MVSU extends Spring Break to March 23 amidst Coronavirus outbreak
ITTA BENA, Miss.— Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) continues to closely monitor the global health emergency and outbreak of the novel Coronavirus, known as COVID-19.
With cases confirmed in the State of Mississippi and nearby states, the possible risk of exposure to the MVSU community has increased, prompting University administration to respond accordingly.
“MVSU’s Emergency Response Team is monitoring this fluid situation by following recommendations from the State Department and the CDC,” said MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs. “We are also working closely with government agencies to obtain advice and guidance on managing the campus in the event of a confirmed case.”
MVSU is currently observing Spring Break with classes scheduled to resume Monday, March 16, 2020. However, to provide adequate time to implement our instructional contingency plan, the University has extended Spring Break for one week, with classes resuming Monday, March 23, 2020. At that time, all classes will be taught through alternative instruction, mainly online, until further notice.
In addition, the University will not hold any large gathering or meetings on campus. Academic and other mass events have been postponed until further notice.
For MVSU students who reside on campus, University officials have asked that they only return to their residence hall if there are “compelling, extenuating circumstances” that make it absolutely necessary to remain on campus. All students remaining on campus have been required to notify their respective residence hall director of their intent to stay and will be asked to limit any contact with non-residential visitors.
Faculty, staff, and students who have participated in international travel independently of the University during Spring Break, have been directed to the State Department’s website, which provides current travel advisories for countries worldwide. The University is also disseminating information and guidance regarding travel and the Coronavirus as listed on the CDC’s website.
“While MVSU does not want to be alarmist, we are stressing to members of our community that levels can change quickly and without warning,” said Briggs. “For those who travel to areas that are designated Level 3 or Level 4, a health screening may take place upon return.”
The University plans to continue working with state and local health officials to best determine the appropriate plan of action in response to COVID-19. This will be dictated by current rules and guidelines by CDC and the State Department of Health.
If any urgent information needs to be communicated, notifications will be posted at www.mvsu.edu/coronavirus.
Students, faculty, and staff will also be notified via University e-mail, text messaging, Facebook (@valley.state), and Twitter (@MVSUDevils).