March 25, 2020
Dear off-campus residents:
We all hope that you are adjusting well to the distance learning format for the rest of the Spring 2020 semester, no matter where you are at the moment. We wanted to provide some important updates to our local off-campus students as our extended Spring Break ends.
Even though you aren’t living on campus, please remember that you can still make virtual appointments with Student Health Services by calling (315) 267-2377, or with the College Counseling Center by calling (315) 267-2330. Now that we are making the transition to remote learning, please don’t hesitate to let us know if you have issues with Internet connectivity or technical support.
Finally, as we all do our part to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, we wanted to share some important reminders of the new regulations under the Governor’s New York State on PAUSE Executive Order.
What does this mean for you?
- No unnecessary travel. You should avoid all unnecessary travel, including to and from campus. Remember, given the new regulations and SUNY guidelines, only approved residential students with approved hardship waivers are allowed on campus and in the residence halls. All other students’ card swipe access has been disabled. Visitors of any kind are not allowed in the residence halls.
- No gatherings. We know that this is difficult, but the executive order bans all non-essential gatherings of individuals, of any size, for any reason. You should limit your socializing. That includes all activities with 10 people or more, or where you would come into close contact with others (such as parties and pick-up basketball games, for instance).
- Keep your distance. Take extra precautions to maintain your distance, disinfect surfaces and wash your hands if you come into contact with someone who is elderly, has an underlying condition or is immunocompromised. Young, healthy people can be contagious for days before exhibiting any symptoms—so you could be a carrier and pose a risk to others. Even young people are being hospitalized with serious health complications due to COVID-19, so these measures protect both your health and the health of those around you.
It is imperative that all students heed this advice. Any student or group of students found to be putting themselves or others in unnecessary danger (i.e. hosting large parties, etc.) can be held accountable via the College’s student code of conduct. Disciplinary actions for such conduct could result in suspension/dismissal.
Thank you for your efforts in helping to slow the spread of COVID-19. I wish you the best of luck with the rest of your studies.
Sincerely,
Eric Duchscherer
Interim Dean of Students
SUNY Potsdam