Special to 1808Delaware
The Ohio State University announced this week that planning is underway for a reactivation of its campuses this fall to offer safe and robust in-person experiences significantly expanded from current restrictions.
Continuing to follow all appropriate measures to protect the health and well-being of the community, and with the partnership and approval of local, state and federal health authorities, the university’s plans will include increasing:
- In-person teaching, learning and student activities
- Students in the residence halls
- Staff working on campus
- In-person campus services and events
- Fans in attendance at Ohio State football games and other athletic competitions
“We have learned from our success in keeping our campuses operating safely over the last six months, creating the opportunity to broaden face-to-face interactions for students, faculty and staff,” said President Kristina M. Johnson. “Our goal is to welcome more Buckeyes back to our campuses in the fall, safely and in person.”
Details of the university’s reactivation plan will be announced in the coming months as leaders continue to study the latest data related to COVID-19 and public health. Ohio State will develop contingency plans that account for a variety of scenarios.
“I am so proud of Buckeye Nation – the well-being of the university community will always be our top priority,” Johnson said.
Ohio State has successfully operated its campuses during the COVID-19 pandemic in close coordination with state, national and university health experts. By implementing substantial testing, monitoring, contact tracing and public health campaigns, Ohio State has minimized the spread of COVID-19 among the campus community.
The university has conducted more than 400,000 student tests since the start of the current academic year, and positivity rates have been held below 0.5% for more than a month.
Details of the university’s pandemic response are available through the Safe and Healthy Buckeyes website.
Source, Photo: OSU
