Covid-19 Archive

 Dear Bushnell Community,

 

As of yesterday (June 30th), Governor Kate Brown has lifted all COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. This announcement is in keeping with the state’s goal of 70% of adult Oregonians having received at least one COVID-19 vaccination dose. The Governor’s decision includes lifting Executive Order 20-28, which has provided guidance for Oregon higher education, as well as other OHA guidelines that informed various university policies and operation during the pandemic. We want to thank all of you for the very hard work you have put in to help us get to this point.

As a member of the Higher Education Community, we are now asked to follow guidelines specifically given to us by the CDC. The following outlines the changes to our Bushnell policies regarding COVID-19:

1. We have modified our “Beacon Pledge” and will ask members of our community/visitors to our campus to take this pledge daily before interacting with members of our community. As a member of the Bushnell community, each day I will:
   • Self-Monitor for symptoms of illness before leaving my residence and isolate if they occur.
   • Wash my hands or use hand-sanitizer throughout the day.
   • Be vigilant about hygiene & physical distancing.
   • Take responsibility for my own health and safety & prioritize the health & safety of my Bushnell & neighboring communities.
   • If unvaccinated, wear a face covering to protect myself and others, particularly in indoor and higher-density locations.
   • Be flexible as the guidelines will change or adjust as time goes on.
   • Follow posted signage & protocols both on and off campus.
   • Keep my living area, classroom space, and workspace clean and disinfected.
2. Per CDC guidance, fully vaccinated individuals do not need to wear a face covering while on campus. The CDC still recommends that those who are not vaccinated continue to wear face coverings, especially indoors and in higher-density locations.
3. Encourage members of our Bushnell Community to follow CDC guidance with regard to COVID-19 vaccinations and/or boosters.
4. Track the incidents of COVID-19 with our Bushnell community members to help reduce the spread of the virus.
5. Require quarantine/isolation for members of the Bushnell community who are COVID-19 positive and as recommended by the CDC for close contacts. Vaccinated individuals exposed to Covid-19 need not quarantine as long as they do not develop symptoms.
6. Persons in our community wishing to continue to wear a face covering for personal, health, or other reasons are encouraged to continue to do so. It should not be assumed that wearing a mask indicates whether or not a person has been vaccinated.
7. We will continue to provide ongoing guidance and updates regarding COVID-19 related matters.

Through this journey we have confirmed just how strong our Bushnell community is. We will approach the days ahead with a continued sense of optimism and the same level of nimbleness that we have approached the past 18 months.

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you have.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Jocelyn Hubbs, Assistant VP for Financial Services & Title IX Coordinator
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Assistant Director for Residence Life

 

As we continue to receive COVID-19 guidance from the CDC, Oregon Public Health Authority, Lane County Public Health and HECC – we continue to review and revise our own campus guidelines.  The following are some recent updates that you may find helpful:

OUTDOOR MASKING UPDATE FOR EMPLOYEES AND STUDENTS

We have revised our Outdoor Masking Policy for Employees and students.  In accordance with Statewide Mask Covering guidelines, persons that are able to maintain social distancing outdoors are no longer required to wear a mask.  If you are in an outdoor crowded area/large gathering of individuals you are encouraged to continue to wear a mask – specifically if you are unvaccinated.

EMPLOYEE MASKING UPDATE

For those of you that are on campus this summer, you may notice that some Bushnell employees are no longer masked in offices and public spaces. Recent changes approved by OSHA and HR for Bushnell employees (faculty, staff, student workers) allow for fully vaccinated employees to submit their proof of vaccination to HR to be exempt from our mask policy. So, if an employee is working unmasked, the expectation is that they have been fully vaccinated and are approved to do that. Some vaccinated staff may choose to still mask when meeting with students or non-vaccinated people so a masked person is not necessarily unvaccinated.

As a student (unless you are currently a summer student worker that has been approved by HR), you are not able to be exempt from the masking policy in our indoor spaces, even if you are fully vaccinated. This is a HR employee policy change only. Any changes to mask policy for students would come from the Higher Education Commission of Oregon and has not been given to us yet. We anticipate some guidance from them in the coming weeks, but can’t speculate to what that will be, so there are no current changes to our mask policy for non-employees.

VACCINATION

We continue to encourage employees and students alike who are eligible to be vaccinated.  Lane County is currently 5,975 vaccinations away from being able to move into the “low Risk Status’ which means a reduction in restrictions.

As the summer progresses we definitely anticipate the continued revision of our campus COVID-19 guidelines.  Be on the lookout for updates and let us know if you have any questions what-so-ever.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

We know how hard everyone is working to keep our campus safe and finish strong.  In turn, we share the following 4 very important Items we need you to know about from your COVID-19 Task Force

#1 – Our current Masking/Physical Distancing Policy is still in place.

Face masks/coverings must be worn by all individuals working indoor in public places (e.g. common workspaces, public spaces, hallways, stairwells, elevators, conference rooms, classrooms, campus outdoor spaces, restrooms, etc.).  Individuals working by themselves in private offices or environments that do not otherwise require face masks/coverings may remove their face masks/coverings while in such a place.  Even if physical distancing is achievable, face masks/covering is required when meeting indoors.  The face mask/covering is not a substitute for physical distancing.

Physical Distancing:  persons on campus are expected to maintain space between themselves (at least 6 feet/about 2 arms’ lengths) and others as is best practice and required on campus to avoid exposure to the COVID-19 virus and spread.

We’re needing to be 100% honest.  We know as the weather has become warmer and we’re all worn down by following guidelines we are experiencing a slip on campus – especially when folks are outdoors on the quad.  We’ve also experienced a recent uptick in the number of students needing to go in isolation/be quarantined.  Please continue to mask and physical distance so that we can finish this semester strong!

#2 – Due to a High # of Positive Cases in Lane County as of Friday we will be back in the “Extreme Risk” sector.  What this primarily means for us:

• We will not longer be able to have anyone eat in the Cafeteria as indoor dining is prohibited.  To Go Meals continue to be made available and we ask you to find a place on-campus where you can eat physically distanced from others.
• Outdoor events are limited to a maximum of 100 people.  Outdoor Faith gatherings can have a maximum of 150 people.  *Note – these key adjustments have been kept in mind as we continue to do all that we can to have as many persons at Commencement, Baccalaureate and other year-end-celebration events.

#3 – Vaccination.  We continue to encourage all members of our community to be vaccinated, but we are not requiring it.   We will continue to send out updates to our community regarding vaccination clinics.

#4 – For our Graduates (as per the e-mail sent out by Dr. Lindsay) we have some good news regarding Commencement Attendance.  Because the Oregon Health Authority has relaxed their guidelines for Outdoor Events in the “Extreme Risk” sector we are now able to accommodate up to 100 persons at each Commencement Ceremony.  What this means is that we will have one Undergraduate Commencement Service at 10:00 am and one Online-Undergraduate/Graduate Commencement Service at 2:00 pm (both outside).  We are still restricted to no outside guests, but this does mean that graduates can go through their respective ceremony together.  Please refer to the e-mail from Dr. Lindsay as a reference.

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another.  Please feel free to reach out with any questions you have.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

With the recent decision to move Lane County back into the “High Risk Sector” we wanted to provide you with some practical updates regarding how this impacts our campus.

• Due to capacity restrictions, adjustments are being made to how many persons will be allowed to be at events such as Commencement, Baccalaureate, Honors Convocation, Champions of Character Celebration, campus events, and other such programs. Also of note – Baccalaureate and Commencement will both be held outside. Be looking for specific information from the event coordinators of each of these events as to how events are being modified. At the bottom of this e-mail we have also attached the correspondence that was sent out to all graduating students regarding participant limitations.
• We have to reduce our Cafeteria Capacity once again to 50 people and will continue to encourage folks to eat outside/in the Quad.
• Those living in the Townhouses will once again not be allowed to have an visitors.

We continue to encourage employees and students alike who are eligible to be vaccinated. There are a number of ways to sign up for a vaccination and we will continue to promote those opportunities as they come. The most direct way to do so is through https://lanecounty.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=3585881&pageId=16503774. We have continued to be asked by persons if we will require vaccination of our employees and students and that is not our plan.

The Oregon Health Authority, Office of the Governor, and Lane County Public Health encourage us to REMAIN DILIGENT. The recent surge in positive COVID-19 cases state wide is of and in our county is of significant concern and is something that we want to get back under control.

We know that this continues to be hard – but thank you for your willingness to comply so that we may keep our campus safe and finish our semester/spring term 2 strong.

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you have.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

This past week we have continued to be reminded by both the Oregon Health Authority, Office of the Governor, and Lane County Public Health to REMAIN DILIGENT. There has been a recent surge in positive COVID-19 cases state wide and in our county, which quite possibly could force Lane County to move up a Risk Sector Level mid-April. Let us continue to do our very best as a campus to mask and maintain proper social distancing. We have done such a phenomenal job as a campus this year doing all that we can to remain open and taken care of one another, let’s finish this semester/spring term 2 well.

Also, know that all of our employees are now eligible to be vaccinated and that all persons above the age of 16 are eligible to be vaccinated as of April 19th. There are a number of ways to sign up for a vaccination and we will continue to promote those opportunities as they come. The most direct way to do so is through https://lanecounty.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=3585881&pageId=16503774
We know that this continues to be hard – but thank you for your willingness to comply so that we may keep our campus safe, finish our semester strong, and stay physically open as a campus.

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

As a COVID-19 Task Force one of the more popular questions we are asked about is am I still required to wear a mask and physically distance myself from others while on-campus. The answer is YES. We know that as the sun starts to come up and we’ve moved down in Sector-Level guidance that it is very tempting to become a little bit loser in terms of our restrictions, but as a campus we need t continue to do our very best to follow the guidelines given to us which allows us be safe and stay open as a University.

The following is the specific guidance from the Oregon Health Authority that we fall under: https://govstatus.egov.com/or-oha-face-coverings

Masks Required Statewide
Masks are currently required statewide at all times unless you are:

• At your own residence.
• In your own personal vehicle.
• Under five (5) years of age.
• Eating or drinking.
• Engaged in an activity that makes wearing a mask, face covering or face shield not feasible, such as when taking a shower.
• Sleeping.
• In a private, individual workspace.
• Removing the mask briefly because your identity needs to be confirmed by visual comparison, such as at a bank or if interacting with law enforcement.

Please know that the aforementioned includes all public areas of campus including the tents/picnic tables on the Quad.

We know that this continues to be hard – but thank you for your willingness to comply so that we may keep our campus safe, finish our semester strong, and stay physically open as a campus.

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

With Lane County moving down one risk level in the COVID-19 Sector Level Guidance (from High Risk to Moderate Risk) and updated guidelines coming to us from the Oregon Health Authority and Spring Break upon us – we wanted to provide an update on how this will impact our campus:

SECTOR-GUIDANCE MODIFICATIONS
The following changes go into effect Friday, March 12th:

• CAMPUS DINING: The Cafeteria will now be able to provide 45 (up from 25) physically-distanced “eating spots” for students who would like to be able to eat their meal in the Cafeteria. We will also be able to provide the option of ‘plates’ vs. ‘to go containers’ for those that will be choosing to eat in.
• CAMPUS PROGRAMMING: New limits allow those persons on campus planning and coordinating events to raise their attendance minimums allowing for events to be centralized vs. held in multiple locations.
• MORSE CENTER FITNESS CENTER: The Fitness Center is now open for up to general student body/employee population for a maximum of 9 people (up from 6) at the following times:
  Monday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Tuesday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Wednesday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Thursday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Friday / 1-2:30pm
  *These times are subject to change depending on frequency of use
• MORSE CENTER ACTIVITY ROOM: This room, used in a fitness capacity, can now host groups of 12 (6 prior) people working out.
• INDOOR/OUTDOOR ATHLETICS: The Athletic Department is currently creating a process allowing each Bushnell Student-Athlete competing to formally invite 2-guests. We encourage you to follow our student-athletes via livestream, livestats and twitch. For more information go to GoBeacons.com

SPRING BREAK
We encourage members of our Bushnell Community (Students and Employees) to not travel extensively over the break and to keep gatherings to a minimum size. In order to encourage this we are allowing residential students to staff on-campus during the break and campus dining will be open and available. In addition, activities are being planned and coordinated by the Office of Student Life, the Library will be open select hours, and a Sheds of Hope Service Project has been planned. We know that strong efforts to do the aforementioned over Spring Break will give us a better chance to finish the semester safely and strong.

Thank you as always for your diligence and consistency in following our Beacon Pledge which includes remaining in your residence if you are ill, being masked and maintaining appropriate physical distance from one another.

If you have any questions whatsoever please let our Task Force Team know. If you have any questions concerning personal accommodations or concerns, please direct those to your academic advisor (students) or your supervisor (faculty/staff).

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Jeremiah Leslie, Coordinator for Marketing & Digital Communication
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

With Lane County moving down one risk level in the COVID-19 Sector Level Guidance (from Extreme Risk to High Risk) and updated guidelines coming to us from the Oregon Health Authority (specifically related to Athletics) – we wanted to provide an update on how this will impact our campus:

• ACADEMIC: Maximum classroom capacity in our larger classrooms (e.g., L-203 and Bucher Room) will increase from 25 to 50 maximum occupancy. Dr. Lindsay and the Registrar’s office are providing further notification regarding these modifications to students and instructors whose classes will be affected by this change and when the changes will begin. Please be on the lookout for this further information!
• CAMPUS DINING: The Cafeteria will now be able to provide 23 physically-distanced “eating spots” for students who would like to be able to eat their meal in the cafeteria.
• FITNESS CENTER: The Fitness Center is now open for up to general student body/employee population for a maximum of 6 people at the following times:
  Monday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Tuesday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Wednesday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Thursday / 1-2:30pm / 7:30-9pm
  Friday / 1-2:30pm
  *These times are subject to change depending on frequency of use
• ATHLETICS: Each of our teams is now able to compete and some modifications have occurred regarding field/gym capacity. At this time we are still not able to have spectators at our events and in turn we encourage you to follow our student-athletes via livestream, livestats and twitch. For more information go to GoBeacons.com
• SPRING BREAK: We are encouraging our students and employees to keep their travel and gathering size to a minimum over the Spring Break which will lower the propensity for COVID-19 spread and allow us to finish our spring semester safetly.
• OTHER: There are other slight modifications that will allow us to host slightly larger group programs/events both inside and outside.

Thank you as always for your diligence and consistency in following our Beacon Pledge which includes remaining in your residence if you are ill, being masked and maintaining appropriate physical distance from one another.

If you have any questions whatsoever please let our Task Force Team know. If you have any questions concerning personal accommodations or concerns, please direct those to your academic advisor (students) or your supervisor (faculty/staff).

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Jeremiah Leslie, Coordinator for Marketing & Digital Communication
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

The COVID-19 Task Force wanted to provide you with some ‘key resources’ as we continue to navigate the pandemic.

• As the days unfold we know that vaccines will be made available to more and more of our students and employees. While we will be looking to utilize our partnership with the UO for many, we still encourage all that are wishing to be vaccinated to preregister with www.lanecounty.org/covidvaccine
• The University of Oregon is currently offering COVID-19 testing services. In order to find out more information about how to obtain a test from UO https://uoregon.edu/testing
• Lane County continues to fall under the “Extreme Risk Category” and the next categorical assessment will occur on February 23rd.

Thank you as always for your diligence and consistency in following our Beacon Pledge which includes remaining in your residence if you are ill, being masked and maintaining appropriate physical distance from one another.

If you have any questions whatsoever please let our Task Force Team know. If you have any questions concerning personal accommodations or concerns, please direct those to your academic advisor (students) or your supervisor (faculty/staff).

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Jeremiah Leslie, Coordinator for Marketing & Digital Communication
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

The COVID-19 Task Force continues to work with other private and public universities and the Oregon Health Authority about when students, faculty and staff will receive the COVID-19 vaccination. We anticipate the vaccine may be available to some members of our community in late-March. Because this is an ever-changing situation, we will keep you informed as we know more.

Bushnell is collaborating with the University of Oregon as we make preparations to make the vaccine available to all students, faculty and staff on both campuses. As details are firmed up, we will share information about where and when the vaccine will be available and administered.

We continue to seek direction, and we will continue to follow the guidelines given to us by the CDC, Oregon Health Authority, HECC, and Lane County Public Health.

If you have any questions whatsoever please let our Task Force Team know. If you have any questions concerning personal accommodations or concerns, please direct those to your academic advisor (students) or your supervisor (faculty/staff).

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help support one another.

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Jeremiah Leslie, Coordinator for Marketing & Digital Communication
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

As a COVID-19 Task Force we wanted to formally welcome you back to the start of our Spring Semester 2021!  We hope that you are getting settled into your classes and routine for this semester/term.

The following are several reminders and updates to keep you in the loop on as we work together this semester:

• Our COVID-19 webpage is where you can find information regarding protocols, answers to any questions you might have, and data regarding the number our current student/employee case count (positive cases, isolated, quarantined).  https://www.bushnell.edu/covid19/
• We have once again provided an outdoor tent area in the quad for members of our community to gather and eat.  An important reminder that COVID-19 protocols still need to be followed when using outdoor gathering areas such as this.  Please follow physical distancing and mask protocols when gathering there.
• We monitor guidelines and work daily with the CDC, Oregon Healthy Authority, HECC, Lane County Public Health, and our colleagues at both the University of Oregon and Lane Community College.  The question we are most frequently asked about is when a vaccine will be made available to members of our community and how that distribution will occur.  Know that as soon as we know more and hear of said protocols/timeline we will pass this information along to you.
• Remember that it is daily self-monitoring that allows us to remain physically open as a campus.  Let us remember to commit to our “Beacon Pledge”.  As a member of the Bushnell community, each day I will:
  • Self-Monitor for symptoms of illness before leaving my residence and isolate if they occur.
  • Wash my hands or use hand-sanitizer throughout the day.
  • Be vigilant about hygiene & physical distancing.
  • Take responsibility for my own health and safety & prioritize the health & safety of my Bushnell & neighboring communities.
  • Utilize face coverings in indoor public spaces.
  • Utilize face coverings outdoors anytime within six feet of other people.
  • Be flexible as the guidelines will change or adjust as time goes on.
  • Follow posted signage & protocols both on and off campus.
  • Keep my living area, classroom space, and workspace clean and disinfected.

If you have any questions whatsoever please let our Task Force Team know. If you have any questions concerning personal accommodations or concerns, please direct those to your academic advisor (students) or your supervisor (faculty/staff).

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help our community through this most unusual time.

Go Beacons!

Blessings to all of you in this New Year and this new semester!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Jeremiah Leslie, Coordinator for Marketing & Digital Communication
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

As you are fully aware, we came together as a campus community this past fall and through good planning, creativity, accountability, and following key protocols (masking, physically distancing, sanitizing) we kept our University physically open and we successfully navigated the challenges associated with COVID-19. We are asking you to once again help us tackle spring semester with the same level of diligence, resilience and focus.

The following are some very important reminders as we prepare to start fall semester.

• If you are a student who is experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms and/or have tested positive over the break, it is very important that you not physically return to the campus for the start of the semester. Please contact your Academic Advisor, Resident Assistant, Resident Director, and/or your Professors so that we can work with you to make accommodations for you to begin classes remotely.
• The same principle applies if you are a staff or faculty member who is experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms and/or have tested positive over the break. Please contact your direct supervisor and/or Gene De Young in the HR Department to apprise them of your situation and to obtain the appropriate accommodations.
• We are asking once again that all members of our Bushnell Community commit daily to the “Beacon Pledge”. As a member of the Bushnell community, each day I will:
  • Self-Monitor for symptoms of illness before leaving my residence and isolate if they occur.
  • Wash my hands or use hand-sanitizer throughout the day.
  • Be vigilant about hygiene & physical distancing.
  • Take responsibility for my own health and safety & prioritize the health & safety of my Bushnell & neighboring communities.
  • Utilize face coverings in indoor public spaces.
  • Utilize face coverings outdoors anytime within six feet of other people.
  • Be flexible as the guidelines will change or adjust as time goes on.
  • Follow posted signage & protocols both on and off campus.
  • Keep my living area, classroom space, and workspace clean and disinfected.
• We are working closely with Lane County Public Health to develop a ‘vaccination plan and protocols’ for our students and employees as the vaccine becomes available.
• Spring semester will look very much like this past fall as we prepare for classes to begin January 11th. Lane County currently falls under the Oregon Health Authority Sector Risk Level guidance category of “Extreme Risk” — which means we are under the same restrictions as we were in late fall.

We continue to seek direction, and we will continue to follow the guidelines given to us by the CDC, Oregon Health Authority, HECC, and Lane County Public Health.

If you have any questions whatsoever please let our Task Force Team know. If you have any questions concerning personal accommodations or concerns, please direct those to your academic advisor (students) or your supervisor (faculty/staff).

Thank you once again for all you have done and continue to do to help our community through this most unusual time. We look forward to being together again this spring semester!

Go Beacons!

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development
Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs
Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance
Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources
Corey Anderson, Athletic Director
Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services
Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs
Jeremiah Leslie, Coordinator for Marketing & Digital Communication
Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer
Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Dear Bushnell Community,

WE DID IT!!!  Let’s do it again!

We came together as a campus community this fall semester and through good planning, creativity, accountability, and following the key protocols (masking, physically distancing, sanitizing) we kept our University physically open and we successfully navigated the challenges associated with COVID-19.

The members of the Bushnell COVID-19 Task Force want to thank each and every one of you—Students, Faculty, and Staff—for your discipline, flexibility, patience, and persistence throughout the fall semester.  Thank you for diligently self-monitoring for symptoms, and for the care that you have provided for one another in the Bushnell community.  We knew this semester would be a challenge, but together, with hard work, we have made this happen.

Please rest assured that as we prepare again to be physically open this spring semester, we will continue to follow the guidelines given to us by the CDC, Oregon Health Authority, HECC, and Lane County Public Health.  The spring semester will probably look and feel very much like this past fall.  Classes will begin on January 11^th and preparations are well underway to make this happen.  What we continue to ask of you over the Christmas Break is that you follow the guidelines that we are given, so that we all can return safely to campus in January.  All to say, Let’s Do It Again!

If you have any questions whatsoever please let our Task Force Team know.  If you have any questions concerning personal accommodations or concerns, please direct those to your academic advisor (students) or your supervisor (faculty/staff).

Thank you once again for all you have done to help our community through this most unusual semester.  We look forward to being together again in the spring semester!

Go Beacons!

 

Your COVID-19 Task Force

Michael Fuller, VP for Enrollment & Student Development

Dr. Dennis Lindsay, VP for Academic Affairs

Gene De Young, VP for Administration & Finance

Greg Brock, Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life

Angela Doty, Dean of Career & Academic Resources

Corey Anderson, Athletic Director

Jocelyn Hubbs, Director of Financial Aid & Retention Services

Pat Walsh, Senior Director of Public Affairs

Jeremiah Leslie, Coordinator for Marketing & Digital Communication

Guillermo Torres-Sanchez, Head Athletic Trainer

Emily Johnston, Resident Director & Coordinator for Wellness Programs

Students, Employees, and Family Members,

Earlier today Governor Brown and the Oregon Health Authority announced a ‘two-week freeze’ that will have some impact on how we continue to operate as a university.  These risk measures will be in effect from November 18^th – December 2^nd:

• Food in both the Cafeteria and Beanery will be fully ‘take-out’.  There will be not areas for eating in the Cafeteria or Beanery.
• The Fitness Center/Weight Room will be closed for the general student population.
• Non-instructional events/programs and social gatherings will be moved to a ‘virtual format’ (e.g. Beacon Nights, Community Life Groups).
• Campus Visits and Tours for prospective students and their families will be conducted virtually.

Here is a link to the Governor’s guidance, including travel, in relation to the ‘two-week-freeze’.

For students that are considering traveling over the Thanksgiving Break, we would encourage you to consider filling out a petition to complete the semester via remote learning at the following link: Post-Thanksgiving Remote Learning Petition

Let us continue to take care of one another and focus on our Beacon Pledge:

As a member of the Bushnell community, each day I will:

• Self-Monitor for symptoms of illness before leaving my residence and isolate if they occur.
• Wash my hands or use hand-sanitizer throughout the day.
• Be vigilant about hygiene and physical distancing.
• Take responsibility for my own health and safety and prioritize the health & safety of my Bushnell & neighboring communities.
• Utilize face coverings in indoor public spaces.
• Utilize face coverings outdoors anytime within six feet of other people.
• Be flexible as the guidelines will change or adjust as time goes on.
• Follow posted signage & protocols both on and off campus.
• Keep my living area, classroom space, and workspace clean and disinfected.

For the most up to date information regarding our COVID-19 response, please visit Bushnell COVID-19 pages.  Guidelines and other information is also available at the Oregon Health Authority COVID-19 information and the CDC COVID-19 information.

We have been receiving some questions regarding our COVID-19 Campus Guest Policy. Our policy is as follows:

Campus Visitors Policy – review/reminder to Employees and Students

Our campus is only open to the following external visitors:

• Those who are visiting the university on official university business (e.g. guest lecturers/presenters, prospective students/family members, vendors/persons assisting with university business). *Prospective students who are visiting the Office of Admission (can bring up to two adult guests).
• Invited guests related to a formal function within the university (*e.g. visiting team playing against Bushnell in competition, guests invited to a Preview Day or Orientation function).
  Campus visitors are asked to self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms before arriving on campus and are asked to wear a face-covering during their entire visit. We will provide masks for those who do not have their own.

Athletics

Fan/Visitor Protocols (all of these policies are subject to change as additional guidance is provided).

Morse Center (Volleyball/Basketball)

Under current Oregon Health Authority/Lane County guidelines, guests are currently not allowed to attend Beacon home events scheduled in the Morse Center.. Fans/Visitors may go to BushnellBeacons.com to view livestats and video streams of our home games.

Les Schwab Sports Park (Soccer/Softball)

Under current Oregon Health Authority/Lane County guidelines fans will be allowed, but capacity will be capped and attendees will need to follow facility/Bushnell/Oregon Health Authority/Lane County protocols. Masks will need to be worn (and worn properly) by all spectators, all of the time. Further information will be provided as we get closer to spring seasons.

Rich Schwab Field at Maple Elementary School (Softball)

Under current Oregon Health Authority/Lane County guidelines, fans will be allowed, but capacity will be capped and attendees will need to follow facility/Bushnell/Oregon Health Authority/Lane County protocols. Masks will need to be worn (and worn properly) by all spectators, all of the time. Further information will be provided as we get closer to spring seasons.

Outdoor Non-Contained Sports (Cross Country/Golf)

Under current Oregon Health Authority/Lane County guidelines, fans will be allowed, but capacity will be capped at 250 (including all student-athletes, coaches, officials and game management), and attendees will need to follow facility/Bushnell/Oregon Health Authority/Lane County protocols. Masks will need to be worn (and worn properly) by all spectators, all of the time.

For the most up to date information regarding our COVID-19 response, please visit our COVID-19 webpages.

Following our weekly COVID-19 Task Force Meeting we want to provide you with the following updates:

1. We have received additional guidance from the Oregon Health Authority regarding statewide mask, face covering, and face shield guidance.
   • It is not recommended that individuals wear a face shield instead of a mask or face covering. Face shields can be very good at blocking droplets that individuals releasee, but they are not as effective at limiting the release of aerosols that can go around the shield. NOTE: this is an update to our COVID-19 protocols where prior we were allowing faculty members/presenters to wear a face shield in lieu of a mask.
   • In general, it is recommended/a Bushnell expectation that people wear a mask or face covering, with or without a face shield, whenever they are within six (6) feet of people who do not live in the same household. Our requirement continues to be that when in any campus building (with the exception or your personal residence or in your private office space alone) or within 6’ of someone, or at a campus event or function, we are all wearing a mask.
2. Attached you will find the link to our weekly dashboard as to COVID-19 cases. You can find this information on our university website COVID-19 Dashboard.
3. We continue to strongly encourage all members of our Bushnell University community to get a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Lane County Public Health recommend that anyone 6 months or older get an annual flu vaccine. The best time to get your shot is anytime between now and the end of October.
4. With Halloween upon us, we know that there will many opportunities for large group gatherings. Our constant reminder is to avoid settings (especially large group settings) where persons are unmasked and not exercising proper physical distancing. Large group parties, house parties, and unregulated events seem to be one of the greatest causes for the increased spread of COVID-19. Please do your best to avoid these situations.

Students, Employees, and Family Members,

Following our weekly COVID-19 Task Force Meeting we want to provide you with the following updates:

#1 – Our second and third students, who both reside off-campus, have tested positive for COVID-19 this week. Due to potential contact with several others, we have placed a number of students in self-isolation until we receive further direction from Lane County Public Health. Contact-tracing is being initiated and coordinated by Lane County Health and ourselves. Just a reminder that if you are experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms or have come into contact with someone who may have COVID-19 you need to remain in your residence, let your Resident Assistant or Academic Advisor know, contact your primary health care physician for further instruction, and to let your professors know that you will be unable to be in class (if you are not feeling well/have a class physically on campus).

#2 – As mentioned in our last form of correspondence, we will be providing you with a weekly dashboard as to COVID1-19 cases. You can find this information on our university COVID-19 Dashboard.

#3 – We are strongly encouraging all members of our Bushnell University community to get a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Lane County Public Health recommend that anyone 6 months or older get an annual flu vaccine. The best time to get your shot is anytime between now and the end of October. There will be a flu shot clinic on-campus in Hutchins Hall on October 20th from 10:00 am–2:00 pm.

#4 – Our constant reminder is to avoid settings (especially large group settings) where persons are unmasked and not exercising proper physical distancing. Large group parties, house parties, and unregulated events seem to be one of the greatest causes for the increased spread of COVID-19. Please do your best to avoid these situations.

If you have any questions what-so-ever please let me know.

Grace and peace,

Michael

Students, Employees, and Family Members,

Following our weekly COVID-19 Task Force Meeting we want to provide you with the following 3 updates:

#1 – Our first student, an off campus commuter student, has tested positive for COVID-19. This student, who has been in quarantine since September 29th, tested positive on October 7th. Contact-tracing is being initiated by Lane County Health. Just a reminder that if you are experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms or have come into contact with someone who may have COVID-19 you need to remain in your residence, let your Resident Assistant or Academic Advisor know, contact your primary health care physician for further instruction, and to let your professors know that you will be unable to be in class (if you are not feeling well/have a class physically on campus).

#2 – The question has been asked, “With the rise in cases, what will happen if Lane County goes back into Phase 1?” We feel that our campus is primarily already in compliance with what a move to “Phase 1” would call us to do. Our class sizes and gathering spaces are typically below the 25 person group threshold, we have limited formal university travel, we have set strong guidelines and enforce them. If we were to enter Phase-1 we have to make some minor adjustments, but for the most part we are in a very good place and continue to work with Lane County to ensure we are prepared..

#3 – We are doing a very good job collectively following outlined COVID-19 protocols, but due to the urging of Lane County Health and the uptick in our county specifically in the 18-25 year-old age group, we have been asked to re-urge each of you do your very best to follow protocols outlined in our Beacon Pledge. As a member of our community , each day I will:
• Self-Monitor for symptoms of illness before leaving my residence and isolate if they occur.
• Wash my hands or use hand-sanitizer throughout the day.
• Be vigilant about hygiene & physical distancing.
• Take responsibility for my own health and safety & prioritize the health & safety of my Bushnell & neighboring communities.
• Utilize face coverings in indoor public spaces.
• Utilize face coverings outdoors anytime within six feet of other people.
• Be flexible as the guidelines will change or adjust as time goes on.
• Follow posted signage & protocols both on and off campus.
• Keep my living area, classroom space, and workspace clean and disinfected.

There we go Beacons. Know how thankful we are to have each of you on-campus and know that we are all in this together.

If you have any questions what-so-ever please let me know.

Grace and peace,

Michael

Beacon Community,

Following our meeting today with Lane County Public Health, the UO, and LCC – we wanted to send out a gentle nudge from our COVID-19 Task Force.

#1 – Good Job Beacons. We have made it to week 5 and we have embraced the challenge of masking, properly socially-distancing ourselves, and proper handwashing. Know that we appreciate your good work and all that you have done to allow us to open our campus physically.

#2 – The Struggle is Real. Lane County’s COVID-19 numbers have been low for quite some time (daily reports in the single digits), but this weekend the daily numbers jumped into the 20s for multiple days in a row. Today, we have the highest number of active cases in Lane county since the pandemic began. We are in the middle of a spike and the greatest % of growth is coming from the 18-27 year-old population. There a natural level of relaxing and feeling like we have got things under control, but we have to stay disciplined.

#3 – The food and drink thing. This is a VERY IMPORTANT reminder. Our campus expectation is that if you are eating/drinking/snacking in class, in the library, the Beanery, the commuter lounge, or other campus locations — you ought only remove your mask while you are taking a drink or immediately eating. So let’s all keep it simple — remove your mask to take a drink or take a bite, but then immediately put it back on. When eating in the cafeteria please put your mask on immediately after you finish your meal.

#4 – In the county’s contact tracing we are finding that the greatest potential for COVID-19 spread is coming at large group gatherings (specifically off-campus), which locally includes house parties and at fraternities/sororities. Please continue to make wise choices.

There we go Beacons. Know how thankful we are to have each of you on-campus and know that we are all in this together.

CORONAVIRUS FAQ TABLE OF CONTENTS

General Questions
Student Questions
Residence Life
CARES Act Emergency Grant Funding
Employee Questions
Events
Admissions

GENERAL

What is Bushnell doing to minimize exposure to COVID-19 through social distancing?

• All undergraduate and graduate classes have transitioned to an online format through April 10.
• All spring intercollegiate competition, games, and practices are cancelled.
• All events and gatherings with 50+ attendees have been cancelled through April 10.

What guides the decisions of the University in response to COVID-19?

The University is staying in close communication with and continues to follow directives and guidance of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Lane County Public Health.

Who should I trust for accurate information about COVID-19?

We encourage everyone to stay current with the information available on the CDC’s website and/or Lane County Public Health.

What should I do personally to avoid contracting the virus?

• Wash your hands frequently (although not obsessively) for at least 20 seconds, especially after shaking hands with people.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Cover your coughs to avoid spreading the virus.
• Minimize physical contact with casual acquaintances, substituting a polite nod or other gesture instead of handshakes.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick. If you are needed as a caregiver to someone suffering from the disease, do not return to public activity until you are cleared by medical personnel to do so.
• Avoid visiting hospitals, long term care facilities, or nursing homes to the extent possible. If you need to go, limit your time there and keep six feet away from patients.
• People at higher risk of severe illness should stay home and away from large groups of people as much as possible, including public places with lots of people and large gatherings where there will be close contact with others.

STUDENTS

If I am experiencing potential coronavirus symptoms, who should I tell?

Immediately contact an Bushnell faculty/staff member or text your Resident Assistant.

Is campus open?

Our campus remains open, including residence halls, dining services, library, and campus offices.

When is the library open?

The library will be open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Bushnell librarians are available by email and by video-conferencing. Please email to arrange a video conversation.

Are tutoring services available?

Yes, face-to-face peer tutoring (including math and writing) is available using Microsoft Teams. Electronic writing submissions can be submitted to tutor@bushnell.edu. Smarthinking, an online tutoring service, is available 24/7. Request tutoring on My.Bushnell

Is the counseling center still open?

The counseling center is offering remote counseling appointments through Telehealth. Please call the clinic at 541-684-7464 or email Mindi Barta if you are in need of a remote counseling appointment.

Will the residence halls remain open?

Residence halls and campus dining will remain open through the spring semester. Following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we strongly encourage students to not travel during spring break.

Should I stay home from classes?

All face-to-face classes (undergraduate and graduate) have been moved to an online format through the end of spring semester, which ends May 8, 2020.

Will student group travel be cancelled?

All nonessential University travel has been postponed until further notice.

Will Bushnell’s Financial Aid Office take into consideration financial hardships my family may be experiencing due to the cornonavirus pandemic?

Yes, while our Financial Aid Department cannot guarantee increases to financial aid scholarship or grant programs for all students due to the coronavirus pandemic, we are able to review submitted Special Circumstance Form requests and if appropriate, recalculate eligibility on a case-by-case basis. Please see the Coronavirus Special Circumstances form (PDF) for more details and instructions.

Can I adjust my outstanding balance payment arrangements due to unexpected financial hardships related to the coronavirus pandemic?

Yes, Bushnell’s Billing Department will work with you regarding your outstanding balance.  Please contact Darcy Nolte (dnolte@bushnell.edu) as soon as possible to discuss your options.

Residence Life

Note: Information listed below is current as of March 19, 2020 and is subject to change at the guidance of local, state, and national authorities.

Can residents stay on campus for Spring Break?

Yes, residents may stay on campus for Spring Break. The cafeteria will remain open, but the Beanery will be closed.

Can residents stay on campus through the end of the semester?

Yes, campus housing will remain open until May 9, 2020.

Will the cafeteria remain open for residential students?

Yes, the cafeteria is committed to providing meals for residential students as circumstances permit. There may be changes to food options, dining locations and other services.

How to I let Residence Life know whether I intend to stay or go?

Please complete the Spring Housing Plans Form by March 22nd .

If I am staying for the rest of the semester, will I need to move out of my room?

No, you do not need to move out of your room at this time, but we may ask you to relocate to a different housing assignment. This will depend on the number of residents who remain on campus and our staffing needs.

What if I do not intend to return to campus housing this semester?

You should plan to come back to campus to move, clean and check out of your room before March 30. Please coordinate a check out time with your RA.

BG residents not currently staying on campus have 4 hours to pack and move. Apartment, townhouse and 9-9 residents not currently staying on campus have 8 hours to pack and move. You will not have time to visit with friends. We ask that you spend your time on campus packing and moving only. Please practice physical distancing measures to lessen the spread of the virus.

Students who complete their checkout by March 30 will receive a prorated Room and Board refund for the final six weeks of the semester.

What if I am not returning but am unable to check out before March 30?

A storage fee will be assessed for students who do not check out by March 30. Additionally, all residents must return to campus to move out their belongings and check out by May 9.

You must email your RD (emjohnston@bushnell.edu for BG, jlittle@bushnell.edu for apartments, townhouses and 9-9) at least 24 hours in advance to coordinate your check out.

BG residents have 4 hours to pack and move. Apartment, townhouse and 9-9 residents have 8 hours to pack and move.

If a student is unable to come personally, they may identify trusted friends and/or family members in the area who will complete their checkout on their behalf.

These students will also receive a prorated Room and Board refund for the final six weeks of the semester.

What if I am gone now but want to come back to stay on campus for any part of the remainder of the semester?

Students who have been out of the Eugene/Springfield area who wish to return to campus housing must be cleared by the Office of Student Life before returning to campus (other than for packing and moving). This clearance is to ensure the health and safety of our on-campus community. Please fill out an Intent to Return Questionnaire. If you have felt sick, please wait at least 72 hours after cessation of symptoms before requesting to return to campus.

Do I still need to sign up for housing for the fall?

Absolutely! Please complete the Returning Student Housing Profile and Room & Board Agreement on My.Bushnell by April 1st. More info will be emailed in the coming weeks.

CARES Act Emergency Grand Funding

Did Bushnell receive CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Grant Funding for students?

Yes, Bushnell has received funds from the CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund and has begun distributing those funds directly to students to assist them with emergency financial relief related to the disruption of campus operations due to the coronavirus. These grants are intended to be used by students for food, housing, course materials, technology, transportation, health care, and childcare.

How does a student qualify for a CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Grant?

Eligible Bushnell students are those who have experienced COVID-19 related expenses by the disruption of Bushnell’s campus operations, who had filed a FAFSA for the 2019-2020 academic year and met the Title IV federal aid eligibility criteria, are currently meeting satisfactory academic progress guidelines, and were originally enrolled in face-to-face course(s) for the spring 2020 semester.

How do I apply for a CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Grant from Bushnell?

Applications are continuing to be considered for any Bushnell student who has not already applied or received funding and is deemed eligible. Student can apply at COVID-19 Additional Funding Application until funds from this program are exhausted.

Additional Information

Additional information can be reviewed on the CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Grant Disclosure webpage.

EMPLOYEES

Do I need permission to work from home?

Employees should check with their supervisors about whether they can work from home. If you are sick or have any of the main symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough or shortness of breath), you are required to stay home until fully recovered and without symptoms for at least 24 hours.

Events

When will spring graduation happen?

Our Graduation will not be on May 9, 2020. The day, time and format for the graduation ceremony are yet to be determined. We will keep you posted as we have more information to share.

Will spring music events be cancelled?

All spring music performances have been cancelled including the Night of Jazz, on April 4 and Godspell on April 24 and April 25. All tickets purchased on-line through Eventbrite will be automatically refunded.

Will spring sports be cancelled?

All spring sports activity is cancelled, including intercollegiate competition, games, and practices.

Admissions

Can I still apply to Bushnell?

Yes, you can! We are adjusting our admissions processes to offer greater flexibility to students and their families during this time. Learn about specific COVID-19 admissions updates.

Dear Bushnell University Community,

We know that some of you are curious about our plans for physically re-opening this fall.  Know that our “Covid-19: Open in the Fall Task Force” has been working diligently to prepare the campus for your return and our full intent is to be physically open.  As we prepare, know that the University is observing guidelines set forth by the state of Oregon and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The following is an update regarding specific questions you might have and an outline of precautionary measures we are taking to limit our campus community’s exposure to COVID-19:

Specific COVID-19 Questions:

Will Bushnell University be open for returning students and on-campus classes in the fall semester and fall term 1/2?

• YES!  All classes will run as scheduled.  Face-to-face classes will meet physically.  16 week classes will run for 16 weeks, term classes will run in their existing 8-week online format, and the first day of classes will be Monday, August 24^th (unless you hear otherwise given your specific program).  Fall commencement will be held December 11^th.

When will students be allowed to return to campus?

• The first official day of face-to-face classes will be Monday, August 24^th.
• New Student Orientation (for new undergraduate frosh/transfers) will be Thursday, August 20^th – Sunday, August 23^rd.
• Returning residential students may move into their respective residence hall on Saturday, August 22^nd beginning at noon.
• Cross-Country, Soccer and Volleyball student-athletes will be returning August 12^th with practices beginning August 15^th (be looking for additional information from our Athletic Department and/or your respective Coach).  Dates are still being determined for ESPORTS and Golf.
• Resident Assistants, Student Programs Assistants, Campus Ministry Assistants, Wellness Assistants, and Orientation Student Staff will be given specific training dates by your respective Dean/Director overseeing your training.
• There will be further updates through the summer about timelines, preparations, and protocols for return to campus.

Will there be social distancing in our classrooms and on campus?

• MOSTY LIKELY.  We are currently planning for social-distanced classroom setups, with students situated six feet apart in all directions.  There will be “traffic flow” guidelines for all buildings, classrooms, and community areas to avoid two-way foot traffic as much as possible.

Will there be plexiglass shields in classrooms?

• UNLIKELY.  We will plan for sufficient distancing from the lecture podiums so that plexiglass will not be required.

Will face masks be required?

• PROBABLY, but we’re still working on protocols and guidelines.

Will there be plexiglass shields in offices.

• MOST LIKELY.  Specifically at reception desks/areas for each building.

Will we be testing and tracking?

• This is an ongoing conversation about what we will need to do, what is prudent to do, and how to implement.  With regard to the TRACKING, however, you should expect more structure especially in your classes and at campus events.  Attendance records and participation reports will be very crucial if we need to determine where individual students have been and when, also with whom they have been in close contact.  You might even experience seating assignments for classes and other regular gatherings.

Will any of my classes be delivered in hybrid format (part face-to-face/part online)?

• NOT unless they have been formally approved by the academic dean to be offered as hybrid.  There are a few very large classes (enrollment of 50 or more) that may need to offered with alternating groups of students attending face-to-face while others attend online.  If you are in one of these classes, we’ll provide more information about how that will work!

Will any of my face-to-face classes be offered online in case I am unable to attend physically?

• We assume there will be a few students who, for the entire semester or for limited times during the semester, may require online and/or hybrid accommodation. Faculty are making plans to accommodate students who will need to access the course via online instruction for specified and approved reasons.  They will be utilizing current technology (e.g., Big Blue Button in BeaconLearning; Teams) to build in a synchronous online component for face-to-face class sessions.

Will I be able to meet face-to-face with my instructors outside of class?

• ABSOLUTELY!  (Maintaining established protocols for physical distancing, of course.)  What we know for sure about our undergraduate students is that they want the full college experience, including access to their professors.  This is one of the (many) things that we/you do really well at Bushnell University!

Will there be Chapel?

• YES, but it will look slightly different.  Chapel will reflect the same consideration, safety and practices as outlined in aforementioned guidelines.  We will have very intentional traffic patterns for entering and exiting Chapel.  Gatherings will be recorded for live and future viewing, especially for those with underlying conditions.

Some schools have announced that they are ending face-to-face classes at Thanksgiving break and finishing the semester online.  Is Bushnell planning to do this?

• NO.  We plan to operate the full semester with the physical campus open.

Will facilities undergo additional cleaning and will there be sanitation stations?

• YES.  Our Custodial Crew has received COVID-19 cleaning certification and will clean classrooms, restrooms, office spaces, workspaces, and public spaces based upon protocols developed by the Center for Disease Control.
• YES. The entrance of each building will be equipped with hand sanitizer stations. We will continue to encourage frequent hand washing.

Know that we will continue to provide you with additional information in the coming days and weeks about the full range of considerations related to our “Open in the Fall” plan.

Blessings,

Dr. Dennis Lindsay
Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean of the Faculty

Michael Fuller
Vice President for Enrollment & Student Development

Dear Bushnell Community,

My prayer is that this message finds you and your loved ones healthy. To say it has been an interesting last seven weeks to our spring 2020 semester would be an understatement for all of us.

We do arrive at the end of the semester with a sense of accomplishment that is much different and perhaps, even deeper, than we have experienced before. You have met the challenges typically issued by rigorous course work amidst unusual circumstances. You have adjusted quickly; wearing masks, practicing social distancing and attending classes via Teams and Zoom. Thank you for accepting the challenge and embracing these health requirements with grace, patience and compassion for each other as well as for faculty, staff and the community.

There are two important updates that I want to share with all you.

Commencement was scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2020, in the Morse Center, but the stay home, stay safe order from our Governor changed that event and others like it as we, as a nation, continue to proceed through the pandemic with an abundance of caution for ourselves and each other.

It is important that our graduates be celebrated for their accomplishments with their family, friends, and academic community. As such, we will offer each graduate and their family two options to participate in a commencement exercise this year.

On June, 6th the University will hold commencement via YouTube Premieres at 10 AM. Graduates and their families will hear our commencement speakers, and acknowledge special awards. We will announce each graduate’s name and the University’s Board of Trustees will confer all degrees. We are committed to conduct a digital commencement as close to an in person event as we can make it.

Graduates are also invited to walk in the December 2020 commencement service in the Morse Center. Regardless of how a person graduates this spring, online or in December, all spring 2020 graduates will receive a diploma from Northwest Christian University.

There are more details to come from the Registrar’s Office about how to participate in Spring Commencement 2020. We look forward to the celebration.

The other important campus news is that the University is preparing to open for regular operations this fall. When students arrive on campus on August 20 (for orientations, August 24 for first day of classes), we will observe all health practices as prescribed by Oregon’s Governor’s Office and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention to limit everyone’s potential exposure to COVID-19. We are preparing for your arrival in a myriad of ways and will work with the guidelines given to us by federal, state and local authorities.

First year and returning students will be receiving regular information about classes and move in dates to begin our first year as Bushnell University.

I am proud of our graduates and look forward to celebrating the achievement of your degree with you. Returning students, we have missed you and look forward to your return as we welcome our first year students on campus, in classes, attending chapel, and participating in student activities.

As we navigate these changing seasons, we will continue to seek with enthusiasm God’s wisdom, centered on our faith in Jesus Christ to pursue opportunities for service in a world so desperately in need.

Sincerely,

Joseph D. Womack, Ed.D.
President