SE Communications
DURANT – Southeastern Oklahoma State University employees will start returning to campus on June 1 as part of a phased in approach during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is the first step as the University begins planning for the return of students for face-to-face classes this fall.
“We are looking forward to having our students back on campus as we begin fall classes on August 17,’’ said Southeastern president Thomas Newsom. “Until that time, we are working to ensure that we provide a safe and healthy environment for our students, faculty, staff, and community.’’
On June 1, approximately 30 percent of the University’s workforce will be on site, according to a recommendation by a task force established by Dr. Newsom. Since late March, most employees have been teleworking, while students completed their studies online. Summer classes are currently underway in an online format.
On June 15, an additional 30 percent of workers are scheduled to be back on campus, with the goal of the entire staff being on board in early July.
A date has not been set for when the campus will re-open to the public.
Before returning to work, employees will complete safety and health training. All facilities will be cleaned on a regular basis, and employees will be provided with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits.
The 15-member task force includes University administrators, faculty and staff, a student, and community members. Dr. Newsom and Regent Amy Anne Ford of the Regional University System of Oklahoma are ex officio members. The group, which meets bi-weekly, is charged with making recommendations on how Southeastern can safely and responsibly repopulate the campus in anticipation of the Fall 2020 semester.
The task force is following guidelines provided by the American College Health Association.
In addition to the task force, sub-committees are being formed for issues related to instruction, on-campus living, and athletics.
For more information, visit https://www.se.edu/student-wellness/coronavirus-update/