Manchester Update - June 18
From: McFadden, David F. <DFMcFadden@manchester.edu>
Sent: Thursday, June 18, 2020 10:32 AM
To: All Colleagues <AllColleagues@manchester.edu>
Subject: COVID-19 update - June 18
Dear Colleagues,
We took another big step toward reopening Monday as we entered Phase 2. About one-third of all MU colleagues are now able to work on their respective campuses, a number of them alternating days with other colleagues in their offices or departments to ensure healthy distancing.
Phase 2 will help us scale up our plans for a larger return in August. We will figure out what works well and what doesn’t and take time to formulate social distancing guidelines designed to keep our community healthy.
During this time, colleagues in Fort Wayne are required to wear face masks, and colleagues in North Manchester are strongly encouraged to in common spaces and when interacting with other people. We also anticipate that meetings will continue to be virtual for the foreseeable future.
Abby Van Vlerah, who is leading the Reopen Work Group, reports that Parkview Health representatives joined the group for walk-throughs of a variety of spaces on our campuses. They offered good advice and affirmed that our work group is on the right track.
The group is working on guidelines for proper distancing at events, including outdoor events such as football games, and the enhanced use of ushers who can help manage participant spacing and other protocols. They are also developing a policy for accommodating individual concerns related specifically to COVID-19.
In addition, Celia Cook-Huffman is working with faculty members about what January session might look like, including travel options and possible limitations.
As always, remember to email health@manchester.edu if you have questions or concerns, and use that email if you are not in the Phase 2 group but want access to campus. Requests to come to campus should be submitted at least two business days in advance.
I will be out of the office for the next few weeks and have asked Abby to send the weekly updates.
Thank you, as always, for your generosity of spirit and your patience during this time.
Dave
Dave McFadden
President
Manchester University
260-982-5050