The University of Central Missouri continues to maintain its effort to provide for a safe and healthy campus for students, employees and visitors alike. UCM is committed to providing our students with the best possible experience while also safeguarding their well-being against the backdrop of the global pandemic. Therefore, classes have been modified for the 2020-21 academic year, and details of these modifications will vary by course. Click Here to view the complete list of campus modifications.
To All UCM Employees and Students,
As you return to the University of Central Missouri for the spring 2021 semester, we want to welcome you back to campus and wish you a great new year.
Your health and safety continue to be our priority as we begin a new semester at UCM. We deeply appreciate your efforts to support a healthy campus environment by following campus guidelines including wearing face coverings/masks, which is a requirement that remains in effect until further notice, as well as efforts such as social distancing (at least six feet apart), frequent hand washing, avoiding large gatherings and other practices that are recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Here are some additional updates:
Travel Recommendations
If you have traveled recently or plan to travel in the future, please note that UCM has adopted COVID-19 guidelines recommending that you limit non-essential activities for seven days following travel. Also, we encourage you to get tested three to five days following travel. Students can do this at the University Health Center (UHC) free of charge. We recommend employees talk with their medical provider about whether or not they should get tested.
Free COVID-19 Rapid Testing for Students
Once again, thank you for assisting with our ongoing efforts to support a safe and healthy campus. We look forward to your return to UCM and a great spring 2021 semester.
After experiencing an increase in confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 locally, the Johnson County Public Health Officer and the Johnson County Community Health Services Board of Trustees has announced its plan to reissue a Face Covering Order, effective at 12:01 a.m. Monday Oct. 12. The countywide order will stay in effect until further notice. Please click on the following link to learn more: http://johnsoncountyhealth.org/face-covering-order-reissued-for-johnson-county/.
In addition to this countywide action, while COVID-19 remains a health concern, the University of Central Missouri will continue to require face coverings/masks on campus until announced otherwise by UCM President Roger Best.
UCM’s requirement is part of its overall efforts to provide a campus environment that allows the university to offer and sustain in-person classes and services for students during the pandemic. The university follows U.S. Centers for Disease Control guidelines, which encourages the use of face coverings/masks to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Additionally, some research suggests that facemasks can actually reduce the severity of the infection, if someone does get COVID-19, if face coverings/masks are worn correctly and consistently. Information related to this topic can be found in a study that appeared in the Journal of General Internal Medicine at https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11606-020-06067-8.
While the university continues to employ many different measures to help prevent the spread of coronavirus on campus, contact tracing currently has shown that infections within UCM’s student population are occurring in non-academic areas and predominantly in off-campus settings.
Students, faculty and staff should regularly self-monitor for symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and follow CDC guidance on self-isolation and testing if symptomatic, in consultation with their treating physician or Local Public Health Agency. (See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html for more information from the CDC.)
We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to support a safe and healthy campus environment. More information about UCM's face coverings/masks requirement can be found at https://www.ucmo.edu/news/media-resources/corona-virus-covid-19/.
The Johnson County Community Health Services Board of Directors has announced its plan to not extend the mandatory countywide requirement for facial coverings after the order to wear them expires on Sept. 13, but has issued a public health advisory highly recommending face coverings/masks.
Although action was taken by the JCCHS Board, while COVID-19 remains a health concern, the University of Central Missouri will continue to require face coverings/masks on campus until announced otherwise by UCM President Roger Best.
UCM’s requirement is part of its overall efforts to provide a campus environment that allows the university to offer and sustain in-person classes and services for students during the pandemic. The university follows U.S. Centers for Disease Control guidelines, which encourages the use of face coverings/masks to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Additionally, some research suggests that facemasks can actually reduce the severity of the infection, if someone does get COVID-19, if face coverings/masks are worn correctly and consistently. Information related to this topic can be found in a study that appeared in the Journal of General Internal Medicine at https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11606-020-06067-8.
While the university continues to employ many different measures to help prevent the spread of coronavirus on campus, contact tracing currently has shown that infections within UCM’s student population are occurring in non-academic areas and predominantly in off-campus settings.
Students, faculty and staff should regularly self-monitor for symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and follow CDC guidance on self-isolation and testing if symptomatic, in consultation with their treating physician or Local Public Health Agency. (See https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html for more information from the CDC.)
We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to support a safe and healthy campus environment. More information about UCM's face coverings/masks requirement can be found at https://www.ucmo.edu/news/media-resources/corona-virus-covid-19/.
In our efforts to continue to keep you informed about the impact of COVID-19 on the
University of Central Missouri campus in Warrensburg and in Lee’s Summit, we are updating
information that was previously shared on July 15 about preparations for the fall
2020 semester. As we get ready for the first day of classes on Aug. 17, we are taking
steps to promote a safe campus while remaining steadfast in our commitment to provide
an
educational environment where students can experience learning to a greater degree.
While we still plan to offer in-person classes, we recognize there will be a number
of changes from a typical academic year, but we appreciate the cooperation and understanding
of all campus members as we work together to persevere through the challenges the
pandemic poses. Read more
After weighing the desire to provide the same kind of quality commencement experience that other University of Central Missouri graduates have enjoyed against current, increasing limitations posed by COVID-19, UCM today announced it is canceling commencement exercises planned for Saturday, Aug. 1. Campus leaders will continue evaluating ways to appropriately honor spring and summer 2020 graduates and their families, and will keep the campus community informed of any such plans. Individuals who were eligible to walk during the August ceremony also have the option to participate in the December 2020 or May 2021 ceremonies.
“Commencement is a proud tradition we have celebrated for 149 years, so it is incredibly disappointing we will not be able to conduct a ceremony in August, particularly understanding what it means for our students and their families,” said UCM President Roger Best. “While much planning has taken place, we have determined that the manner in which we were having to move forward with commencement against the backdrop of this very fluid and unpredictable environment did not allow us to fully honor our graduates as we have done throughout the university’s history.”
The university annually celebrates its spring and summer commencement in May. Because the campus was closed due to coronavirus in spring 2020, the event was rescheduled to Aug. 1, and preparations were being made to conduct four ceremonies on Aug. 1. Doing so, however, also resulted in strict limitations on the number of guests students could invite to the ceremony in order to foster social distancing, according to Centers for Disease Control guidelines. This did not allow the university to maintain its historical standard of celebration/honor, as full attendance by families was not possible, nor would graduates have the opportunity to be recognized on stage. Additionally, the gathering was still considered a higher-risk event based on the CDC guidelines (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/considerations-for-events-gatherings.html).
Best pointed out that the response to commencement – with over 1,000 students indicating intent to participate – was outstanding. This, however, coupled with the number of potential guests, even in an alternate venue such as Walton Stadium, contributed to concerns about social distancing and the ability to ensure that everyone in attendance wore face coverings as required by UCM at on-campus events.
The university continues to monitor COVID-19 and its impact on other university events, including future commencement exercises. Individuals can follow updates about future commencement plans at ucmo.edu/commencement.
UCM is moving forward with plans to begin classes on Aug. 17 as we make adjustments related to COVID-19. The following information is intended to assist in your preparations for the new academic year and applies to both the main campus in Warrensburg and UCM-Lee’s Summit. Given the dynamic nature of the current environment, this information may be updated.
Face Masks/Coverings
The wearing of face coverings, consistent with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-to-wear-cloth-face-coverings.html), will be required in classrooms; inside buildings open to the public and in common areas of all buildings on campus; at group events, gatherings and meetings; and in all areas of campus, including outdoors, where physical distancing is not possible. This face covering requirement will be implemented and in effect regardless of when and if current Jackson County and Johnson County face covering requirements are lifted and until further notice is given to do otherwise.
The required use of face coverings applies to students, faculty, staff, vendors and visitors. Face coverings are not required in enclosed and isolated areas assigned to an individual such as individual office spaces and single occupancy residence hall rooms, for individuals five years of age or younger, or when an individual is eating or drinking.
Individuals who have certain health issues may be exempt from this requirement. Faculty and staff who would like to request an exemption should contact Human Resources. Students requesting an exemption should contact the Office of Accessibility Services.
The Office of the Provost and the respective college’s Office of the Dean will work with academic programs to coordinate training for faculty regarding this requirement and classroom procedures.
General Steps and Expectations
On-campus Residence Hall Changes
Move-in Process
In an effort to limit crowds and allow for physical distancing, the move-in process
for this year has been modified. First-year students who sign up for UCM Kickoff
will be required to sign up for a move-in time, and will move-in Thursday, Aug. 13,
between 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. All other first-year students and upper class students will
move into residence halls on Sunday, Aug.16, from 8 a.m. -
4 p.m., and will receive a direct communication about move-in. Those living in apartments
will receive a direct communication regarding move-in, which will begin Friday, Aug.
14.
University Housing will further communicate with residence hall students through UCM email in mid-July for sign-up instructions, and information will be posted at https://www.ucmo.edu/housing.
If you have specific questions regarding move-in, please contact University Housing at 660-543-4515 or at housing@ucmo.edu.
Campus Dining Updates
The following are some of the steps the University and Sodexo, UCM’s food services provider, are taking to support a safe dining experience.
Classroom Safety
International Students
Domestic Students Return from Travel Abroad
Faculty and Staff Travel
Testing and Contact Tracing
Specific questions regarding testing and contact tracing may be directed to Johnson County Community Health Services. Students who have questions about testing may also contact the University Health Center at 660-543-4770 or uhc@ucmo.edu.
Additional Accommodations
Students who need accommodations due to disability or mental or physical health should contact the Office of Accessibility Services at 660-543-4421 or access@ucmo.edu. Students who have concerns about their current schedule should contact the Success Advising Center to discuss their options at 660-543-4721 or success@ucmo.edu.
UCM Kick-off
UCM Kick-off is still scheduled for Thursday, August 13. For more information, please visit ucmo.edu/kickoff.
The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is an evolving situation that is continually being monitored by the university. As the safety and well-being of all UCM members and campus visitors is a priority, UCM leadership will make any adjustments that it believes are necessary to meet this goal and to comply with any local, state or federal requirements. We will continue to keep you informed of any new developments. If you have questions about coronavirus, or are interested in seeing recent campus updates related to the virus, please visit https://www.ucmo.edu/coronavirus.
With Johnson County, Missouri, experiencing a 32.8 percent increase in confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 over a 10-day period, a face covering mandate has been ordered. Jackson County, home to UCM’s Lee’s Summit Campus, has implemented a similar order. UCM asks that all persons on our campuses act in accordance with these mandates. This 21-day order is initiated by Johnson County Community Health Services (JCCHS), and is effective at 12:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6, through Tuesday, July 28. Jackson County’s mandate has no set end date at this time.
The orders require individuals to wear a face covering, such as a cloth face mask, over their nose and mouth, in any indoor building open to the public, including but not limited to retail stores, grocery stores, office buildings, places of worship and restaurants/bars. Additionally, face coverings are required in outdoor public gathering places when social distancing (maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others outside your household) is not an option. Individuals should provide their own face coverings.
There are exceptions to the county mandates, including buildings not open to the public, offices assigned to only one individual, and for individuals speaking to a group where they can maintain a distance of at least six feet from the individuals to whom they are speaking. The orders also provide numerous individual exemptions, including, for example, children younger than five years old, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and other health and medical exemptions. Anyone for whom an exemption listed in the order(s) applies is automatically exempted from the requirement to wear a face covering, and need not seek documentation of an exemption from the county or UCM.
To view the JCCHS order, please click on the following link:
http://johnsoncountyhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/FaceCoveringOrderJuly2020.pdf
To view the Jackson County order, please click on the following link:
https://jacohd.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Phase-2.5-Health-Order.pdf
Questions about the orders should be directed to the County Health Services Offices; contact information is listed in the orders.
Here are additional tips from JCCHS about wearing a face covering:
We also encourage employees, students and visitors to observe the following, as recommended by the CDC:
Thank you for your cooperation and assistance in helping slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
Dear Employees,
The University is aware that an employee has publicly announced they have tested positive for COVID-19. We have completed our area-specific deep cleaning procedures in compliance with CDC guidelines.
UCM does not make health diagnoses or give medical advice. Out of respect for individuals’ privacy, UCM will not release an individual’s confidential health information even if that person chooses to share their own information publicly. After any community diagnosis, local health authorities conduct contact tracing and reach out to individuals who, in their opinion, should quarantine or monitor symptoms based on contact with the individual testing positive. If you are contacted during this process and instructed to stay home, please contact HR at 660.543.4255 so they can coordinate your leave, which qualifies for certain pay and benefit coverage under the CARES Act.
With more than ten active cases of COVID-19 in Johnson County, we remain committed to supporting the safety and well-being of all students and employees at this unprecedented time. This requires a community effort, and we ask that you please take this opportunity to consider ways you can help decrease the spread of the virus to protect your safety and the health and safety of others. Please observe the following:
We thank you for being attentive, flexible, serious and engaged regarding the steps we need to take as a community to care for ourselves and for each other.
In keeping with previously announced plans to return to normal operations at the University of Central Missouri, campus buildings will be open beginning on Monday, June 8. The buildings have been locked throughout the spring as a way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, but will now be accessible to the public.
Our efforts to maintain a safe and healthy campus are continuing, and include an enhanced commitment to cleaning and sanitization measures and setting up facilities to help promote social distancing. Although we do not require individuals to wear protective masks, they are certainly encouraged to do so, using their own personal protective equipment. Here are just a few other CDC recommendations for individuals to protect themselves, their colleagues and friends from the spread of coronavirus:
For additional information about COVID-19, please visit ucmo.edu/coronavirus.
Western Missouri Medical Center is working with the University of Central Missouri to provide COVID-19 Antibody testing for UCM employees. Testing will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, June 4, in Parking Lot 11, located between the James. C. Kirkpatrick Library and the University Health Center.
Antibody testing is open to all current UCM employees and is free of charge. Employees who participate will be required to provide their UCM identification card. Non-employees, which include spouses and dependents, also can take advantage of the convenient location. The cost for non-employees without insurance is $35. WMMC will not bill any insurance carriers for this testing.
Payment in the form of cash or check will be required at the time of testing for all non-employees.
Please take advantage of this opportunity to get free COVID-19 Antibody testing.
For additional information, please visit the WMMC COVID-19 Antibody test FAQ page located at https://wmmc.com/Covid-19/.
Please note: This event will be rescheduled if weather does not permit it to take place as planned. A determination will be made, and notification sent to the campus community by 2 pm on June 4.
With preparations underway for the fall 2020 semester at UCM, President Best will answer questions about the upcoming semester in a virtual forum on Thursday, June 11 at 2 p.m. Students, parents and the entire campus community are invited to submit questions about the university’s plans via our online form.
All questions must be submitted via our online form by June 7 in order to be considered. Dr. Best will answer as many questions as possible, but due to volume, it may not be possible to respond to every submission. Dr. Best hopes to hear from you, and appreciates you staying informed about the fall semester. [Submit a Question]
We are back on campus planning for your arrival this fall. Much work is being done across the University of Central Missouri to plan and adjust as proactively as possible to this new environment while prioritizing your safety and educational needs and those of all of our students.
We plan to conduct in-person classes this fall. Listed below are some preliminary steps we are taking as a University within the academic, residence and food service areas. In addition to these plans, our COVID-19 task force continues to meet regularly to ensure campus preparedness and responsiveness at a time when many unexpected challenges may emerge.
Here are some steps we are taking as a University to help create a safe and healthy environment:
Academic adjustments:
Housing:
Dining:
We will continue to communicate updates through the UCM News Bureau, as well as our website, social media, your UCM email account, and traditional media.
As a member of our UCM family, your safety and well-being is our top priority. For the latest information, visit ucmo.edu/coronavirus.
We are currently on track to end the mandatory “work remote” requirement and procedures for full-time employees who are currently designated as nonessential. This will occur by having groups of employees return to campus (including UCM-Lee’s Summit) on two different dates. One group will return on Monday, May 18, while all remaining (previously designated) nonessential employees will return Monday, June 1. Employees will be notified by supervisors of their respective date of return, and we will be operating using our traditional summer hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Nonessential employees who are not identified to return on May 18 are expected to continue to perform duties under the “work remote” requirement and procedures and not return to campus until June 1.
Although all full-time employees will be returning to UCM no later than June 1, we will not allow public access into university buildings nor provide face-to-face, student-oriented or public services until June 8. With the exception of the Kirkpatrick Library and select retail outlets that are already open for residential students and/or the public, services will continue to be provided virtually until June 8. Also, a limited number of facilities will be used for summer camps, some of which are tentatively scheduled to start the week of June 1. Designated university staff will provide information to individuals sponsoring summer camps regarding access, social distancing and other precautions that will be taken during these special activities.
Your personal safety and well-being remains a priority, and we continue to rely upon the guidance of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control as well as county and state guidelines. In that regard, I ask that all employees note the following:
This has been a challenging spring for you, and your response to dealing with sudden
change has been exceptional and a model for others. I appreciate your continued use
of good judgement, patience and cooperation as we all work together to navigate and
manage through this time in our history.
- Roger
As individuals, we all have observed the uncertainty and disagreement regarding the question of when everything will return to "normal". Internally, we have had extensive discussion regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and necessary operating responses, as well as the current recovery plans distributed by local, state and federal governments. Currently, we are planning for our postponed spring commencements, originally scheduled for May 8 and 9, to take place August 1. We are also planning for students to return as scheduled to campus for fall face-to-face classes and extracurricular activities. We will continue to monitor governmental mandates and CDC guidelines as we approach fall semester, and will make adjustments if and as necessary to follow guidance related to public events and class structure.
It has been a challenging time for all of us. Thank you for your extraordinary efforts to ensure the mission of UCM has been carried out. And while we still have much work to do, I have tremendous confidence in our ability to continue to provide the exceptional education and extraordinary service for which we are known because of you.
It is with much anticipation that I look forward to seeing you on campus again soon.
Dr. Roger Best
President
The University of Central Missouri’s “work remote” status is being extended through Sunday, May 17, 11:59 p.m. This requirement applies to all employees with the exception of those designated as “essential employees.” Additional information about the transition back to campus-based operations on May 18 will be provided in the near future.
We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work together to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and we encourage you to continue to follow guidance provided by the CDC and local health authorities to maintain your personal well-being and the well-being of those around you. Thanks for all you do for UCM, particularly at this extraordinary time.
Commencement is an exciting time to honor the achievements of University of Central Missouri graduates, as well as their families and friends who have supported them during their time at UCM. While we traditionally celebrate our spring and summer graduates in ceremonies that take place in May, the impact of COVID-19 necessitated the postponement of this event to protect the safety and health of our graduating students and everyone involved in commencement exercises. We are rescheduling commencement for Aug. 1, 2020. Individuals who cannot participate Aug. 1 will be allowed to participate in the December 2020 commencement ceremony.
The UCM Commencement Committee is currently working on additional details, including a number of ceremonies and start times for each. We will provide these details in the near future. Additional information, when available, will be posted on the UCM commencement website at https://www.ucmo.edu/commencement.
We continue to monitor developments associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and modify
university operating procedures when necessary. Currently, all university sponsored
travel is restricted through May 10. This restriction is being extended through May
31, and any exception to this must be approved by the area Vice President. All other
changes remain in place as previously announced.
Please keep in mind our continued commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being
of all students and employees at this unprecedented time. We ask that you please follow
these tips to help protect your health and the safety and health of others as we work
together to slow the spread of COVID-19:
To assist with the abrupt transition to virtual delivery of coursework, the following adjustments are being made to the pass/fail grading deadlines and policies for the spring 2020 semester. These modifications pertain to the spring 2020 semester only.
Any undergraduate student may designate any course as pass/fail.
The deadline for designating a full spring term or second eight (8) week course to pass/fail is April 24th.
Any pass/fail designations during the spring 2020 semester will not count towards the nine hour limit in order to allow for future utilization of the pass fail option in subsequent semesters.
Students must consult with their advisor to assist with designating a course as pass/fail. Advisors will email the Registrar, registrar@ucmo.edu, to request a pass/fail designation for students in order to maintain a proper record for documentation. Pass/fail designations should be considered for their possible relationship to financial aid, g.p.a., prerequisites, and admission to graduate or professional school.
These changes temporarily removes both the current policy cap (9 hours) and courses pass/fail pertains (electives only).
The new pass/fail policy for Spring 2020 applies only to undergraduate students taking undergraduate courses OR graduate students who are enrolled in undergraduate courses.
Undergraduate students must consult with their success advisor to designate a course as pass/fail.
The University of Central Missouri has learned that a student, who is currently residing on campus, tested positive for novel Coronavirus COVID-19 but is no longer considered contagious.
The student self-quarantined after believing that they were exposed by someone with whom they visited outside of Johnson County, Missouri. We are working with Johnson County Community Health Services to follow all appropriate protocols. Local health officials are reaching out to people who may have been in close contact with the student, and will provide guidance to those individuals.
As we continue to monitor evolving issues related to COVID-19, we have been actively
engaged in activities to help protect members of the campus community. These include
implementation of enhanced cleaning protocols; measures such as social distancing;
moving from face-to-face to all online courses; meeting via online tools such as Zoom;
canceling all public events including sports activities, and postponing spring 2020
commencement. Additionally, we announced March 26 that we have initiated a mandated
“work remote” procedure effective at 6 p.m. Sunday, March 29 through
May 1 for all “non-essential” employees.
We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and employees at this unprecedented time. To assist in this effort, we ask that you please take this opportunity to consider ways you can help decrease spread the virus to protect your safety and the health and safety of others. Please observe the following:
This is not a time for alarm, but a time to be attentive, flexible, serious and engaged regarding the steps we need to take as a community to care for ourselves and for each other. Please be attentive to UCM communications addressing COVID-19 and additional steps we will be taking to address this rapidly evolving situation. Visit our website ucmo.edu.coronavirus for updates.
Thank you for your assistance as we continue to work together in the fight against COVID-19.
With multiple cases of COVID-19 now confirmed in Johnson County, Missouri, the University of Central Missouri is moving to a mandatory “work remote” procedure effective 6:00 p.m., Sunday, March 29, and lasting through 11:59 p.m., Friday, May 1. This requirement applies to all employees with the exception of those designated as “essential employees.” Essential employees were notified by email of their status on Thursday, March 26, and are considered employees whose presence may be required on campus as directed by their supervisor to carry out the operations of the University.
As of Friday, March 27, 5:00 p.m., all University buildings with limited exceptions will be accessible only by keyed entry. The James C. Kirkpatrick Library will remain open under modified hours for students who need access to complete online coursework. Mules National Golf Club remains open with modified operations to allow for social distancing and with enhanced cleaning protocols. Also open are Westside Market at Todd Hall “to-go” for students, the Campus Store in the Crossing (convenience store only), Foster Knox Childcare Center and the Student Health Center.
Although Johnson County, Missouri, is not currently under a stay at home order, this “work remote” requirement will allow for modification to workloads and enhanced spatial distancing for employees who must be on campus. And, while this change in work routine may create inconveniences, we are committed to doing our part to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we all work together to navigate through this serious health issue. Individuals who have concerns about their ability to work at home should discuss them with their supervisor.
We ask that you continue to monitor your campus email and the university website ucmo.edu/coronavirus for future updates.
It has been confirmed by Johnson County Community Health Services that a county resident residing near Knob Noster has tested positive for COVID-19, and is now isolated at their residence in accordance with CDC protocols.
This is the first case of the virus to be confirmed in this county. The local agency is working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to locate individuals who may have been in close contact with this individual and may be infectious. They will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. Based on information provided by county health officials in a press conference last night, the individual affected previously was in contact with a person in another county who tested positive for COVID-19. No further information was provided about the individual.
This new development reminds us that we all have a role in helping to prevent the spread of the virus. As such, we want to take this opportunity to remind our community of some important information regarding COVID-19. In an effort to slow the spread of the virus, we are requesting your immediate attention to and compliance with the following health-authority-recommended practices – not only to ensure your own well-being, but the well-being of others:
If you develop a cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, you should stay home and call your primary care provider. UCM students living on campus or in the local community may use this COVID-19 screening form to expedite a response from the University Health Center or may call 660-543-4770.
The CDC website (http://www.cdc.gov/COVID19) and UCM’s COVID-19 information page (https://www.ucmo.edu/coronavirus/) contains all current recommendations for this evolving situation.
Know that we continue to monitor updated guidance and information and take action as necessary. We encourage the campus community to be attentive, flexible, serious, and engaged regarding any and all steps we take as a community to care for ourselves and for one another. Please be attentive to all email communications addressing COVID-19, which provide up-to-date information specific to the University of Central Missouri.
We continue to monitor federal and state guidance and actions pertaining to COVID-19 and are adjusting operations accordingly. The information below regarding campus operations supersedes the guidance distributed to you on Monday, March 16.
Courses and Campus Activities
Residence Halls
Travel
Questions may be directed to COVID19@ucmo.edu.
We encourage you to continue to monitor your email and www.ucmo.edu/coronavirus for updates regarding UCM operations and the CDC website (www.cdc.gov) for national guidance.
UCM Lee’s Summit to close for deep cleaning Tuesday and Wednesday, March 17 and 18
All UCM courses are paused until March 30 when all courses will be delivered virtually
The University of Central Missouri’s Lee’s Summit campus will close on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 17 and 18, to allow custodial staff members to complete a deep cleaning of the entire Missouri Innovation Campus facility. The building will reopen on Thursday, March 18.
UCM is currently on spring break through March 22, and all online, hybrid and face-to-face classes are paused until March 30 with no instruction and no assignments during this period. Beginning March 30 and through April 24, all face-to-face classes and in-person components of hybrid courses will be delivered virtually. Practicum, internships, student teaching, clinicals and flight hours will continue. Students impacted by cancellations by sponsoring agencies or businesses should contact their respective school chair for further guidance and assistance.
Both the UCM Warrensburg and Lee’s Summit campuses will remain open (with the exception of the Lee’s Summit campus scheduled closing for deep cleaning on March 17 and 18). The university’s bus service between the Warrensburg and Lee’s Summit campuses is suspended through April 24. In addition, all university-sponsored and hosted events through April 24 are cancelled.
No later than April 13, UCM will provide further guidance regarding class sessions and finals occurring after April 24.
Students wanting to contact an advisor on Tuesday and Wednesday are encouraged to contact Brenda Fuhr at fuhr@ucmo.edu. Students who would like career or resume assistance may contact Clarinda Dir at dir@ucmo.edu.
Please visit the UCM Update on Coronavirus webpage for information regarding this evolving situation. Anyone with questions regarding this situation and UCM may send them to COVID19@ucmo.edu.
Effective today, March 16, the University of Central Missouri is enacting the following measures in alignment with our COVID-19 planning and response protocols.
Individuals are encouraged to monitor CDC communications (www.cdc.gov), the UCM COVID-19 website www.ucmo.edu/coronavirus, and UCM email messages for further updates.
UCM was notified late yesterday, March 12, that all MIAA intercollegiate sports activities, both practices and competition, are being suspended indefinitely. This follows a decision by NCAA President Mark Emmert and its Board of Governors to cancel all winter and spring championships for all three divisions.
These decisions are being made amid among growing health concerns related to coronavirus (COVID-19), and are part of the NCAA and MIAA’s efforts to help ensure the health and safety of student athletes, coaches, administrators and the community of fans that enjoy collegiate sports. Learn more about the MIAA suspension of collegiate sports here. An update on the NCAA decision can be found here.
Members of the UCM Community:
As of March 11, there were no reported cases of COVID-19 on either of UCM's primary campuses. We continue to monitor the fluid nature of guidance and requirements for dealing with Novel Coronavirus, including CDC and Missouri DHHS guidelines.
No decision has been made regarding changing the format of class offerings. I recognize other universities in the state have announced short-term changes. Most of these institutions are on spring break this week and are extending their break by an additional week. With spring break for us next week, we will have an opportunity to more fully evaluate numerous scenarios, including the significant impact on faculty and students should class structure be changed.
If you are a student, as you prepare for what is hoped to be a relaxing spring break,
please don't forget to pack your textbooks, computer and other essentials. Although
we have made no decision regarding any changes to class format, we are continually
monitoring the situation and will keep you updated on any new decisions. In addition,
individual circumstances may change, and if you find yourself staying at home or another
location following spring break, it will be helpful to have your books and technology
with you in case you need to participate remotely.
Also, because of the heightened concern individuals have regarding this virus, I am
modifying our travel provisions.
Effective Monday, March 16, all nonessential university-sponsored travel on public transport is suspended for the remainder of spring 2020 semester. Exceptions and determination of essential will be made by the respective area Vice President. A determination about travel planned for May 11 or later will be made no later than April 13.
University-sponsored travel in private carriage should be limited in scope and purpose.
All study abroad is hereby canceled for the remainder of spring 2020 semester. Students, faculty and staff who are already abroad have been or are in the process of being recalled. A decision regarding summer 2020 study abroad will be made no later than April 1.
Currently, per NCAA and MIAA conference guidance, travel for intercollegiate competitions will continue. On March 11, the NCAA announced limited attendance for the Division I and Division II basketball tournaments (Division III had already been impacted). We continue to monitor guidance from the NCAA and MIAA regarding spring competitions.
As noted above, we are experiencing a unique and fluid environment. No administrative-level decisions have been made yet which would alter university-sponsored or university-hosted events, although some meetings/conferences, including the Children's Literature Festival, have been canceled by organizers.
The COVID-19 preparations team continues to meet and remains vigilant for further developments regarding this virus. I urge you to continue to follow CDC guidelines for personal and community well-being, including frequent hand washing, avoiding others if you are sick, and social distancing where possible.
As a reminder, updates and other pertinent information are being posted to www.ucmo.edu/coronavirus.
All UCM study abroad is hereby canceled for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester. Students, faculty and staff who are already abroad have been or are in the process of being recalled. A decision regarding summer 2020 study abroad will be made no later than April 1. UCM is asking all study abroad students to make arrangements to return to the United States as soon as possible and communicate these arrangements both to the UCM Study Abroad Office as well as their host university. Students can reach the UCM Study Abroad Office by phone at 660-543-4195, or by email at chiesi@ucmo.edu.
Students should continue to monitor UCM emails for the most updated information from UCM and from the UCM Study Abroad Office, and be familiar with UCM's dedicated page for the coronavirus (COVID-19).
Yesterday, I distributed a message regarding COVID-19. With spring break coming up next week, it is critical that you consider your personal well-being as you travel. I ask that you reconsider traveling to areas where the number of outbreaks has been increasing, areas which have a Center for Disease Control (CDC) Travel Assessment of Level 2, and areas where states of emergency have been declared.
You should likely avoid areas where the CDC Travel Assessment is at Level 3 (www.cdc.gov)--the CDC advises that individuals returning from a Level 3 country stay home for 14 days after returning. Regardless of your travel plans, please follow all CDC and medical professional guidance, including frequent hand washing, maintaining adequate distance from others (particularly for anyone exhibiting symptoms), and avoiding others if you are sick.
If you live on campus and desire or need to change your travel plans, UCM Housing will work with you to provide a place to stay over spring break. Please contact Brenda Moeder (moeder@ucmo.edu) for assistance.
We will continue to provide updates on UCM plans regarding this virus. All updates will be posted to www.ucmo.edu/coronavirus, and I encourage you to check this site before returning to campus following spring break to determine whether there have been any new developments. Please continue to consider your health and safety during the break.
We continue to monitor closely developments related to Novel Coronavirus COVID-19. As you are likely aware, individuals have been diagnosed with this particular virus in both Missouri and Kansas. Both states are currently at a low level of reported cases.
As a continuation of our preparations and plans regarding COVID-19, we are implementing immediately the following measures:
We have developed and will enact additional measures if necessary and appropriate for the safety and well-being of students, faculty, staff and visitors. I encourage you to visit UCM's dedicated webpage for Novel Coronavirus COVID-19 at www.ucmo.edu/coronavirus to stay informed. We will update this site with additional information as it becomes available.
UCM staff have been working closely with current international students, returning students and their families on travel, academic resources, and other issues. Students or families with questions should contact Matt Chiesi in the Study Abroad office at chiesi@ucmo.edu or Shellie Hewitt in Graduate and International Student Services at hewitt@ucmo.edu.
UCM is asking students currently studying abroad in countries with a CDC Travel Advisory Level 2 or 3 to return to the United States and complete their semester here. UCM will accommodate these students in their completion of credits as needed on a case-by-case basis, whether through collaboration with our international partners for remote completion or other means. For upcoming faculty-led study tours at locations with a CDC Travel Advisory Level 2 or 3, UCM will not allow groups to travel to these locations, and will work closely with leaders to determine whether other locations can be substituted or if programs should cancel. These will be determined on a group-by-group basis.
For the remainder of spring 2020 semester, travel to countries with a CDC Travel Advisory Level of 2 or higher is restricted for faculty, staff, and students. An update will be posted no later than April 13 for travel expected to occur May 11 or after.
UCM is asking students currently studying abroad in countries with a CDC Travel Advisory Level 2 or 3 to return to the United States and complete their semester here. UCM will accommodate these students in their completion of credits as needed on a case-by-case basis, whether through collaboration with our international partners for remote completion or other means. For upcoming faculty-led study tours at locations with a CDC Travel Advisory Level 2 or 3, UCM will not allow groups to travel to these locations, and will work closely with leaders to determine whether other locations can be substituted or if programs should cancel. These will be determined on a group-by-group basis.
At this time, the university has not limited travel domestically. Those traveling to conferences, meetings or other events should carefully review their travel plans to avoid, if possible, states or municipalities with declared states of emergency. We are asking everyone to carefully consider all university-related travel, and if you travel, to take appropriate precautions when you travel and upon return as needed.
There have been no cases of COVID-19 reported in Missouri. UCM has been and will continue to be in regular contact with state and county officials and reviews CDC communications daily. As of March 2, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that the virus is not currently spreading widely in the United States.
At this time, UCM will not be imposing travel restrictions for study abroad or any other international travel beyond those issued by state and federal authorities. We are communicating with our study abroad students and our international partners. We will also work with our international partners on issues arising from any host-imposed cancellations or restrictions.