Health and Safety Plan

Dear MU Students, Faculty, Staff, 

Due to the increasing transmission of the Delta variant in both our region and the state, Mansfield University is instituting an updated indoor masking mandate for campus effective Saturday, August 14. In doing so, our intention is to limit the transmission of the virus on our campus and preserve our ability to offer an in-person teaching and learning experience this semester.  As we welcome our students, faculty, and staff back to campus, please comply with our indoor masking mandate as described below. 

All faculty, staff, students, and visitors are required to wear a face mask covering the wearer's nose and mouth when in any indoor space on campus, including classrooms, meeting rooms, and other common areas, with the following exceptions: 

• When eating or drinking, as long as individuals comply with any other posted restrictions. 
• When in one's assigned residence hall room without any guests. 
• When alone in an office, private study area, or other space. Please note: Face masks are required when in open study spaces, including Alumni Hall, residence halls, and North Hall Library. 
• When alone in a motor vehicle or utility vehicle used for University business. 
• When operating a vehicle or equipment where the mask may create a safety hazard by obscuring vision or from entanglement. 
• When asked to remove the face mask by a school or law enforcement official to verify identity. 
• When a public safety worker is actively engaged in a public safety role in situations where wearing a face mask would seriously interfere with the performance of their job duties. 
• When a face mask cannot be worn while playing a musical instrument, provided the activity is carried out in accordance with the University Health and Safety Plan. 
• As otherwise approved by the Mansfield University's Environmental Health and Safety Director. 
• When an accommodation is necessary as indicated by a medical or similar subject matter expert and granted by the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities. Note: Students who cannot wear a mask, or cannot safely wear a mask, should contact the Coordinator of Services for Students with Disabilities at mphillip@mansfield.edu. Faculty and Staff who cannot wear a mask, or cannot safely wear a mask, should contact Human Resources at HR Connect at hrhelp@mansfield.edu or 570-662-4893. 

Face coverings are not required while outdoors, but face coverings are recommended when in a large group and unable to social distance. 

Student-athletes will undergo testing based on NCAA and PSAC guidance. Team members that are testing regularly, per University policy, will be permitted to participate in team workouts in Decker Gymnasium without wearing a mask, if fully vaccinated. Masks are required following completion of the workout while inside. 

University faculty, staff, and students are required to familiarize themselves with this mask guidance and follow it at all times. This guidance and its directives shall remain in effect until further notice. The University may adjust its Health and Safety Plan and this indoor masking mandate in response to changing conditions on campus and/or in the surrounding community. 

Employees and students should not attempt to directly enforce this directive, but instead should share any concerns about others' behavior through the Health and Safety Plan Reporting Form available at mansfield.edu/health. 

We continue to urge everyone to wash their hands, social distance when possible, and to once again mask-up when inside a building. Mansfield University also strongly encourages all members of our campus community to get vaccinated. Working together and following all health and safety protocols from the CDC and the PA Department of Health, we can keep both our campus and greater community safe and healthy to complete this semester in-person as planned. 

Mr. Jim M Welch 
Environmental Health & Safety Director

Dear Campus Community,

 The Health and Safety Guide for the Fall ’21 semester along with an updated Quarantine & Isolation Policy is now available online at mansfield.edu/health. Please carefully review these documents to understand the expectations of the campus community as we enter another academic year that requires careful attention to the COVID-19 virus.

 Mansfield University will return to a primarily face-to-face environment for the Fall 2021 semester. While health and wellness protocols will remain in place as described in the Health and Safety Guide, MU's course offerings and residential experience will more closely reflect its traditional on-campus environment. 

 The university may adjust the Health and Safety Guide in response to changing conditions on campus and/or in the surrounding community. We will continue to communicate with the campus community throughout the semester with updates and important information.

 An overview of some of the key parts of the guide are listed below. Please review the full document for a complete understanding of the university health and safety guidelines.

Masking

• Masks are optional for anyone who is fully vaccinated (two weeks after final dose). Individuals who are fully vaccinated may wear a mask if they so choose.
• Individuals who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated are strongly encouraged to wear a mask, particularly indoors and in situations where full social distancing is not possible.
• Masks will be required for everyone - regardless of vaccination status – on the Mountie Shuttle and MU large vans, at the MU Student Health Clinic on campus, and for anyone presenting COVID-19 symptoms until a negative test is received.

Vaccine Information

• The campus community is strongly encouraged to get vaccinated prior to the start of the fall semester. The COVID-19 vaccine is an important tool to help us end the pandemic and maintain a primarily face-to-face environment for the Fall 2021 semester.

• The university plans to host another on-campus vaccination clinic at the beginning of the fall semester. Information on the scheduled clinic will be forthcoming.

Testing

• Entry Screening:  Testing of students living in the residence halls will be required prior to moving in. Testing will also be available on campus during the first week of the semester for commuter students and employees. 
• Regular Screening:  Ongoing testing of random and targeted selections of students will occur throughout the semester.
• Student-Athlete Testing:  Students who are participating in athletic competition during the semester will participate in required testing based on vaccination status and symptom presentation.
• Note: If students have been fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination, they are not required to test for the COVID-19 virus, as long as they are asymptomatic.

Quarantine and Isolation

• The university will continue to follow the CDC/PA Department of Health guidance for the quarantine/isolation of individuals who have been exposed or diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus.
• Individuals who are fully vaccinated do not have to quarantine if they have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, as long as they remain symptom free.
• Students who are advised to quarantine or isolate due to a confirmed exposure or confirmed positive test result must follow the isolation guidelines of the Pennsylvania Department of Health at an off-campus location. Student Health Services, along with Student Living, have limited resources for resident students who are unable to isolate or quarantine off-campus; approval of accommodations for such students will be made on a case-by-case basis.

Reporting

• Employees and students should self-report any symptoms or exposures to the Director of Environmental Health and Safety, Jim Welch, if they have knowingly been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19. 

Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to seeing everyone back on campus this Fall!

Jim

Mr. Jim M Welch
Environmental Health & Safety Director
Finance & Administration
(570) 662-4906

mansfield.edu

Campus community,
 
We are now six weeks into the semester and I'd like to share a few reminders.
 
We continue to take mitigation steps to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus on campus. The actions that you as an employee or student take are important to reduce the spread of infection.
 
Please remember the following:

• Wear your mask - Masks covering the nose and mouth should be worn indoors and outdoors on campus, unless you are eating or in your residence hall room.
• Wash your hands - Hand washing is an important step to reduce the spread of infection. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available.
• Maintain social distancing - Maintain 6 feet of spacing between you and others.
• If sick, stay home - Stay home if you're ill and contact Jim Welch in the Health & Safety Office for a rapid COVID test prior to interacting with others on campus.
• Get a test - Regular testing is available on campus with results in 15 minutes. The testing schedule is posted on the Mountie Minute.

If you need additional supplies for offices, classrooms, or other public campus spaces, contact Ryan Wood at rrwood@mansfield.edu.
 
Please refer to the campus Health & Safety Plan with questions or contact jwelch@mansfield.edu.
 
Jim Welch
Director of Environmental Health & Safety

Campus Community,

I have received an update on COVID Vaccine availability for anyone who has High Risk medical conditions as defined by the CDC/PA Dept. of Health.
 
If you have any of the following high-risk conditions listed below and between the ages of 16-64 you are now eligible.

• Cancer
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
• Down Syndrome
• Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathies
• Immunocompromised state
• Obesity - BMI of 30kg/m2 or higher
• Pregnancy
• Sickle cell disease
• Smoking
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus

If you have any of the above listed conditions and would like to receive the COVID vaccine please call 570-404-7621 or 570-787-5000 to register. There are openings currently at the UPMC administration site located in Wellsboro.
 
You do not need to be a PA resident, just be employed by Mansfield University.
If you have any additional questions if you may qualify for the vaccine please go to https://covidportal.health.pa.gov/s/Your-Turn?language=en_US.
 
If you have any additional questions please let me know.
 
Jim Welch
Director of Environmental Health & Safety

Dear campus community,
 
As we look ahead to the upcoming 2021-22 academic year, I’d like to share with you that our intent is to return to in-person classes and events beginning in the Fall ’21 term. We understand that situations surrounding the coronavirus pandemic may alter those plans and we will continue to follow guidance from public health officials to inform our decisions.
 
The expectation of increased COVID-19 vaccine availability, along with mitigation techniques that have been employed in the last year, allows us to plan for a return to in-person experiences for the fall semester. Some at-a-distance options will remain in place where appropriate.

The Fall ’21 term begins on Monday, August 23. As we plan for the upcoming academic year, New Student Orientation sessions will be held virtually this summer. Planning for face-to-face welcome week activities, known as Mountie Days, is underway. Our Mountie Days, which are held the week prior to the start of the fall term, assist new students in their transition to college life.

Similar to previous semesters during the pandemic, we will develop contingency plans should instruction and events need to pivot to an alternative mode of delivery at any time.

Additional plans and information about the upcoming academic year will be announced as soon as decisions are made. The Mansfield University Health & Safety Plan and other resources related to the coronavirus pandemic can be accessed at mansfield.edu/health.
 
Thank you for all that you’ve done to create a safe environment for your fellow Mounties during these unprecedented times. I look forward to seeing each of you back on campus when the time is appropriate.

Charles E. Patterson, PhD
President

Campus Community,

As part of the Mansfield University COVID planning for the student return to campus in the spring semester, testing was an important priority for all students, staff and faculty.
 
Testing is underway for students that are returning to the live on campus in the residence halls.
 
For commuter students, staff and faculty rapid antigen testing for the COVID-19 virus will be available during the first week of the semester.

The test is a self-administered nasal swab provided at no cost to the MU community. Information will be collected from each person testing to include – Name, address, Date of Birth and phone number.
 
The testing will take place in lower Manser dining on the following schedule – Testing will be done on a first come first served basis.

• Monday, Feb. 1 from 8am-1pm
• Tuesday, Feb. 2 from 8am-1pm
• Wednesday, Feb. 3 from 1-3pm
• Thursday, Feb. 4 from 1-3pm
• Friday, Feb. 5 from 8am-noon

Remember the entire campus is now a “Mask Required Zone”, requiring masks inside as well as outside spaces on campus. Keep washing your hands and maintain social distancing throughout the semester.
 
Additional testing options will be communicated throughout the semester for the campus community.
 
Jim
 
Mr. Jim M Welch
Environmental Health & Safety Director

January 14, 2021

Dear Spring '21 Resident Students,

Our experiences last spring and this fall have shown that it is difficult to predict how COVID-19 will spread. Many will develop mild symptoms similar to that of the influenza virus or the common cold, or many will display no symptoms at all.  

To safeguard our community, we will continue to extend all protective policies into the spring semester. Building on what we learned the last few months, we have adapted our testing, isolation and quarantine processes to help control the potential spread of the virus while ensuring students receive quality care and attention.  

Spring COVID Testing  
Resident students will be REQUIRED to have a negative COVID test prior to checking into the residence halls. Anyone living on-campus must either provide documentation of a negative test that was received no more than 72 hours prior to check-in OR be tested upon arrival to campus (anyone who cannot provide documentation of such a negative test and refuses to be tested will not be permitted to live on-campus).  

Rapid antigen tests will be administered to resident students without appropriate documentation of a negative test result. The rapid antigen tests are administered by a very short nasal swab and will deliver results within 15 minutes. Any resident student who receives a positive result at check-in will immediately be moved to isolation or will be permitted to return home until a negative result is provided. All other resident students will be permitted to move into their assigned residence hall room.

Spring Move-In Plan  

• Move-in will be by APPOINTMENT ONLY!
  • Each individual student MUST sign up for an appointment time. You cannot sign up as roommates, this will forfeit your appointment time.
• Fall Residents Returning to Campus for Spring 2021
  • Residents living on campus during the fall 2020 semester will sign up for a move in date and time starting on Friday, January 29 through Sunday, January 31. SIGN UP HERE - https://calendly.com/mustudentliving/returning-student-move-in.
• New Spring 2021 Residents
  • Residents who are approved for spring 2021 housing will sign up for a move in date and time starting on Wednesday, January 27 through Thursday, January 28. SIGN UP HERE - https://calendly.com/mustudentliving/new-student-move-in.
• All returning and new students living on-campus will report to Hickory Hall to be tested as they arrive for move-in. At that time, you can either provide a negative test result that was administered no more than 72 hours prior to check in OR you can be tested on the spot.
  • Upon arriving at Hickory Hall, please pull into one of the labeled parking spaces and wait in your vehicle until someone comes to speak with you.

As we follow public health measures and plan ahead for the daily scheduled arrivals, we are not able to accommodate walk-ups or requests to move into your room outside of the established dates and times indicated. We are also unable to accommodate requests for move-ins earlier than Wednesday, January 27.

Students will be allowed to select up to two (2) helpers to assist with their move in during the two-hour time slot. Your helpers must leave the hall at the end of your time slot. You will have access to use one (1) moving cart to assist with your move in during your time slot.

Spring Housing Agreement Addendum
All students residing on campus this spring, including those who resided on campus in the fall, will need to complete an online Housing Agreement Addendum that highlights COVID procedures and community expectations.

The Addendum can be reviewed and completed via your MyHousing Account. Not completing the Addendum prior to our move-in timeslot could extend the check in process and shorten the amount of time you have to move your items into the building.
 
Residence Hall Access
Students will not have access to the residence halls until the Addendum and COVID test is complete. ID cards will NOT be turned on until both steps are completed. Approved residents will only have access to their respective buildings until Monday, February 1.

Any student attempting or allowing others to gain access to the residence halls before these procedures are completed could jeopardize their housing status.

Spring Parking
We would also like to note that parking restrictions will be enforced for the spring 2021 semester. All parking areas on campus are reserved. Parking is authorized by permit only during reserved hours. Permit parking will be enforced from 7 AM – 4 PM Monday – Friday, unless otherwise posted by signs or declared by University Police. Permit parking in student parking lots will be enforced 24 hours a day, Sunday 12 AM – through Friday 4 PM. Parking permits can be purchased online at parking.mansfield.edu. Please review the parking map for more information.

Additional Information
All students (and faculty, staff, and visitors) are required to wear cloth masks at all times when on- or off-campus and whether inside or outside. Pennsylvania and university guidelines state that masks are to be work at all times, both inside and outside, except when eating and in one's own home/room.

Students who do not have a need to reside on campus and are taking all courses remotely should complete the spring semester at home. If you have already been approved to reside on campus and wish to move off campus for the spring semester, you may do so by Friday, January 22, 2021. Please email housing@mansfield.edu, as soon as possible in order to cancel your housing contract.

If you should have additional questions about the spring 2021 move in process, please email us at housing@mansfield.edu.  

Dusty Zeyn

Director of Student Living & Community Programs

·     Health and Safety Plan: Mansfield University’s Health and Safety Plan details measures for in-person instruction and on-campus residence for the spring 2021 semester. The Health and Safety Plan, along with campus messages, a form for questions, and campus updates are available at mansfield.edu/health-and-safety-plan.

·     Spring 2021 Semester: Classes for spring 2021 begin on Monday, February 1.  The last date to drop and add classes is Sunday, February 7. There will be NO SPRING BREAK and the semester will end on Friday, May 7. Finals week will be May 10-13. Commencement is scheduled for Saturday, May 15, at Van Norman Field. Mansfield University will continue to monitor rates of infection in order to appropriately determine how Commencement will proceed. 

·     Spring COVID Testing:  Rapid antigen tests will be administered to students upon return from winter break and will be REQUIRED for anyone living on-campus. All returning and new students living on-campus will report to Hickory Hall to be tested as they arrive for move-in (Sayre students test at Sayre prior to move-in). The rapid antigen tests are administered by a very short nasal swab and will deliver results within 15 minutes. Any student who receives a positive result will immediately be moved to isolation or will be permitted to return home until a negative result is provided. All other students will be permitted to move into their assigned residence hall room. 

·     Spring Move-In Plan: Move-in will be by APPOINTMENT ONLY.

·     Fall Residents Returning to Campus for Spring 2021 - Residents living on campus during the fall 2020 semester will sign up for a move- in date and time starting on Friday, January 29, through Sunday, January 31. 

·     New Spring 2021 Residents - Residents who are approved for spring 2021 housing will sign up for a move-in date and time starting on Wednesday, January 27, through Thursday, January 28. 

·     On-Campus Residents and All Students Taking Face-to-Face Classes: Students should not return to campus until having been in quarantine or isolation for a minimum of 10-days with no COVID-19 symptoms. If an on-campus administered test result is confirmed positive, students will have the option of isolating on campus in Hickory Hall or returning home. 

·     Dining: Dining service will still be available throughout campus. Limited menus will be provided, and all menu items will be served by Dining Service employees. Seating will only be available in the Student Restaurant (Upper Manser) and will observe the appropriate physical distancing; meal hours will be limited. Takeout will be available at all locations. Mountie Market, located in Spruce Hall, will be open 7 p.m. to Midnight, Monday-Sunday, replacing Lower Manser. Hours and locations may be subject to change. 

·     Masking Policy: As per Pennsylvania and university guidelines, all students, faculty, staff, and visitors are required to wear face masks at all times, when on- or off-campus and whether inside or outside, except when eating and in one's own home/room. Face coverings should cover both mouth and nose.  Individuals unable to wear a face mask due to a documented health condition or disability must register for an accommodation through Melinda Phillips at mphillip@mansfield.edu.

·     COVID Code Violations: Regarding the enforcement of Mansfield’s Health and Safety Plan, it is important to recognize the critical nature that full compliance with these policies will play in the success of this semester. It must be understood that non-compliance with these policies by just a few could jeopardize the health of the entire Mansfield community as well as our ability to continue offering in-person instruction during spring 2021, and therefore violations will be treated accordingly.  As such, repeated violations shall result in the suspension of one’s right to remain on campus for a portion, or the entirety, of the remaining semester, in addition to other appropriate sanctions based upon the circumstances involved.  

·     Support: Mansfield University remains committed to assisting all students through the spring semester. We stand ready to support technology needs, increasing mentorship, proactively addressing any hardships, and adjusting the total cost of attendance in concert with the Office of Financial Aid. 

·     Course Delivery: Instruction for spring 2021 has transitioned to approximately 75% online delivery for the safety of our campus community. The remaining 25% of courses will be delivered partially or entirely face-to-face. In-person courses will be restricted primarily to natural and health science lab courses, clinicals, student teaching, internships, and certain courses in music. 

·     Class Modality: Faculty members will communicate additional details regarding courses and expectations for participation. Anyone taking courses via individualized instruction or independent study, should consult with their instructor about the method of delivery. 

·     Athletics: On Tuesday, November 10, 2020, the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Board of Directors announced that its member institutions will remain committed to previously intended regular-season and championship seasons for all spring sports in 2021. On Thursday, November 19, 2020, the Board voted to cancel all mandated regular-season schedules and championship events for fall and winter sports. The Board left an option open to continue championship opportunities should six or more institutions elect to compete in a championship season in swimming and cross country. As a result, the Mountaineers will be competing in the cross country championships.  Anticipated championship dates will fall over weekends in late March and late April, respectively. 

·     Online Bookstore: Mansfield University textbook services have moved completely online to provide cost savings and an efficient user experience for all students. The new online bookstore can be accessed at Mansfield.textbookx.com.  Free shipping is available on orders of $49 or more. Textbooks will no longer be available at the Alumni Hall location.

·     Mountie Spirit Store: The Mountie Spirit Store in Alumni Hall will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with university gear and supplies available. Shop online at mansfieldspirit.com. Free shipping is available on orders of $100 or more.

·     Counseling Center: Counseling appointments will be primarily held via Zoom. Information about the Counseling Center is available at mansfield.edu/counseling-center.

·     Parking: Campus Police will strictly enforce University parking regulations beginning February 1. All parking areas on campus are reserved. Parking is authorized by permit only during reserved hours. Permit parking will be enforced from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday unless otherwise posted by signs or declared by University Police. Permit parking in student parking lots will be enforced 24 hours a day, Sunday at midnight through Friday 4 p.m. Parking permits can be purchased online at parking.mansfield.edu. Please review the parking map for more information. Any questions pertaining to parking permits and parking regulations may be directed to the Campus Police Department by calling (570) 662-4900.

Dear Mansfield University Community:

Mansfield University’s home county of Tioga continues to rank among the top 10 counties in Pennsylvania with the lowest number of positive COVID-19 cases. In the spring and summer of this year, Mansfield University’s location in rural Northcentral Pennsylvania provided a unique defense against the spread of COVID-19. At that time, our Mountie students overwhelmingly expressed a strong interest in returning to campus in the fall, albeit with appropriate restrictions to ensure a healthy environment.

Today, however, we are seeing this rural advantage fade away across areas of the United States and Pennsylvania as infection rates in rural areas have begun to increase. In addition, there continues to be limited testing capabilities throughout Pennsylvania. This combination of increasing infection rates and limited testing regimes is requiring universities throughout the United States to continually shift their initial plans for returning to in-person instruction in the fall of 2020, including Mansfield University.

Today, Mansfield University is announcing that we will continue to further increase our offering of remote (online) courses in response to a continually changing pandemic environment. This shift is being done proactively in order to ensure the continued health of our students and employees.

We do not have any reported or confirmed cases of coronavirus infection on our campus at this time. This plan simply builds upon the work that we have already done, as described within the Fall 2020 Plan. Rebalancing the delivery of instruction and limiting campus residency allows Mansfield University to continue to prioritize the health and safety of our campus community, while also supporting student needs and advancing our important educational mission.

For the fall semester, our campus community can expect the following adaptations:

• Course delivery: As the fall semester begins, we anticipate that approximately 75% of all courses will be provided remotely (online). The remaining 25% of our courses will be delivered partially or entirely face-to-face. Our face-to-face courses will be restricted primarily to natural and health science lab courses, clinicals, student teaching, internships, and certain courses in music and art.
• Residential living: We will reduce our residential campus population to approximately 1/3 of total capacity by restricting campus living to the following students:
  • New freshmen are invited to reside on campus, but this is not required. The transition to college life can be challenging and the first semester of college is critical to success. Having our new freshmen Mounties on campus will allow them to start the college experience by building communities and acclimating to college life at Mansfield University. Mountie Days activities will be held with this in mind.
  • Students who are enrolled in a course with an in-person instructional component or hands-on/experience-based component that is required for their specific major.
  • International students who are in the United States.
  • Students with special circumstances, which may include students who are housing insecure or students who have limited broadband/internet connectivity and are unable to access remote learning at home. We will work with students with other special circumstances, as well as students with concerns about living on campus, on an individual basis to provide the best possible learning platform for them.

Mansfield University remains committed to assisting all of our students through the coming fall semester. We stand ready to support technology needs, increasing mentorship, proactively addressing any hardships, and adjusting the total cost of attendance in concert with the Office of Financial Aid.

Each college or university must build its plan based on what it believes is best for its situation and must be prepared to change course as new information becomes known and understood. The Fall 2020 Plan has been developed in accordance with published health and safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH), and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). The alterations described above represent our commitment to continue to evaluate and adjust instruction as conditions require and as further research and data has become available.

It is important to reinforce that the single most important factor in promoting a safe campus environment is compliance with protective behaviors. We must all take extraordinary steps to stay well and protect each other. What we do today, and in the days and weeks to come, will determine how the fall semester will best serve our students. To this end, it is critical that all university employees, students, community members and visitors embrace a shared commitment to undertake protective measures, both on campus and off campus. In doing so, we will be even better positioned to transition into spring 2021.

To our students and their families, I want to personally thank you for your patience and for your understanding as we continue to take measures to ensure student success while also addressing the health and safety needs of our entire campus community. You will undoubtedly have questions. More information will be coming tomorrow and throughout this week as we work to prepare for a successful fall semester.

To our faculty and staff, I remain tremendously proud of how the Mansfield community has come together to plan - and make appropriate adjustments to plans – based on a continually changing environment. Thank you for your exceptional efforts and for keeping your focus on the success of our Mountie students.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Patterson, PhD

President

Dear Mounties,

Sincerely,
Dr. Ulrich

John M. Ulrich, Ph.D.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

Dear Mounties, 

As a follow-up to President Patterson’s August 3 message to the Mansfield University community, below you will find additional details from Academic Affairs and Student Affairs regarding Fall 2020 instructional delivery and on-campus housing eligibility. 

Academic Affairs 

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 exposure to our campus community during the Fall 2020 semester, approximately 75-80% of Mansfield University courses will now be taught via distance education, and the remaining 20-25% will be taught partially or entirely face-to-face.  The face-to-face courses will be restricted primarily to natural and health science lab courses, clinicals, student teaching, internships, and selected music courses that are especially difficult to translate into a distance-learning environment.  All face-to-face courses will follow the protocols outlined in Mansfield’s Health and Safety Plan, which include the mandatory wearing of face coverings and the appropriate physical distancing. 

We are currently in the process of updating the Fall 2020 schedule to reflect the changes in course delivery. We expect the changes to be completed by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5. Please wait until then to check your schedules.  When you log into the Student Self-Service portal to view your schedule, you will see the way your courses are delivered under “Meeting Information.” 

• If the course is listed as “Online Only,” then the course is delivered entirely through distance education technology. 
• If the course is listed as “Online Only w/Sync Activity,” then the course is delivered entirely through distance education technology, and the instructor has chosen to include a synchronous component, meaning that the class will sometimes meet together online on the same day and time.  The course listing indicates the days/times for the synchronous activities.  Your instructor will provide you with more details about the synchronous component of the course. 
• If the course is listed as “MU Campus and Online,” then the course has both face-to-face and distance education components.  We often call these “hybrid” courses.  A meeting time is listed for the face-to-face component, and your instructor will provide more information about the hybrid nature of the course. 
• If the course is listed as “Mansfield University Main Campus,” then the course is offered face-to-face only on our main campus. 
• Courses offered at our Sayre location are designated as “Sayre.”

As you know, our semester starts on Monday, August 17, and the last day of classes will be Friday, November 20.  Final exams will be conducted online during the week after Thanksgiving. 

We greatly appreciate your patience as we update our system to reflect the changes in course delivery.

Student Affairs/Student Living

Our staff had hoped to welcome back all students in the fall and we’re sorry to deliver this news; however, public health guidance informed our decision to reduce residence hall occupancy for the health and safety of our campus community.

Fall 2020 Semester Housing:

• On-campus housing will be limited to the following students:
  • Students enrolled in a face-to-face course required for their major (natural and health science lab courses, clinicals, student teaching, internships, and selected music courses).  
  • International students
  • First-year students, new to Mansfield University
  • Students facing extraordinary circumstances
• Please remember that all students needing Essential Housing will need to request it by completing the Essential Housing Request Form. 
  • Essential Housing Requests will be due by 4 p.m. EST on Friday, August 7. Requests will be reviewed by Student Living, and students will be notified of a decision no later than 4 p.m. Monday, August 10.
• Revised housing policies with added precautions will be in effect for the health and safety of students living in Essential Housing.
• Because space on campus is expected to be limited, we encourage students to find other opportunities for housing. If you would like to cancel your housing for fall 2020, please email housing@mansfield.edu. 
• For students who may have already signed a housing lease off campus, please reach out to your landlord and discuss options. We are certain there are many in the region who will work with you to cancel your contract given these unusual circumstances.

Fall 2020 Campus Dining Information:

• Dining service will still be available throughout campus. Limited menus will be provided and all menu items will be served by Dining Service employees. Seating (in Upper Manser only) will observe the appropriate physical distancing, and meal hours will be limited. Takeout will be available at all locations.
• A meal plan will be required for students living in Essential Housing. Dining services officially opens on Thursday, August 12.

Support/Recreation

• Student Living Staff will remain intact with Resident Assistants, as well as our professional Residence Directors in each building.
• The Fitness Center and Library will be open for student use this fall. Further details are forthcoming.

Thank you for your continued patience as we work through this. If you have any questions, please visit this page, scroll down, and submit them using the form provided.

Sincerely,

Dr. John Ulrich, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

JoEllen Lindner, Vice President for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management

Dusty Zeyn, Director of Student Living & Community Programs

Dear Resident Mountie,  

I hope this finds you healthy and well. As we all continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and look forward to the fall, I wanted to write to give you a sense of how we are approaching our on-campus housing preparations for the start of the 2020-2021 academic year. We are all excited to welcome you back on campus, but it is important to remember that this semester will not look like it has in the traditional sense.  

Social distancing and enhanced safety measures will need to be in place for an extended period of time. We will need to maintain flexibility for changing circumstances and be prepared for all possible scenarios. The work is already underway and I am very pleased with the progress we are making to address the range of issues and considerations involved. Please know that your health and safety, and that of everyone on campus, is paramount in all decisions.  

We look forward to the day when all students can enjoy a more robust and active campus life. We also know that in this time of COVID-19, physical distancing, wearing face coverings, and frequent hand washing are critical to limiting the spread of infection. All members of the Mansfield University community are expected to take responsibility for their own health and well-being, and act with respect and consideration for those around them.

To help reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, we are making the following adjustments to on-campus housing for the upcoming semester. All decisions and policies are informed by guidance from public health authorities, local, state, and/or federal government officials and are designed to achieve the goal of an engaged living and learning experience for residents. These policies may be updated or changed at any time to reflect new guidance.

If changes should occur, residents will be appropriately notified via your Mansfield email account. Failure to consistently comply with any of the policies and/or guidelines will result in a referral to the Office of Student Conduct.

Building Operations

The residence hall communities will operate differently compared to previous years. Living on campus is a privilege, and it is up to EVERYONE to ensure that our living communities remain safe and healthy. Although frequent cleaning of common and high traffic areas will be provided, residents will need to follow Mansfield University’s directives and expectations regarding public health guidelines (noting that plans are subject to re-evaluation and change). This includes: 

• Complying with university, local, state, and national public health directives.
• Avoiding congregating, gathering, or hanging out in common spaces. 
• Wearing a face covering when outside your assigned space and in public areas (hallways, lobbies, elevators, laundry, etc.) within all campus buildings and outdoors, when appropriate social distancing cannot be maintained (6 feet).  
• Adhering to physical distancing protocols, which means maintaining at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others, at all times. This includes when leaving your room to do your laundry, getting food in a dining hall, etc., as well as observing capacity limits posted for elevators, lobbies, and other spaces. 
• Washing hands frequently and avoid touching your face. 
• Cleaning your room (including bathrooms) multiple times per week. 
• Following visitation guidelines, which is as follows: 
  • After official move-in, the maximum number of persons allowed to be present in any residence hall room will be limited to the number of occupants plus one (1) guest per occupant. Guests are limited to Mansfield University students ONLY and, as always, you are responsible for the behavior of your guests.  

Room Assignments and Building Occupancy

Most residence halls will operate near capacity. You will still have the choice to live with roommates and accept the shared responsibility to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 through actions both inside the living spaces and throughout the Mansfield University community. Roommates will be treated as a “single household” and, for this reason, will not be required to wear a face covering inside their room, except for when guests are present.

Certain residence hall lounges and common areas will be closed to allow staff to concentrate sanitation efforts in high touch/traffic areas. Those lounges and common areas that remain open for use will have reduced occupancy capacities. The maximum occupancy in these spaces will vary, depending on square footage and signs will be posted. All students are expected to adhere to the requirements indicated on these signs.

Some of the larger multi-purpose rooms will be used as classroom space and will remain locked in between uses. The smaller lounges on the individual floors that can be locked will be locked. Most of these spaces will be available by making a reservation request. Please note:  Before making the request, you must ensure you are able to meet the occupancy requirements and know that masks or face shields will be required. NO EXCEPTIONS!

Main kitchens in the residence halls will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. No more than four (4) students will be allowed in the kitchens. During food preparation, masks or face shields will be required. Masks may be removed during consumption, but only if adequate social distancing of 6 feet can be maintained in the kitchen. The individual floor kitchens in Spruce and Sycamore will remain offline.

Game rooms will also remain offline. Limited outdoor equipment will be available for check-out at the residence hall front desks and will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between uses. Board games and cooking equipment will not be available for check-out. A limited supply of cleaning equipment may also be checked out at the front desks, but you are strongly encouraged to also bring your own supplies.

Move-In Dates and Overview

The move in process in August will be a staggered approach, to ensure social distancing for all students and guests. Move-in appointments will be required. Next week, each resident will receive an email with a sign-up link to reserve a move-in day and time for your arrival to campus. Although full move-in details are still being finalized, here are a few important updates: 

• You are permitted to bring two (2) guests to accompany and assist you with the move-in process; however, they must depart campus when your move-in time is over.
• You, and everyone in your move-in group, will be required to wear face coverings inside and outside of the buildings. 
• We strongly encourage you to limit the number of items you bring to campus. There will be no volunteers or additional helpers to carry your items. A limited number of carts may be available and will be cleaned in between uses by our cleaning personnel.  
• Elevators will have limited occupancy. There will be signs to tell you how many people may use an elevator at one time. 

Dates for scheduled move-in are anticipated to be Tuesday, August 11 through Thursday, August 13 for incoming students (first-years and transfers) and Friday, August 14 through Sunday, August 16 for returning students. Unfortunately, due to the need to social distance, special accommodations for move-in will be extremely limited. Please refrain from making these requests until the official move-in information comes out next week.

Mansfield University follows directives from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines and the PA Department of Health, including mandates for travel-related quarantine. The current list may be found here. If you have traveled to, or are coming from any of these areas, you are asked to email Jim Welch, Environmental Health and Safety Officer, at jwelch@mansfield.edu.  

You are advised to self-isolate to ensure that you are COVID-19 symptom free before coming to campus. 

At check-in, the University will be providing each resident with a washable cloth face coverings, a bottle of hand sanitizer, and a disposable thermometer. Residents are strongly encouraged to also bring additional face coverings and Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) as you see fit. You can find the Room Essentials Checklist here. Keep in mind, the more you bring, the more that will need to be cleaned and sanitized.

Based on survey data from early 2020, students reported they were not using the cable television connections that were provided and instead have become much more accustomed to having streaming services. Cable television is no longer available and having a Smart TV or a device from which you can stream content is suggested. The University has been upgrading bandwidth and wi-fi over the last couple of years to provide students with improved connections. There are lots of streaming services and many offer student discounts, if you use your University email account.  Some popular streaming sites include: Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Spotify Premium with Hulu and Showtime.  

Community Commitment

If we repopulate the campus as planned, it is important to realize that spikes in COVID-19 cases may jeopardize our ability to remain on campus.  Accordingly, we need the commitment of all residents to respect campus policies and adaptations related to public health and to personally follow everyday preventative actions. Residents are asked to carefully consider when and how they expose themselves to others on and off campus.  

We ask that during the duration of the semester, you limit travel and excessive mixing with others – particularly without taking protective measures and social distancing – in interest of your academic community. It is also important for all members of the community to remember that there are students – including some residents – who have pre-existing medical conditions placing them at greater risk for COVID-19 illness.  

Final Thoughts

The cornerstone of our commitment to residents is shared social responsibility by all members of the community. We must all embrace these new procedures to be vigilant in protecting not only ourselves, but every member of the Mansfield University community. This is a rapidly changing and evolving situation and we ask your patience as we navigate through this time. The staff and Resident Assistants, who are your peers, are here to help.  

We know this will be challenging, and not how we are accustomed to living. If we can all continue to make the commitment to our health and that of those around us, we are confident Mansfield University Student Living can be an engaging and vibrant community that promotes public health and best practices for preventing the spread of COVID-19. We ask all MOUNTIES to act in a way that shows we care about one another’s well-being.

We look forward to having you on-campus!

Mrs. Dusty J Zeyn
Interim Dean of Students
 

Dear students, faculty, and staff,

I hope this message finds you well as the new academic year approaches and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to our beautiful campus soon.

Last month we rolled out the Mansfield University Health and Safety Plan that details measures for a return to in-person instruction and on-campus residency for the fall 2020 semester. We know that Mansfield University students prefer an in-person learning experience and that desire is reflected in our Health and Safety Plan for the fall. We continue to work closely with faculty and staff to address appropriate modes of instruction that integrate in-person, hybrid and remote learning to allow for implementation of appropriate guidance provided by state and federal agencies. The Fall 2020 Plan will continue to be updated and adjusted regularly as new information and additional guidance is provided for higher education institutions.

Modes of instruction for the fall semester will include:

• In-person courses: Traditional, in-person classroom instruction is anticipated for small classes, labs, studios, and other courses enrolling limited numbers of students. The classes may be offered in reconfigured lecture rooms or larger venues that accommodate physical distancing.
• Blended courses: These courses will feature a blend of both in-person and asynchronous online instruction to limit the number of students meeting in-person (to allow for physical distancing) and to reduce the frequency of in-person class meetings.
• Multimodal courses: Some courses will be delivered with a flexible approach, allowing faculty to teach an in-person class to physically distanced students while also streaming the class synchronously to remote students. The class may be recorded as well for future playback for registered students.
• Online courses: We will offer additional fully online courses for students living both on and off campus to lessen the need for larger, in-person instructional settings.
• Clinical experiences, field experiences, and internships: In-person work experiences such as clinicals, student teaching, and internships may resume if permitted by the host agency and appropriate safety protocols are in place.

In order to make the return to campus possible, we must all work together to follow the guidelines of the Health & Safety Plan and encourage others to do the same. It is critical that all university students, employees, and visitors embrace a shared commitment to undertake protective measures, both on and off campus. These measures include but are not limited to:

• Wearing of facemasks or other kinds of face coverings: Anyone entering campus buildings must wear appropriate face coverings and keep them on when in hallways, classrooms, public spaces, common areas, and during office visits (unless a medical concern exempts you from this requirement). Departments will receive disposable masks for those who need a one-time-use face covering.
• Social distancing: Individuals are always expected to maintain a physical distance from one another by at least six feet, whether on or off campus. It is important not to congregate in communal areas and to limit group activities to small numbers. Appropriate technology has been installed in some classrooms to allow for multi-modal delivery of instruction, and some classes have been moved to larger spaces to permit face-to-face instruction while maintaining social distancing.  We have developed guidance on our traditional large-group events and gatherings to follow these recommendations. Dining services will be reducing and removing tables and chairs in Manser Dining Hall to comply with university social distancing guidelines.
• Cleaning and disinfecting: Cleaning and disinfecting is taking place on a regular basis, in accordance with state and national guidelines. We are putting in place physical barriers that are known to prevent transmission of the virus and additional informative signage. We have worked to secure ample supplies to keep all facilities clean and sanitized.
• Monitoring and reporting: Students and employees should self-report any symptoms or exposures to the Director of Environmental Health and Safety. We have systems in place to observe quarantine and isolation procedures recommended by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control. We will notify the campus community about positive cases via our website as well as protect the privacy of those who test positive.
• Mansfield University is member of the Tioga County COVID-19 leadership team: We are working and will continue to work with our community and will respond appropriately to any status change in our county, region, state, or nation.

Each college or university must build its own individualized plan based on state and regional factors, and no one solution works best for all institutions. We have developed our Fall 2020 Plan based on guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The Fall 2020 Plan focuses on limiting the virus’s transmission among students, employees, guests, and visitors. By adhering to these practices, we can all play an important role in protecting our fellow Mounties and individuals in our surrounding communities.

I hope you are able to have a safe and enjoyable summer and I look forward to seeing everyone on campus soon.

Sincerely,

Dr. Charles Patterson
President of Mansfield University

June 15, 2020

Dear Mansfield University Friends and Family:

Today we announced our initial plans for the upcoming Fall 2020 semester and will share highlights of that information with you through this letter. We first want to express our hope that you, your family, and your friends are safe and healthy. Everyone’s well-being is very much in our thoughts as we continue to plan for the future.

Protecting the safety and well-being of our entire community—students, staff, faculty, parents and visitors—is paramount as we plan for Fall during the coronavirus pandemic. In developing the Health and Safety Plan for Fall 2020 (Fall 2020 Plan), we have relied on guidance from health experts, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH), and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). As we approach the beginning of the Fall semester, we recognize that as new developments occur – from any regional surges in new coronavirus cases to confirmation of a vaccine – the university will continue to adjust the Fall 2020 Plan to support the needs of our entire campus community.

Over the past months, the Mountie family has shown extraordinary resilience in adapting to online courses. It was with heavy hearts that we had to postpone our Spring Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2020. Now that the Northcentral region has been designated “green,” we are making plans to invite our Spring graduates back to the Mansfield University campus to recognize their achievements in a formal ceremony. An announcement will be forthcoming soon.

As we look to the beginning of the new academic year, we will welcome to campus the incoming Class of 2024, our returning students, and many students that have made the choice to transfer to Mansfield University. We are working diligently to ensure everyone’s on-campus experience is special.

I want to include some highlights of the Fall 2020 Plan that may be of particular interest:

Academic calendar for Fall 2020 will start early and end early

• Classes will begin on Monday, August 17 and end on Friday, November 20.
• Students will not return to campus after Thanksgiving break to complete the fall semester. Instead, finals week will be conducted online. Planning for campus return for the spring semester is underway.
• Students residing on campus and requiring living accommodations during the Thanksgiving break and until the completion of finals may extend their stay in the residence halls.

Instruction and course delivery

• Modes of instruction will allow of physical distancing in classrooms, reducing the density of classes, reducing the frequency of in-person class meetings, implementing blended course delivery modalities, and adjusting course meeting times and locations as needed.
• In-person instruction, sometimes in reconfigured classrooms, will resume for small classes, labs, studios, and other courses enrolling limited numbers of students.
• Blended courses may be delivered using a combination of online delivery and traditional in-person classroom instruction in order to limit the number of students meeting in-person and to reduce the frequency of in-person class meetings.
• Multimodal courses will be used selectively to allow for broad options for students, allowing faculty to teach – simultaneously – an in-person class to students while also streaming the class synchronously online. The class may be recorded as well for future playback for registered students.
• Online classes and online pathways are common at Mansfield and additional online classes may be offered for students living both on and off campus.
• Clinicals, student teaching, and internships will resume if permitted by the host agency and appropriate safety protocols are in place.
• Updated Fall 2020 course schedules, indicating any changes (if needed) to room location, day/time, and or modality, will be communicated by the Office of the Registrar in July.

Student life and campus engagement

• If requested, accommodations allowing for a private bedroom space may be provided. Resident students who have already requested a roommate or are willing to have a roommate may do so. If you have questions or concerns relating to your specific needs, you may contact the Office of Student Living at 570-662-4934 or housing@mansfield.edu.
• To help alleviate congestion during Fall move-in, a “Drop-N-Go" move-in option is being offered July 24-25, July 27-August 1 and August 3-8. By appointment, students will be able to sign up for a 1.5-hour block in which to move their belongings into their room. Traditional Fall move-in will occur on August 12-16 and schedules will be spread out to reduce density and adhere to social distancing requirements. Additional housing information can be found at mansfield.edu/residence-life as updates occur.
• The residence halls will close for the Fall semester on Monday, November 23, at 5 p.m. However, students who must remain on campus through finals week will be allowed to do so, if prior arrangements are made with the  Residence Hall Director in their respective building or the Director of Student Living. The standard housing contract for all Fall 2020 residential students concludes on December 4, 2020.
• Dining spaces will be modified for low-density on-site dining, as well as Grab-&-Go options.
• University Athletics will adhere to guidance provided by the NCAA and the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Information on resuming athletic competitions will be forthcoming.
• The DOH allows up to 250 attendees to attend non-instructional events within green regions, provided social distancing requirements can be met. On-campus events will be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on crowd size and availability of adequate space.
• Non-instructional meetings among faculty, staff, and students may be conducted remotely.

Health information

• We are asking all members of Mansfield University Campus Community to monitor their own health on a daily basis and take precautions as needed.
• It is expected that all individuals will maintain social distancing at all times, whether on or off-campus, and we will limit capacity in classrooms and other on-campus spaces.
• Individuals entering a campus building must wear a face mask before entering the building and continue to wear a face mask when in hallways, classrooms, public spaces, common areas, and during office visits.
• We will supply a reusable, washable face mask and hand sanitizer to every student and employee, though anyone may wear one of their choosing.
• All faculty, staff and students will complete a brief online public health and safety course prior to returning to campus.
• We are working with local healthcare providers to increase access, as well as campus access, to coronavirus testing and contact tracing, informed by best available public health guidance. We will monitor and update these protocols as guidance evolves.
• Protocols are being developed to allow for isolation and quarantine of campus residents, should this be necessary.

Again, more details are available on the Health and Safety Plan for Fall 2020 website, which will be updated frequently throughout the Summer and Fall. Our coronavirus website will also continue to provide updated information on the progression of the virus.

We recognize there is uncertainty and anxiety that has accompanied this pandemic. The single most important factor in promoting a safe campus environment is compliance with protective behaviors. We must all take extraordinary steps to stay well and protect each other. To this end, it is critical that all university employees, students, and visitors embrace a shared commitment to undertake protective measures – both on campus and off campus. This “Social Compact for Health,” described in more detail in the Fall 2020 Plan, will help keep the entire campus community safe by stopping the spread of COVID-19 and other potential infections.

We hope you continue to have an enjoyable and safe summer. We look forward to seeing you on the beautiful Mansfield University campus in the Fall.

Charles Patterson
President

John Ulrich
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

JoEllen Lindner
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management

Jim Welch
Director of Environmental Health and Safety