COVID-19 Update #4 - Sunday, March 15, 2020

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we deal with making decisions concerning Claflin University and the national pandemic – COVID-19. Please know that our Emergency Management Team meets constantly to discuss implications as it relates to providing a safe living and learning environment here at Claflin.

At this time, it has been decided to continue with the Extended Spring Break schedule until Sunday, March 22, 2020.  

In accordance with South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster’s Executive Order concerning higher education institutions dated March 15, Claflin University will offer online, distance learning for all of its on-ground classes beginning Monday, March 23, until Tuesday, March 31, pending updated recommendations. This will allow the University additional time to assess the pandemic as more information is shared from local, state and national entities.

On-line Learning
Students will receive instructions through Moodle or other platforms from their individual professors. Converting to an online learning environment will provide academic continuity and will allow for students to remain on track to finish the academic semester without any interruptions. More information will be shared from the Office of the Provost.

Students are encouraged to contact their dean if they are experiencing challenges converting to an online learning environment.

School of Business
Dr. Nicholas Hill – nhill@claflin.edu

School of Education
Dr. Anthony Pittman – apittman@claflin.edu

School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Dr. Isaiah McGee – imcgee@claflin.edu

School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Dr. Derrick Swinton – deswinton@claflin.edu

Center for Professional and Continuing Studies
Mr. Mark Roberts – maroberts@claflin.edu

Residence Halls Procedures
We strongly encourage students to remain where they are instead of trying to return to campus prior to the reopening of the residence halls on Tuesday, March 31. This will allow for our facilities team to properly prepare for the return of students. More information will be shared from the Office of Housing and Residential Life.

Students who were not able to leave Claflin’s campus and are in the residence halls during this time are required to meet with their residential life coordinator or residential life manager for Extended Spring Break protocols. This is mandatory as we continue to provide a safe living and learning environment in the residence halls.

On-campus Dining Options for March 15-31

The Dining Hall will operate during the following days and hours:

• Weekdays: Breakfast (7:30-9 a.m.); Lunch (11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.); Dinner (5-7 p.m.) and Late Night take-away (10 p.m.-Midnight)
• Weekends: Brunch (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) and Dinner (5-7 p.m.)

Jazzman’s Café will operate Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. and Pizza Hut will operate from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

We know that the information being shared concerning COVID-19 can be unsettling. Right now, this is a time for calm and reason. We ask for you not panic, but to stay vigilant and wise about what is occurring locally and nationally. We must do our part in helping to not spread the virus by practicing social distancing and:

• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoiding the touching of your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Staying home when you are sick.
• Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Washing your 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. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

As information develops, Claflin University’s Office of Communication and Marketing will keep the University informed. Updates as necessary will be sent by email, posted on social media, and sent through the emergency text messaging service (https://claflin.regroup.com/signup). 

You may also visit the University’s COVID-19 Resource Page (www.claflin.edu/covid19) for up-to-date information.

Thank you again for your patience and prayers as we continue to work together through this ever-evolving, international pandemic.

Sincerely,

Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack
President