As the semester comes to an end, I wanted to update you on a few things before we go on a much deserved break.
Moved Albany Campus Testing Site
This semester, our Albany campus COVID-19 testing site conducted 1,595 rapid tests and 249 PCR tests, and our Vermont campus testing site conducted 159 tests. This ability to rapidly test on campus was absolutely the most significant factor in our ability to identify and contain the spread of the virus. I continue to applaud the collective efforts of all those involved in testing and contact tracing. Now that the cold weather is here, we have moved our testing site inside the Albert White Gymnasium. The testing entrance is the main entrance across from the Gozzo Student Center.
COVID-19 Testing Required Before Returning to Campus
In our ongoing effort to protect our College community, all students and employees are required to complete a COVID-19 test and submit negative results prior to returning to campus. Additional information regarding this testing requirement will be sent to students from the Office of Student Affairs and to employees from the Office of Human Resources. These communications will also include details on the updated travel advisory and quarantine requirements issued by New York State and the CDC. In addition to this pre-semester testing requirement, we will continue to perform surveillance testing during the spring semester.
Winter Sports Cancelled
We have also decided to cancel our winter sports (men's and women's basketball) to do all we can to protect our community. If conditions improve in the spring, we will look to schedule a condensed season. We are also in the process of evaluating whether to open the fitness center. It is our hope to open the fitness center at some point in the spring semester, but we will approach this decision with an abundance of caution.
Thank you all for your collective efforts to keep our College community safe. I wish you a healthy and restful holiday season!
