MVCC to implement social distancing

UTICA, N.Y. » Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) announced its response to COVID-19 (coronavirus) to ensure the greater health of the community.

As of March 12, President Randall J. Vanwagoner stated that MVCC does not plan to close, but will do so in the event that a case of the virus is confirmed on-campus.

“In the meantime, we have taken several steps and will continue to promote social distancing – the practice of minimizing large gatherings and encouraging distancing of six feet or more for extended periods of time,” Vanwagoner said in a statement.

Further, Vanwagoner announced the college will be extending its spring break by one week, with classes resuming March 23.

College officials said the extra time will help faculty and staff prepare alternative online delivery methods as well as give the administration time to prepare contingency plans to reduce the population density of all college locations or in the event the College is required to close, he said.

“Our crisis team, composed of trained subject-matter experts from across campus is meeting daily to reassess the risk posed to the community and will continue to monitor the situation,” Vanwagoner announced. “We are also in daily communication with SUNY System and are receiving guidance and instruction from the governor’s office.”

Vanwagoner stated that Academic Vice President Lewis Kahler will be sending a communication shortly to all full-time faculty regarding attendance and expectations for the extended spring break. Another communication will then follow to all adjunct faculty.

Further, Vanwagoner ensured students and faculty that more information would be relayed to them via Kahler as well as Vice President of Student Affairs, Stephanie Reynolds, as updates become available.

Continued MVCC precautionary measures will include campus-wide cleaning and sanitizing, heeding the guidance of relevant federal, state, and local agencies, and remaining in direct communication with the Oneida County Department of Health.

Students and faculty were given the following information in regards to campus and academic affairs beginning Monday, March 16:

• The transition to distancelearning may include a variety of strategies such as online (Blackboard), remote video and phone conferencing (Zoom or other service), and other alternative methods of delivery for classes. More information will be communicated next week. Students involved in clinical experiences will be contacted by the respective department with guidance.

• Residence hall students may return to and remain on campus, if they choose, beginning March 22 at noon. Students with any special circumstances, or housing or food insecurities, who may need

to return earlier should contact the Residence Life office after noon tomorrow

for guidance.

• All student services will continue to remain open, including but not limited to: residence halls, dining services, library, learning commons, health services, C3, and computer labs.

• All College-sponsored travel will continue to be approved by Cabinet on a caseby-case basis.

• All campus events and meetings with over 50 people will need to be approved by Cabinet on a case-by-case

basis.

• The previously scheduled disbursement of financial aid coverage (refund) checks will be mailed to students’ current address. Students are encouraged to sign into their SIRS accounts to verify and

confirm the current address is on file. No checks will be distributed in person.

In the event of an emergency, Vanwagoner stated the college will use all communications platforms including Nyalert, email,

website, and all social media tools.

Vanwagoner claimed his next communication will be no later than 5 p.m. tomorrow.

To learn more, visit MVCC’S website.