APU Community,

I am following up with an email to make sure everyone noted the information contained on our website and in our bi-monthly newsletter https://www.alaskapacific.edu/alaska-pacific-university-preparations-for-the-novel-coronavirus/

Although there are currently no cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Alaska it is important that each of us as individuals start using good practices that will limit the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.

• Stay home when you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If water is not available, use hand sanitizer, with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Immediately throw the tissue in the garbage.

Additionally, some APU specific planning information is provided below.

• For APU-related travel-we will follow the CDC travel health recommendations and work with individuals or groups on a case-by-case basis for travel that falls outside of the current recommendations.
• For changes in schedule or closures-we will provide frequent updates as the situation changes. We will not have any set rules like we do for inclement weather and will instead make decisions as the situation dictates in consultation with public health experts.
• Academics and Classes-Distance delivery or other accommodations may become necessary for courses or individual students and faculty members. As with any illness, students who may be unable to attend a class meeting or residency should contact their faculty members for accommodation. Faculty members should contact their Institute Directors and the Provost office to make arrangements for modification of course delivery. APU has resources for technology-assisted course delivery (e.g., Blackboard, Blackboard Connect, teleconferencing) as needed.

In the event of a campus closure, the Offices of Campus Life, including Campus Safety, and Dining Services have contingency plans in place to ensure continued meal and residential services for students residing on-campus. Campus Safety will remain staffed and continue to conduct regularly scheduled patrols and 24/7 responses to calls for assistance.

We are also making extensive plans and taking actions so APU has contingency plans related to the health of our students and employees as well as business operations.

We will send out at least weekly updates on Thursday or more frequently if the situation dictates.

Thanks,

Bob

Robert Onders MD, JD, MPA
President
Alaska Pacific University