An Update Regarding the University's Response to COVID-19

As the news of COVID-19 continues to change, we would like to provide an update on several decisions that the university made today.

Spring break for the College of Arts & Sciences will be extended by one week through March 29. This additional time will allow faculty to prepare for the possibility of moving classes online and to provide us with a more complete understanding of how COVID-19 will impact the state of Minnesota.

Buildings and residence halls will remain open, and we ask that students who plan to live on campus at any point during the two weeks of spring break register online so that we can plan accordingly.  Food service will be open for limited hours during the first week of spring break and resume serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the second week of break. 

Students scheduled to work an on-campus job during these two weeks should discuss their plans with their supervisor. Offices that operate with limited spring break hours should plan to resume normal hours and services during the second week of spring break.

Classes for the College of Adult & Professional Studies, Bethel Seminary, and the Graduate School will continue as scheduled. Any changes will be communicated to students, faculty, and staff as soon as possible.

All on-campus gatherings of 100 or more people scheduled through March 31 are canceled. This includes rental events such as the Minnesota Shade Tree Short Course, the Young Authors Conference, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concert, and Bethel-sponsored events such as choir concerts, Vespers, and admissions events. To apply for an exception to this policy, contact the emergency management team at covid-19@bethel.edu. 

Outside of these changes, Bethel will continue normal operations. Staff should continue reporting to work as scheduled. Faculty who want to work on campus during spring break are welcome to do so. 

We would also like to clarify a few details regarding university-sponsored travel. All international travel, air travel, and travel to or attendance at gatherings of 100 or more is canceled through March 31. However, employees may travel within 100 miles by car to gatherings of less than 100 people. Exceptions may be requested by contacting the emergency management team at covid-19@bethel.edu.

If you have questions regarding these decisions or Bethel’s response plan, please contact the emergency planning team at covid-19@bethel.edu.