Dear Assumption Students and Parents,

The situation in Italy, as well as globally, with regard to COVID-19, what we know as coronavirus, has evolved this week with increases in the number of confirmed cases. As stated earlier this week, the safety of our students is paramount as we closely monitor the situation in all countries where students are studying abroad.

As you may have heard, a number of U.S. colleges and universities have suspended or terminated their study aboard programs, primarily in China, South Korea, and the northern region of Italy, an area to which we have suspended student travel. Many U.S. colleges and universities with programs in Florence, Rome and other areas of Italy continue to operate.

The Rome Campus will remain open and staffed given Rome’s distance from the impacted area. Know that if coronavirus spreads to the central region of Italy, we will reevaluate operations at the Campus. Yesterday, I spoke with students studying in the Assumption Rome program by videoconference during which they reiterated their preference to remain in Rome. However, given the concerns relative to coronavirus, the College is extending to all Assumption students participating in study abroad this semester the option to return to the United States to complete their studies.

Students who choose to voluntarily return to the United States can be assured of the following:
  • The Office of the Provost will develop a program of study to ensure students will be able to complete their courses taken during the study abroad experience.
  • For students studying at the Rome Campus who opt to return to the United States, a contingency plan is in place that will allow them to seamlessly complete their courses.

Since students will have the opportunity to complete their courses, refunds will not be offered.

Students who plan to return to the United States must inform Assumption’s Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Eloise Knowlton, Ph.D., eknowlton@assumption.edu and their study abroad program contact. Upon return, students participating in study abroad will not be permitted on campus for a minimum of 14 days, a period of time suggested by health officials. College officials will provide a date on which students may return to campus.

Should you have any questions or concerns, you may contact me at  presoffice@assumption.edu  or Eloise Knowlton, at 508.767.7486 (office) or 508.446.6284 (mobile).

Sincerely,