University Statements

Trojan Faculty,

As we begin another academic year, I am grateful to you all for your professionalism and commitment to our students.

Today, we are updating the University’s coronavirus website with an important clarification regarding the procedure for student absences. Students who have tested positive for COVID-19 are no longer required to complete a contact tracing worksheet and do not need a letter from Student Services in order to return to class or receive an excused absence.

Cases of COVID-19 should be handled in the same manner as any infectious disease, such as flu. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 should seek medical care and follow the guidance of their healthcare provider or the campus health center to determine when it is safe to return to campus.

Faculty members should follow their regular attendance policies as outlined in the course syllabus and treat COVID-19 as they would any other medical absence.

As a reminder, TROY currently has no special operational procedures or guidelines related to COVID-19. However, we are aware that COVID-19 remains a serious public health concern. The University continues to monitor cases on campus that are reported to the student health center and remains in close contact with the Alabama Department of Public Health. The health and well-being of everyone on campus is our top concern, and our procedures will change as needed based on the latest state or federal guidance.

Sincerely,

Dr. Kerry J. Palmer
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Colleagues,

Thank you for all you have done to make the start of the new academic year a successful one. After the challenges of the past two years related to COVID-19, we are pleased that our students are once again able to enjoy a more normal college experience this fall.

Please let me take this opportunity to remind you that there are currently no special operational procedures or guidelines related to COVID-19 in effect for any Troy University campus or location. Masks are optional and cannot be mandated in any University setting.

We ask that individuals continue to be proactive about their health and safety and to become familiar with the latest COVID-19 guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

University leadership will continue to closely monitor the situation regarding COVID-19, and we will adjust our operating plans as needed to protect the health and wellbeing of the campus community. In the future, changes or updates regarding our policies will be shared through email and TROY’s Coronavirus website.
Sincerely,
 
Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Dear Trojans, 

During the past two years, Troy University has worked diligently to meet the challenges of COVID-19 by developing policies and procedures designed to promote health and safety while supporting a functional learning environment. As we begin a new academic year, we have been encouraged to see the decline in case numbers among our campus community, and, as such, our approach to the pandemic is evolving.

Moving forward, there will be no special operational procedures or guidelines related to COVID-19 at any Troy University campus or location. Masks are optional in all settings, and the University will no longer publish updates about case counts.

We ask that individuals continue to be proactive about their health and safety and treat COVID-19 as you would any infectious disease. Stay home if you are sick and seek medical care. If you have a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis, follow the latest CDC guidance regarding quarantine and isolation.

Students who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 must notify the University using the COVID Contact Tracing Worksheet (Positive) in order to receive an excused absence.

Students, faculty or staff who are exposed to COVID-19 do not have to quarantine, but it is recommended that a high-quality mask be worn for 10 days, according to the latest CDC guidelines. In light of the latest guidelines, COVID-19 exposure will no longer be considered an excused absence.

TROY’s Coronavirus website will remain online as a resource, with the latest information along with our past campus guidelines and messages archived. In the future, changes or updates regarding our policies will be posted here. University leadership continues to closely monitor the situation regarding COVID-19, and we will adjust our operating plans as needed to protect the health and wellbeing of the campus community.
Sincerely,
 
Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Troy University has worked for the past two years to meet the challenges of COVID-19 by developing policies and procedures designed to promote health and safety while supporting a functional learning environment. Throughout this process, we have continually adjusted our plans based on the latest federal and state guidelines and the latest data from the community. Today, the COVID-19 situation is very different. We have been encouraged to see the decline in case numbers among our campus community. Therefore, our approach to the pandemic is evolving.

Moving forward, there will be no special operational procedures or guidelines related to COVID-19 at any Troy University campus or location. We ask that individuals continue to be proactive about their health and safety and treat COVID-19 as you would any infectious disease. Stay home if you are sick, seek medical care, and follow the latest CDC guidance regarding quarantine and isolation. The University will also no longer publish updates about case counts.

We ask that students continue to use the reporting forms linked below to notify the university if they have been diagnosed with or exposed to COVID-19. In addition, the campus health center will continue to offer vaccines and we strongly encourage everyone to get vaccinated. Masks are optional in all settings.

This page will remain online as a resource, with our past campus guidelines and messages archived. In the future, changes or updates regarding our policies will be posted here. University leadership continues to closely monitor the situation regarding COVID-19 and we will adjust our operating plans as needed to protect the health and wellbeing our the campus community.

Procedures for Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 or Exposure:
If you are DIAGNOSED with COVID-19

Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 (regardless of vaccination status) must isolate for at least 5 days. Following that, individuals may return to campus if they are asymptomatic or their symptoms are resolving (without fever for 24 hours) and should wear a mask when around others for the next 5 days.

Students who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 must notify the University using the COVID Contact Tracing Worksheet (Positive) in order to receive an excused absence.

Employee absences related to a diagnosis of COVID-19 should be reported to human resources by supervisors.

Individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 should notify their close contacts who may have been exposed. A person is considered to have been exposed if he or she has been within six feet of a person with COVID-19 for at least 15 minutes in the 48 hours prior to that person developing symptoms or testing positive (see CDC standard for “close contact”).

If you have been EXPOSED to COVID-19

A person is considered to have been directly exposed if he or she has been within six feet of a person with a COVID-19 diagnosis for at least 15 minutes in the 48 hours prior to that person developing symptoms or testing positive (see CDC standard for “close contact”).

Students, faculty or staff who are unvaccinated or more than 6 months out from their second mRNA dose (or more than 2 months after the J&J vaccine) and are not yet boosted, should quarantine for 5 days. Following that, individuals may return to campus if they have not developed symptoms, but should wear a mask when around others for the next 5 days.

People who have received their booster shot do not need to quarantine following an exposure but should wear a mask for 10 days after the exposure.

Students who need to quarantine due to exposure must notify the University by completing the COVID Contact Tracing Worksheet (Exposure) providing details about how they were exposed. There will be no excuse for the absences issued until this form has been completed.

Employee absences related to COVID-19 exposure should be reported to human resources by supervisors.

Quarantine/Isolation Procedures

Where should I quarantine/isolate?

If you need to quarantine or isolate due to exposure or a diagnosis of COVID-19, you must do so off campus or at your legal residence.

Can I quarantine/isolate in my dorm if I live alone?

You may quarantine in your dorm room only if you have a single-occupancy room— i.e., you do not share a bathroom or living space with any other student. If you choose to quarantine/isolate in your dorm, you must notify Student Services at covid19@troy.edu or (334) 670-3202 to receive meal delivery.

1. Masks/Face Coverings are optional inside Troy University buildings or facilities but are encouraged in any setting where social distance is difficult to maintain. Masks/Face Coverings remain mandatory on University Transit vehicles. In addition, faculty members may, at their discretion, REQUIRE masks/face coverings in the instructional settings to include:
   • Classrooms
   • Labs 
   • Personal meetings between students and faculty
Faculty may also retain a mask/face covering optional policy for their instructional spaces. Faculty expectations regarding masks/face coverings must be communicated to students in the class and updated in the online syllabus.

2. Vaccinations are strongly encouraged. All students, faculty and staff are urged to get a COVID-19 vaccination, either on the Troy Campus or through a health care provider of your choice.

3. Classrooms, offices and other facilities will operate at normal capacity. In addition to masks/face coverings, individuals are asked to be mindful of personal distance and observe social distance whenever possible indoors.

4. Maintain proactive personal health practices including washing hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer, especially after touching frequently used items or surfaces; refraining from touching your face; sneezing or coughing into a tissue or the inside of your elbow; and disinfecting frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible.

5. Stay home when sick. Stay home if you are not feeling well, particularly if you are exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19 including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. (Students: See reporting procedures below for receiving an excused absence due to COVID-19 related absences.)

Dear Trojans,

In August, we announced a return to mandatory masks/face coverings inside Troy University buildings and facilities, with some exceptions. This move was made to protect the health and safety of the campus community in response to rising COVID-19 case numbers.

In the weeks since, we have been pleased to see a steady decline in the number of cases being reported both on our campuses and in the surrounding communities. In Alabama, new cases have fallen by 61% in the last 14 days, and in Pike County new cases are down by 68% (per The New York Times). On the Troy Campus, we have been thrilled to see multiple days with no new cases reported among our students, faculty and staff. In addition, the number of individuals vaccinated at the University continues to grow. On the Troy Campus, 90% of faculty survey respondents have indicated they are vaccinated.

In light of these falling case numbers, and after careful consideration, the University will begin gradually easing the mask requirement. Effective Monday, Oct. 18, masks/face coverings will be optional inside campus buildings and facilities. However, faculty members may, at their discretion, require masks/face coverings inside instructional spaces (i.e. classrooms, labs, etc.) to include faculty offices. In addition, masks/face coverings will still be required on University Transit vehicles.

Students must follow the mask guidelines established by their professors for classes, labs and office visits. Hallways, common areas and other indoor spaces will be mask/face covering optional. Students are still urged to be proactive about their personal health, and masks/face coverings are recommended in settings where social distancing is difficult to maintain, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions or who have elected to remain unvaccinated.

Other aspects of the safety plan remain unchanged. Stay home if you are sick, and report if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or must isolate due to exposure. The revised safety guidelines can be found online at troy.edu/coronavirus.

The Coronavirus Task Force continues to meet regularly to discuss this ongoing situation. Watch your TROY email, University social media and the Coronavirus Information Center for the latest updates.

Sincerely,

The Coronavirus Task Force

Dear Trojans,

Last month, we announced a return to mask/face covering requirements for classrooms, labs, communal offices and other indoor spaces on campus. In the weeks since, we have been pleased to see a decline in the number of reported cases of COVID-19 on campus and a decline in the number of students out of class due to a COVID-19 diagnosis or exposure. In addition we continue to make progress in the number of faculty, staff and students who are getting vaccinated.

Our goal this fall has been a return to a traditional campus experience while maintaining focus on the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff. Therefore, we will extend the mask through Oct. 15. The Coronavirus Task Force will evaluate the state of the campus over the coming weeks and issue additional guidance by that date.

Reminder, under this guidance, masks/face coverings must be worn by all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, while indoors with some exceptions:

Masks are ALWAYS required in the following settings:

• Classrooms and labs (regardless of seating distance)
• Communal offices and meeting spaces
• Personal meetings between students and faculty
• University transit system
• Any additional indoor campus setting where social distancing is difficult to maintain.

Masks/Face Coverings are NOT required in the following settings:

• In one’s own dorm room or suite
• Inside a dining facility while eating  
• Inside the fitness center while actively engaged in physical activity
• Alone in an enclosed office or study room
• In one’s personal vehicle
• While outdoors
• Athletic venues
• Where there is a work safety requirement that would make masks dangerous

For full details, the revised safety guidelines can be found online at troy.edu/coronavirus.

The Coronavirus Task Force continues to meet regularly to discuss this ongoing situation. Watch your TROY email, University social media and the Coronavirus Information Center for the latest updates in the days ahead.

Sincerely,

The Coronavirus Task Force

Dear Trojans,

Our goal this fall has been a return to a traditional campus experience while maintaining focus on the health and safety of students, faculty and staff. Thus far we have been pleased with the results! 80% of our faculty-staff have reported they have received the vaccination and more than 800 students have already registered for the incentive program. When we announced our safety guidelines earlier this month, we committed to making necessary adjustments as the situation on campus evolved.

Today, we are announcing important updates to our campus safety guidelines we hope will limit the spread of the coronavirus while allowing us to continue enjoying a traditional campus experience. Most significant is that masks/face coverings will be required in classrooms, labs, communal offices and other indoor spaces on campus starting Monday, Aug. 30, at 8 a.m. Masks/face coverings are not required outdoors, and there are several exceptions, including while eating in a dining facility, working out in the fitness center, or in your own dorm room.

For full details, the revised safety guidelines are pasted below and can be found online at troy.edu/coronavirus.

We expect masks/face coverings protocols will be temporary. The Coronavirus Task Force will evaluate the state of the campus over the coming weeks and issue guidance on Friday, Sept. 17 on whether protocols will be lifted or extended.

We continue to urge everyone to get a COVID-19 vaccination, and the Troy Campus maintains an ample supply of vaccines. Please consider scheduling an appointment today. For students, there is an incentive program in place offering a number of prizes including scholarships and meal plans.

The Coronavirus Task Force continues to meet regularly to discuss this ongoing situation. Watch your TROY email, University social media and the Coronavirus Information Center for the latest updates in the days ahead.

Sincerely,

The Coronavirus Task Force

Dear Trojans,

The start of the Fall Semester and Term 1 is just days away. The University is closely monitoring the increase in COVID-19 cases in our state and local community, and we are updating our COVID-19 guidelines to emphasize the actions we can all take to proactively protect ourselves and others from the coronavirus.

The full guidelines are below and on our Coronavirus Information Center. However, I want to draw your attention to these key points:

• Vaccination is the most important step we can all take to stop the spread of COVID-19. Vaccines are free, widely available and research has shown them to be safe and effective. All Troy University students, faculty and staff are strongly urged to become fully vaccinated as soon as possible. The Health Center on the Troy Campus has an ample supply of vaccine available. Please schedule an appointment today to receive your first dose if you have not done so. In addition, the Health Center will offer the vaccine during “pop-up” clinics on the Troy Campus in the coming days. Look for more information about that soon.
• Masks/face coverings are strongly encouraged for anyone at heightened risk of exposure and for unvaccinated individuals. Although masks are not required, they remain an important safety measure in situations where keeping a safe distance can be difficult. They are recommended while indoors for anyone who is 65 years or older or for individuals with serious underlying health conditions. Unvaccinated individuals are also urged to wear masks while indoors. As we continue to monitor the situation on campus, our policy regarding mask usage may be updated.
• If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or have a confirmed diagnosis, you must follow standard procedures for isolation/quarantine and report cases to the University. If you have been exposed to the virus and are unvaccinated, you should quarantine for 10 days if you do not develop symptoms. (If you are fully vaccinated and are not exhibiting symptoms, you do not have to quarantine following an exposure incident.) If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 (regardless of vaccination status) you must isolate for at least 10 days AND at least 24 hours without symptoms.

I want to thank each of you for your patience and cooperation as we have together successfully navigated uncertainty over the past year. The Coronavirus Task Force continues to meet regularly to discuss this ongoing situation. We will update our protocols as needed to protect the health and safety of our campuses. Watch your TROY email, University social media and the Coronavirus Information Center for the latest updates in the days ahead.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

In accord with the latest guidance from the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control, Troy University is preparing to return to normal campus operations.

Effective immediately, the TROY Strong COVID-19 protocols have been replaced by a new set of guidelines emphasizing personal responsibility and care for others. This transition plan (available on our Coronavirus Information Center) lifts many mandatory safety requirements, but still urges everyone on campus to protect the health and safety of their fellow Trojans through daily health practices.

“All indices point to a lessening of the pandemic,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. “Accordingly, effective immediately the University will replace institutional mandates with policies emphasizing personal responsibility regarding wearing masks, social distancing and personal hygiene. Our theme is ‘Have Fun in ‘21’ and our goal is to return to regular operations. We will continue to monitor the impact of the virus, with the safety of students, faculty and staff as our main priority.”

The new safety protocols are:

1. Vaccinations are strongly encouraged. As of April 5, all Alabamians ages 16 and older have been eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. All students, faculty and staff are urged to get the COVID-19 vaccination, either at the Troy Campus or through a healthcare provider of your choice.
2. Masks are optional inside all campus buildings and facilities. Beginning immediately, Troy University will shift to personal responsibility in the fight against COVID-19. However, for individuals 65 years or older, or for individuals with serious underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, and those whose immune systems are compromised such as by chemotherapy for cancer and other conditions requiring such therapy, masks should be considered for indoor areas.
3. Classrooms, offices and other facilities will operate at normal capacity. However, individuals are asked to be mindful of personal distance.
4. Maintain proactive personal health practices including washing hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer, especially after touching frequently used items or surfaces; refraining from touching your face; sneezing or coughing into a tissue, or the inside of your elbow; and disinfecting frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible.
5. Stay home when sick. Stay home if you are not feeling well, particularly if you are exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19 including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

“I am grateful to all of our students, faculty and staff for their diligence this past year in observing our COVID-19 safety procedures,” said Dr. Lance Tatum, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “Over the past few weeks, I have been encouraged by the declining numbers of COVID-19 cases on our Alabama campuses, including many days with no new cases reported at all. We feel now is the right time to begin our transition back to normal operations.”

Students and employees are asked to continue reporting if they have been exposed to or diagnosed with COVID-19, and the University will continue reporting confirmed cases on a weekly basis via the online Coronavirus Information Center.

“We are still closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation and will adjust our plans as needed to protect the health and safety of the campus, based on the latest state and federal guidance,” Dr. Tatum said. “In the meantime, I ask everyone to protect yourself and others by being mindful of daily health precautions.”

TROY Community,

At 5 p.m. on Friday, the State of Alabama moved to the new “Safer Apart” health order. Although this order no longer mandates the use of face coverings and social distancing, both are encouraged in order to limit the spread of COVID-19. To that end, I am asking that all members of the Troy University community continue following our TROY Strong safety protocols until the end of the spring semester.

Our safety protocols have served us well since they were put in place last fall. With less than a month of classes to go, I urge you to remain committed to the personal health practices that we know make a difference in slowing the spread of the coronavirus. By working together, we can stay healthy, complete exams, and see a successful end to the semester.

Following the spring semester, we will carefully consider what safety protocols are needed for the summer, based on the latest state and federal guidance. We remain committed to a return to regular operations this fall, including in-class instruction, campus events and full usage of campus facilities.

In the meantime, I would urge all students, faculty and staff to get the COVID-19 vaccination, either at the Troy Campus or through a healthcare provider of your choice.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

TROY Students,

Gov. Kay Ivey announced today that starting April 5, all individuals age 16 and older will be eligible to receive the coronavirus vaccine under expanded guidelines from the Alabama Department of Public Health. I urge all Troy University students to take advantage of the opportunity to receive the vaccine at the Troy Campus health center.

You may register starting today at covid.troy.edu or call 1-800-414-5756. Remember that you will need to return to the health center to get your second dose. To receive both doses on campus before the end of the spring semester, I encourage students to register as soon as possible.

The vaccines remain available to members of the public as well, but note that TROY only has the Moderna vaccine, which has been approved ONLY for individuals age 18 and up.

Troy University will continue to operate under the TROY Strong safety plan until the end of the spring semester. We continue to plan for a return to regular operations this fall, including in-class instruction, campus events and full usage of campus facilities. Having a significant percentage of our campus population vaccinated will be essential to helping us reach that goal.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

TROY Community:

The decline in COVID-19 cases nationally and in Alabama is an encouraging sign that the worst days of the pandemic may be behind us. Falling case numbers and the steady roll out of the vaccine, including the opening of our own vaccine clinic on the Troy Campus, gives us hope that we will see a return to normal operations on our campuses in the near future. With this in mind, I want to address what you can expect on our campuses for the rest of the spring and this fall.

First, even though there are positive trends in the fight against COVID-19, we are committed to the safety measures put in place last fall. The TROY Strong procedures will remain in place at least until the end of the spring semester. To date, our safety plan has served us well, and I believe it is vital we remain committed to these procedures while more of the community and campus population is vaccinated. We are carefully considering what safety procedures will be in effect this summer and will make an announcement about that in the coming days.

Next, we are preparing for a return to regular operations this fall, including in-class instruction, campus events and full usage of campus facilities. In fact, our expected theme for the fall will be to have “Fun in ’21.” We know this goal is ambitious and dependent on many factors outside of our control. As always, our plans will follow the best guidance from state and federal officials, including the Alabama Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control. The current trends in case numbers give us hope, and our experiences last year tell us that now is the time to start planning for a return to normal operating models at all of our campuses in August.

Our Coronavirus Taskforce has reviewed local and state data, including trend data for case counts, hospitalizations, and the number of vaccinations given in our service area. In Alabama, the seven-day average for new cases was 3,332 on Jan. 1 but had fallen to 575 by March 9. Hospitalizations have also fallen from a seven-day average of 2,586 to 659 over the same period, and more than 15% of the population has received at least one dose of the vaccine. (All data from The New York Times.) All of this information suggests we are trending in a direction suitable for a return to regular operations in the fall.

As we have stated in the past, our plans are subject to change as the situation evolves. If circumstances force a change in our direction, we will share the latest information with you via email, social media and the COVID-19 information website.

For now, I ask that we all continue to focus on following safety protocols each day. Your commitment to being “TROY Strong” has helped keep our campuses and communities safe. Now, by working together, we can “Finish Strong,” and hopefully enjoy a traditional college experience on our campuses later this year.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

TROY Faculty and Staff:

I am pleased to announce that Troy University has partnered with the Alabama Department of Public Health to serve as a distribution center for COVID-19 vaccinations to faculty and staff and eligible members of the public starting this Thursday.

Vaccines will be offered at the Health Center located next to the Trojan Center on the Troy Campus. TROY has received 2,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine, and we expect to receive up to 6,000 more over the coming weeks.

Numerous TROY faculty, staff and students, particularly from the College of Health and Human Services, will be volunteering to help operate this vaccine center, and I want to thank them for their service. Through their efforts, TROY will play a key role in helping the vaccine reach the Wiregrass region.

Distribution of the vaccine will strictly follow the guidelines determined by ADPH. Currently, those eligible to receive the vaccine include people age 65 and older along with:

• First responders
• Corrections officers
• Food and agriculture workers
• U.S. Postal Service workers
• Manufacturing workers
• Grocery store workers
• Public transit workers
• People who work in the education sector (teachers, support staff, community college and higher education)
• Childcare workers
• Judiciary (including but not limited to) circuit judges, district judges and district attorneys
• People with certain medical conditions, as outlined by the state’s plan

The ADPH Vaccine Allocation Plan is available online.

Faculty and staff of the University are eligible to receive the vaccine under current ADPH guidelines. You can pre-register and be scheduled for an appointment by visiting covid.troy.edu or calling 1-800-414-5756. After receiving the first dose, a follow-up appointment will be made to receive the second part of the vaccination.

I urge all of our faculty and staff to get the vaccination but doing so is not required by the University.

You will be informed of any changes to the vaccine distribution plan via email, social media and the Coronavirus Information Center.

Vaccine Registration

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

TROY Faculty and Staff:

 

I am happy to report that we have received confirmation from the Alabama Department of Public Health that Troy University will begin receiving doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as early as next week. The quantity and date of arrival are still to be determined, but rest assured you will be notified as soon as those details are finalized.

We have a distribution plan ready to take effect as soon as we receive the vaccine and are committed to administering doses within 24 hours of delivery. We will distribute from the health center on the Troy Campus, where there is ample refrigerated storage for our supply. Our distribution plan will follow ADPH guidelines to ensure people most at risk receive the vaccine first. Alabama is currently in phase 1B of the rollout, which includes people age 75 and older, health care personnel and first responders.

You will receive additional information soon via email, social media and the Coronavirus Information Center, including how eligible faculty and staff can schedule a time to receive the vaccine. We are in contact with ADPH daily seeking the latest information, and we will remain proactive about securing the vaccine for our campus community. This is our highest priority as we seek to protect the health and safety of our community.

Thank you all for your hard work and patience as we have adapted to the changes needed to operate during the global pandemic. Thanks to you, we’ve successfully resumed in-class instruction this spring, and I appreciate your commitment to our TROY Strong plan.

Thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

To the TROY Community:

 

I hope you all enjoy a happy holiday season and a well-deserved break after a challenging Fall Semester. We all had to adapt to new policies and procedures as a result of COVID-19, and I am grateful for your cooperation and patience. We were able to finish the Fall as we started — TROY Strong.

Looking ahead to the Spring Semester, you can expect all of our COVID-19 safety protocols to remain in effect. Face coverings will still be required in all buildings, including all classrooms and office spaces; classrooms will be arranged for social distancing and large classes will be broken into “pods” that meet in alternating days; and student organizations will be expected to limit the size of events and practice safe social distancing at all times. For reference, TROY’s full COVID-19 plan can be reviewed online at troy.edu/coronavirus.

However, I want to draw attention to some key changes in regards to how cases of COVID-19 exposure are handled, based on the current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health:

• Students, faculty or staff who have been exposed to COVID-19 (have been within six feet of a person with COVID-19 for more than 15 minutes) should now quarantine for 10 days as long they do not develop symptoms. Previously, individuals exposed to the virus were asked to quarantine for 14 days.
• In addition, students who need to quarantine due to exposure must notify the University by completing this form providing details about how they were exposed. There will be no excuse for the absences issued until this form has been completed.
• Individuals with a confirmed case of COVID-19 may return to work or class after 10 days AND 24 hours without symptoms. Students who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 must notify the University using this form in order to receive an excused absence.

Finally, TROY will continue to participate in the State of Alabama’s Sentinel Testing program for college campuses. Upon return in the spring, you may be selected for random COVID-19 testing, and we urge you to participate. This testing program is a vital tool for identifying cases on campus and ensuring the health and safety of the community.

Thank you again for your hard work this fall. While at home, I would ask you all to be mindful of good health practices. Stay healthy, Trojans, and we will see you all again in January.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

TROY Students,

 

We are approaching the end of a unique Fall Semester. Following the Thanksgiving break, the remaining coursework and final exams will be completed via Canvas. Although our campuses will remain open and residence halls, dining and other campus resources will be available, we know that many of you will choose to finish your classes at home.

 

I want to thank all of you for working hard this semester to follow the TROY Strong safety plan. Those of you who were diligent in taking daily precautions, including wearing face coverings and practicing social distancing, made a difference in keeping our community safe. Now, as you head off for a well-earned break, I urge you all to carry these practices home with you.

 

As I am sure you are aware, numbers of COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the nation at an alarming rate. We can do our part to slow the spread by being “TROY Strong” at home—wear your face coverings, practice social distancing and good hand hygiene, and carefully plan gatherings to limit the spread of COVID-19.

 

It’s my hope that you will all stay safe and healthy and return for the Spring Semester. We will communicate any changes to our COVID-19 policies, but for now expect many of the same procedures to be in place when you return.

 

In the meantime, stay safe, Trojans, and Happy Thanksgiving.

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

 

Dear Students,

I know this has been a Fall Semester very different from any previous one at Troy University. I want to thank each of you for all of your efforts to help us this fall, as we worked to stay safe in our classes and our daily activities.

We are now almost at the conclusion of the Fall Semester, with only two weeks remaining for our flexible, face-to-face classes. At the conclusion of the Thanksgiving break, all remaining classes will conclude coursework through the course’s Canvas shell, and all final exams will be completed via Canvas.

I am reminding you of two very important points as we look to finish the Fall Semester:

The University will not consider any requests to complete face-to-face classes via online delivery before the Thanksgiving break. Students who are unable to complete their classes at this time have the option of petitioning the University for a withdrawal of their fall classes (which means no academic credit is earned) or seeking permission from their instructors and departments to receive Incomplete grades.

The University’s facilities will remain open after Thanksgiving, so please ensure that you have all the necessary resources to complete your days of classes and your final exams via Canvas. This means proper computer equipment and internet access.

As we have stated previously, now is the time to “Finish Strong.” We remain encouraged by the limited number of coronavirus cases at TROY. Continue to wear your masks as required on campus in classrooms, labs and other communal spaces. Practice social distancing wherever you go, particularly when socializing together. Remember to limit the size of gatherings and whenever possible plan events outdoors.

If you begin exhibiting symptoms, or feel you have been directly exposed, you should inform your campus Dean of Students and immediately seek testing. Per Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, students may return to class 10 days after they first experienced symptoms, provided they have gone 24 hours with no fever without the use of fever-reducing medications. For additional information, consult the CDC website.

Again, thank you for all your commitment to being TROY Strong throughout this fall. Good luck with your final class meetings and your final exams.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

TROY Students,

I want to thank you all for the “TROY Strong” spirit you have shown during the first week of on-campus classes. We have seen you wearing face coverings, practicing social distancing and adapting to the changes in the classroom environment. I appreciate the cooperation and positive attitudes we have observed, but make no mistake, we have a long road ahead.

Troy University is the only public college or university in the state releasing daily updates on active cases of COVID-19. You can find these on our coronavirus information page: troy.edu/coronavirus. We think transparency is a crucial part of public health, and we want you all to be aware of the situation on campus and take proactive steps to protect yourself and others.

As you can see, there have been a number of COVID-19 cases involving students in the past 10 days. We are hopeful that these numbers will stabilize, but we are entering a crucial period and it’s important we all do our part to slow the spread. Today, we want to clarify the procedures for what to do if you have COVID-19, or if you think you may.

What if I suspect that I have COVID-19?

If you are displaying any symptoms of COVID-19 (including fever, cough or shortness of breath) do not come to class. Consult a healthcare professional. It’s possible you may have a common cold, allergies or the flu. If you test negative for COVID-19 or your healthcare provider does not recommend that you get a test, you may return to class when your symptoms subside. You will need documentation of the healthcare appointment for the absence to be excused, per standard attendance policies.

What if I have a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis?

If you test positive for COVID-19, isolate immediately and notify the Dean of Students at the Troy Campus or the Associate Dean of Students at your location if you attend the Montgomery, Dothan or Phenix City campuses. You do not need to notify all of your professors individually. The Dean of Students will do this and your professors will work with you to ensure you can continue your classes while in isolation. The Dean of Students will also work with you to assess any close contacts who may have been exposed. The CDC defines close contact as being within six feet of someone who has COVID-19 for more than 15 minutes. You may return to class and normal campus activities after 10 days AND if you have been 24 hours without a fever AND other symptoms are improving.

To report a case of COVID-19

Troy Campus: Herbert Reeves
Montgomery Campus: James Smith
Dothan Campus: Sandy Henry
Phenix City Campus: Marianne Michael

What if I have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19?

If you have had close contact with someone who has a confirmed case of COVID-19 you need to isolate immediately and seek testing through a local health care provider or the student health center. Again, notify the Dean of Students at your location if you need to isolate and they will contact your professors. Remember, the CDC defines close contact as being within six feet of someone who has COVID-19 for more than 15 minutes. If you are unsure of your level of risk, consult a health care professional. If you are in isolation due to close-contact exposure, you should stay home for 14 days after your last contact with a person who has COVID-19.

 A student who needs to isolate should return to their home or remain in their off-campus residence. If you are unable to isolate at home for any reason, the University has limited isolation spaces on the Troy Campus that can be provided to you. Isolation means that you should not attend in-person classes or campus events and should avoid close contact with others.

We all share the goal of enjoying a fall together on campus, with the activities and atmosphere that make college such a special experience. To do that requires being diligent about daily health practices — wear your face covering, observe social distance from others and practice consistent hand hygiene. These practices are just as important off campus. When in public or at social gatherings, take the same precautions as you do in class. Doing so is the best way to keep safe and slow the spread of the coronavirus.

We encourage you to read more about symptoms and best practices for keeping safe on the CDC website. The latest announcements from TROY and our complete coronavirus protocols can be found on our information page, troy.edu/coronavirus.

The John W. Schmidt Center for Student Success can also answer questions about missing class or coursework due to COVID-19. Contact them at JWSAdvisors@troy.edu.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

 Dear Students,

As we embark on a fall unlike any other in the history of Troy University, we are pleased to welcome you back to campus. The safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff are our highest priorities, and the University’s Coronavirus Task Force has been working for months to develop and implement safety protocols that we hope will allow us to learn and work together on campus safely. The result of that time and effort was a set of guidelines, “TROY Strong: Troy University Health and Safety During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” issued by the University on July 1.

The challenges of COVID-19 will require us all to work together as a Trojan Family, more now than ever before. Behaving responsibly and caring about the well-being of others is a part of our Trojan Way, and we each have a role to play to ensure the success of our efforts to have a safe and healthy semester, together on campus.

You can do your part by:

• Getting tested. The state of Alabama’s GuideSafe testing program for college students is under way. Testing is not mandatory at Troy University but strongly encouraged, even if you are symptom free.
• Wearing face coverings. Face coverings should be worn in classrooms, labs and communal office spaces, at gatherings and in any campus setting where social distancing is difficult to maintain. If you are outside of any campus building, and if you are not 6 feet away from others, wear your mask. The University will provide you with one free cloth face covering at the start of the fall semester with distribution points to include the Trojan Center. However, we encourage you to bring others with you.
• Observing social distancing. For your own well-being and the well-being of others, we ask that you observe social distancing (6 feet apart) both on and off campus. This includes walking across the campus. If you're walking alongside others, including your friends, and you are not at least 6 feet apart, wear your mask.
• Practicing good hand hygiene. Practice good hygiene by frequently washing hands with soap, using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available and sanitizing your space.
• Limit gatherings. Limit the size of gatherings to accommodate social distancing. Whenever possible, gatherings should be held outdoors, adhering to the social distancing and face covering guidelines.
• Staying home if you are sick. If you feel sick, do not come to campus and do not report to class. Contact your professors and contact the Student Health Center at (334) 670-3452 to seek testing. Should you test positive for the coronavirus, notify the Dean of Students.
• Communicating with professors and University officials. It is vitally important that you communicate with your professors if you must miss class time due to illness. Communication is key so that you can make up any missed assignments, quizzes or exams. You must notify your professors as soon as you miss a class in order to receive the full assistance of the University in working with you about these absences. Should you test positive for the coronavirus you must notify the Dean of Students at covid19@troy.edu so that we can assist you and provide proper notification to those with whom you may have had direct contact.

Throughout the course of this pandemic, I have seen our students truly embody the Trojan Spirit in their commitment and dedication to their educational goals, as well as to their service to others. We want you to have a safe and healthy college experience this fall. By doing your part to adhere to the TROY Strong guidelines and being mindful of your safety and well-being, as well as the well-being of others in the TROY Family, I am confident that we can enjoy a successful semester together on campus.

Sincerely,

Herbert Reeves
Dean of Student Services

Colleagues:

As we head into the start of Fall classes, I wanted to specifically address a number of areas related to the COVID-19 virus and our efforts to deliver instruction within this very challenging context.

I appreciate your collective strong success as we have addressed an often difficult and unclear landscape since the very early spring. I appreciate the concerns you have raised, and are raising, about the safety and wellness for all of us at Troy University. We have benefited from your questions and your ideas about how we can continue to meet our mission of teaching students, even as the way we do this has changed.

Each of us recognizes the difficulty in changing long-established patterns of behavior. As a teacher, I enjoyed the interpersonal interactions in the classroom and the way I could engage my students in conversation as well as instruction. What we will now do this Fall, in a University-wide effort to disrupt the spread of the COVID-19 virus, is to wear face coverings, reduce class sizes through pods, separate ourselves physically through social distancing and use a variety of sanitizing activities. These could easily be seen as barriers to effective instruction. At the very least, these efforts will be different from what we typically do in a classroom. Like you, I recognize there will be times when these requirements will be frustrating. What we don’t want to lose sight of is our goal: to deliver our academic instruction and to help our students move forward in their degrees even as we follow the guidelines promoting safety and wellness.

We know that there are likely more questions about this process than answers as we start the Fall. Our commitment to the safety of our faculty, staff and students recognizes that the COVID-19 context is very dynamic and evolving. Our current efforts are based on safely starting our Fall classes and safely navigating through the coming weeks. We know that as we move through those weeks, we may need different discussions, new ideas and more solutions. What hasn’t changed throughout this process, and what won’t change as we move forward, is our commitment to University safety and to our academic mission of teaching and helping students.

Many of you have raised very specific questions ahead of the Fall. Many of these questions are ones that we have been actively discussing on the Coronavirus Task Force, as well as in the senior leadership meetings. Some of your questions have reminded us of areas that need attention which we had not been discussing.

A list of frequently asked questions, along with responses, has been added to the Faculty Protocols section of our coronavirus website. This list reflects many of the questions and concerns I have received. Please know how much I value the questions you are asking. And also know that the responses provided are the best answers we can provide today, even as we understand that the answers may need to change as we move forward.

I encourage you to share your questions, concerns and thoughts with your Deans as well as with the Associate Provosts and me. If ever there was a time for crowd-sourcing solutions, it’s now.

I am proud to be a faculty member, and I am very proud to be associated with you, the Faculty, of Troy University. It is your energy, creativity and commitment for our students that will help us succeed in the Fall.

My best wishes, and my thanks, to each of you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

 Students,

The state of Alabama’s “Stay Safe Together” testing program for college students is starting this week. We would like to clarify a few things from our previous email:

• How to sign up: If you have not already, you will receive an email to your TROY email address from testing@staysafetogether.org. This email contains instructions and a link to register for a test. This is the only way to sign up for your free COVID-19 test. To reiterate: monitor your email account for a message from testing@staysafetogether.org and follow the instructions. Only students taking in-class courses at an Alabama campus (Troy, Dothan, Montgomery or Phenix City) are eligible for the free COVID-19 testing and those are the only students who will receive an email from testing@staysafetogether.org.
• At-Home Test Kit: Not all students will be able to select a home testing option. The At-Home Test Kit provided by Stay Safe Together is only available to select students who live out of state. If you live in the state of Alabama, you should schedule your test at one of the 13 testing locations around the state.

Remember, testing is not mandatory at Troy University but strongly encouraged. Ensuring that we are all free from COVID-19 infection before coming to campus is the best way to ensure we can have a safe and successful fall semester. Many people who have COVID-19 do not have symptoms, so even if you feel well, please take advantage of this chance to receive a free test.

If you have not received an email from “Stay Safe Together,” or have other questions about testing, contact the University at COVID19@troy.edu.

Sincerely,

Herbert Reeves
Dean of Student Services

Greetings Trojans,

The start of the fall semester is nearly here. It’s an exciting time, as we prepare to once again study and learn together on campus. However, this will also be a very different fall, as we all work together to stop the spread of COVID-19. There will be several changes to the classroom experience. Many of these were detailed in the previously released “TROY Strong” safety guide for the fall. Today, we want to highlight several key points:

• Get tested for COVID-19 before coming to campus. Under Alabama’s Stay Safe TogetherTM program, every college student in the state can get a free test for COVID-19. Testing can be done at one of 14 testing sites around the state or via the mail. It’s important to get tested even if you are feeling well. As we know, many people can have COVID-19 and not show any symptoms. While testing is not mandatory, we strongly recommend students test before returning to campus. For more information, contact the Office of Student Services.
• You must wear a face covering at all times while inside your classroom. The TROY Strong guidelines require that face coverings be worn at all times on campus where social distancing is not possible. Additionally, we are asking that you keep a face covering on at all times inside classrooms regardless of spacing. Face coverings are one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others from coronavirus, and we are asking everyone to do their part this fall. Each student will receive a free TROY-branded face mask. Look for distribution points around campus, including inside the Trojan Center, on the first day of class.
• Stay home if you are not feeling well. Don’t come to class if you are sick and notify your department or the Dean of Students if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
• To accommodate social distancing, many classes will meet in “pods.” All classrooms will be set up to allow social distancing between students. Some classes with smaller enrollments will be able to continue to meet on their normal schedule. However, classes with large enrollments may be broken into “pods” that meet on alternating days because of class size limitations. Classes using the “pods” format will offer additional instruction via Canvas. Your professors will communicate each class’ meeting structure via email and Canvas prior to the start of the semester. It’s important to closely monitor all communication from your professors to understand each class’ meeting format. The University communicates via your TROY email account. Make sure to check this account regularly (at least once a day). The University will also communicate via its web page (troy.edu), official TROY social media and through TrojanTXT text message alerts. Sign up for TrojanTXT here.
• There will be no face-to-face instruction after Thanksgiving break. Thanksgiving break will start on Monday, Nov. 23. Following the break, all remaining class instruction and final exams will be delivered via Canvas. The campus will remain open, including residence halls, dining halls, labs and other resources. Students who need to, or would prefer to, return to campus may do so. However, students who are able to complete their remaining coursework from home do not need to return to campus after the break. Be sure you have the necessary resources, including a computer, internet access and course materials if you choose to remain at home.
• Deadlines, such as add/drop and withdrawal, will not be altered this fall as they were in the spring. Be sure you are aware of all key dates. The academic calendar can be viewed at my.troy.edu.

I am confident that by taking simple everyday precautions like wearing a face covering, practicing good hand hygiene and observing social distancing, we can enjoy a safe and successful semester together. Continue to monitor your email, social media and the University’s Coronavirus Information Center at troy.edu/coronavirus for the latest updates.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

Dear Trojans,

All Troy University students will receive free coronavirus testing through the Stay Safe Together^TM program for the state of Alabama. Funded through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the testing program, along with the University’s “TROY Strong: Health and Safety During the COVID-19 Pandemic” guidelines, is key in our safe return to campus this fall.

It is important for all students to get tested prior to their return to campus.

In the coming days, you will receive an email from testing@staysafetogether.org with further instructions regarding Stay Safe Together^TM testing and how you will receive your free test. We encourage you to act promptly so that your results can be processed in a timely manner before you return to campus.

For testing, you have options from which to choose:

• At-Home Kit: Stay Safe Together^TM Testing has contracted with providers for UPS Health to send self-administered at-home test kits. This test will require swabbing only just inside the nostril. The sample will be returned in the enclosed pre-paid packaging. If this is the option you choose, please complete the test and return as soon as possible.
• On Site: There will be 14 locations throughout the state of Alabama to test in person, using a testing procedure similar to the at-home kit. In Troy, a testing location will open in the Elm Street Gym to begin testing on August 4. The email you receive from testing@staysafetogether.org will have details about scheduling your test.
• Private option: If you prefer, you may undergo testing from your physician, at your own expense, and share your results with the Office of the Dean of Student Services.

What If I Test Positive?

Those who test positive should isolate for at least 10 days and experience no fever without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours, according to the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You must receive clearance from a health care provider before you return to campus. Should you test positive, contact the Office of the Dean of Student Services at (334) 670-3203 or by email at hreeves@troy.edu so that we can provide you with additional information and assistance. If you have previously tested positive within the last 12 weeks, you should not retest through Stay Safe Together^TM. Your previous test results and clearance from your health care provider should be shared with the Office of the Dean of Student Services.

Where Do I Send My Results?

By using Stay Safe Together^TM Testing with either the at-home test kit or test in person, your results will be submitted to the University by the testing lab. If you test privately or need to share information regarding a previous positive test result, your results should be emailed to hreeves@troy.edu.

Why Should I Be Tested?

The challenges presented by COVID-19 require us to work together as the Trojan family. While testing is not mandatory, we strongly recommend all students be tested prior to their return to campus. A big part of our “TROY Strong” spirit is that we look out for the well-being of others. By testing and by abiding by the “TROY Strong” guidelines such as the wearing of face coverings, observing social distancing and practicing proper hygiene habits, you are doing your part to ensure your own safety, as well as the safety of your fellow TROY Trojans.

If you have additional questions, email hreeves@troy.edu or contact the Office of the Dean of Student Services at (334) 670-3203. We encourage you to continue to carefully monitor your email, SOS and troy.edu/coronavirus for the latest updates.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

One of the most important steps we can all take to protect ourselves and each other from coronavirus is to wear a face covering while in public. Earlier this month we announced a policy requiring face coverings on campus this fall. With Gov. Kay Ivey’s announcement this week of a statewide order requiring masks effective today at 5 p.m., masks will be required on all of TROY’s Alabama campuses at that time.

The guidelines previously released in the TROY Strong Plan are in accord with the new state policy and remain unchanged. To reiterate:

• Masks should be worn anywhere on campus that social distancing (six feet of distance between people) cannot be achieved. This includes classrooms, labs, communal office spaces or gatherings. Bottom line: If you will be closer than six feet from other people, cover your face.
• Additionally, masks should also be worn in any outdoor spaces where 10 or more people are gathered, per the state’s new order.
• Face coverings are not required inside your dorm room or suite, alone in an enclosed office or study room, or in one’s personal vehicle.
• The University will provide one free TROY-branded mask to each student and faculty/staff member this fall.

We called our safety guidelines “TROY Strong” in recognition of the spirit of determination that unites us as Trojans. A big part of that “TROY Strong” spirit is that we take care of one another. Wearing a face covering is a simple step that we can all take to slow the spread of coronavirus and keep our fellow Trojans safe. By working together, we can enjoy a successful semester on campus with the kinds of events and activities that make TROY such a special place.

For more information, the State of Alabama’s mask order can be read online here. The TROY Strong Plan can be read on our coronavirus information center.

Continue to monitor email, social media and troy.edu/coronavirus for more updates as we prepare for the fall. In the meantime, stay safe, Trojans, and wear your masks.

Sincerely,
Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

To the Trojan Community:

The start of a new fall semester is always an exciting time. However, we know this fall will be unlike any in the history of Troy University as we grapple with the realities of an ongoing pandemic. The safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff are our highest priorities, and the University’s Coronavirus Task Force has been working for weeks to develop safety protocols for the upcoming semester. Today, we are releasing a set of guidelines, titled “TROY Strong: Troy University Health and Safety During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” that we hope will allow us to learn and work together on campus safely.

The work of the Coronavirus Task Force is ongoing, and these guidelines are subject to change as the situation evolves and more information becomes available. For example, these guidelines were prepared prior to this week’s announcement by Gov. Kay Ivey that Alabama will spend a portion of its $1.9 billion federal coronavirus relief package to fund COVID-19 testing for students at public colleges in the state. University leaders are still evaluating how best to administer this at TROY and will follow up with more information soon.

The full “TROY Strong” Guidelines can be viewed at our coronavirus information website, troy.edu/coronavirus/troy-strong.html. However, I want to draw attention to some key points:

1. All students, faculty and staff will be required to wear face coverings when social distancing cannot be achieved. The face coverings should be worn in classrooms, labs, and communal office spaces, at gatherings, and in any campus setting where social distancing is difficult to maintain. Face coverings will not be required in one’s own dorm room or suite, alone in enclosed office or study room, in one’s personal vehicle, or in public outdoor settings where physical distancing can be achieved.
2. Following the Thanksgiving break, all class instruction and final exams will be delivered via Canvas.
3. Employees and students with symptoms of coronavirus, or with exposure to coronavirus, should not report to work or class and should notify the Dean of Students or Human Resources of any exposure or potential exposure.
4. The University is reconfiguring classrooms to allow for social distancing. Some of the accommodations include: moving to larger classrooms, dividing classes into small groups that attend on different days, and hybrid (classroom + online) instruction. 

The challenges posed by COVID-19 are complex and ever-evolving, and the University has several contingency plans ready to respond to changing conditions. For more detail on these guidelines and a look at contingency plans, the Coronavirus Task Force’s full report is also available at troy.edu/coronavirus.

The challenge of COVID-19 will require us all to work together as a Trojan Family. By wearing a face covering, practicing social distancing and good hand hygiene, staying home when sick and self-reporting exposure to the coronavirus, we can all do our part to stop the spread and ensure a safe, successful return to campus this email. Additional guidelines or changes to the University’s operations will be communicated quickly, and we urge everyone to closely monitor email, social media and troy.edu/coronavirus for the latest updates.

Sincerely,
Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chair, Coronavirus Task Force

Trojans,

Now that our campuses and locations are open, please allow me this opportunity to thank you for your dedication and hard work during the challenging months this spring brought about by COVID-19. The sudden shift to online and alternative delivery methods following Spring Break was unprecedented and brought its own challenges.

I am grateful to our faculty and staff for their commitment to serving and guiding our students through this transition, and I commend you for your creativity through the use of technology to ensure that students continued to receive the quality educational experience and service they expect from Troy University. Your dedication during these uncertain times demonstrated the culture of caring for which Troy University is known.

I am grateful to our students for their continued commitment to their educational goals during this time, as well as for their patience and feedback as we sought to navigate these changes. You have truly embodied the Trojan Spirit, and, for that, I commend you.

As we move ahead and look forward to resuming in-person classes in the fall, we realize you may have questions about the road ahead. TROY’s Coronavirus Taskforce continues to meet regularly to monitor developments related to COVID-19 and is working in concert with the University’s Administration to prepare plans for the return of students to campus. As we continue to develop these plans and guidelines, the safety, health and well-being of our students, faculty and staff is our highest priority. It is our expectation to have a comprehensive set of safety guidelines in place in the coming days.

In the meantime, we strongly encourage you to continue to be vigilant in exercising proper precautions to keep you and those around you safe and healthy. Some of those guidelines to keep in mind, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, include:

• The use of masks is encouraged, particularly in situations and settings where proper social distancing may not be possible.
• Maintain social distancing of at least six feet from others whenever possible.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol when soap and water is not available.
• If you feel sick, do not come to campus. We face the challenge that COVID-19 brings together, and we each have a responsibility, not only for our own health and well-being but also for the health of others.

We understand the challenges that have been and continue to be posed by COVID-19, and we continue to monitor the situation and the impacts those developments may have on our campuses. We encourage you to monitor your email or consult troy.edu/coronavirus for the latest updates.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Troy University students affected by the disruption of campus operations this spring can apply for emergency financial aid grants thanks to funding from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

To be eligible for a grant, a student must have been taking in-class courses at a Troy University location as of March 16, 2020. Additionally, a student must have filed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and be eligible to participate in financial aid programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

To apply, visit https://troy.edu/troycares. An email will also be sent to all eligible students. The deadline for applications is Sept. 1. For more information, contact Angela Johnson, Associate Vice Chancellor of Financial Aid, at (334) 670-3186 or troycares@troy.edu.

The funds can be used to offset expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the coronavirus, including food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, tuition, fees, or child care.

Students whose applications are approved will receive their grants via their chosen BankMobile refund method. For students who have never established a refund method through Bank Mobile, visit the TROY refunds website to create an account. BankMobile refunds can be transferred to a bank account of a student’s choice.

The amount of each grant will vary based on a student’s Title IV financial aid status, with the average award being about $600. This money is a grant, and does not have to be repaid.

“Our students have shown tremendous courage, patience and flexibility this spring by adapting to the many disruptions caused by the coronavirus outbreak,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. “Troy University has always been defined by a culture of caring, and I’m proud that we can offer these grants through the provisions of the CARES Act to help offset some of the expenses students may have incurred during this difficult time.”

Under the CARES Act, colleges and universities nationwide will receive nearly $14 billion in aid. Of that amount, more than $6 billion has been designated for cash grants to students for expenses related to disruptions to their education due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

The emergency financial aid grants join a host of relief measures established by TROY aimed at blunting the effect of the pandemic on student life, including:

• The COVID-19 Emergency Fund, established by the Troy University Foundation to help those students who are facing extreme financial hardship due to the pandemic, and offers a one-time financial assistance payment of $250.
• Parking, meal plan, commuter plan and housing fees will be prorated from April 6 until the end of the semester and offered as credit to returning students or refunds for graduating seniors.
• The final exam period and the final day to drop classes without academic penalty were both extended.
• The University has offered online tutoring, advising and resources to help students transition to at-home learning.

To the Trojan family,

This spring has been a time of uncertainty and challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted lives and threatened health and safety. And yet throughout these days, I have been impressed but not surprised by the courage shown by our students, faculty and staff, who have carried on with the life of the University in inspired and innovative ways. The Trojan Spirit remains undaunted, and it is in this same spirit Troy University now moves ahead to perform its mission of educating the mind to think, the heart to feel, and the body to act.

After careful deliberation with senior leaders, and in accordance with the new guidelines issued by Gov. Kay Ivey, I am pleased to announce Troy University will reopen and resume standard work schedules at all of its campuses and locations effective June 1.  In particular I am excited we will welcome students to campus for in-class instruction for the fall semester which begins in August.

Classes will continue online through the summer.  However, beginning in June our campuses will be open to accommodate functions such as IMPACT, our new student orientation.  Two versions of IMPACT will be offered—in-person and, for the first time, we will offer online sessions for those who prefer this option, are unable to travel to campus and for international students. We are also planning to celebrate both our spring and summer graduates with a commencement ceremony on July 24.

Please be advised these plans are being reevaluated daily and will be adjusted as needed based on the latest state and federal guidelines. Moreover, we are fully aware of challenges posed by COVID-19 and are committed to modifying our operations as necessary to promote the health and well-being of our students and employees. This includes evaluating workspaces and classrooms to ensure safe distancing, rigorous cleaning and disinfection of the campus, and making adjustments to campus housing and dining. A team of leaders from across the University is already working hard to develop and refine new safety protocols, and we look forward to sharing those with you soon.

Throughout this crisis, I have been encouraged to see Troy University’s culture of caring on full display as Trojans everywhere rose to meet this challenge head on. Our students, faculty and staff have reached out to the community through acts of service, offering resources and support. Our world-class researchers are looking for solutions to the challenges created by the virus. And our faculty, staff and students have used technology in innovative ways to stay connected and continue the mission of the University.

I am very proud of all of you, and I look forward to greeting you soon with a simple message— “Welcome Home!”

Sincerely,

Jack Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D.
Chancellor

Trojans,

This has not been the Spring Semester that any of us expected, but I am grateful to all of our students for the patience and flexibility they have shown in adapting to changes implemented in response to the coronavirus. We know this has not been easy. Today, we are announcing several adjustments to the academic calendar we hope will help students successfully complete the spring semester and look toward continuing their educational journey with us this summer and fall:

• We are extending the final exam period to run April 20 through May 4. We hope this expanded exam period will give faculty greater flexibility in scheduling exams and ease student concerns about completing their classes within the typical semester timeframes.
• Students now have until April 24 to drop classes without academic penalty. We know this adjustment has been difficult for some students. We hope this increased flexibility will help students who feel the need to drop a class or classes. This extended drop period only applies to spring semester classes.
• Final grades for the spring semester will be due from the instructors to the Records Office by May 7 and will be posted by the Records Office by May 15.
• Advising and registration for summer/Term 5 classes will be April 15 through June 1.
• All Summer classes for Troy Campus students will be delivered online. Students may take up to 12 hours of academic credit in the summer term.
• Advising and registration for the fall semester will be May 4 though Aug. 17. At this time, Fall Semester classes are scheduled to be traditional in-class courses.

As you consider your plans for the fall and summer, our Colleges are working to ensure that you have the support you need. Academic advisors are ready to assist you online or via phone and email. If you don't know who your advisor is, or if you are having trouble contacting your advisor, we encourage you to contact your College. Contact information for all of our College Deans is listed on our coronavirus information center.

We know this has been a challenging time for many of you. Please know that Troy University remains committed to your success and our faculty and staff are here to support you. Don't hesitate to reach out to us though your instructor, department chair or dean if you need help.

The University continues to closely monitor this situation and will keep you informed of any impacts to the campus community. For the latest updates from TROY, monitor your email or go to troy.edu/coronavirus.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

To All On-Campus Students:

This afternoon, Governor Kay Ivey has issued a Shelter In Place health order due to the COVID-19 virus. Additionally, all of the surrounding states have a similar order in place. Due to this order, our guidance regarding the retrieving of possessions from the residence halls and consolidating those staying to two of the halls has changed. The order from the governor goes into effect April 4, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. through April 30, 2020.

As a result of this order, we are suspending the request for people to retrieve possessions by April 12, 2020 from their residence hall rooms until such time as this order is lifted and it is safer for people to travel for this purpose. We will communicate with you via email at that time with new guidance. Additionally, those students currently residing on campus may remain in their current building/room for the duration of this order. Once the order has been lifted, we will work with you to consolidate if necessary.

If you have questions concerning this email, please email myself or the Housing Office athousing@troy.edu. Thank you and please stay safe.

Troy University Housing & Residence Life Department

Troy University will continue online or other alternative delivery methods for all of its classes for the remainder of the spring semester in order to promote the health and safety of the campus community.

In-class offerings for the summer semester will also be suspended. All classes for summer will be offered online or via alternate delivery methods. Online summer classes will start May 26.

In addition, other steps being implemented by the University include:

• The spring commencement ceremonies at all locations will be postponed until July 24 to coincide with summer commencement. Additional details will be announced. Despite postponement of the commencement ceremonies, degrees will be conferred in May to students who meet graduation eligibility.
• Residence halls except for Pace Hall and Shackelford Hall will close effective April 6 and all current residents not applying for extended housing must be moved out by that date. Students who need extended housing may apply to the Housing Office to live in Pace or Shackelford, and essential services including take-out dining will be provided to any students still living on campus. Only students with an urgent need for housing will be eligible to live in these residence halls. Extended housing will be granted for international students; students with academic, clinical or research requirements; students with no means of receiving remote instruction; or in cases of exceptional hardship.
• All other campus residents must move their belongings out of their rooms by April 12 during scheduled time slots. University Housing will send a follow-up email with instructions for check-out procedures. Students not able to meet this move-out date should contact the Housing Office for an extension.
• Parking, meal plan, commuter plan and housing fees will be prorated from April 6 until the end of the semester. Refunds will be given to graduating seniors and all other students will receive a credit on their Fall 2020 semester bill.
• All campus events for April and May have been cancelled. Summer events will be evaluated at a later date.
• All study-abroad trips previously scheduled for May and the summer have been cancelled.
• Troy University has expanded the number of employees who may work remotely.

“By extending our remote learning and working policies, we hope to do our part as a University to slow the spread of the coronavirus,” said Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor. “Troy University is uniquely equipped to face this challenging time thanks to our history as a pioneer in online learning. We remain committed to the success of our students and will work diligently throughout this process to ensure each of you can continue your college journey. I urge all of our students, faculty and staff to follow the guidance of local, state and national leaders and take proper precautions to limit your exposure to the virus and prevent its spread. Together, we can overcome this challenge, and I am convinced our University will emerge stronger than ever.”

Stay informed of the latest information about the coronavirus via the Alabama Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The University continues to closely monitor this situation and will keep you informed of any impacts to the campus community. For the latest updates from TROY, monitor your email or troy.edu/coronavirus.

To the TROY community:

Troy University officials learned today that a student and faculty member from Troy University’s Troy, Ala., campus have tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus.

Both individuals self-reported to the University and are currently in self-quarantine with no severe symptoms. We wish them both well on their roads to recovery.

Neither is a resident of Troy nor Pike County and the student did not live in on-campus housing.

Neither individual has been on campus or in contact with students, faculty or staff since the start of Spring Break, which was March 9-13, however out of an abundance of caution we wanted to inform the campus community. We have been in contact with the Alabama Department of Public Health about both cases, and the ADPH will investigate and contact any individuals who may be at risk of exposure to the virus.

These are the only two confirmed cases of COVID-19 involving members of the University community at this time.

We urge all students, faculty and staff to take steps to protect yourself from exposure to the virus during this outbreak. Observe social distancing, practice good hand hygiene and avoid touching your face. Stay informed of the latest information about the coronavirus via the Alabama Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The University continues to closely monitor this situation and will keep you informed of any impacts to the campus community. For the latest updates from TROY, monitor your email or troy.edu/coronavirus. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Office of Student Services at (334) 670-3203.

Sincerely,

Herbert Reeves
Dean of Student Services
Troy University

Trojans,

The recent days have been unprecedented in the life of Troy University as we have shifted our operations online in response to the threat of the coronavirus. I am grateful for the diligent work by faculty and staff in making this transition happen quickly, and I am grateful as well for the patience shown by our students in adapting to these changes. Thank you all for the tremendous work you're doing and the flexibility and courage you've shown in the face of adverse circumstances.

Online classes may be a new experience for some of our students, but online class delivery is certainly not new for TROY. As a pioneer in distance learning, we are well-equipped to help our students succeed in this time of uncertainty, and I remain convinced we will emerge from these challenging days as a stronger institution.

The next steps we take are significant ones in the life of the University, and so we are carefully evaluating our options for how to proceed with the remainder of the Spring semester. We take seriously our commitment to the safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff. We also want to make decisions with the best available information during a rapidly changing situation. Therefore, we will monitor developments over the coming days and announce on Tuesday, March 31, our plans for the rest of the semester.

Troy University has long been defined by a “culture of caring,” and that has not changed. Whether we are learning and working together on campus or at a distance, the Trojan Spirit is still alive and well, and we remain committed to your success.

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting our lives in ways we could never have imagined only a few days ago. For example, more than a million U.S. workers are expected to lose their jobs by the end of March. Almost 300,000 workers applied for unemployment benefits last week, a 33 percent increase over the previous week, so the situation is dire indeed. Our hearts go out to the friends and families of those impacted. Please allow me to share ways we can help our Trojan family during this extraordinary time. 

1. Supporting small businesses with a TROY connection. Please shop locally and help our TROY family businesses continue to serve our communities. 
2. Support our students, faculty and staff. Many Trojans will need emergency assistance and we will establish a fund to help them. In fact, we still have students on campus who need assistance to get home. With student debt at an all-time high, many of our students can still benefit from scholarships. And just a few days ago, I heard from a Trojan who is facing homelessness due to a family financial crisis.

If you are able to support the critical needs of our students, faculty or staff, please make your checks payable to the TROY University Foundation for the COVID-19 Annual Fund and mail to: 301 Adams Admin., Troy, AL 36082. If you’d like to make a donation online, please do so by going to donate.troy.edu/Troy_Annual_Giving and designating to the Troy Annual Fund with the notation COVID-19.

During this challenging time, I hope you and your families remain safe and healthy. I want you to know we are thankful for your unwavering support and generosity. I am confident we will emerge from this crisis a stronger, more unified, Troy University. 

Sincerely, 
 
Jack Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D. 
Chancellor 

Thank you for all your patience, understanding and assistance as the University has transitioned from its in-class delivery to online and alternative delivery methods this week. I can appreciate that there are concerns, along with some challenges, as we continue to move forward during this time.

I also know there likely are a number of questions. Some of those questions may be easier to answer today than others because of how the virus is affecting us as a University, a state, nation and world. As a University, we know that answering these questions is an important way of helping you. The University is striving to provide you with clear information in a timely fashion. I would remind each of you that the University is updating this information regularly at troy.edu/coronavirus.

Troy University remains committed to delivering quality academic instruction to each of you and providing you with the services to help you learn and succeed. Resources can be accessed online or by calling your specific campus or location.

I would ask each of you to take all the precautions noted by the various health officials, and make good decisions about your activities. We want you to be Trojan Warriors who are well and safe, especially during this time.

If you have questions or concerns about your classes, please direct these to your instructor, department chair or College Dean. The University will post to the troy.edu/coronavirus page specific contact information for students seeking additional assistance with their courses. I have asked each faculty member, as well as our academic administrative leadership, to be strongly attentive in assisting our students as we move forward in this transition period.

Clearly, this is a time with very serious changes to our world. It is also a time when our best collective efforts will make a difference for ourselves and those around us.

My best wishes to each of you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Troy University has modified its business hours on all campuses and locations.

Beginning Thursday, March 19 through Friday, April 3, 2020, the University will operate from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. CDT Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. until noon CDT on Friday.

Employees should contact their individual supervisors regarding modified work schedules.

These changes will not impact services available to students still residing on the Troy Campus. Trojan Dining will continue to serve meals. Monday-Friday, breakfast is served from 7 a.m. until 10 a.m.; lunch from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.; and dinner from 4:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. On Saturdays and Sundays brunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Additionally, Moe’s and Herb’s Place are open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday - Friday. To learn what is open now, visit https://troydining.com/dining-near-me/open-now.

The University Police Department continues to provide 24-hour a day security and policing. However, the University Police Department office is closed. As always, students, faculty and staff who need the department’s assistance may call 334-670-3215 during the business day and 334-670-1999 after hours. In an emergency dial 9-1-1.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Based on the latest coronavirus updates and leadership from Gov. Kay Ivey, Troy University will adopt an alternate worksite / telecommuting model beginning at 8 a.m., Central Daylight Savings Time, on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. TROY currently plans to resume regular operations on Monday, April 6.

The campuses will remain open, but all employees who can perform their job responsibilities from a remote location should do so. Senior Vice Chancellors have responsibility to plan for their divisions and will designate personnel to maintain the essential on-campus / on-site functions of the University. The specifics of facility operations will be listed on the website.

We continue to monitor this rapidly changing situation and will keep the University community informed of any further changes. To stay informed, please monitor email, SOS alerts and the website at troy.edu/coronavirus.

Please also monitor the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at coronavirus.gov. The safety of our Troy University family remains our primary concern as we respond to this international state of emergency.

During this time of uncertainty, let me assure you that our core mission of educating students will continue through online-based and alternative-delivery instruction, of which TROY has been a pioneer.

These are extraordinary circumstances, and we will do our part as an institution. We will practice good citizenship by following the directives of Gov. Ivey and those state agencies charged with our health and safety.

I am confident Troy University will emerge from this challenge a stronger institution. Thank you for all you do for TROY!

 Trojans,

I want to remind everyone that the University will transition all classes to online or other alternative delivery formats starting this Monday, March 16. There will be no in-person classes at any TROY location. The campuses will be open and residence halls will be available to students who need housing. Campus services, including the library, will also be available. However, we urge any students who are able to stay home to do so.

Specific questions regarding labs, clinicals, internships or practicums should be directed to your instructor, program coordinator or dean. Our faculty are working diligently to ensure these programs can be completed successfully in alternative delivery formats.

We understand this transition may be challenging, particularly for those who have never taken an online class before. The Office of Information Technology has a number of resources available at https://it.troy.edu/remote to aid in learning and collaborating from a distance. Additionally, the Helpdesk will now be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (334) 670-4357 to help with this transition.

In-person classes are currently scheduled to resume on April 6. TROY’s Coronavirus Task Force continues to meet regularly to evaluate the situation and will update the campus community if there are additional changes to the University’s operations or schedule. Monitor your email, the mobile app, text alerts and troy.edu/coronavirus for the latest information.

This is an unprecedented action by the University, and we understand it will create difficulties for many people. However, the challenge the world faces in the COVID-19 coronavirus is one that requires us all to work together. Continue to follow best practices to protect your health, including social distancing and regular hand hygiene. Stay safe, Trojans, and stay informed. We hope to see you all back on campus soon.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

The safety of our students, faculty and staff is the highest priority for Troy University’s leadership. In light of the risk posed by the COVID-19 coronavirus, we will transition classes at all Troy University locations to online or other alternative delivery formats effective Monday, March 16.  

In-person classes are currently scheduled to resume Monday, April 6.

According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, there are currently no cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus in the state. However, we chose to make this transition out of an abundance of caution to mitigate risk and prevent exposure or spread of the virus on our campuses. The University has also suspended all domestic and international travel through April 6. 

Students are encouraged to stay home, but residence halls will remain operational for students who need housing. The campuses will remain open, and faculty and staff will continue normal operations. Campus services, including dining, will also operate as normal.

Troy University is Alabama’s leading public provider of online learning and a pioneer in distance learning. We have the experience, expertise, and technology to make this transition in a manner that will ensure continuity of learning for all students. Most classes will transition to the Canvas online platform. For certain classes that do not easily translate to an online platform, alternative delivery methods will be made available.

In addition, following a directive from the Sun Belt Conference, all intercollegiate athletic events will be suspended indefinitely. 

The University continues to monitor this rapidly changing situation and will keep the University community informed of any further changes to University functions or scheduled events. To stay informed, monitor email, SOS alerts and the web site at troy.edu/coronavirus.

We understand these decisions will be disruptive to many people; however, the health and safety of our community is our number one goal. University faculty and staff are doing everything they can to ensure this transition to alternative delivery of learning is successful.

Sincerely,

Dr. Lance Tatum
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

We urge everyone to be mindful of the COVID-19 coronavirus during Spring Break. We strongly discourage any personal trips to areas currently experiencing active community transmission of the virus. Anyone returning from a region with active transmission of COVID-19 must contact the Alabama Department of Public Health and complete a 14-day self-monitoring period at home before returning to campus.

The global coronavirus situation is changing rapidly and the number of affected areas continues to expand. We advise all members of the TROY community to monitor news reports and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html) in order to evaluate your Spring Break plans.

Preventing Illness

We all can contribute to a healthy community by preventing the spread of infectious illnesses. The following are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

See the CDC for additional information about prevention.

If you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, call your primary care physician, an urgent care facility or the student health center.

Resources

Troy University COVID-19 information:
https://www.troy.edu/coronavirus/

CDC:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Alabama Department of Public Health:
http://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/infectiousdiseases/2019-coronavirus.html

Colleagues:

As we move into the spring break period for the Troy Campus and into the transition between Terms 3 and 4 at our other University locations, I wanted to update each of you on our efforts to monitor, and address, issues related to the ongoing coronavirus.

At Chancellor Hawkins’ directive, the University has suspended all study abroad trips until further notice. Our University leadership, across many different areas, is assisting students affected by the suspension of these planned trips. The University has also suspended international faculty travel until further notice and is working to assist these faculty. These decisions came after careful consideration and with an awareness that the impact of the coronavirus is evolving rapidly and changing virtually every day.

Members of the University leadership have met almost daily since the virus emerged in order to discuss appropriate courses of action. We have been guided by our commitment to ensure the safety of our students, faculty and staff. Moving forward, the University will continue to monitor all issues related to the virus and its spread.

I am requesting your assistance in two major areas: 1) your activities during the upcoming spring break and term break period; and 2) your activities once classes resume following these breaks.

If you are traveling during the break period, please take all the appropriate measures to avoid areas where there is active transmission of the virus. While much of the attention regarding the coronavirus has focused on Asia and Europe, cases are being reported in the United States. Please be aware the Alabama Department of Public Health is requiring all travelers returning from areas of active transmission to report their travels to the ADPH and to enter a self-imposed 14-day quarantine. Common sense steps, such as hand washing, are important safeguards as well.

Following the break period, as students, faculty and staff return to work and classes, each of you should monitor your own health, as well as that of your students. At this time of year, it is far more likely that any illness is not something as serious as the coronavirus. All of us at this time of year deal with a range of typical and predictable sicknesses, ranging from seasonal allergies to head colds to the flu. We want to ensure that anyone who feels sick follows appropriate protocols for determining the extent of their illness. This means connecting to a primary care physician for a proper evaluation. What is also important is reducing concerns, rumors and misinformation as much as possible. The University is committed to clear communication with its faculty, staff and students (as well as its other stakeholders) about this virus. This information is located at troy.edu/coronavirus. If you have specific questions, please address these through your supervisory chain.

I appreciate, very much, your commitment to assisting all of us, and especially our students, during this time.

Dr. Lance Tatum,
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Troy University has suspended all international travel for faculty until further notice due to the global COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.

Due to the expanding threat of the COVID-19 coronavirus, and the rapidly changing conditions around the world, Troy University is suspending all study abroad activity until further notice, effective immediately.

“We understand the effect this action may have on students, and this decision was not made lightly,” said Dr. Lance Tatum, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. “The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is the University’s highest priority.”

In cases where trips were organized via third-party travel providers, the University is working with those businesses to mitigate impact to students. Based on the uncertainty of the virus and its spread, the University strongly discourages students from traveling abroad independently to countries with widespread or sustained community transmission of COVID-19. The Alabama Department of Public Health has issued guidance to higher education institutions that people returning from any regions with active community transmission of COVID-19 must self-monitor for symptoms for a 14-day quarantine period at home before returning to campus. A 14-day quarantine could mean missing significant class time. For students, this lost class time could affect the ability to finish the spring semester classes on time and depending on an individual student’s status, could impact graduation in May.

Troy University faculty, staff and administrators have been closely monitoring the COVID-19 outbreak since January and previously suspended all University travel to China. Members of the University community are asked to monitor the online information center at troy.edu/coronavirus/ and email for the latest updates regarding the virus and its potential impact on University functions.

The coronavirus situation changes daily, and students, faculty and staff should monitor the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in order to assess personal travel plans and stay current on any changes.

There have been no cases of COVID-19 at Troy University or in Alabama.

To Troy University students, faculty and staff:

 Many members of the Troy University community may have travel plans during the upcoming Spring Break holiday. If your plans involve international travel, we advise you to be aware of the risks associated with COVID-19 novel coronavirus. This virus continues to spread in countries around the world, and it poses a potential health risk to anyone who travels to an affected region. Additionally, under new guidance issued Feb. 25 by the Alabama Department of Public Health, anyone returning from a region where there is active transmission of COVID-19 must contact the ADPH and must complete a 14-day quarantine period before returning to campus.

A 14-day quarantine could mean missing significant class time.  For students, this lost class time could affect the ability to finish the spring semester classes on time.  Depending on an individual student’s status, this lost time could even affect being able to graduate this May as planned.

It’s important to be informed about this virus and its potential impact.  It’s also important to make good decisions about any planned travel which might create a risk for you as well as others.

Here is the full statement from the Alabama Department of Public Health:

Students and staff returning from China or areas with active community transmission may have been exposed to COVID-19 and must self-monitor symptoms for 14 days after leaving the affected area. Students and staff must contact ADPH Infectious Diseases & Outbreaks Division at 1-800-338-8374 immediately upon return to Alabama. These students and staff must be excluded from school for the duration of this monitoring period. They are asked to remain home and to avoid congregate group settings such as church, concerts, buses, etc.

 The global coronavirus situation is changing rapidly and the number of affected countries continues to expand. We advise all members of the TROY community to monitor news reports and the Centers for Disease Control travel website in order to evaluate international travel plans over the coming weeks.

 Additional information and resources are available at: 

• http://alabamapublichealth.gov/infectiousdiseases/2019-coronavirus.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Planned study abroad trips set for Spring Break to Italy and other parts of the world may be impacted by the continued spread of the coronavirus. University officials are closely watching the situation and reviewing guidance from the Alabama Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control. Updates regarding the status of Spring Break study abroad trips are expected by the end of the week.

As members of the leadership team at Troy University, we realize there may be growing concern over the continued spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). We are continuing to carefully monitor all developments and are taking every precaution to ensure the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff.

It is important that you know, at this time, there have been no identified cases of the coronavirus in Alabama.

Rest assured that Troy University is following the guidelines of the Alabama Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization and will continue to do so as long as this situation persists. Our Student Health Center is up to date on all information and alerts provided by these agencies and the well-being of all within our TROY family is of the utmost importance. 

There are currently no Troy University students, faculty or staff in China, and the University is observing the U.S. Department of State’s travel warnings, restrictions and guidelines with regard to all future international travel.  

To date, a previously scheduled student study abroad trip to China has been canceled, and scheduled faculty travel has been delayed until such time as it is deemed safe. The University is also closely monitoring the impact of the virus in Southeast Asia where we have partner universities in Vietnam and Malaysia.

As an international University, we celebrate the rich, cultural impact our international students bring to campus life. Likewise, Troy University is committed to supporting and caring for our students whose home countries may have been impacted by this virus.

It is our hope that this situation will be over soon. Until that time, Troy University will continue to take all necessary precautions, and carefully monitor new and changing information. We will provide information and updates as situations warrant.

Dr. Lance Tatum,
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Dr. John Schmidt,
Senior Vice Chancellor for Student Services and Administration

Troy University is closely monitoring the situation with the coronavirus that is affecting various parts of the world.  At the present time, no one on campus has been diagnosed with the virus.  Students and others who have recently traveled in the areas affected by the virus have been identified and communication with them is constant to insure early intervention should they develop symptoms.

The Student Health Center remains up to date on all information and alerts being provided by the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Center for Disease Control and will respond as necessary should a case develop on campus.

 As a precaution, Symptoms and Prevention Guidelines are provided below:

Symptoms of the Virus include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

The Center for Disease Control believes at this time that symptoms of virus may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 after exposure.  Should a person develop these symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately as a precaution. 

Prevention Guidelines

The University strongly encourages all people to follow the prevention guidelines provided by health officials:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.