The Newberry College Board of Trustees has approved plans for a phased return to campus to begin the fall semester. The plan pushes back residential student move-in, reintroduces students to campus in phases, and launches classes online for the first three weeks of the term.

 

“Each phase will gradually reintroduce students while minimizing the number of visitors and guests on campus,” said President Maurice Scherrens. “This plan allows students to return slowly and safely and gives the College an opportunity to assess and make adjustments as necessary.”

 

Residential students will begin returning to campus on Aug. 14, with international students, select student-athletes, nursing students and other approved groups. The following three weekends will welcome all other students back to campus.

 

Fall classes will begin Aug. 17 as scheduled, launching virtually and phasing into in-person instruction by Sept. 8. If students feel unsafe or uncomfortable returning to campus during the phased return, they will be able to apply to continue virtual learning after Sept. 8. Students may also return to campus after the initial return if they choose, and may be assigned housing based on availability.

 

“We know the best learning environment is created with in-person classroom instruction in a supportive, reaffirming residential community,” said Scherrens. “As a campus community, we all must remain agile as we do everything possible to ensure a safe and healthy campus environment. We look forward to welcoming our students back to campus soon.”

 

For full details on the college’s return to campus, please visit www.newberry.edu/returning.

 

The college previously announced that all students and employees will be required to wear face coverings in shared spaces. Small tours of campus have resumed for prospective students and families. Last week, the South Atlantic Conference delayed the start of all scheduled competition for the 2020 fall sports season until Sept. 26, and limited teams to conference-only play.