To the Campus Community,
As you know, we have had an isolated but concerning increase in COVID positivity based on one sample of student-athletes. In order to fully assess the extent of that phenomenon, we need to verify the accuracy of that particular testing, obtain test results from a wider sample of the student population, and have time to analyze that data in order to make appropriate decisions to ensure the safety of our community.
To that end, as an abundance of caution, we are taking the following steps for the academic week of October 5-9, 2020. All in-person athletic activity will be suspended for the week, effective this afternoon. Classes next week will be delivered remotely only, and co-curricular activities will likewise be exclusively virtual. Students are welcome to remain on campus, but monitoring of appropriate mitigation strategies will be heightened in all settings.
Commencement for the Class of 2020 on Sunday, October 11th will proceed as scheduled. Any current students with a role in that event must present a negative COVID test result in order to participate. The President’s Office will be in touch to help make those arrangements.
Each of these strategies has been approved by our partner physicians. We will spend next week assessing the campus situation in order to determine any additional steps necessary. We will communicate both status and decisions for moving forward as they develop next week. Questions from faculty and staff should be directed to the respective Cabinet officer, and those from students to Vice President and Dean of Students Andrew Jones.
I realize this requires some quick adaptation for faculty and students alike, but I hope you will all embrace that reality with the understanding that it is necessary to ensure your health and that of the entire community. Thank you all for your cooperation.
Kerry N. Prather
President
Franklin College
101 Branigin Boulevard, Franklin, Indiana 46131-2623
FranklinCollege.edu │ 317.738.8010