Dear Students,
Loma Linda University is implementing new steps to safeguard the health of all students, faculty, and staff. These changes are designed to minimize the potential impact of the increasing spread of the COVID-19 virus domestically and internationally. We are continuing to monitor and evaluate this rapidly developing situation on a daily basis. Effective immediately:
- Exam week for Winter Quarter will remain as planned. We will attempt social distancing for your protection during tests.
- We will be moving to an online instructional format for the beginning of the Spring Quarter, except for pharmacy students which will begin March 16. Our primary modes of didactic instruction will be through Canvas and/or Zoom. Deans will communicate further information for your particular program.
- Clinical rotations and laboratory activities will be managed at the school/program level, and will continue to be required in some format.
- We anticipate resuming face-to-face instruction on May 4, 2020. Since this is an ever-evolving situation, this is subject to change.
- Although we are operating with caution, University businesses and services remain open, including the Residence Halls, Councilors Student Pavilion, Library, and Drayson Center; however, we are strongly encouraging social distancing practices.
- All spring SIMS trips have been cancelled until further notice. The Global Health Institute website will have the latest information as well as resources for travel.
- With Spring Break quickly approaching, we strongly encourage you to evaluate travel plans —especially international destinations — as the government is limiting return options. Please refer to the CDC website for the most current travel restrictions.
- University@Worship will be cancelled at the church during the month of April; during this time, worship opportunities will be provided online.
- If you find yourself in need of assistance for any reason while you are away from campus, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school’s administration.
- It is not anticipated that financial aid will be impacted; however, if you have concerns, please contact your Financial Aid Officer. If necessary, degree requirements may be extended beyond the usual spring quarter time.
- If you feel that you have been exposed to COVID-19, please contact your healthcare provider. If you have spent time with an asymptomatic person who, in turn, had spent time with a COVID-19 positive individual, this is NOT considered an exposure by CDC and does not require work up. For example, if your roommate (who has no symptoms) was exposed to a COVID-19 individual and you spent time with your roommate, you have NOT been exposed.
Your health, safety, and education remain our highest priorities. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 developments and will communicate with you any changes that will affect you. Please monitor your LLU email and texts for the latest campus updates.
Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
