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March 16, 2020

SVSU coronavirus update, message from Provost to students

Covid-19 Virus

Dear students,

We continue to take steps to ensure campus safety and instructional continuity in the midst of larger societal disruptions. We will continue to provide regular updates to all members of the campus community.

Effective today (March 16), we are extending our online/remote instruction through the remainder of the winter semester, including final exams.

This morning, Governor Whitmer signed an executive order closing many public venues through Monday, March 30. Most relevant to us are the closing of libraries, museums, fitness centers and dining facilities. SVSU will be in full compliance with this executive order.

  • Zahnow Library and the Gerstacker Learning Commons are closed but will continue to provide library and tutoring services remotely and online.
  • The Fitness Center is closed.
  • Dining Services are closed except for take-out service. Starbucks, Panda Express, and Subway will only be available through online ordering for pick-up through the Grub Hub app. The Marketplace at Doan has moved to a paper form ordering system for take-out options.

Over the weekend, the CDC recommended that gatherings of more than 50 people be canceled for the next 8 weeks. Earlier today, the federal government recommended avoiding social gatherings of more than 10 people. In response, SVSU is limiting the gatherings of RSOs and other student groups to no more than 10 people, and reminding them to practice social distancing.

We care about each and every one of you. We have extended the withdrawal period to the end of the semester and we are exploring options to support students during this immensely challenging period.

I am deeply appreciative of the support, flexibility and understanding of our students during these extraordinary circumstances. We are dealing with daunting challenges, but with all of us working together to stay healthy, ensure instructional continuity, and support each other, I am confident that we will be successful.

With deep gratitude,

Deborah Huntley, Ph.D.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs