COVID-19 guidance for non-residential students
SUNY New Paltz is publishing important messages and news updates related to the College’s response to COVID-19 on the campus news website. Use this link to view all these posts in one place.
The update below was shared by Dean of Students Robin Cohen-La Valle on Tuesday, March 24.
Campus community members can view updates at the Coronavirus Information and Coronavirus FAQs webpages, which are being updated regularly as this situation evolves.
Dear Non-Residential Student,
As you know, SUNY New Paltz is responding to the threat of COVID-19 with guidance from our local and state health departments and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The actions of our institution are designed to prevent the continued spread of the virus among our campus community.
If you are a student living in an off-campus apartment or house, please consider the following for your safety and the safety of those around you:
- Students should avoid any unnecessary travel, including to and from campus. Many campus services such as dining, recreational facilities, programming, computer labs, etc. have been significantly curtailed. Sojourner Truth Library services can be accessed remotely, and assistance is available via email or phone. We recommend that students do not come to campus unless absolutely necessary, and we recommend calling or emailing the office from which you are requesting assistance.
- Visitors/Guests/Hosting Social Events: Please limit your socializing. We know this can be difficult as connecting with friends is so important. Current guidance stipulates that people should not gather in groups. Additionally, maintaining six feet of space between yourself and others, and washing your hands often can help reduce potential transmission.
- Social distancing is key to preventing the spread of infection. By allowing guests/visitors into your living space or creating situations where there are large group gatherings (parties, etc.), you are putting yourself and others at risk of being exposed to the virus. People may tell you they feel fine, but they may be unaware they are carrying the virus. Have lunch, dinner or evening meetups through your favorite video conferencing app, so you can see friends without any risk.
- It is imperative that all students heed this advice. Any student or group of students found to be putting themselves or others in unnecessary danger (i.e. hosting large parties, etc.) can be held accountable via the Student Code of Conduct (Student Handbook). Disciplinary actions for such conduct could result in suspension or expulsion from New Paltz.
Thank you for your help in contributing to the efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Questions or concerns can be directed to my office by e-mailing studentaffairs@newpaltz.edu
In addition, we want you to know we care a great deal about you and your health. If you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 (fever, cough) please contact the Student Health Center at 845-257-3400. If you have difficulty breathing call 911. For the most up-to-date COVID-19 information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
For SUNY New Paltz-specific updates, visit www.newpaltz.edu/coronavirus-info/ and continue to check your SUNY New Paltz Hawk Mail inbox, as it is the college’s official communication method to students.
Take care of yourself, and each other.
Sincerely,
Robin Cohen-La Valle
Dean of Students