Lock Haven University (LHU) welcomed its students and faculty members back to campus on August 23 for the first time since the spring of 2020.
In accordance with local, state, and federal guidelines regarding the current circumstances of COVID-19, the Return to The Haven plan was developed to help mitigate the spread of the virus within the Lock Haven community in an effort to preserve in-person learning for the fall semester. The plan became effective on August 14.
Upon announcing the plan, LHU President Bashar Hanna issued a ‘Message from the President’ to all students and faculty on August 13 summarizing the University’s exceptions for the semester’s COVID-19 protocols.
In his message, Hanna wrote that the plan “is in the best interest of your health, and that of your fellow campus community members.” He also noted that in-person learning will not be able to safely continue unless all community members – both on and off-campus – cooperate with the plan’s guidelines. “Taking personal responsibility to follow guidelines and protocols and being keenly aware of your personal health and risks is paramount for the success of this plan.”
The following COVID-19 protocols in regard to facial coverings, social distancing and other mitigation strategies – as outlined by the Return to The Haven plan – apply to all students, faculty and staff regardless of vaccination status. These guidelines are also in compliance with the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Center for Disease Control and the Pennsylvania Department of Health as of August 13.
Masks/Facial Coverings:
- Facial coverings must be worn over the mouth and nose at all times when inside campus buildings.
- Facial coverings are not required to be worn outdoors, but are welcomed if so desired.
- Masks are required when riding in University vehicles, including the express trolleys, when more than one individual is present.
- Groups of individuals meeting indoors must wear facial coverings.
- Students living in the residence halls are not required to wear masks when alone in their dorm or with their established roommates.
- When alone in their private offices, faculty are not required to wear masks.
Social Distancing:
- Students, faculty and visitors should maintain social distancing of at least three feet when indoors.
- All individuals are asked to avoid unnecessary large gatherings indoors whenever possible.
- Events and gatherings may be limited in size depending on the current recommendations provided by the government and healthcare officials.
- Virtual attendance options for some classes and events may be available for students concerned with larger class sizes and event gatherings.
Other Mitigation Strategies: In addition to mask requirements and social distancing recommendations, the following mitigation strategies are also in effect to help curb the spread of COVID-19 at Lock Haven University.
- Enhanced cleaning measures, including the use of CDC recommended disinfectant, have been implemented campuswide.
- Students and faculty are asked to wash their hands and/or use hand sanitizer frequently.
- Any shared devices or equipment must be cleaned with disinfectant wipes after use.
- Masks and hand sanitizer dispensers are available for student and faculty use. They are located at the front entrances of every building on-campus.
- For individuals who are unable to wear a mask (i.e., for medical reasons), they are welcome to wear a face shield instead. Face shields can be obtained through the Disability Services, located in 205 Ulmer Hall.
- All individuals are encouraged to take their temperatures before leaving their homes, dorms or apartments.
- All individuals are asked to not report to class and/or work if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have been recently diagnosed with COVID-19.
- All students and faculty are highly encouraged to get vaccinated.
For more information regarding COVID-19, current protocols and what to do if you have been exposed, visit the COVID-19 Dashboard located on Lock Haven University’s main web page.
Kerri Hoover
Kerri Hoover is in her third year working on the Eagle Eye staff and currently serves as the President and Editor-in-Chief. As a Lock Haven University senior, she majors in Communication with a triple-concentration focus in Advertising & Public Relations, Electronic Media, and Journalism. With her versatile skill set, Kerri hopes to pursue a career working as a social media content creator, journalist, or video editor. On the rare occasion Kerri isn’t working in the newsroom, she can be found hanging out with her friends, working at the PUB, or creating content for the LHU Media and Journalism Department.