COVID-19 response and social distancing measures

COVID-19 response and social distancing measures

March 12, 2020 LA GRANDE, Ore. – Eastern Oregon University shared new information and guidelines today that are focused on decreasing the transmission of COVID-19 on campus and in the community. EOU is open and plans to remain open and classes will continue this week as scheduled. Finals Week will take place as scheduled next week. 

EOU is aligning its direction for students and employees with new guidance announced earlier today by the Oregon Health Authority to slow the spread of this virus through social distancing. This includes reducing interactions between people, such as limiting proximity to others, decreasing attendance at events and limiting non-essential travel. 

Per guidance from the State of Oregon, all gatherings over 250 people will be canceled statewide effective tomorrow, March 13. This is expected to alter events previously scheduled at the university. Information on events and activities will be shared through EOU’s COVID-19 webpage at eou.edu/coronavirus.

Over spring break, EOU is recommending students, faculty and staff minimize travel and follow social distancing guidelines. EOU’s residence halls will remain open. Sodexo is coordinating with Student Affairs and Residence Life to provide adequate social distancing space in Hoke Union Building.

Spring term classes will be offered as scheduled, including remote access where it is feasible. Computer Labs will remain open to ensure students have access to courses delivered remotely. 

In coordination with the Cascade Collegiate Conference, athletic competitions are suspended until March 29, effective immediately. The EOU Fitness Center in Quinn Coliseum will be closed, effective March 12 to 29. The NAIA has also cancelled their winter championships. 

All non-essential, university-related domestic and international travel has been suspended until further notice. 

EOU continues to stay in close contact with other Oregon universities, the Governor’s Office, the Oregon Health Authority and the Higher Education Coordinating Commission. 

This situation is continually evolving and EOU is working to keep the university community updated with important information as it becomes available. 

Event cancellations, community resources, university messages and other information will be updated regularly at eou.edu/coronavirus.