restrictions here, and expect to continue to receive updates and directives from federal, state and local government. 

In light of these changes, we are taking additional steps as described below that are reflective of our commitment to the safety and interest of our students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community, as well as the rapidly evolving state and federal directives to flatten the coronavirus transmission rate.

We also continue to consult federal, state and programmatic guidelines to provide all students with the opportunities to complete academic plans, degree programs and course requirements, including clinical placements, research projects, laboratories, internships, student teaching and other experiential learning requirements. Department Chairs and Program Directors will communicate directly with students involved with changes in these areas.   

In light of the escalating federal, state and local efforts to slow the transmission of the coronavirus, all students should now plan to leave campus as soon as possible but no later than Friday, March 20. All students must complete this Vacating Campus Form by Wednesday, March 18, so that the University may correctly adjust room and board charges. Students with a compelling reason to stay must also complete this form by Wednesday, March 18, to explain their extenuating circumstances. We will work with those students individually. 

In an additional effort to safeguard our campus, we are implementing the following restrictions to campus facilities, effective immediately until further notice. 

• Campus events, campus visits and other conferences are cancelled until further notice. This was a very difficult decision and not done without the knowledge that many have worked hard to prepare for various events on- and off-campus. However, it was made after carefully weighing the safety of the entire Waynesburg University community and the surrounding communities.
  • Students currently on campus cannot invite anyone (guests or students who chose to vacate) to visit campus. 
  • Any students leaving campus this week will be asked to check in with Student Services if they plan to return to campus this semester. In all cases, please practice social distancing to limit your contact with others to help limit the spread of the coronavirus.  
  • Essential facilities (e.g., dining hall, Student Health Services, Student Services, the Counseling Center and Public Safety) will remain open.
  • Access to the fieldhouse, fitness center, recreational and common areas will be restricted and other facilities may be further restricted, as necessary. 
• If you have already vacated campus, you will not be permitted to visit campus facilities including residence halls, the dining hall, library, computer and science labs, athletic facilities, recreational or other non-essential areas. Certain offices such as Public Safety, Student Health Services, and Student Services will remain accessible to you. If you need access, please contact Student Services. 

Waynesburg University remains committed to protecting the well-being of all members of the campus community. If the University is notified that a Waynesburg University community member is diagnosed with either a presumptive or confirmed case of COVID-19, the University will work with that individual on testing and self-isolation protocols. The University will follow CDC protocols and guidelines to work individuals who may have been in contact with that individual.

We will continue to provide updates from the University on a regular basis as conditions evolve. Please refer to this web page for updated information on COVID-19 and for updated answers to frequently asked questions. 

Douglas G. Lee
President

Dear Waynesburg University Community,

Since January of this year, Waynesburg University has been monitoring the coronavirus outbreak and responding to the situation. The University developed a response team with 10 sub teams that have been planning for and responding to all aspects of a University response to this virus. We are in close consultation with public health experts, the Pennsylvania Department of Education and accrediting agencies, Pennsylvania Department of Health and other institutions in the region to obtain information in real time and respond accordingly.

Throughout the process, we were guided by four imperatives: safeguarding the health of students, faculty and staff, ensuring that students continue to receive the quality education for which Waynesburg University is noted, maintaining the learning community that contributes to our quality educational experience, and also appreciating the national effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus in order to protect our communities and the regions beyond. 

Although there are no known cases of COVID-19 in Greene County or at Waynesburg University, we are taking these steps:

• Effective Monday, March 16, all in-person classes are suspended, with classes resuming with distance and remote modes of instruction beginning Monday, March 23.
• Graduate classes and other classes already online will continue without interruption. 
• Students are strongly encouraged to consider their best interests in choosing whether to remain on campus or to return home. Students have until Friday, March 20, to make their decision. Students leaving must complete this Vacating Campus Form, and students remaining on campus must complete the Residency Registration for Remote Classes – Spring 2020 Form.  
• For those electing to remain on campus, dormitories and dining facilities will remain open.
• These changes will remain in effect for the remainder of the semester, subject to further modifications as the situation continues to evolve. 

A number of additional measures have also been implemented to protect the health and safety of our full college community. Our facilities staff has increased its frequency of cleaning of common areas including doors, door handles, rails, door frames, desks, etc., that are in high-traffic, public areas. Hand sanitizer and soap have been placed in additional locations throughout campus, and many campus activities and events are being suspended or cancelled based on information from state and federal health agencies. 

The coronavirus has presented unprecedented challenges for all involved. It is an evolving situation that continues to require vigilant attention, cooperation from all, and adaptability in decision-making. We are confident that the University’s senior leadership team, response team and sub teams can meet the challenges presented and achieve the University’s goals.

We will continue to provide updates should the situation require additional decisions as we move forward. Please refer to this web page for updated information on COVID-19 and for answers to frequently asked questions.

Douglas G. Lee
President

Dear Waynesburg University Community,

Waynesburg University’s top priority is and remains the safety and well being of our students, faculty and staff.

Due to the current COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, our Emergency Response Team has put into effect a number of precautions to prevent the possible spread of coronavirus. While there are no presumptive or confirmed cases at Waynesburg University at this time, we are continually monitoring best practices to help maintain the health and safety of our campus and surrounding community.

A number of guidelines and resources are available on this web page. We recommend that this be the first reference for anyone with immediate questions or concerns. The site is being updated as relevant information is available.

I am grateful for everyone on our team who is directly involved in helping to manage and assess this important issue.

Douglas G. Lee
President