Dear Faculty and Staff:

In consultation with all governing parties (Crisis Management Team, Cabinet, Board of Trustees, facutly, staff, and student leadership), we have made the decision to continue to go with remote instruction and learning for the entire semester. 

Please see below the formal message I just sent to students and their parents. 

Thank you all for your efforts during this challenging time. 

Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick Leahy

President

From: Leahy, Patrick
Sent: Tuesday, March 24, 2020 4:27 PM
To: ‘students@monmouth.edu’ <students@monmouth.edu>
Subject: Important COVID-19 Update – Please read

Office of the President

Dear Monmouth Students:

Since the first message to all of you on Feb. 7, I have promised an aggressive, yet measured approach in our response to this global pandemic, which arrived recently in Monmouth County and is currently expanding in the region. The safety and welfare of those entrusted to our care is now — and always will be — our top priority.

Given Governor Murphy’s most recent executive order, as well as the public health professionals’ best estimates of the pandemic’s trajectory and timeline, we have little choice but to continue remote instruction and learning for the duration of the spring semester. We held out on making this decision as long as possible in the hope that we might all be together again before the end of the semester, but, unfortunately, that no longer looks possible. We join nearly all of the other higher education institutions in New Jersey in making this very difficult decision to suspend in-person instruction for the entire semester. While we will be unable to gather on campus as one Monmouth community, we remain committed to offering you in this remote learning environment the personalized education that you expect from us, enabling each of you to continue to make progress on your academic journey.

The decision to extend remote instruction and learning through the end of the semester prompts a cascade of other considerations, including the following. 

·       Grading. In collaboration with the Provost, the Faculty Council has approved a flexible grading policy for the remainder of the Spring 2020 semester. At the conclusion of the semester, faculty will award letter grades to students for their work. Once standard letter grades are posted, students may choose to keep some or all of those standard grades (A-F), or they may choose to have some or all of the grades recorded as Pass/Fail (P/F).  This policy offers the most flexibility possible for students. The Provost will provide the full policy details and considerations for students under separate cover.

·       On-Campus Work. We have worked to preserve all on-campus student employment opportunities, wherever possible, for the remainder of the semester. Students will continue to be paid for work performed, though they have been asked to work remotely, just as full-time staff have been asked to do so. In addition, we will honor graduate assistantships and Federal Work Study awards. Please be in touch with your campus supervisor for more details. 

·       Residential Move-out. The Office of Residential Life will conduct the move-out process over a 14-day period, beginning Thursday, March 26. In adherence to the strict social distancing guidelines set forth by the State of New Jersey, students will be required to make an appointment to recover their belongings and may be accompanied by no more than one person. Area coordinators will provide detailed instructions, including the scheduled days for specific buildings, either later today or tomorrow. To comply with the executive order, the move-out process cannot begin until March 26, so be on the lookout for more information soon.

·       Refunds. The Board of Trustees has approved a policy to ensure that all students will receive prorated refunds or credits on unused room contracts, meal plans, and parking fees. All refunds and credits will be prorated for the period beginning March 23, 2020 through the end of the semester. Additional details will be shared shortly.

·       Commencement. The University is committed to hosting traditional, in-person, graduation ceremonies for both undergraduate and graduate students in order to properly celebrate our students’ achievements. The May dates will be postponed to a time later this summer when public health officials deem it safe to hold such celebrations. Details will be forthcoming. 

·       Summer International Trips. All faculty-led and study abroad summer programs are cancelled for the Summer 2020 sessions. Making this decision now protects students against incurring any fees that might be unrecoverable later.

·       Summer Courses. At this point, summer courses will continue as scheduled. We encourage students to register for these courses as normal. Any change to the mode of delivery or to the schedule of classes will be communicated later in the spring, as the public health situation dictates.

We will continue to provide additional information in the days and weeks ahead. Please check your Monmouth e-mail on a daily basis for updates. 

Lastly, I understand the hardship these trying times can create for students, especially those with limited financial means. To that end, I have established a President’s Relief Fund that can provide small grants to students to relieve financial pressures during this difficult time. Please visit monmouth.edu/relief to fill out a simple appeal form. Resources are limited, so I cannot guarantee that every appeal will be funded, but let’s try. 

President Kennedy once said: “Do not pray for easy lives; pray to be stronger men and women.” I pray that all of us can summon additional strength to navigate these turbulent times. Together, we will weather this storm and make Monmouth University better than ever. If you have any questions or comments regarding these decisions, please feel free to contact my office directly at president@monmouth.edu. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and will ensure each message gets a response. 

Thank you for being a part of the Monmouth University community.

Dr. Patrick F. Leahy

President

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:

The health and safety of our University community is my top priority and I am committed to keeping you updated on campus developments related to COVID-19.

The University has been informed that a member of our campus community has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently seeking treatment. The individual was last on campus on Monday, March 9. I know this news will understandably raise additional concerns, however, for reasons of health privacy, the University cannot identify the individual nor provide additional details. In accordance with established public health protocols, officials from the Freehold Area Health Department will reach out directly to any individual(s) who may need to be notified and/or interviewed in connection with this case. I know you join me in keeping this individual in your thoughts and prayers.

The University has taken a number of steps to reduce risk for our campus community, including moving to a remote learning and instruction model, modifying business operations to support social distancing through reduced and remote staffing, restricting University travel, canceling events and tours, and instituting an enhanced sanitation protocol. We continue to respond to the latest government and public health guidance and expect to share another update in the coming days.

Again, your health and well-being is a top priority for me. Please visit our COVID-19 web page for updated information and campus initiatives.

Dr. Patrick Leahy
President

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:Thank you all for your continued understanding as we work to keep you updated on the steps we are taking to carry out our educational mission while responding in a safe and responsible way to the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The University’s March 12 decision to move to a remote instruction and learning model places us in complete compliance with the executive order signed by Governor Murphy yesterday. Specifically, the executive order requires colleges and universities to cease in-person instruction, effective March 18. As you all know, Monmouth University has already sent most residential students home, offering exceptions only to those students who have formally petitioned for exemptions. We will initiate remote learning and instruction on March 23, at which time all academic programming will be delivered remotely without exception. Any content that cannot be delivered in this remote fashion will be made up later in the semester.  At this time, we have made the immediate decision to extend remote instruction and learning through April 10. This one-week extension to our original plan marks the midpoint of the period between spring break and finals. This new date will give us additional time to assess the progression of the pandemic and afford us one last chance to consider reopening the campus and bringing everyone together before the end of the semester. If the coronavirus situation does not improve significantly by early April, then we will extend the remote academic delivery through the end of the semester. A final decision on this will come in the days ahead. However, we remain dedicated to delivering the same high-quality, highly personalized education you expect from us, whether that be in-person or from a distance. 

In addition, consistent with the executive order, the University has modified its in-person business operations in support of social distancing efforts. Monmouth University will continue to operate during normal business hours, with most employees working remotely at full pay and benefits. Only a limited number of designated, essential staff will report to campus. To clarify, universities have not been mandated to close; they have been mandated to cease in-person instruction and to minimize the number of people on campus, which the University has already done. This executive order will remain in effect until public health officials declare it safe to return to in-person instruction. We will continue to evaluate this timeline and will share updates as they become available.

I understand that this situation is incredibly disconcerting for everyone, and I appreciate your patience and kindness as we respond to the latest public health information. University leadership – in collaboration with faculty, staff, and student leadership – will continue to evaluate the situation in the context of the relevant government and public health guidance, and we will update you accordingly. You may also visit our COVID-19 information web page for the latest information and resources for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. 

In the coming days I will also explore additional ways for our community to stay connected during this difficult time. At times like these, I am reminded of a quote attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt. She said: “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” I am so grateful to all of you for living this maxim right now.

Thank you. 

Dr. Patrick LeahyPresident 

P.S. A video version of this message is available on our COVID-19 web page.

Dear Members of the Monmouth University Community:

Let me begin by apologizing for the pain, anger, and profound disappointment our campus community and the community at-large have experienced as a result of the hurtful and offensive actions taken by several members of our student body at the men’s basketball game on our campus on March 6. Upon hearing of this troubling incident, I promised an aggressive investigation, since discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated on this campus. Here is an update. 

The individuals involved were immediately identified, and their case was elevated to the Monmouth University Police Department.  Pursuant to the Attorney General’s April 5, 2019 Revised Bias Incident Investigation Standards, the Monmouth University Police Department was mandated to report the bias incident to the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.  The Prosecutor’s Office determined that the conduct did not meet the legal standards of a bias crime under New Jersey Law.  As a result, the Prosecutor’s Office referred the case back to us at the University for adjudication under our Student Code of Conduct.

The individuals involved have been charged under the Student Code of Conduct. Our investigation thus far has established that these specific students did use a reference to sexual orientation as an insult, but they did not target an individual or group of individuals because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation. This distinction in no way absolves these students of their actions, but these facts are significantly different from those that heretofore have been reported and shared. Regardless, these actions represent a clear breach of established student conduct protocols and are an insult to our collective community. Our investigation continues, and sanctions, commensurate with the ultimate findings, will be levied. It is clear that we have a lot more work to do in educating these students about creating a safe and welcoming community for all.

In the meantime, I have reached out to the President of Siena College, have shared these details with her, and have apologized on behalf of the Monmouth University community. I have assured her that the Siena Saints will always be welcome on this campus. 

Members of the LGBTQA+ community should also always feel welcome on our campus. Monmouth University is committed to providing an inclusive, diverse, and genuinely welcoming community for all students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors. As the new president, I have made this a top priority for my administration, as evidenced by the comprehensive culture study that I have commissioned to establish a campus climate baseline. The survey has been open for three weeks, and I encourage all members of the University community to complete it. Once the results are tabulated, I will work with the President’s Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion – as well as with the Faculty Council, with the newly-established Staff Council, with the Student Government Association, and with representative student, faculty, staff leaders – to develop programming and initiatives that will ensure we are living up to our commitment.

To all of our current and future LGBTQA+ Hawks, I welcome your ideas to help ensure Monmouth University is an institution you can proudly call home.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patrick Leahy

President

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:

As you are aware, the news and information surrounding COVID-19 is evolving rapidly, and I�d like to update you on the latest developments at Monmouth University. This unprecedented situation requires us to make decisions in real time as we respond to the most current public health guidance, which has been changing moment to moment.

Business Continuity and Remote Work Arrangements

At this time, University offices remain open and operational with enhanced sanitation measures in place to protect the health of the University community. Employees with the ability to work from home should review the feasibility of remote work arrangements with their area vice president or dean. Employees who are unable to come to work for any reason should speak with their area vice president or dean to discuss options.

Remote Instruction and Learning March 23 to April 3

In response to the current guidance, we have made the decision to move to remote instruction and learning from March 23 through April 3. We understand that some coursework may require access to campus labs or studios. We appreciate your patience as we work with faculty to identify the best way to accommodate these needs. We will continue to monitor the situation and will update you as soon as possible on plans for learning and instruction starting April 4. Questions may be directed to the Office of the Provost at 732-571-3405 or provost@monmouth.edu.

Residential Life

At this time, we ask all students to vacate the residence halls until April 3. We understand that, for a variety of reasons, some students cannot return home. Please be assured that we will work with these students to ensure they can remain on campus with our support. Students may request to reside on campus by completing this online request form.  All students, including those who have previously received permission to reside on campus during spring break must complete this electronic form. All forms will be reviewed, and you will receive a response via email. Students who need access to their belongings may schedule an individual appointment by emailing reslife@monmouth.edu. The Health Center, dining services, library, and fitness center will continue to be available with modified hours for those students who remain on campus.

Meetings and Events

All on-campus student events scheduled through April 3 are cancelled. Any other programs, meetings, or events are limited to no more than 15 people. Exceptions require the approval of the area vice president or dean.

Intercollegiate Athletics

The University and the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference have cancelled all spring athletics competition for the remainder of the semester, effective immediately.

Health Services

The Health Center will be open during this time. If you feel ill and/or have a fever, you should contact your health care provider or call the Monmouth University Health Center prior to being seen. You may call the Health Center for a telephone screening at 732-571-3464 so they may best direct your care.

Psychological Counseling and Support

We realize this crisis is causing significant anxiety and stress. If you are in need of counseling or support, please contact the Counseling and Psychological Services office at 732-571-7517.

The University continues to work closely with local, state, and federal health agencies, and we will continue to update you accordingly through email and on our COVID-19 information webpage. The Crisis Management Team will continue to monitor this situation and lead the coordinated response for our campus.

Thank you again for your patience and understanding as we work through this together.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patrick Leahy
President

Dear Faculty and Staff Members:

As part of our ongoing efforts to keep you informed, I am providing an update about our planning and response to the evolving COVID-19 situation.

We are continuing our preparation for the possibility of virtual coursework and programming beginning March 23. Our class cancellation gives us the necessary time to develop these plans and work through contingency scenarios.

All University-sponsored international travel is prohibited and all personal international travel is strongly discouraged. Currently, although discouraged, there are no restrictions on domestic travel. If you elect to travel and feel ill and/or have a fever during your trip or upon your return, you should contact your health care provider or call the Monmouth University Health Center prior to being seen. You may call the Health Center for a telephone screening at 732-571-3464 so they may best direct your care.

On-campus events scheduled through March 22 have been postponed or cancelled, however, the University remains open and operational with enhanced sanitation measures in place to protect the health of the University community. If you have questions about remote working options, please direct them to your area vice president or dean.

The University continues to work closely with local, state, and federal health agencies, and we will continue to update you accordingly. During this challenging time, I am reminded of the strength of community that makes this University so exceptional. I am grateful for your patience and ongoing collaboration as we work to adapt to this rapidly changing situation.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patrick F. Leahy

President

Dear Members of the Campus Community:

Effective immediately and with an abundance of caution, Monmouth University is cancelling all classes (face-to-face, hybrid, and online) for the remainder of this week, with spring break beginning as scheduled on Saturday, March 14. We encourage students to safely return home and avoid travel during this time. Faculty members will advise on changes to course syllabi and make-up dates for midterm exams. Residential and dining services will remain open for students living on campus; all commuter students should remain at home.

On Monday, March 9, a student contacted Health Services to report flu-like symptoms and was transported to Monmouth Medical Center for further evaluation. No additional information is known about the student’s condition at this time.

We are asking faculty and staff to continue to report to work to prepare for the possibility of delivering all courses and programs virtually—at least temporarily—starting March 23.  University offices will remain open but any employee experiencing any flu-like symptoms should remain at home and not report to work. The University has enhanced its disinfecting and cleaning protocols.

Monmouth University continues to work closely with local, state, and federal health agencies, and we will update the campus community as additional information becomes available.

We want to emphasize that this action is a precaution taken to provide peace of mind to students, faculty, staff, and families. There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 associated with the university. We will keep you updated and informed as more information becomes available.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patrick F. Leahy

President

Dear Students and Colleagues:

Earlier today I was made aware of highly offensive actions by several members of our student body directed at players on the opposing team during last night’s men’s basketball game. Please be assured that we are working swiftly to gather additional details and to directly address the behavior with those involved. 

We value every member of our campus community.  Strong and inclusive communities are built on a bond of trust. When that bond is broken, we take it very seriously. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated on this campus. 

We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive community for all – one where everyone is valued and affirmed for who they are – and we will do everything possible to ensure this commitment is strengthened moving forward. Please trust that I will update the campus community as we investigate further. 

Dr. Patrick Leahy
President