Alvernia University health and safety officials are closely monitoring a global outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a new strain of coronavirus that was first detected in Wuhan, China, and has since been detected in numerous other countries, including the United States.
How do I use the tabs below?
Please see the Updates tabs for a running list of announcements. Information in previous updates may be outdated as time passes. Please use the FAQs for the most up-to-date information.
Have questions?
Don't see the answer to your question in the FAQs below? Please voice additional questions or concerns by emailing Campus.Update@alvernia.edu. The messages will be sent to the Alvernia University Emergency Management Committee and will be answered in groups and added to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) posted on this page.
Latest Updates
Friday, March 27
Dear Alvernia University Community,
With the State of Pennsylvania’s order for Berks County residents to stay-at-home beginning at 8 p.m. Friday, March 27, and lasting through April 6, we know you may have many questions about how Alvernia is proceeding.
We understand that this is a stressful time for all members of our community. We are committed to continuing in accordance with our Franciscan values and principles in providing the best educational experience for our students. The safety and well-being of our community is our highest priority at this time.
A few important points:
1.) Alvernia University has already closed most university buildings at each of its three campuses, and classes will remain online through the remainder of the semester.
2.) Alvernia Senior Leadership has defined a small group of essential personnel that will need access to university buildings to continue to serve our remote students, faculty and staff as well as the small contingent of students who remain on campus. This includes Food Services, Housekeeping, Information Technology and Public Safety only.
3.) The campus is operating in accordance with the stay-at-home order: Alvernia is housing students, offering services and providing meals. Most university services have already moved online, including classes last week.
We will continue to update members of the community with information during this unprecedented and rapidly evolving situation. Please keep safe and follow recommendations from the CDC regarding social distancing and precautions. Our Health Alerts page is regularly updated, and we encourage you to check back frequently.
Finally, we leave you with a mission moment for solitude:
As we enter into this new phase of sheltering in place, let us remember that St. Francis was no stranger to solitude. He often found places, such as the mountain retreat known as the Carceri, to practice contemplation. This solitude is the foundation of our Franciscan life. In our modern day, solitude is more difficult to achieve and certainly very few of us can escape to a mountain retreat! But, as we begin a time of isolation, we encourage you to develop a regular rhythm of solitude and prayer that will help you discern God’s presence in this current time of uncertainty and anxiety.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Academics
Community service graduation requirement waived: Alvernia University’s service requirement involves completing at least 40 hours of community service before graduation. We recognize and greatly appreciate the many hours that our students contribute to others. Due to our current cultural climate, we believe that our students, in one way or another, are providing service daily to their family, friends or nearby community. We also understand that our students are working through situations that prompt additional levels of stress and anxiety. In acknowledgment of the current unique circumstance, all of our graduates, up through our August graduates, will be recognized as fulfilling their Alvernia University service requirement. We will still permit students to send in their service hours if they choose to do so as a way of recognizing their efforts, but this would not be required.
Service opportunities from home: As the Holleran Center has a direct nexus and mission-centered on community service, we will continue to post potential community service activities with the caveat that all staff and students should follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines and participate only if they are comfortable doing so. A full list of these opportunities can be found here.
Blackboard shell for faculty: The Center for Instructional Design and Learning Technologies has developed a Blackboard Organization as a space for faculty conversation and sharing resources during this time of online learning. To access this Blackboard Organization,login to Blackboard and find Organizations where you are: Participant. Bookmark this organization and peruse the resources that are available to you, including all of the shared resources, access to technologies to use in the online environment, a discussion board to share ideas and a sample shell that can be used as you are transitioning your Blackboard courses to an online format. New resources will be added every day.
Media Suite offers webinars for faculty: Please check the new Blackboard shell for a full list of live webinars being offered to Alvernia faculty on topics that include Teaching Online, Teaching Online with Blackboard, Teaching Live with ZOOM, Creating Online Tests with Respondus and Recording Lectures with Panopto. Webinars registration is required in advance and webinars will be made available on-demand when completed.
Housing and Campus Life
SGA elections for undergraduate day students: For students interested in running for the student government association executive board, intent to run forms for the executive board are due this Friday, March 27th. Click hereto access the form or it can be found on the PAX homepage. Elections will be on PAX from April 1st at noon through April 3rd at noon. Intent to Run forms for the senate are due on PAX by April 14th. Click here to access the form or it can be found on the PAX homepage. Elections for senate positions on PAX will run from noon on April 22nd through noon on April 24th.
Mental health resource from Active Minds: Active Minds, the nation's premier nonprofit organization supporting mental health awareness and education for students, has developed alist of mental health resources for students during the COVID-19 situation. In addition, Active Minds is holding regular webinars and other online events that offer resources to students.
Student activities from home: Student activities is hosting something new every day at 2 p.m. ET. The internet has a lot to offer and Googling will only get you so far. Let Student Activities share with you some awesome things to do online! Students can follow the student activities Instagram @AlverniaSA.
University Operations
Having computer issues?: Many of the most common problems with computers can be resolved by restarting. These include failing to connect to the VPN, computer running slowly, software is not responsive, and many others. By taking this simple step, many calls to the service desk can be avoided and you will maintain your productivity!
Wednesday, March 25
Dear Alvernia University Community,
Like all of you, we have been closely monitoring the public health crisis created by COVID-19. We have continuously reviewed guidance from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pennsylvania State Health Officials and the White House on tactics to implement to protect our community.
We write you today with decisions that are disappointing, weigh heavy on our hearts and have been very difficult for us to reach. First, Alvernia University suspends all in-person instruction, except for certain, limited clinical instruction, for the remainder of the semester. All classes will continue online. The faculty and administration has extended the deadline to withdraw from a course to April 17th. This deadline applies to semester-long and Mod 4 classes, undergraduate and graduate.
In addition, all events scheduled at the University through May are suspended. This will include some of our most wonderful and cherished celebrations, including Honors Convocation, MargaritaVern and most disappointing, all Commencement activities. Alvernia faculty and staff are currently exploring opportunities to hold some of these events virtually. As details emerge, we will share them via the Health Alerts webpage.
We are currently making arrangements for commencement exercises in December 2020. Postponing commencement will not affect our ability to confer degrees and we will mail graduates their diplomas as soon as they are available.
We will deeply miss the vibrancy that students bring to our campuses each spring, and how incomplete this year will feel without our commencement ceremonies. We share in your current pain but look forward to celebrating in your collective joy after our community does its part to mitigate all the risks that COVID-19 poses to our students, faculty, staff and our foundresses, the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters.
To our faculty and staff, we are working aggressively to support academic continuity, telecommuting, and leave flexibility for issues related to COVID-19. The university will continue its operations as previously announced.
We know this news brings about many questions and concerns. We encourage you to continue to share those by emailing Campus.Update@Alvernia.eduwhile continuing to monitor Health Alerts and your campus email account for the latest updates.
We would like to thank our campus community for demonstrating our Franciscan values of service, humility, peacemaking, contemplation and collegiality during this time. You have continued to rise to meet each new challenge posed and you have our sincerest gratitude for your hard work throughout. We hope this mission moment inspires hope: “I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world." ( John 16:33) Together, we know our community will overcome every obstacle ahead.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Friday, March 20
Dear Alvernia University Community,
What a week it has been for our university, our state and our world.
With all the challenges COVID-19 currently presents to our way of life, it is more important than ever to reflect on our university’s Franciscan roots. We hope you will find comfort in knowing that the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters are cheerful and doing well at this time.
With this, in all future updates, we will offer a mission moment for our community. We hope these phrases provide comfort, peace and a unique way to center yourself during these turbulent times.
So as you head into the weekend, please be healthy, safe and take care of yourself and your loved ones.
“God's love calls us to move beyond fear. We ask God for the courage to put on faith, hope and love as we go out into the world and become the word in body as well as spirit.” - Pope Francis
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Academics
Adobe Creative Cloud Free: Adobe announced free access to its Cloud Service for all Alvernia students through the end of May. Installation instructions are available in the Student Resources Folder here.
New Student Resources: New student resources are available in this folder. New resources will be added regularly, so we encourage students to bookmark the folder.
Blackboard Shell for Faculty: The Center for Instructional Design and Learning Activities is developing a faculty shell as a space for faculty conversation and sharing resources during this time of online learning. We will alert you when this feature becomes available on Blackboard.
Housing and Campus Life
Meal and Mailroom Update: For the students remaining on campus, grab and go meals will be available once a day, 12-1 p.m. Students can pick up their mail in the Public Safety office at that time as well.
FAQs
Can I return to campus to get the rest of my belongings?
We have received many inquiries regarding returning to campus to gather the rest of your belongings. Until further notice, our entire campus is closed and locks have been changed. Do not return to campus at this time.
Alvernia cares about your safety and well-being, and that of our public safety and university life staff. Our state and federal health experts advise that the most effective way to protect yourself is to remain at home.
We know that you did not plan for this and are not fully moved out, and the Office of Residence Life will communicate with you regarding gathering the rest of your belongings as soon as the situation allows.
Will students receive refunds for room and board?
The university will actively engage in seeking out state and or federal reimbursement for students if funds become available. Alvernia will continuously monitor the situation and update as new information becomes available.
How will classes continue?
All in-person instruction, except for certain, limited clinical instruction, for the remainder of the spring semester. All course work will continue online. The faculty and administration has extended the deadline to withdraw from a class to April 17th. This deadline applies to semester-long and Mod 4 classes, undergraduate and graduate.
What happens to the regularly scheduled commencement ceremony?
All events scheduled at the University through May are suspended. This includes all Commencement activities. We are currently making arrangements for commencement exercises in December 2020. Postponing commencement will not affect our ability to confer degrees and we will mail graduates their diplomas as soon as they are available.
What happens with the scheduled alternative breaks?
Both the West Virginia and Reading Alternative Breaks have been cancelled at this time. The Office of Mission and Ministry recognizes how much time and effort students invested in preparation for these trips and are offering students various options for reconciliation, they will be reaching out to you shortly if you are on one of these trips.
Can students who remain on campus stay in their residence?
Residential students who received permission to continue residing on campus will get a notification over the coming days for guidance about next steps.
What happens to all the scheduled events on campus?
All events scheduled at the University through May are suspended. This will include some of our most wonderful and cherished celebrations, including Honor’s Convocation, MargaritaVern, Spring Fling, SGA Awards and Inductions and Senior Athlete Banquet. Alvernia faculty and staff are currently exploring opportunities to hold some of these events virtually. As details emerge, we will share them via the Health Alerts webpage.
Now that Alvernia University has closed its campuses, how will that affect operations and events?
All Alvernia University buildings (except those necessary for a contingent of students remaining on campus) for all staff, faculty, and students effective noon Wednesday, March 18, 2020. While university buildings will be closed, online education and registration for students continue as previously announced. All University employees with capability to work remotely, as business operations continue during this time. For our employees in functions without remote capabilities, work will be excused during the closure.
All university-sponsored events are canceled or postponed through the end of May. All external events scheduled from through theh end of May are to be cancelled or rescheduled. To reschedule external events, please contact Suzanne Miller at Suzanne.Miller@alvernia.edu.
Can students continue participating in fieldwork (clinical experiences, internships, etc.)?
Alvernia University is committed to supporting internship/clinical/fieldwork experiences. Students can continue their experience as long as the host site remains open and the student’s preceptor/supervisor is available. Above all, please know that Alvernia cares for the safety of its students. Students may choose not to continue field placements. If or when that occurs, students should contact their department chair or fieldwork coordinator by email. As always, Alvernia encourages students to maintain ongoing communication with department fieldwork coordinators. Alvernia faculty are fully supportive of students and appreciative of those who are on the front lines of health care, business and criminal justice and helping to keep communities safe by shaping the response to COVID-19.
Are there resources available to help students, faculty, and staff transition to online learning and remote work environments?
The Center for Instructional Design and Learning Technology has developed a list of resources put to help you transition to a fully online environment. This folder will be updated daily and we encourage you to use any of the resources in this folder to assist.
Any faculty or student having IT related issues (ZOOM connections, webcam problems, remote access to servers and other programs, etc.) should contact the Service Desk (610-927-2008 orservicedesk@alvernia.edu). The IT Support Services team will be working closely with the Service Desk to prioritize responses.
What services are available for students remaining on campus?
Students who remain on campus will be able to pick up cooked and cooled to-go meal service out of the student center salad bar. Pick up will be available seven days a week, twice a day: 7-8 a.m. and 12–1 p.m. Prepared foods will be dated and labeled for students to reheat in their residence halls. Students who remain on campus will be able to pick up their mail at Public Safety in the student center, twice a day, 7-8 a.m. and 12-1 p.m.
How will Alvernia handle students who are employed through work-study and Graduate Assistantships?
Student worker programs remain generally suspended during the closure.With few exceptions, student workers already embedded in the educational structure may work with VP approval. Hours worked should be recorded per regular pay practice. Graduate Assistants may work remotely with Vice President approval. In some cases, graduate assistant work that is non-essential at this time will be suspended. Hours worked should be recorded per regular pay practice.
Who do I contact if I become ill?
In the unfortunate event any student, faculty or staff member becomes ill during this closure, it is important to notify your primary care physician.
Students, faculty and staff should also contact Director of Health Services Dr. Claire Murphy (Claire.Murphy@alvernia.edu).
We are writing to update the campus community on our continued monitoring of the ever-evolving situation coronavirus poses.
We remain committed to ensuring the safety and health of our students, faculty, staff and the Sisters while providing high-quality education.
To do this, we will continue to share updates and relevant resources to guide you through these times of considerable uncertainty. Please see the pertinent updates and resources below.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Academics
Synchronous Classes: Any faculty holding synchronous classes must do so during their regularly scheduled class time.
Connection Problems: Any faculty or student having connection issues should contact the Service Desk (610-927-2008 orservicedesk@alvernia.edu), who will then escalate to Support Services if needed.
New Student Resources Available: New resources to help students transition to online learning and self-quarantining are available in the Student Resources Folder.
University Operations
Academic Alerts, Progress Reports and ReportIt: During this time of transition to the online environment, we want to continue to use these platforms so that appropriate staff can provide outreach to our students. Please remember that reports related to academic concerns should be submitted through AUAdvise. All other concerns should be submitted through ReportIt.
Faculty Resource to Quickly Transition to Online Learning: Cengage developed a webinar “Stop-Gap Strategies to Quickly Transition Online” that is now available in the Faculty Resources Folder.
Managing Your Newly Remote Workers: The Harvard Business Review has compiled a guide for supervisors who find themselves managing their newly remote teams.
Wednesday, March 18
March 18, 2020 - Update
Dear Alvernia University Community,
Today marks the official closure of all university buildings as students and faculty transition to online education and employees begin remote business operations. This decision came after careful consideration for the safety and well-being of our campus community and the greater Berks, Montgomery and Schuylkill county communities that we serve daily.
There is a small contingent of students who remain on campus at this time and the university is providing them the necessary resources during the closure.
We can all help limit the spread of illness by practicing good health hygiene and social distancing. The university is continuing its heightened cleaning processes, and with the closure of our buildings, deep cleaning by our housekeeping staff will begin.
In the unfortunate event any student, faculty or staff member becomes ill during this closure, it is important to notify Dr. Claire Murphy (Claire.Murphy@alvernia.edu). Employees should also contact their supervisor and Leslie Kane (Leslie.Kane@alvernia.edu).
We ask that everyone continue to monitor their university emails and visit Alvernia.edu/Health-Alerts for continued updates pertinent to academics, housing, campus life and university operations. Most importantly, stay safe, stay healthy and take time for self-care and care of your loved ones. And please remember, we are in this together.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Academics
Academic Success Center and Library Services: The Academic Success Center and Library staff are available to assist students as they transition to this new online learning environment. Please click here to view the remote services available. All students can access this and other resources by clicking here.
Comcast Offers Free Internet Access: Comcast is offering free internet packages to those in participating locations. More information is available here.
Housing and Campus Life
Health and Wellness: Alvernia continues to offer health and counseling services for the campus community during the closure. For an updated list of resources, please click here.
Dining Services: Students who remain on campus will be able to pick up cooked and cooled to-go meal service out of the student center salad bar. Pick up will be available seven days a week, twice a day: 7-8 a.m. and 12–1 p.m. Prepared foods will be dated and labeled for students to reheat in their residence halls.
Mailroom: Students who remain on campus will be able to pick up their mail at Public Safety in the student center, twice a day, 7-8 a.m. and 12-1 p.m.
Zoom Mid-Day Prayer: On Mondays and Wednesdays, the Office of Mission and Ministry will lead a Mid-Day Prayer at 12 p.m. on zoom. This will last about 10 minutes, and anyone can join using this zoom link: https://alvernia.zoom.us/j/195504048 (If you would like a calendar invite, contact tracy.hine@alvernia.edu).
Clare’s Cupboard: Our on-campus food pantry, Clare’s Cupboard, is now in Veronica Hall Chapel and will remain open during the campus closure. Any students who remain on campus are welcome to take what they need. At this time, the cupboard is fully stocked, but the university will ask faculty and staff if or when more donations are needed. If anyone in our community needs extra food, please reach out to reid.hoff@alvernia.edu.
Hammock Ministry: For students remaining on campus, Stephanie Gonzalez will hold Hammock Ministry, a social distancing-friendly activity approved by Dr. Murphy. Students on campus are invited to meet with Stephanie in groups of two, around the hammocks, all while maintaining social distancing rules! Reach out to stephanie.gonzalez@alvernia.edu for more information.
Interfaith Coffee Hour: Interfaith Coffee Hours will now be zoom meetings. Please reach out to Rubina.tareen@alvernia.edu for more information.
University Operations
Service Desk: In our remote work environment, it is imperative to contact the Service Desk at 610-927-2008 or servicedesk@alvernia.edu for any IT issues. The IT Support Services team will be working closely with the Service Desk to prioritize responses.
Citrix Web Access: IT has developed a walkthrough for remote access to Citrix, which powers many campus applications such as PowerCampus, PowerFAIDSand SQL reports. The walkthrough is available in the Faculty and Staff OneDrive Resources folder.
Work-Study and Graduate Assistants: Student worker programs remain generally suspended during the closure. With few exceptions, student workers already embedded in the educational structure may work with VP approval. Hours worked should be recorded per regular pay practice. Graduate Assistants may work remotely with Vice President approval. In some cases, graduate assistant work that is non-essential at this time will be suspended. Hours worked should be recorded per regular pay practice.
Employee Assistance Program: Alvernia employees can utilize EAP telephonic and telehealth services instead of meeting face to face. Clients having questions or concerns may call the main number, 610-374-4963 option 7 or 800-255-5998 option 7 for Inroads EAP. To utilize the staff directory, press the # key. Inroads and Family Guidance Center Staff are monitoring.
Human Resources and Payroll: Human Resources and payroll remain open and available to support/assist with any employee issue/question that may arise. For pay questions, please email Raelynn Papoutsis, Raelynn.papoutsis@alvernia.edu, or Allyson Mullin, Allyson.mullin@alvernia.edu.
Tuesday, March 17
Dear Alvernia Faculty and Staff,
As you transition away from campus, here are a few additional notes and reminders:
Email
While email should be handled as normal, we are encouraging employees to use the following Out Of Office reply:
Thank you for your email. For the safety of our community, the Alvernia University campus is closed until Tuesday, April 14. We appreciate your understanding and will respond as soon as possible. Have a great day.
To reduce the number of emails campus-wide, please send all announcements to Campus.Update@alvernia.edu for distribution. Updates will be posted to our external website and sent through email from Campus Update. Please check this important communication daily.
ZOOM
ZOOM is the software that allows faculty to conduct live classes and hold virtual office hours for your students and for all staff to continue to communicate virtually. All faculty have been granted basic accounts, which allows an unlimited number of 40-minute meetings with up to 100 students and access to every feature in ZOOM except for recording in the cloud and breakout rooms. All staff who had the upgraded pro license have been replaced with a basic license until we resume normal academic operations. If you need an upgraded license to ZOOM to conduct class sessions for more than 40 minutes or plan to use the breakout rooms feature, please email Brian Gall (brian.gall@alvernia.edu) for access to the pro account. If you do not know how to use ZOOM, please make an appointment with the Media Suite. We will utilize Zoom for training.
Office Phone Call Forwarding and Voicemails
Please use the following steps below to forward your office phone to your cellphone or home phone:
Using the white arrow keys, arrow over and/or down until you see the “call forward” menu item.
Press the button next to “call forward.” The button will light up green, and you will get a dial tone.
Enter the number that you want to forward calls to (you will need to enter a 6 and the 10 digit number, or, if it is a long-distance number, enter 6,1, and the 10 digit number.
Once you have entered the number, you will hear 3 beeps confirming your call forward, and at the top of your phone display, you will see the message “call forward xxxxxxxx” where xxxxxxx is the phone number you are forwarding your calls to.
Call Forwarding will remain active until you press the “call forward” button again. Once the green light goes out, call forwarding is disabled.
Please change your office voicemail to say the following:
Thank you for your call. For the safety of our community, the Alvernia University campus is closed until Tuesday, April 14. Employees are working remotely, so please be sure to follow your call with an email to {insert your email address}. Thank you and have a great day.
If you don’t set up call forwarding, please review your voicemail daily by:
Dialing 610-796-8297
When prompted, enter your 4 digit extension and voicemail password.
From this point, the voicemail works the same as if you are on campus, allowing you to listen to messages, delete them, record greetings, etc.
OneDrive
Before leaving, please continue to transfer pertinent files from any university-based network drive (S Drive, C Drive, etc.). If you are having issues moving files, please review this FAQ.
Please contact Carl Marks at carl.marks@alvernia.edu for assistance with the following: connectivity from a remote location, such as VPN or GoToMyPC, or use of a loaner device. We have made laptops available to those (students, faculty and staff) that need them as well as provided awareness of cost free WIFI connections on both our faculty and student resource OneDrive folders.
Sincerely,
Alvernia University Emergency Management Committee
Conference Calls
As the university transitions to conference calls, here are a few tips for proper etiquette:
Ensure you have a reliable phone connection
Identify yourself whenever you speak
Use the mute button when not speaking
If you’re late, don’t announce yourself.
Notify the group of potential call disruptions
Speak loudly and clearly
Monday, March 16
Dear Alvernia University Community,
After continued monitoring of the COVID19 situation and careful consideration for the safety and well-being of our community, Alvernia University is preparing today to physically close access to all university buildings (except those necessary for a contingent of students remaining on campus) for all staff, faculty, and students effective noon Wednesday, March 18, 2020.
While our university buildings will be closed, online education and registration for students continue as previously announced. We expect all University employees with capability to work remotely, as business operations continue during this time. For our employees in functions without remote capabilities, work will be excused during the closure.
At this time, Alvernia plans to reopen campus and resume face-to-face instruction on Tuesday, April 14, 2020.
Additional information and details regarding this closure process will be distributed via additional university emails later this afternoon.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Sunday, March 15
Dear Alvernia University Campus Community,
As we continue to monitor the evolving information and guidance to create a safe workplace during this extraordinary event, here is the expectation for Monday, March 16, 2020:
Main Campus and Schuylkill Center administration and operations are opening as usual. All employees should report to work as scheduled.
We will use Monday to collectively initiate preparation and planning for the likelihood of a 2-week mandated closure.
Our planning process will include communication on essential personnel and guidelines on remote work and flexible work days.
The Emergency Management Committee will reconvene in the morning and share the next steps with everyone.
Thank you for your continued patience and support as we together navigate this unprecedented challenge.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Friday, March 13
Dear Alvernia University Campus Community,
What a week it has been in our country and on our campus. Through it all we have worked together to seek answers that best help our students continue their educational goals and fulfill the mission of Alvernia University. In our continued monitoring of the ever-evolving situation the Coronavirus poses, Alvernia will be providing these updates for the campus community. Please voice additional questions or concerns by emailing Campus.Update@alvernia.edu. The messages will be sent to the Alvernia University Emergency Management Committee and will be answered in groups in this daily update format and then added to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our Health Alerts website.
This message contains a summary of the questions asked since yesterday. Please check back on Sunday evening for further communication.
Academic
Should students who are participating in fieldwork (clinical experiences, internships, etc.) remain on campus at this time and participate in their experiential learning?
Alvernia University is committed to supporting internship/clinical/fieldwork experiences. Students can remain on campus as long as the host site remains open and the student’s preceptor/supervisor is available. Above all, please know that Alvernia cares for the safety of its students. Students may choose not to continue field placements. If or when that occurs, students should contact their department chair or fieldwork coordinator by email. As always, Alvernia encourages students to maintain ongoing communication with department fieldwork coordinators. Alvernia faculty are fully supportive of students and appreciative of those who are on the front lines of health care, business and criminal justice and helping to keep communities safe by shaping the response to COVID-19.
When will Alvernia return to standard face-to-face classes?
Alvernia plans to return to face-to-face instruction on Tuesday, April 14. All students are expected to return to campus at that time.
Are there resources available to help faculty and students transition to an online learning environment?
Yes, folders have been established on the health alerts website for both faculty and students seeking to become more comfortable online. As new tools become available they will be added. Also the Media Center remains open with extended hours throughout the crisis for both student and faculty support.
Housing and Campus Life
What dining services are available to students remaining on campus?
Alvernia continues to work closely with food services. Below is the dining hall schedule starting Monday, March 16
Monday-Friday:
Breakfast: 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.: MTO eggs and omelets, comfort station, full continental(available 9-11 a.m.) with fruit and yogurt, all beverages available)
Lunch 11 a.m. -2 p.m.: All stations open modified to single-use, grab and go, and staff served stations.
Dinner 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.: All stations open modified to single-use, grab and go, and staff served stations.
Saturday and Sunday:
Lunch 11 am - 1 p.m. All weekend stations open modified to single-use, grab and go, and staff served stations.
Dinner 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 pm All weekend stations open modified to single-use, grab and go, and staff served stations.
How will Alvernia handle students who are employed through work-study?
Any student or GA that wishes to work during this time must contact their supervisor directly. There will be no re-assignments of student workers to other departments during this time. All supervisors must let Career Development know which students will be working on campus during this interruption. Remote work cannot be conducted without first being approved by a Vice President.
Will students who leave campus receive refunds for room and board?
The campus remains available throughout this time. Alvernia’s goal is to allow students to be in the environment where they feel most comfortable. The university will actively engage in seeking out state and or federal reimbursement for students if funds become available. Alvernia will continuously monitor the situation and update as new information becomes available.
Will the fitness centers remain open?
The fitness centers will close at the end of business on Friday, March 13, and remain closed through Monday, April 13. We understand that fitness opportunities are important to our community. The Alvernia Athletic Department and Health and Wellness Center are developing a list of social-distancing friendly fitness activities for students who stay on campus.
Will Health & Wellness remain open?
Health & Wellness will remain open during regular business hours. Counseling services and health services staff are available. Please call for appointments as usual.
Will Mass still be held on campus?
The Bishop of Allentown has lifted the Sunday Mass obligation. With the suspension of in-person classes on campus, Alvernia has suspended our Sunday 7 p.m. Mass. The Bernardine Sisters will continue to celebrate their 9 a.m. Sunday Mass and daily Mass, but out of an abundance of caution, Alvernia asks the community to kindly go to another parish if you are seeking to celebrate Sunday Mass. Please view the list of Masses in Reading.
University Operations
What updates are available for university employees?
Main campus administration and operations are functioning as usual. All employees should report as scheduled. For most positions, employees should report to work on campus. Working remotely may be an option for some positions with vice president approval.
Vice presidents and supervisors are encouraged to embrace flexibility in staffing during this time. Consider use of staggered workdays, remote working as practical and permitting flexibility outside of regularly schedule workdays and hours.
For employees identified as high risk per Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, Alvernia is accommodating requests to work remotely or from an isolated workspace. For employees requesting use of sick or vacation time, it is at the discretion of the supervisor per Alvernia’s usual practice.
Alvernia’s goal is to create a safe, productive workplace during an extraordinary event. The university will need to continue to strive towards creating practical solutions as a community. Alvernia appreciates and thanks employees for their commitment during this extraordinary event.
What is the status of upcoming events being held on campus?
The viability of all future events and university-related travel are being evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Emergency Management Committee. If there are changes to any of these events, the community will be notified through all available channels.
What is happening with the Presidential Inauguration?
All Inauguration events have now been postponed except for the Mass on Friday, March 20. For the safety of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, the inauguration Mass will be available on livestream at Alvernia.edu/Inauguration for faculty, staff, students, trustees, and the extended community. The inauguration is Friday, March 20th at 3:00 p.m. The day of service on Saturday is postponed.
Wishing you a peaceful and healthy weekend with your family and friends.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President & Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Thursday, March 12
March 12, 2020 - Update
Dear Alvernia University Community,
I am writing to update the campus community on our continued monitoring of the ever-evolving situation the coronavirus poses. It is important to note that at this time there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at the Alvernia or in Berks County.
However, to provide every option to students and to ensure the safety of our community and the Sisters, while ensuring a high-quality education, we have decided on the following course of action and protocols:
Academics
a.) At Alvernia University Main Campus and Schuylkill Center all face-to-face classes will be suspended at the close of the regularly scheduled classes on Friday, March 13. Those classes will resume electronically on Monday, March 16 to ensure there is no interruption to students. We will continue in this protocol until Tuesday, April 14.
b.) Complying with the guidance from the Governor of Pennsylvania and Secretary of Health regarding Montgomery County, Alvernia University’s Philadelphia Campus is closed at the end of business on Thursday, March 12. Classes are scheduled to resume online on Monday, March 16, and will continue in this format until Tuesday, April 14.
c.) Faculty members will provide instruction for students outlining the delivery methods for their online courses and other learning experiences. Please understand that there may be transitional issues as you move to an online experience, and our IT team and faculty will be here to guide you through them. In many ways we are testing the limits of our online service provider and in some cases this will be the first online delivery of certain courses. The connectivity capacity in your individual location can also affect your ability to interface to the online experience. Again, we will be here to help you if those issues occur.
d.) Students on Fieldwork and internships should continue to adhere to the policies of that placement site as per usual policy regarding holidays, sick days, etc.
e.) All regularly scheduled online courses will continue according to the current schedule.
f.) All students should closely monitor their university email.
g.) The Media Suite is prepared to address faculty and student questions and concerns regarding online learning. The Media Suite is open 9 a.m. -5 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. on Saturday, March 14 and on Sunday, March 15 4-10 p.m. and will continue to operate normally throughout this transition.
h.) Course registration for the summer and fall 2020 term will begin on Monday, March 16.
i.) We anticipate face-to-face classes and student activities will resume Tuesday, April 14, however, we will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to the campus community
Housing and Campus Life
a.) Students should house where they feel safe.
b.) All student activities and events are canceled as of Friday, March 13 until further notice. This includes all planned travel events, athletic games and practices, club sport games and practices, intramural, and student organization meetings.
c.) The Office of Residence Life will communicate directly with resident students about protocol and process should students need to stay on campus.
d.) For those staying on campus, dining services will be available in the main dining hall.
University Operations
a.) At this time, Alvernia’s main campus administration and operations will remain open for staff and faculty and all staff must report to work as scheduled. Working remotely is an option if approved by a Vice President.
b.) Any employee who has flu-like symptoms should seek appropriate care and use a sick day benefit as needed.
c.) Human Resources will continue to monitor the directives from the CDC and governing agencies regarding workplace safety for employees and update this recommendation as necessary.
I encourage everyone to continually monitor Alvernia.edu/Health-Alerts for updates. We thank you for your patience as our university’s leadership develops additional plans to keep our community safe throughout this situation.
Sincerely,
John R. Loyack
President
Alvernia University
Update on Dining Services
Good morning,
To assist in avoiding the spread of the coronavirus we are making the following modifications to our student center dining hall.
-All hot stations are being transitioned to served stations by a sanitation trained Aladdin employee.
-We are ensuring that all items that are unwrapped or uncovered are placed behind a sneeze guard.
-We are wrapping all dessert items individually.
-We are wrapping all hand fruit individually.
-We are transitioning to packets of all condiments, sauces and spreads.
-We are transitioning our self service ice cream to individually wrapped ice cream novelties.
-We are transitioning our salad bar station to become a grab and go salad and fruit station. Items will be available in bowls for individuals to single serve themselves. We will also transition to dressing packets.
-Allergen Free concept will become a pre-plated AF station.
Best,
Matt Lykens, Food Service Director, Alvernia University
Wednesday, March 11
Dear Alvernia University Community,
I am writing to update the campus community on our plans to deal with the evolving situation the coronavirus poses.
Through consultation with public health officials, faculty, staff and senior administrators, Alvernia University has developed markers to determine when to implement certain aspects of its plan to curtail the spread of the Coronavirus. While events like these can be unsettling, you can take comfort in knowing that our actions and planning have only one goal: keeping you healthy and safe, while ensuring that we continue to deliver a high-quality education.
We also want to tell you what medical experts have repeatedly told us: This is not the time for panic, but for preparation in order to make well-informed decisions. Our plan includes a potential move to online learning formats to respond to the coronavirus, COVID-19, in a manner that serves our educational mission and protects the well-being of students, faculty and staff.
1.) The first marker is when we are notified by the Pennsylvania Department of Health that there is one confirmed case of COVID-19 in Berks County (not on campus). At that point, faculty will be encouraged to move to an online format for instruction giving students the option of being off campus. In this phase, Staff will be expected to report to work as usual and buildings, including residence halls will remain open and accessible. All campus operations including classes will continue as usual.
2.) The second marker is when we are notified by the Pennsylvania Department of Health that there is one confirmed case of COVID-19 is confirmed at or near Alvernia or there is significant increase in confirmed cases in Berks County. At that point, all courses will move to an online format. Students will be encouraged to leave campus. All athletic activities including practice and competition will be postponed. Essential Staff will be expected to report to work as usual and buildings will remain accessible. Essential services for student housing and dining will be maintained as students will have the option to remain on campus. The Office of Residence Life will communicate with all resident students on the process for requesting stay in the residence halls.
3.) Communication is ongoing with leadership at our Centers and we will make similar decisions with them as needed.
We will alert the campus through OMNI Alert if any markers occur. In the meantime, additional measures to ensure that the campus is cleaned and disinfected are being taken.
We are currently assessing if it is possible to accelerate advising and course registration for Fall coursework. Both faculty and students should be ready to do so, should the need arise.
Faculty have been advised that they must prepare contingency plans to continue teaching their courses online should campus operations be interrupted by a local outbreak. The Media Center has been holding extended hours since Monday to help prepare faculty and all Faculty have had a Zoom Account opened. These instructions are consistently being added to and can be accessed at Faculty Resources - COVID19.
Likewise, students should evaluate their readiness to transition to online learning. For most students, all it takes is a device that can access the internet and is up-to-date (computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone) will all work well for Zoom class meetings. Should Alvernia move completely online, look for more communication to students on how to make this transition seamlessly.
Of course, we understand that students and faculty alike may have concerns regarding switching to an online format. We know you chose Alvernia for a close family-like experience that cannot be easily replicated in an online environment. We will have additional IT and online support available for the campus community should this need arise.
All university-sponsored international and domestic air travel is canceled effective Friday, March 13. This will last through at least May 31.
We know you have concerns about events on campus. The following criteria will be used as a method to reduce exposure of our community. Events and university sponsored domestic trips can continue as planned if the university’s emergency protocols can be communicated to all attendees. These protocols include:
a.) asking those who travel from or work in an affected area with confirmed COVID-19 cases not to attend this event/program;
b.) asking persons who have traveled domestically or internationally to affected areas since March 1, 2020 not to attend this event/program;
c.) asking those who are ill and exhibiting any of the symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) not to attend this event/program.
d.) Events that are publicized as open to the public or are contracted by non-university affiliated groups that utilize Alvernia facilities that cannot meet the criteria above because the University is unable to determine who will be attending will be subject to rescheduling or cancellation.
e.) Use extreme caution and good judgement when attending an event off campus, especially if there is a large crowd.
f.) At this time University Life activities, athletic events and other various campus events are continuing as planned, unless previously communicated otherwise. The viability of all future events and university-related travel are being evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Emergency Management Committee. If there are changes to any of these events, you will be notified through all available channels.
As a continual reminder, all university communication and a list of frequently asked questions about COVID-19 are published on the Health Alerts page also accessible directly from the Alvernia homepage.
Please draw strength from the ways Alvernia’s community members have reached out to offer any help they can to each other. And thank you for your patience and your commitment to the Alvernia University Mission.
Sincerely,
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Provost
John McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Dining Services Update
Dining services prepare to respond as the university needs. This includes:
Moving away from self-serve items in the cafeteria to something pre-made – ex: salad bar will go from self-serve to pre-made salads and to make “to go meals”. Will remain operational as long as students are on campus. Providing extra hand sanitizers in the dining hall.
Monday, March 9
Effective today, all university international travel is canceled through at least May 31. If a faculty member chooses to travel internationally for personal reasons they should contact the Provost's office to establish a plan for self-quarantine and teaching from home in advance of travel.
As classes resume, it is certain that many students (and faculty) will have difficulty attending class. Some may be unable to return to because of travel restrictions and others will be reticent to go to class because they are immuno-compromised and fear infection. Regardless of the cause, Alvernia is making every effort to accommodate students during the remainder of the spring term.
The Media Center has taken the lead on preparing technological infrastructure to help faculty hold classes remotely through Zoom should the need arise. They have simplifed and streamlined all parts of this effort, and have organized extended hours for support this week and into the future.
Our hardworking housekeeping team reacted immediately to order hand sanitizer wall dispensers in addition to extra cleaning supplies. They have also increased their cleaning in high-touch areas (admissions office library, welcome center, PLEX, shuttles, campus commons, etc.) and fitness studios.
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D, Senior Vice-President and Provost
Friday, March 6
As students return from Spring Break Alvernia has taken the following measures to ensure the safety of the campus:
The first case of Coronavirus (COVID19) in Pennsylvania was confirmed on Friday, March 6, 2020. At this time there are no cases on the campus of Alvernia University. Alvernia is continuing to monitor the situation to ensure the safety of the campus community.
Alvernia has established a response protocol should a student come forth with potential symptoms and communicated it to Residence Life student staff, duty staff and Public Safety.
So far reports are that all students who are on university-sponsored trips are not showing any symptoms and all staff advisors have been sent instructions on what to do if anything changes.
Alvernia has distributed resources and instructions regarding remote instructional activities to faculty members in the unlikely event that any Alvernia campus is closed.
Dr. Claire Murphy will serve as the main point of contact for students, all things related to any medical decisions as well as communication with the PA State Health Department. Leslie Kane is working to coordinate employee-related responses including determination of essential employees. Essential employee means an employee in a position who may be required to remain at their work location or to report to work to protect, recover and continue operations when the University is faced with an institutional emergency. Moreover, we are partnering with local emergency resources as well as our institutional vendor services such as Aladdin to ensure preparedness as needed.
Sincerely,
John R. McCloskey, D.B.A., Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff
Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D, Senior Vice-President and Provost
Thursday, March 5
Dear Alvernia students,
As you return from Spring Break, trips abroad, Alternative Breaks and for those of you who have been here working hard through the break, we want to share some updates and make you aware of some recommendations and the precautions we are taking to keep our university safe.It is important to note that there are no reported of cases of Coronavirus at Alvernia University. Alvernia has established a Health Alerts webpage for Coronavirus COVID19. This page can be accessed via the Alvernia.edu homepage and includes updates, FAQs and steps Alvernia is taking in response to the outbreak.
Below are some precautions aimed at preventing the spread of coronavirus as well as influenza and the common cold. The predominant symptoms of coronavirus include fever, cough and shortness of breath.
1.) Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
2.) Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
3.) Clean surfaces frequently, such as countertops, light switches, keyboards, cell phones and other frequently touched areas. Use a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
4.) Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
5.) Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
6.) If you are sick, stay home until you are feeling better. Please alert your instructors and the Health and Wellness Center (610-568-1467) if this occurs. *Don't forget a thermometer when you return to school*
7.) If you were in a country or region, either foreign or domestic, with a COVID-19 outbreak and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, within 14 days after you left, you should seek medical advice immediately - Call ahead before you go to the Health and Wellness Center or a doctor’s office or emergency room so they can prepare appropriately for your visit. Tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
Please note that the CDC does not recommend the use of facemasks for the general public to prevent respiratory illnesses like seasonal flu or COVID-19.
You have our commitment to support you through this rapidly evolving global health situation, and we will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
Sincerely,
Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald, Provost
Karolina Dreher, Dean of Students
Wednesday, March 4
Elior promotes a healthy work environment with safe food by requiring good hygiene and prompt reporting of illness.
What is the Elior team doing?
Response Team: Elior’s Response Team continues to monitor the situation to ensure we are properly prepared to respond to a Coronavirus outbreak. We are working with key suppliers to ensure an adequate food supply and are working to have a labor contingency plan in case of a Coronavirus outbreak.
Communication: We have advised our team members of the signs and symptoms of the Coronavirus to ensure they are aware of it and safeguarding against it. We have developed an internal site where we can continuously provide updates, processes and tools to our team members as the situation continuous to develop.
Reporting Illness and Staying Home: As advised by the CDC and required by Elior’s policies: Elior team members are required to stay home when they are sick to prevent respiratory illness from spreading. We also require any sites that have team members or guests, who have been diagnosed with Coronavirus, to report it to the Elior Response Team.
Hand Washing: Elior team members have been reminded and advised to wash their hands carefully and often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song through twice).
Cleaning: Elior team members have been reminded and advised of the (continuing) importance of regularly cleaning and sanitizing communal surfaces (doorknobs, levers, etc.) and frequently touched objects (condiments, utensils, etc.).
Understanding Client Needs and Expectations. Elior team members will be partnering with you and your teams to ensure that we understand your protocol and needs. If you need us to keep extra inventory on site, please let us know as soon as possible.
Developing Contingency Plans. We have asked our teams to start to contemplate potential needs at their site and within their communities.
Meal Options. We encourage our teams to ensure that our clients and communities are aware of Elior’s shelf stable and frozen meal options, which may be of critical significance in any impacted site or community.
We care about the health and safety of our team members and clients and are committed to ensuring a safe work environment for our team members, clients and the people we serve.
Thank you,
Elior NA Risk Management Team
Matt Lykens
Food Service Director
Alvernia University
Tuesday, March 3
The Paris – London trip is canceled due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. Participants will be returned any deposited money. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.
We hope you enjoy the rest of your spring break.
Many thanks,
Drs. Radosh and Williams
Thursday, February 27
February 27, 2020 - Novel Coronavirus Spring Break Notice
As we get ready for spring break and traveling the Health & Wellness Center feels it is important to share information about Coronavirus (COVID-19) to our campus community. At this time, there are NO suspected cases on our campus. Please take time to review the CDC’s “What you need to know” document as well as the newly formed FAQs page.
If you choose to travel, the CDC recommends the following:
Avoid contact with sick people
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
Clean your hands often by washing them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60%–95% alcohol. Soap and water should be used if hands are visibly dirty. It is especially important to clean hands after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
For those who prefer to watch/listen, the World Health Organization (WHO) has created some short informational videos:
If you are traveling outside of the country, we recommend registering with the STEP program. The benefits of registering with this program include receiving information regarding safety conditions in the country you are traveling to and the ease of contacting you in case of emergency. While you are at the STEP site, take time to review the “Country Information” pages of the State Department website and take note of the embassy contact information. You can also find general information about travelling abroad through the State Department.
At this time, the CDC has only recommended screening for individuals returning from China and South Korea. However, as the situation evolves, Alvernia may need to screen individuals returning from other countries in accordance with updated CDC Travel Guidelines.
We will continue to communicate with the entire campus community if/when CDC guidelines change.
Thank you,
Claire Murphy, MD
Director of Health Services
Alvernia University
400 St. Bernardine Street
Reading, PA 19607
(ph) 610-568-1467
(fax) 610-796-8422
A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.
A diagnosis with coronavirus 229E, NL63, OC43, or HKU1 is not the same as a COVID-19 diagnosis. Patients with COVID-19 will be evaluated and cared for differently than patients with common coronavirus diagnosis.
What is the source of the virus
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people, and others, such as canine and feline coronaviruses, only infect animals. Rarely, animal coronaviruses that infect animals have emerged to infect people and can spread between people. This is suspected to have occurred for the virus that causes COVID-19. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are two other examples of coronaviruses that originated from animals and then spread to people. More information about the source and spread of COVID-19 is available on the Situation Summary: Source and Spread of the Virus.
How does the virus spread?
This virus was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The first infections were linked to a live animal market, but the virus is now spreading from person-to-person. It’s important to note that person-to-person spread can happen on a continuum. Some viruses are highly contagious (like measles), while other viruses are less so.
The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.
Learn what is known about the spread of newly emerged coronaviruses.
What are the symptoms and complications that COVID-19 can cause?
Current symptoms reported for patients with COVID-19 have included mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Read about COVID-19 Symptoms.
