I hope everyone is staying well during this continued time of uncertainty. Today, I’d like to once again emphasize the need for all members of our university community to wear face coverings on campus, and in public places throughout the communities.
It is important we all quickly adjust to this new way of living to help protect the health and safety of those around us. Individual actions, such as face coverings and effective physical distancing, will go a long way to help prevent the continued spread of COVID-19.
On July 1, Palm Beach County issued an order on face coverings, Martin County and St. Lucie County recently did the same, and Broward County has been under such an order since mid-April. Please familiarize yourself with these directives and follow them.
Face coverings are required on our campuses when entering and exiting buildings and while inside public spaces in all buildings, including restrooms, elevators and stairwells, classrooms, and on FAU transportation. In addition, the face coverings should be worn outside when close proximity to others is possible. Face coverings can be handmade and should be kept with you at all times.
Students who need special accommodations regarding face covering should contact Student Accessibility Services. Employees should contact the Office of Equity, Inclusion and Compliance.
Remember, Protect Your Owl Family is the theme of our health and safety efforts. Do not overcrowd spaces, stay six feet apart from other people, wipe down work stations, and wash your hands or use hand sanitzer regularly. If you are feeling unwell, stay home. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, please seek medical attention immediately.
The dedicated COVID-19 website remains the best source of FAU-specific information and our Health and Safety and Cleaning and Disinfecting plans are available for review. The Campus Safety page of the site has detailed information about current policies and protocols, health and prevention practices, self-quarantine procedures, university travel, and more. The Guidance and Services page features an “A-Z” listing of items from around the university. New information is added to the pages as we confirm changes in our operations.
As information changes, we know there are many questions from our students, faculty and staff. We welcome your thoughts and questions via email to FAUCOVID19@fau.edu. All feedback will be shared with applicable departments across our campuses to ensure we make adjustments as necessary.
Finally, I hope all members of our university community have taken time to review the Re-Opening Plan for the Fall 2020 Semester that was approved June 23. It is a fluid document that can be adapted as the world around us shifts and every day brings new information regarding the COVID-19 situation.
Best Regards,
John Kelly
President