Statement from Board of Regents President Mike Richards on Coronavirus

March 5, 2020

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Safety of our campus communities is a paramount concern for the Board of Regents.  Regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Guidance and Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) Guidance for Student Foreign Travel for Institutions of Higher Education recommends institutions “should consider postponing or canceling student foreign exchange program.”  

Based on this most recent guidance from the CDC and IDPH, as well as the quickly evolving impact of COVID-19, the Board of Regents is cancelling all university-sponsored international travel for all faculty, staff and students for 30 days (including spring break) effective immediately. 

Our recommendations and guidance will be regularly evaluated with university leadership. Updates to the guidance will be provided as the situation evolves.

We recognize this decision may be disappointing to many in our community. These types of trips provide remarkable opportunities for learning and growth.  This decision has not been an easy one; however, we are prioritizing the health and safety of all individuals.

For those faculty, staff and students that are already out of the country, we will recall students, faculty and staff from any country that the CDC designates a Level 3.  Our guidance may change the level depending on how the situation evolves.

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