Diligence across campus continues to pay off. While we did have one additional positive case from an externally administered test, 80 random tests were administered on campus and results from the lab indicated no new positive cases. D&E will continue to randomly administer the PCR test, which is recognized as the “gold standard” of COVID-19 tests.
D&E campus operations have changed, in that the College is now a closed campus. Those entering campus must stop for screening, as well as read and strictly follow guidelines provided at the campus entrance. Regularly scheduled weekend cleaning, trash removal and disinfecting measures are also taking place on campus. The use of advanced electrostatic spraying, which provides more comprehensive cleaning to surfaces including equipment and electronics, is part of our ongoing safety measures.
As cold and flu season approaches, we all must remain strong in our health practices that include wearing face masks, frequent hand washing, social distancing, and staying away from crowds and parties. D&E administered 42 flu vaccines on October 14 and 46 flu vaccines on October 22. The final flu shot clinic is scheduled for November 5 in the lounge of Gribble Hall from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Take time to take care of yourself.
The commitment to these health practices has allowed D&E students to attend class and remain in residence on campus, as opposed to countless other schools across the U.S. who were forced to solely deliver courses through an online format. Final exams are less than a month away. We can do this!
Student activities weekend schedule: The Great D&E Pumpkin Festival!
The following is the schedule of FREE activities for this weekend. Be sure to wear your face mask, keep your hands clean, and practice social distancing.
Friday, October 23
Free Friday: The Great D&E Pumpkin Festival; Halliehurst (small lawn facing Roxanna Booth Hall); 6-8 p.m.
Warm pumpkin spice waffle bowls, pumpkin butter ice cream (with caramel apple drizzle sauce), candied pumpkin seeds, hot cider, and hot cocoa. Pumpkin, spice, and everything nice! A celebration of autumn, complete with food, fun, and pumpkins! Sponsored by Senator Entertainment and presented by Tyler “T-Claw” Crawford.
Saturday, October 24
Super Saturday: The Great D&E Pumpkin Festival; Madden Student Center (Timms Lounge and Davis Trust Company Patio); 6-8 p.m.
Leaves are changing colors, the nights are getting cooler, and the splendor of fall is upon us. Day 2 of The Great D&E Pumpkin Festival will feature the Jack-O-Lantern Blaze, an enchanting Halloween experience that will feature a pumpkin wonderland of more than 50 hand-carved jack-o-lanterns. D&E’s master carvers (D&E students) will bring the Halloween spirit to life. Sponsored by Senator Entertainment.
NOTE: These activities/events are FREE! Be sure to wear your face mask, keep your hands clean, practice social distancing, and follow D&E COVID-19 safety policies. And have fun!
Robbins-Madden Fitness Center to reopen October 26
The Robbins-Madden Fitness Center, located in the Hermanson Campus Center, is set to reopen on Monday, October 26. The fitness center will operate with stringent COVID-19 safety guidelines. For questions or further information, call the Robbins-Madden Fitness Center at 304-637-1320 or 304-637-1251.
Your COVID-19 behavior impacts the entire D&E campus
Students are reminded they will be held accountable for their actions, and measures will be taken for violators. Violations of the Davis & Elkins College Code of Conduct will be processed in accordance with the discipline policy (sanctions range from/include fines, residence hall suspension, and expulsion). Serious disciplinary actions have already been taken for violation of safety protocols on campus. If you see a violation of the College Code of Conduct, you can report it using this form. We all share the responsibility of keeping D&E healthy and safe.
Spring 2021 schedule available; registration November 3
The Spring 2021 course schedule is available. All students should review the course offerings and make an appointment with your faculty advisor soon to discuss your plans for the upcoming semester and progress toward graduation. Registration for the Spring Semester will take place on Tuesday, November 3.
Academic schedule reminders
November 3 – Register for Spring 2020 courses
November 4 – Last day to withdraw from a course with a “W”
November 20 – Last day of classes
November 21 – Final exams begin
November 25 – Last Day of Final Exams
December 1 – All grades are due by 1:00 p.m.
Reminder: Non-essential travel protocol
D&E continues to strongly discourage travel outside the 90-mile commuter zone. If you engage in non-essential travel, a strict process has been put in place to protect the D&E community. For pre-approved “essential travel” designation, students must consult with the Campus Nurse, the Dean of Students, or the Academic Dean before travel occurs. Essential travel will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
If you choose to travel and your travel is deemed non-essential, your return to campus will be processed in the following manner, including assessed fees for specific services during your quarantine period.
- You must check in with the D&E Office of Public Safety. From there, you will be escorted to a private quarantine room in the Byrd Center.
- Quarantine begins the day you arrive back to campus – Day 0. You will be tested for COVID-19 on Day 4 by the Campus Nurse. You may not leave quarantine until your test results are received and they are negative. COVID testing is self-pay (you provide your health insurance information to the nurse).
- Quarantine means you may not leave the room and you may not have visitors.
- Your classes will be delivered in an online format. It is your responsibility to communicate with your faculty.
- Food will be delivered to you. You must fill out the meals form before meals will be delivered.
- You will be assessed a meal delivery charge, a cleaning fee, and a COVID testing fee.
- If you test positive for COVID, quarantine continues for 10 more days, provided symptoms do not manifest.
- Failure to report to the Office of Public Safety after a travel excursion is in violation of the college’s code of conduct, which will result in sanctions (ranging from/including fines, residence hall suspension, and expulsion).
Help keep our campus safe. Stay out of large crowds and practice safety protocols that include wearing a face mask, social distancing, and washing your hands. By following safety guidelines, the campus stays open.
Check this weekly student update, the D&E Mobile App, and your email regularly for updates. The Emergency Notification System (nixle) will also be used as appropriate.
Please wear a face mask, practice social distancing, and stay well.
