Morgantown Campus fall semester 2020. (WVU Photo/Brian Persinger)
West Virginia University is taking enforcement of COVID-19 protocols very seriously this fall.
WVU is aware of recent off-campus parties that some of our students hosted and attended and the office of Student Conduct is already reviewing the reports from this weekend. To be clear - the University will not tolerate behaviors that violate local and state public safety orders or WVU’s own health and safety guidelines putting our campus community and the greater Morgantown community at risk.
“It was very disappointing to see the reports of numerous parties being held around Morgantown this past weekend,” said Dean of Students Corey Farris. “Being a Mountaineer means living our values. We expect our students to show their respect and appreciation for others by wearing their masks and following the rules. There will be consequences for those who refuse to do the right thing – including expulsion.”
Failure to follow WVU’s health and safety policies or the state and local public health orders which include a prohibition of social gatherings of more than 25 people could result in a charge and sanctions under the Student Conduct Code.
“Let me be clear: Reports of inappropriate behaviors and activities will be addressed,” said Farris. “The University is serious about protecting the health and safety of our campus community and has implemented a variety of measures in order to have on-campus classes this fall. If students do not follow the guidelines, then perhaps they are not serious about being on campus for their studies and should re-evaluate their reasons for being here.”
WVU is strongly discouraging off-campus parties and gathering in groups, particularly without physical distancing and masks/face coverings. A report of a large gathering or a house party close to campus should be made to University Police at 304-293-COPS. Reports can also be made anonymously through the LiveSafe app.
“We have stepped up patrols on campus, and we are working with our law enforcement partners in Morgantown and Monongalia County to better respond to off-campus incidents,” said WVU Police Chief W.P. Chedester. “Bottom line, our UPD officers are committed to keeping everyone – students, faculty, staff and visitors to our campus – safe.”
For more information regarding WVU’s fall plans and guidelines, visit WVU’s Return to Campus web site.
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CONTACT: April Kaull, Interim Exec. Director of Communications
University Relations
304-212-8710; akaull@mail.wvu.edu
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