Washington State University Pullman will hold all undergraduate classes for the upcoming semester remotely, with limited exceptions, according to an email sent by WSU President Kirk Schulz, Provost and Executive Vice President Elizabeth Chilton and Vice President of Student Affairs Mary Jo Gonzales.
This decision was made in response to rising numbers of COVID-19 cases regionally and nationally. Further information regarding graduate instruction will be announced by Aug. 1. WSU’s other campuses will soon also announce plans for the coming semester.
“We make this decision with the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff foremost in our minds, and that principle will continue to guide us going forward,” the email stated. “We know this news has major consequences for our students and their loved ones. We understand the myriad of emotions that this decision will cause — sadness, frustration, disappointment, anger and for others, a sense of relief.”
Washington State has experienced a recent increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths and in response, Gov. Jay Inslee tightened Phase Three reopening guidelines earlier in July. These changes limit social gatherings to 10 people, instead of the previous 50. Counties in Phase Two may have gatherings of up to five people. In addition, all live entertainment both inside and outside, including drive-in concerts, clubs and live music in restaurants, are prohibited.
University-owned apartments will open as planned, but residence halls will only be available for those approved to live on campus. Food service will be available with limited offerings and occupancy in dining areas and while recreation and community centers will offer limited in-person services, virtual options will be available. Cougar Health Services will also remain operational.
Further information about the WSU fall semester can be found on the WSU website and the WSU student newspaper’s website, The Daily Evergreen. Information on the UI fall reopening plan can be found in our Fall 2020 tag.
Lex Miller can be reached at [email protected]