COVID-19: What it means to the SPU community

updated: April 24, 2020

If you think you have COVID-19 or have been exposed:


Recent reports

April 22, 2020) Application deadlines, test scores, deadlines... The COVID-19 outbreak has certainly shaken up the college application process. This summary from SPU’s Undergraduate Admissions team outlines many of the changes applicants and their families should know about. Visit the page.

(April 21, 2020)  In an email to the campus community, Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Sandra Mayo and other campus leaders urged faculty, staff, and students to respond “in truth and love” amid uncertainties presented by COVID-19. “The Spring Quarter represents a new start for each of us,” they wrote, “and an opportunity to renew our commitment to pursue greater understanding across differences.” The message was co-signed by Cindy Price, Margaret Brown, Chuck Strawn, and Lisa Ishihara. View the email here.

(April 9, 2020)  In their latest email, Cindy Price and Jeff Jordan offer a wide range of campus updates, including details on CIS support, library closure, food and health services, and notes to students moving into residence halls. Their email also gives updates on student employee policies and our compliance with Washington state-mandated “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” guidelines. Read the email here.

(April 9, 2020)  In an email today to all SPU residential students, Director of Residence Life Gabe Jacobsen outlines what students (and families) can expect as they plan for Spring Quarter. The email addresses new housing assignments, move-in procedures, and social distancing guidelines. It also describes updated policies on residence areas such as lounges, fitness centers, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Read the email here.  

(April 6, 2020)  In their latest email update to the SPU community, Vice President for Student Life Jeff Jordan and Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Cindy Price address some of the changes students and their families can expect in the upcoming Spring Quarter. The email offers campus updates and explains developments in academics, housing, University Ministries, graduation ceremonies, and athletics. Read the email here.

(April 3, 2020)  Given the uncertainties of the COVID-19 outbreak and in light of Gov. Inslee’s extension of the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order, traditional in-person graduation celebrations at Seattle Pacific this June are canceled. The shift to virtual Commencement celebrations affects Ivy Cutting, Undergraduate and Graduate Commencement, hooding ceremonies, and more. In an email today, SPU President Dan Martin detailed what students can expect. Read the email here.

(View archived updates here.)


Our priority: Your health

At SPU, our students’ and community’s health is our priority, and we continue to closely monitor the local and global outbreak. Find out the facts about this viral illness and get answers to FAQ’s. You can also seek reliable information and current updates on COVID-19 from the Centers for Disease ControlWashington State Department of Health, and Seattle King County Department of Health.

Precautions to prevent illnesses:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

What about the flu?

It is still flu season, and influenza is a very serious concern for public health as well. In addition to the steps above, the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from getting the flu. Health Services still has some flu vaccine available. Schedule an appointment for a flu shot by calling 206-281-2231. 

Travel

At this time, local and national officials are discouraging all non-essential travel. SPU recommends anyone considering domestic or international travel should consult the CDC COVID-19 Travel Information webpage.

After travel to an area with widespread, ongoing community spread of COVID-19, you should stay home for 14 days from the time you left that area, monitor your health, and practice social distancing. See CDC precautions here.

If you develop symptoms, call Health Services (206-281-2231) or your primary care provider for information. Talk about your recent travel and symptoms. Avoid contact with others. 

Posted: Wednesday, March 04, 2020


SPU President Dan Martin addresses questions about COVID-19 implications for spring quarter

A message to students

In this short video, President Dan Martin offers encouragement and an update on remote learning for Spring Quarter.

What you need to know:

  • We’re keeping a close eye on the situation. A cross-departmental team is tracking developments to keep you informed.
  • We’re closely following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Washington State Department of Health (DOH) guidelines.
  • SPU’s Health Services department is tracking updates for you.

Grace and truth during the pandemic

“God is with us. More specifically, God is with all of us. I am troubled by the stories of Asians and Asian Americans in our local communities who are experiencing stereotyping and discrimination based on their Asian heritage. I urge us to be a place of compassion and to support those who are impacted by sinister lies at a time like this. I also urge us to be a place of truth-telling, when misinformation or outright hate may appear.”

— Dan Martin, President