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March 11, 2020

Coronavirus Update: March 11, 2020


Dear Guilford community: 

COVID-19 continues to spread in the United States and across the world. We continue to closely monitor this situation.  While there are seven confirmed cases in North Carolina, there are no known cases of COVID-19 on our campus.

In response to this developing situation, the College has activated a COVID-19 Task Force that is meeting daily.  The Task Force is coordinating preparation and responses across the community, while concurrently assessing and reacting to information from public health professionals. Please continue to check this page for updates and links to valuable resources. We are preparing to implement appropriate responses and take proactive steps, based on guidance and recommendations from city, state, and federal officials. While much of the work in preparing our community is not yet visible, I am confident in the work that has happened and plans that are still being developed.  As always, the health and safety of all members of our community are our highest priorities.

Based on official guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone returning from China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea is instructed to stay home for a period of 14 days, take care to monitor their health, and practice social distancing. We support such practices at Guilford as well; such individuals will not be allowed to return to work or classes and must stay home until the 14-day period has elapsed.

This situation and related developments may be troubling to many in our community. If you are feeling anxious or worried because of the news about COVID-19, we encourage you to use College resources. Students may phone or email the Counseling Center (336-316-2163/counselingcenter@guilford.edu) for an appointment. Employees may make use of the Employee Assistance Network (1-800-854-1446).

The President's next scheduled update to the Guilford community will be tomorrow, Thursday, March 12. At that time, Jane intends to share additional and more detailed information on the College's next steps.

Guilford is committed to maintaining an environment of respect and support for all members of our community. The College encourages everyone to support one another and demonstrate the generosity of spirit that characterizes the Guilford community at its best. We can all do our part to promote an effective, educated, and compassionate response to this global crisis.

Sincerely yours,

Jane K. Fernandes, President