Dear Alfred University alumni, parents, and friends:
Test results for the last few days have revealed the challenge we face in controlling COVID-19 on our campus.
As of today, test results (all testing 9/4 through 10/1) are as follows:
- Total tests administered 9/28:
129 - Total positive results from 9/28 testing: 2
- Total tests administered to date:
1643 - Total positive test results to date: 8
- Total students currently in isolation: 8 (1 off campus)
- Total students currently in quarantine: 22
As a reminder, if a student tests positive the following steps are taken:
- The Wellness Center and the Allegany County Department of Health immediately begin contact tracing for the students identified as positive.
- The students identified as positive are placed in isolation.
- If the test protocol was a pool test, all students in that pool are placed in precautionary isolation.
- Once reflex test results are received for the pool(s), students who are negative for COVID-19 are released from precautionary isolation.
- Anyone identified through contact tracing who is required to quarantine is identified, informed, and directed to quarantine.
We have also become aware that certain Alfred University students, especially in off-campus housing, are continuing to plan and/or hold larger-group gatherings at which COVID-19 safeguards are not being maintained. We remind you that wherever these gatherings occur, the result will be a referral to the Dean of Student Wellbeing for determination of the sanctions appropriate for the party organizers, hosts, and attendees.
We remind students that participation in weekly surveillance testing is a requirement. As with the previous phase of testing, any students who are selected and who fail to appear for a scheduled surveillance test will be referred for a conduct review, which could culminate in probation, suspension, or expulsion for non-compliance. Moreover, students who break quarantine or isolation may face immediate suspension or expulsion.
University-sponsored structured activities and programs will continue, but with new or renewed restrictions in place. These include:
- Athletics reverts back to the Week 1 schedule. This includes small groups of 10 or fewer people and no contact. Tennis and swimming are currently on pause. Athletic Trainers continue to be on site at practices to ensure students are adhering to the necessary safety protocols. Practices that take place inside will be for less than 60 minutes and involve fewer than 10 people. Practices will take place outside as much as possible. Strength and conditioning is set up outside with 10-12 feet between individuals, and limited to 12 or fewer people. Masks and social distancing are required for practices and strength and conditioning.
- The Equestrian Center will host regular practices and classes, which are limited to five and seven students, respectively. Lessons and community service projects are paused until further notice
- Student Activities is organizing events and activities with a preference for the outdoors and under one hour in length. Small gatherings inside of 10 or fewer people in appropriate spaces may be held and outdoor activities may be held with 25 or fewer people. Local trips are limited to locations that total an hour in the vehicle at ½ capacity. Masks and social distancing continue to be required at all events and activities. Some of the upcoming activities include outdoor movies, game nights with a mix of virtual and in-person players, an outdoor concert with specific safety measures in place to include a 15-20 foot barrier from the stage, and a mobile petting zoo. Check AU Connect or the Corq app for details!
Please note that the University recommends flu shots for our students to reduce the risk of contracting the flu this fall. If you would like to schedule a flu shot, please call the Wellness Center at 607-871-2400. The cost is $15, which will be charged to your student account.
Alfred University COVID-19 Testing Team
