President Mark C. Anarumo shares updates to Norwich University’s operating status and guidance about the forthcoming spring semester.
VOLUNTARY DEPARTURES:Anarumo said he will support a voluntary departure from campus and transition to online learning for any student who no longer wants to be on campus, whether for safety or because value hasn’t been as expected. There will be a prorated refund of room and board depending on the date that students can depart; they must clear a health screening before departure so the coronavirus isn’t transmitted during the transition.
Students who have armed forces contracts or are pursuing commission should check with your ROTC cadres to ensure they can meet expectations if they choose to depart. Corps of Cadets Commandant Col. Michael Titus has ensured that Corps students who opt to leave campus will keep their Corps status.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Since student arrival, there have been 79 total COVID-19-positive cases, which Anarumo called “obviously, unreasonably and unsustainably high.”
“We report every single case very quickly as required by Vermont Department of Health guidelines through our medical community,” he said.
ACTIVITIES FOR STUDENTS: To help Norwich’s students maintain mental and physical health, the university will offer schedules for small-group hikes on Paine Mountain, Plumley Armory workouts or Goodyear Pool.
ATHLETICS: Anarumo said that if virus containment efforts succeed as planned, Norwich will find a way to have athletics. Anarumo said he is talking with other college presidents and Athletic Director Tony Mariano is speaking with the other athletic directors. The situation is in flux, Anarumo said. “We want to give you a season,” he said.
