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Student Guide for Returning to Rowan

As students return to campus this fall, Rowan University is prepared for a new normal. While none of us know with certainty what lies ahead, we now have a flexible plan in place to guide our way back.

Students will be required to self-monitor for symptoms as noted above and may not attend in-person educational activities if they show any symptoms of COVID-19 as outlined by the CDC. In addition, prior to logging on to Rowan’s network, students will document that they are symptom free and capable of participating in in-person activities or will document that they have symptoms or fever and have followed reporting protocols.

Testing: As will be further discussed in the section governing Testing, Rowan will have available four streams of testing, including a rapid response point of care testing solution, saliva testing through a Rutgers-affiliated laboratory, and standard nasopharangeal swab testing through two testing partners. Rowan will implement a testing protocol for symptomatic testing, as well as testing of close contacts. Rowan will also implement random voluntary testing in certain key populations, including athletes.

Contact Tracing: Students will be required to participate in public health investigations, including contact tracing. 

Self Isolation: Students will be required to isolate pursuant to guidance provided by Student Wellness, in accordance with public health recommendations. Students will be given the option to isolate in their place of primary residence or on campus in Triad Hall, a 218-bed residence hall reserved for self-isolated students. During periods of self-isolation, students will be provided with access to academic materials and, if isolation occurs on campus, arrangements have been made to provide for access to food, medical care, and other necessary services.

Enforcement: Rowan has developed an Acknowledgment of Responsibility for its students that they will be required to complete after receiving educational materials relating to COVID-19. Compliance expectations have been included in the Student Code of Conduct.

Academics

Calendar
The Fall 2020 semester will begin as scheduled on Tuesday, Sept. 1, and will conclude with final exam week, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 11 to Thursday, Dec. 17.

Class Schedules and Delivery
Classes will remain as scheduled with some changes to buildings and rooms to facilitate social distancing. In addition to our online and hybrid delivery formats, we are introducing a Hybrid-Flexible (HyFlex) format for most Fall 2020 courses that are normally described as traditional.

The typical mode of delivery for traditional courses is in-person in a physical classroom with faculty and students present in the same place at the same time. HyFlex allows students the option to be virtually present from a remote location for some or all of scheduled instructional time, which may be live or asynchronous.

Physical presence may be subject to adjusted classroom capacity limits and health and safety protocols and may be scheduled on a rotating or intermittent basis. To ensure safe options for all and to make the best possible use of instructional time, we have invested in significant classroom technology enhancements and professional development for faculty and are strategically scheduling classes across multiple modes of delivery. All classes will be prepared to move to fully remote instruction temporarily or for the remainder of the semester in the event that becomes necessary.

For classes in which virtual presence cannot replicate the traditional classroom experience, such as art studios or science labs, specialized solutions to enable physical presence will be needed. We are exploring alternative schedules that would permit physical presence, which may be periodic over the usual term (as with hybrid classes) or may be intensive over a shorter term. All course formats will use the same Canvas online learning management system.

Student Success Services

We will continue to offer student services remotely, while adding face-to-face services modified to accommodate social distancing and health guidelines.

The addition of online options for services is a permanent change that will benefit many students who may be completing their degrees fully online or at other campuses or whose schedules do not permit attending appointments on campus.

Academic Support
In addition to resuming some face-to-face services, University Advising Services and Tutoring Services will continue to provide high-quality virtual support options. Physical distancing and health precautions will be implemented in advisors’ offices and tutoring locations. In addition, Rowan will continue to support student well-being and academic success through extensive outreach via emails, phone calls, and text messages.

Career Advancement
The Office of Career Advancement (OCA) provides all aspects of student and alumni support in virtual environments, including one-on-one appointments, group presentations to classes and student organizations, employer engagement and virtual career events and fairs.

• In Fall 2020, all career fairs will be hosted virtually.
• In collaboration with the Office of Alumni Engagement, the OCA is preparing to launch an alumni mentoring platform that will aid in student and alumni engagement and partnership, along with supporting job and internship searches for the Rowan University community. Individual and small group services will resume in person when permitted, following health and safety protocol.
• OCA will continue to support student internships, co-ops and other professional experiences.

Disability Resources
Students registered with the office may experience particular challenges due to remote learning environments, heightened health risks and mental health strain.

Mental health conditions may qualify students for accommodations, and temporary accommodations are available. In addition, a new software system will launch in Fall 2020 to enable students to register with the office online and to facilitate communication among students, faculty, and the office. Individual appointments for students and families are provided online; face-to-face services will resume when appropriate.  

Testing Services
Placement testing is offered remotely. Accommodated testing for students registered with Disability Resources is available in online and remote course platforms. When conditions permit, both services will resume offering an in-person option, following health and safety protocols.

Military Services
Students registered with Military Services can be assured their needs will be met through virtual services. In-person services will also resume when appropriate. Students who are deployed are provided support with enrollment and course completion options. 

Student Life on Our Campuses

Athletics
Given the experiential nature of intercollegiate athletics for student-athletes, coaches, officials, and fans, we will use appropriate information from NCAA, local, state, federal and health care officials to participate in the maximum number of athletic competitions as possible without significantly increasing health-related risks.

Athletics staff members will work with trainers and health care professionals to develop protocols for effectively monitoring student athletes and coaches. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• practices and skill-development using appropriate social distancing techniques
• tracking the temperatures and symptoms of student-athletes and coaches
• implementing enhanced travel precautions and maintaining competition venues in a manner that limits health-related risks to the fullest extent possible
• Student-athletes, coaches, and other personnel associated with Athletics will be evaluated and restricted from participation/work using appropriate isolation protocol for known and/or suspected exposure to COVID-19.

Civic Involvement
Civic involvement and responsibility are critical elements of the experiential learning model of education. As a result, we will maintain opportunities for student growth and development through accountability, civility, engagement, respect, and volunteerism.

The University will provide students with opportunities to volunteer. The SHOP and Fresh for All will continue with staff using appropriate social distancing techniques, engaging in regular disinfecting protocol, and wearing recommended PPE (e.g. masks and gloves) in order to provide essential resources to students in need of assistance.

Dining
Students, faculty and staff will have access to dining options University wide.  Gourmet Dining will be implementing operational changes that follow current NJ State and Board of Health guidelines with regard to food service, social distancing and group gatherings. 

In an effort to best meet the needs of the community, mobile ordering (Grubhub) will be expanded to incorporate all current dining locations, including the addition of advance order/to go offerings from Glassworks Eatery at Holly Pointe Commons.  Additional preventative measures designed to protect the community include the conversion of all self-serve dining options to full service and the temporary exclusion of reusable to-go containers and mugs.

To allow for social distancing and support the safety of guests and staff, dining locations will be operating as pick-up locations only.  Outdoor dining tables will be available from late August through October near the Chamberlain Student Center, Engineering Hall and Holly Pointe Commons on the Glassboro campus.  When health and safety guidelines permit, limited dine-in seating may be available in Glassworks Eatery and Prof's Place.

Gourmet Dining will continue to support student wellness and campus life through programming via social media.  Special events will be hosted throughout the semester that align with current gathering restrictions.

University officials will work with Gourmet Dining staff members to determine which eateries will be available for food services.  For the fall term we anticipate options to include:

• Cooper Medical School of Rowan University
  • Stat Café

• Glassboro Campus
  • Au Bon Pain Express (Science Hall)
  • Einstein Bros Bagels (Engineering Hall)
  • Glassworks Eatery (Holly Pointe Commons)
  • We Proudly Brew (Holly Pointe Commons)
  • Market Place (Chamberlain Student Center)
    • Absurd Bird, Bowl Life, Brkfst & Co, Chef Jet, Crust, Freshens, Sono, Pop Up, Smoked
  • Owls Express (James Hall)
  • Peet's Coffee (Chamberlain Student Center)
  • Prof's Place (Chamberlain Student Center)
    • Grill Nation
    • Jersey Mikes
  • Sushi Do (Chamberlain Student Center)

• Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Top Docs

Campus Housing
Housing is critical to the overall Rowan experience. Even so, housing students during times of heightened health concerns requires a sophisticated system of protocols.

To ensure student safety and well-being, Rowan has established one residence hall as a site for isolation housing should students require isolation while on campus. As noted above, while students will have the option to isolate at their place of primary residence, should students wish to stay on campus, they will be able to do so. The residence hall set aside for isolation housing is Triad and it consists of 218 beds. Arrangements have been made with Rowan’s dining vendor to provide food to anyone in isolation through food delivery. Further, Rowan is able to provide medical services, student services, and virtual instruction to students in self isolation.

Rowan University is committed to providing students with housing options as a basic human need. When residence halls reopen, Rowan University will implement appropriate policies, procedures, and protocol. 

When students return to residence halls, the University will clearly communicate expectations, policies, and protocol for move-in and the use of elevators using current guidelines. The following is what students can expect:

• University personnel will clean and disinfect public common areas multiple times a day using appropriate guidelines and products.
• Housing assignments will be made using a system which adheres to social distancing and health-related risk reduction guidelines, while attempting to meet the needs of students who have applied for housing.
• Residential Learning and University Housing staff members will participate in specialized training sessions to enhance their ability to identify and address health-related concerns in residence halls.
• Students with known or suspected exposure to COVID-19 will be required to participate in University isolation protocols. This may include relocation to isolation housing, returning home for a designated period of time, alternative methods for food access and/or delivery, participation in tracing protocol, limited access to University facilities, and/or transitioning to alternative course delivery methods. The University has set aside Triad Hall, a 218-bed residence hall, for the relocation of students who need to be isolated and cannot return to their primary residence.
• University personnel will continue to offer educational and social development opportunities using appropriate social distancing techniques and/or technology-based methods.
• Common areas of buildings will be open or closed based upon current guidelines. All expectations will be posted throughout buildings and online.

Student Events on Campus
To the fullest extent possible, the Division of Student Life will provide involvement opportunities, such as Rowan After Hours, for enrolled students in a face-to-face, fully remote or hybrid manner.

Staff members will develop and enforce attendance limits for in-person events using current guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols.

Using ProfLink, Student Life staff have a robust mechanism to implement RSVP and tracking procedures. If in-person events are not possible, staff members will live-stream events.

Staff members have been trained to maintain standard cleaning practices to limit health-related risks as much as possible. Those staff members clean designated areas multiple times daily, with special attention given to high-traffic areas. Disinfecting wipes and hand-sanitizing stations are available throughout event spaces.

Student Organizations
Student clubs and organizations provide essential peer-to-peer interactions, associations, and leadership development for students. Staff members will assist these organizations with implementing virtual meetings and activities.

As conditions and guidelines allow, opportunities for in-person meetings will be made available to student clubs and organizations while using appropriate social distancing guidelines as necessary.

Sport Clubs will follow guidance used by Athletics as it is developed and implemented by University personnel.

Campus Recreation
Physical well-being is important, too. As conditions allow, opportunities for in-person recreational activities will be made available to students. Staff will implement appropriate cleaning and disinfecting protocol, including:

• Scheduled cleaning and disinfecting of equipment throughout each day
• The availability and posted policies on the use of individual cleaning and disinfecting materials (such as wipes).

In the meantime, University personnel will offer virtual opportunities for recreation. Examples include yoga sessions, video game sports leagues and fitness sessions.

Fall 2020 Housing Reopening Plan

1. An email message will be sent to all students who have received or requested Fall 2020 housing. The message will provide detailed information about the housing plan. Additionally, students will be asked to notify the University as to whether they wish to keep their housing assignments.
   
   
2. Rowan will restrict occupancy in its housing in the following ways. First, and significantly, Rowan will maintain one residential dormitory, Triad, completely vacant for use as isolation housing should that be necessary for students who are ill or are suspected of infection but who have not yet been tested. In addition to maintaining one full dormitory for use as isolation housing, Rowan will also reduce housing capacity by limiting its use of triple accommodations. As noted below relating to Rowan’s detailed plan for housing assignments, Rowan is reducing its overall capacity for housing by restricting the use of triples. In particular, by reducing triples and by leaving a full residence hall vacant, Rowan has reduced its housing capacity to approximately 80 percent.
   
   
3. Residential Learning and University Housing (RLUH) staff will make assignments using standard room configurations, in either double or single occupancy, in all residence halls and apartments. Unless entered into on a voluntary basis, and approved by University officials, no triple rooms will be available during the 2020-21 academic year. Students will be assigned to apartments based upon their standard configuration (double or single rooms). Apartments have common space areas, and students are encouraged to practice appropriate social distancing guidelines (e.g. not invite large numbers of guests into to apartment common space and/or bedrooms, consider wearing face coverings when guests are present).
   
   
4. RLUH will use a move-in process that adheres to social distancing guidelines while being as timely and efficient as possible.
   
   
5. RLUH will provide staff extensive training to best prepare them to reduce health-related exposure and risks to all students. All trainings will be completed before students arrive on campus for move-in.
   
   
6. The RLUH Housekeeping and Building Maintenance staff will implement robust enhanced cleaning protocols to ensure that all common areas of residential facilities are appropriately cleaned and disinfected. This will be achieved through consistent, seamless communication and training so that all cleaning and disinfection protocols are followed to the fullest extent possible.
   
   
7. Prior to move-in, students living in residential facilities will be required to complete an educational module which provides them with information related to COVID-19, risk-reduction behaviors, social distancing policies, cleaning and disinfecting protocols, etc.
   
   
8. Although all areas of residence halls will be accessible to students living in the building, policies and procedures to promote risk reduction will be developed, implemented, and communicated to students prior to their arrival for Fall 2020. Examples include, but are not limited to, required face covering in all INDOOR public areas on campus (including residence halls), social distancing in residential public areas (i.e. study lounges, lobbies, elevators, etc.), limitations on guest access to residential buildings and/or rooms, and immediate reporting of COVID-19 symptoms or concerns. Students will not be required to wear masks or face covering while in their living spaces (rooms/apartments). Students will complete an Acknowledgment of the policies and requirements and will agree to compliance with same, and will agree to be subject to expulsion from university housing for failure to comply, in addition to other appropriate consequences.
   
   
9. First-year and Sophomore students who wish to request an exception to live off campus, as well as Juniors and Seniors who wish to cancel their housing assignments, will be required to submit a written request with supporting documentation where applicable. Although each request will be appropriately evaluated individually, approvals typically will be limited to criteria outlined in law or public order, immunocompromised students with appropriate documentation and/or students with significant, unavoidable special circumstances. Students should not enter into leases unless they’ve received written approval of an exception request.
   
   
10. In the event that a residential student has known or suspected exposure to COVID-19, RLUH staff, in conjunction with the Interim Vice President of Student Life/Dean of Students and the director of the Wellness Center, will implement a comprehensive isolation protocol for that student. The plan includes, but is not limited to, isolation housing (off campus and on campus), dining accommodations, contact tracing, regular monitoring of student’s health (physically, mentally and socially), etc. Based upon a comprehensive analysis, all or part of Triad Apartments will be designated as the location for on-campus isolation housing.
    
    
11. The University will develop and implement a user-friendly concerns/information reporting system in conjunction with the Wellness Center Director or designee. Additionally, regular COVID-19 forums for students to receive updates, express concerns, and share ideas will be implemented.
    
    
12. Students will be encouraged to use their own wipes, disinfectant spray, or soap and water to wipe down surfaces in their personal spaces.
    
    
13. To the extent possible under applicable legal orders and public health guidance, the University will implement a “shelter-in-place” model to continue to house students who wish to remain on campus in the event of a spike in COVID-19 cases during the 2020-21 academic year.

Laundry rooms
Current CDC guidelines indicate that laundry rooms should be kept accessible for resident use, and the following practices will be implemented:

• Notices will be posted indicated the number of users allowed in these rooms to assure that physical distancing of 6 feet can be maintained.
  
  
• Providing soap and paper towels for hand washing in locations where there are sinks present. For resupply if empty, students should report the need for restocking to their RA, or in Holly Pointe Commons, to the front desk.
  
  
• Provide daily cleaning and enhanced disinfection of high-touch surfaces, including buttons, knobs, and handles using EPA rated products approved for disinfection purposes.
  
  
• Posting guidelines for washing laundry. 

Student FAQs

An Employee Guide to Returning to Work

(For additional information and FAQs, please visit rowan.edu/HR.)

During the next several weeks, the University will have a better understanding of when employees will be permitted to return to our campuses for work. We fully expect regulations and guidance to change frequently throughout the summer and well into the fall semester. Our policies and plans will be updated as information changes.

The goal of this guidance is to prepare for the return of staff over the next 90 days, while anticipating updates based on changing circumstances, health information and resources. Based on our current knowledge, we can begin to take some action, acknowledging the need for adaptability at every level and every stage.

Rowan will continue to work with leaders across higher education, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), public health officials and the state of New Jersey to determine the best time to resume operations.

Repopulating Our Campuses

Returning employees to the workplace during and after the COVID-19 pandemic won’t be as simple as announcing a reopening or return-to-the-workplace date and carrying on business as usual. Not only will many workplaces be altered initially, some changes may be long-term.

Departments with the immediate need to access files or computer systems to prepare for the fall semester will be prioritized. Departments will be notified of which phase they are assigned. An appeal process will be in place if an adjustment is requested. The guideline will be no more than 30% of a department’s staff onsite at any time during phases 2 and 3. This will be necessary to provide the required social distancing. Managers will be provided guidance regarding occupancy as part of the planning process.

Policies and Training
Human Resources, in partnership with the Wellness Center, Facilities, Public Safety and others, will revise policies and will develop training to ensure that employees understand processes, procedures and expectations.

Policies will be created or revised as follows:

1. Sick Leave and Centralized Call-off Reporting, Attendance and Return to Work (In Process)
2. COVID-19 Workplace Expectations (Completed)
3. Accommodation Policies (Completed)
4. Workplace Assignments (In Process)
5. Return to Work Complaint Process (Completed)
6. Leaves (Completed)
7. Ethical and Professional Requirements for a Safe Environment (Completed)

In addition, all employees will be required to complete Return to Work training to ensure everyone understands and can work within the new workplace.

Testing is Key to a Safe Return
Under the direction of the Wellness Center, plans will be in place for testing, both for disease and antibodies in accordance with applicable law. The Wellness Center will provide medical oversight for tracking body temperatures and symptoms, and will engage actively with recovered employees prior to their return to work. All tracking will be maintained with the strictest medical confidentiality.

The Wellness Center, on behalf of Gloucester County Health Department, will train contact tracing specialists to provide investigation and communication with individuals who may have been exposed to a positive-testing individual. Individuals testing positive will be monitored for appropriate isolation or quarantine.

Employees who demonstrate symptoms, have experienced a close contact as defined by public health, or who are suspected of infection for other appropriate reasons will not be permitted to participate in in person employment. They will be required to perform their duties remotely if possible or to use appropriate leave to the extent permissible by law. Employees will not be permitted to return to campus until they have a negative test or the adequate period of self-isolation. Rowan will assist employees in procuring a test to the extent test supplies at Rowan permit. If Rowan is unable to procure a test for an employee, employees will be provided with other testing resources. Employees will not be required to test at Rowan; they may test with their own provider or at another location of their choosing. The Wellness Center will develop the appropriate policies and procedures to manage testing, data analysis, isolation and any change in levels of operations.

A Safe Working Environment
As part of the effort to address the ongoing pandemic situation and to establish a return-to-campus work environment, Rowan has developed a set of protocols to help ensure that reasonable measures will be in place for a safe working environment. Although some apprehension is understandable, Rowan will implement processes to fairly and consistently review requests for accommodation using governmental directives and CDC guidelines. Some of these accommodations may be university-wide, and others may vary by department, depending on specific practical realities and requirements. These measures may include:

• Staggered shifts
• Temperature scans
• Social distancing

In instances where an employee feels that the applicable university or departmental accommodations may not reasonably and adequately address the employee’s particular set of health-related circumstances, the employee may request from Human Resources further accommodations or modifications.

These requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis to see if any further reasonable accommodations/modifications can be provided to address the employee’s circumstances beyond the measures already adopted by the University and/or department or otherwise not addressed by other relevant University policies or governmental laws/programs.

Workplace Environment
A critical component in returning employees to work is an assessment of the work site and the implementation of processes and procedures, social distancing, protective equipment, engineering controls, enhanced cleaning protocols and building access control.

Below are rules likely to be required. This is NOT an all-inclusive list and will continue to evolve as more scientific data is collected and operational planning occurs. Department heads should work with their employees to post signage specific to their work areas. Facilities & Operations has pre-printed signage available upon request.

Social Distancing

• Occupancy of rooms will be restricted in the workplace according to social distancing standards.
• Employees should remain at least 6-feet apart to the fullest extent possible.
• Signs will be posted reminding employees and students of social distancing requirements.
• Floor markings will be used to identify 6-foot parameters in high-traffic where waiting lines for services form.
• Handshakes and physical contact will be prohibited.
• Workstations, conference rooms, reception areas and common areas may be reconfigured to provide distancing depending on a department’s needs. Department heads should work with their employees to post signage specific to their work areas.
• One-way directional traffic flow will be considered, where possible.
• Restrooms will be marked and reconfigured as possible. Occupancy signs will be provided.
• Guidelines for common areas such as kitchens will follow social distancing protocols.
• Sharing of phones, headsets, desks, etc. will be prohibited. Adaptations and cleaning protocols will be implemented as necessary if sharing is required.
• Number of people in an elevator will be limited according to social distancing standards.
• Meetings should occur via video. Any in-person meetings will require the use of approved table and desk configurations.
• If weather permits, in-person meetings and other activities requiring less social distancing should be held outside.

Enhanced Cleaning and Building Maintenance

• Main buildings’ entrances will have hand sanitizer dispensers.
• Offices, restrooms, hallways, classrooms, etc., will be equipped with soap and sanitizer.
• There will be more frequent cleaning schedules for high-touch areas.
• Trash will be regularly emptied to avoid overflow of cleaning supplies.
• Deep cleaning will occur. Staggered work schedules will assist Facilities and Environmental Services to schedule more focused cleaning in areas that have been used that day.
• HVAC filters will be upgraded and changed more frequently.
• Structural barriers will be assessed and modified wherever possible.

Employee Safety
Protocols will be coordinated between Public Health, Environmental Health & Safety and Human Resources. The following requirements will be addressed:

• Face masks/cloth face coverings: Face masks or face coverings must be worn by all staff working on campus when in the presence of others and in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., common work spaces, meeting rooms, classrooms, etc.). Appropriate use of face masks or coverings is critical to reduce risks to others nearby. The mask or cloth face covering is not a substitute for social distancing.
• Employees will be required to document temperature and symptoms upon logging onto their Rowan computers each day.
• Sick employees are expected to remain home and to secure appropriate clearance prior to returning.
• Employees will abide by safety rules including building access, touch surface contact (i.e., time clocks, shared copiers, lab equipment)
• Employees will complete assigned training and follow policies and procedures as required.

Visitors
Guests are discouraged from visiting campus in the early phases of opening. Their visits should be scheduled in advance to prevent social distancing concerns. Visitor logs will be required.

Flexibility and Patience
We expect new health and safety information to continue to develop in the weeks and months ahead. It is critical that we remain flexible and seek to better understand how to protect everyone, especially the most vulnerable in our academic community and those around us.

If you have any questions, please contact Human Resources: HR@rowan.edu, rowan.edu/HR.

Thank you for your commitment to work with us in what is sure to be a dynamic and evolving work-life environment.

Monitoring and Testing: Keeping Rowan Healthy and Safe

Everyday life on Rowan University’s campuses is dynamic, interactive, collaborative and social. While this culture makes possible the transformative experience that is integral to our community, the health and safety of our Rowan community is our top priority. To reduce the risk of COVID-19 threats within and around Rowan, we must change the way we live and work together for the foreseeable future.

Central to the policies for keeping Rowan healthy and safe is our commitment to protect the most vulnerable among us, including individuals over the age of 60 and anyone with chronic medical conditions including heart or lung disease, diabetes, compromised immunity, severe obesity, chronic kidney or liver disease. Because COVID-19 threatens all in our community to some degree, everyone will benefit as we help ensure that the most vulnerable may work and learn by reducing their exposure risk.

Monitoring

Self-Reported Symptom Assessment
Once campus is open to returning students and employees (Phase 4), everyone will be required to submit their temperature daily and attest to being symptom-free before being able to access the Rowan network.

Attendance
Individuals responsible for groups of employees or students at events, like classroom lectures, meetings and other gatherings must document attendance. This can be done through digital tracking in ProfLink, Banner or by spreadsheet to allow contact tracing, if needed.

Sick Notification
Employees must notify Human Resources of illness or suspected COVID-19 infection and report symptoms through the Self-Reported Symptom Assessment described above or another method to be determined. Fever is the most common symptom of COVID-19, but it could also indicate another illness, especially as seasonal diseases like the flu emerge. It will be critical for symptomatic individuals to avoid all face-to-face interactions and public gatherings regardless of social distancing practices.

Return to Work Following Illness

• Employees who are clinically diagnosed with COVID-19 or receive a positive test result for it must remain isolated based on the recommendations from their health care provider, public health official or until three full symptom-free days have passed, whichever is longer.
  
  
• Employees who report symptoms without a known exposure to COVID-19 must be 24 hours symptom-free before returning to work.
  
  
• All employees must communicate their cleared status to Human Resources and receive guidance prior to returning.

Testing, Investigation and Isolation

Testing
Because universal, frequent testing for all is not practical, not based in science and not feasible in terms of available resources, Rowan will use two different testing strategies.

• Symptomatic testing: Employees with COVID-19 symptoms will be recommended for testing through the individual’s health care provider. In partnership with Rowan Medicine, employees can also be screened the same day via telehealth and be prescribed for testing. Students can be screened for active infection.
  
  
• Asymptomatic sentinel testing: Students will be selected at random and invited to participate in sentinel screening as a way to monitor the health of our community. Note: Targeted testing for asymptomatic employees who cannot practice social distancing is being considered.
  
  
• Antibody testing: This assessment is not recommended as a strategy to guide return to work/school decisions, however, we will continue to review emerging guidance. If recommendations change, we will bring antibody collection resources to campus to support testing students and staff. 

Contact Investigation

• Through a collaboration with the Gloucester County Health Department, the Wellness Center will train 25 contact tracers to conduct assessments throughout our campuses to help Wellness Center health care professionals make public health recommendations for students and employees.
  
  
• It is critical that students and employees participate in any investigation so we can rapidly isolate ill individuals and quarantine close contacts.
  
  
• To report a positive COVID-19 case, call the Wellness Center at 856-256-4333.

Isolation for employees and students

• On campus, we have identified the 218-bed Triad Hall to isolate students should they not be able return home. The coordination of isolation will be initiated by the contact investigation and will be supported by Residential Learning and Housing, the Dean of Students Office, the Wellness Center and Gourmet Dining.
  
  
• Employees will be required to isolate in their homes and follow return to work protocols.

As we anticipate welcoming the Rowan community back to our campuses and resuming activity, we  will continue to provide information to provide guidance and update everyone throughout what may be a months-long process. We appreciate everyone’s continued flexibility and support.

Health and Wellness FAQs

Enhanced Cleaning Protocols

In an effort to provide a clean and disinfected learning environment, Rowan’s custodial team has implemented additional cleaning processes to assist in minimizing exposure to viruses and bacteria. Along with the new procedures, several suggestions have been included for occupants of Rowan University to complete to assist in maintaining cleanliness.

Enhanced Cleaning of Residence Halls 

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting

• Rowan’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety provided guidance and training to custodial staff on recommended disinfection practices, proper use of PPE, and evaluating social distancing guidelines.
  
  
• Residential Learning and University Housing (RLUH) housekeeping staff members are working diligently to enhance the cleanliness of all common areas and restrooms in residential facilities.
  
  
• The housekeeping staff members use Spartan Chemicals, TB-Cide Quat, Halt and Bul-IT multipurpose restroom cleaners, and Lysol disinfectant spray (or alternate products certified by the EPA) to ensure a sanitary living environment.
  
  
• Common areas and shared restrooms serviced by the housekeeping staff are cleaned and disinfected daily.

Shared Bathrooms
Shared bathrooms are a feature of all student housing facilities at the University. In several traditional residence halls, these bathrooms are cleaned and serviced twice daily by housekeeping personnel. In suite-style residence halls as well as all apartments, cleaning restrooms is responsibility shared by student occupants.

• Restrooms serviced by University housekeeping personnel will be fully serviced twice daily. This includes emptying trash, cleaning toilets and showers, and wiping down mirrors and all high-touch surfaces, such as door handles, stall locking mechanisms, counter tops, and sink faucets. Appropriate EPA-rated disinfection products are used on all high-touch surfaces.
• Educational information and instruction will be provided to students responsible for self-cleaning their bathrooms to enhance their understanding of appropriate procedures and disinfection supplies to use.

Lounges, Study Rooms and Kitchens
The use of common spaces, including study rooms, lounges, and, in some buildings, kitchens, adds significant value to students’ enjoyment of the residential buildings and affords options for collaborative academic work and community building. Based on current CDC guidelines, we will:

• Post notices indicating the revised/restricted occupancy limit of common spaces to numbers that assure students can utilize the space in a manner that maintains the recommended physical distancing.
  
  
• Post notices not to share utensils and dishes and to frequently wash hands with soap and water in all common area kitchens. Common food storage by resident students will be prohibited in these locations.
  
  
• Implement enhanced daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces in these spaces using EPA-rated products approved for disinfection purposes.
  
  
• Students will be encouraged to use their own wipes, disinfectant spray, or soap and water to wipe down surfaces between each user to disinfect table tops or other surfaces.

Laundry Rooms
Current CDC guidelines indicate that laundry rooms should be kept accessible for resident use, and the following practices will be implemented:

• Notices will be posted indicated the number of users allowed in these rooms to assure that physical distancing of 6 feet can be maintained.
  
  
• Providing soap and paper towels for hand washing in locations where there are sinks present. For resupply if empty, students should report the need for restocking to their RA, or in Holly Pointe Commons, to the front desk.
  
  
• Provide daily cleaning and enhanced disinfection of high-touch surfaces, including buttons, knobs, and handles using EPA rated products approved for disinfection purposes.
  
  
• Posting guidelines for washing laundry.

Enhanced Cleaning of Academic and Administrative Locations

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting Across the University

• Rowan’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety provided guidance and training to custodial staff on recommended disinfection practices, proper use of PPE, and evaluating social distancing guidelines.
  
  
• The department is working diligently with custodial staff to ensure cleanliness of all instructional areas, offices, common areas, and restrooms.
  
  
• The custodial staff uses Spartan Chemicals – BNC-15 and Halt, as well as Renown – Reno 7135-SB disinfectant, Purell surface disinfectant, Lysol disinfectant spray and foaming cleaner, and Sani-professional sani-cloth wipes on a regular basis to ensure a sanitary learning environment.
  
  
• Instructional areas, common areas, and restrooms are disinfected daily.
  
  
• Fogging and spraying cleaning techniques will also be incorporated.

General Classrooms
Classrooms will be cleaned once per day during the overnight hours during non-occupied times. Trash cans will be emptied, all table top and horizontal surfaces will be disinfected and wiped down. White boards will be erased and cleaned. Door handles and other high-touch items will be disinfected. Soap bottles and paper towels will be replenished. All classroom will have cleaning supplies available for use by occupants. For immediate refill of any supplies, call 856-256-4650 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. After hours and weekends, call 856-256-4922 or email housekeeping@rowan.edu.

Lab Spaces
Lab spaces will be cleaned once per day during the overnight hours during non-occupied times. Trash cans will be emptied, all lab table top and horizontal surfaces will be disinfected and wiped down. White boards will be erased and cleaned unless information is to remain. Door handles and other high-touch items will be disinfected. No scientific equipment will be touched to maintain operations of the equipment and experiments in progress. Soap bottles and paper towels will be replenished. All labs will have cleaning supplies available for use by occupants. For immediate refill of any supplies, call 856-256-4650 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. After hours and weekends, call 856-256-4922 or email housekeeping@rowan.edu.

Computer Labs
When computer labs are permitted to be opened, in an effort to enforce social distancing recommendations, IRT plans to remove keyboards and power cords from every other computer station to maintain six feet of separation for users. The desktops and monitors will remain in place, unusable.

Custodial crews will wipe down horizontal surfaces, including keyboards, door handles, computer mice, and other high-touch areas once per day. Occupants shall utilize soap bottles and towels to disinfect before each use. No assumption should be made that any area was disinfected by the previous occupant. Care should be given not to spray the solution directly onto the electronic equipment. For immediate refill of any supplies, call 856-256-4650 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. After hours and weekends, call 856-256-4922 or email housekeeping@rowan.edu.

Offices
Offices will be entered daily to empty trash cans and wipe down desks and door handles. Occupants must ensure confidential information is secured within offices. The custodial crew will not remove stacks of papers or items on desks or shelves to clean. All surfaces will be cleaned with a disinfecting wipe. If personal items are in spaces, the custodial crew has been advised to avoid disturbing those areas. Vacuuming will occur on a weekly basis or more frequently as needed or requested.

Restrooms
Restrooms are maintained approximately twice per day, with additional cleaning in high-traffic bathrooms and for any incident requiring attention. All sinks and toilets are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected per cleaning. All paper products are replenished and waste is removed from receptacles. All surfaces are wiped with a disinfectant solution. Door handles, stall locking mechanisms, and mirrors are wiped down and disinfected. Additional refreshing of restrooms occurs throughout the day. This includes wiping down sinks, refilling soap dispensers and paper towels, and emptying the trash. For immediate refill of any supplies, call 856-256-4650 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. After hours and weekends, call 856-256-4922 or email housekeeping@rowan.edu.

General Guidance for the University Community to Assist in Maintaining a Clean Environment

Soap bottles are being provided in classrooms and lab spaces for occupants to use for disinfection needs in between classes. Anyone entering the room can use the solution to disinfect the area prior to occupying a seat. No assumption should be made that the previous occupant cleaned the space prior to leaving. Paper towels and waste receptacles are being provided inside each instruction space. Please place all used towels in the proper receptacle. The receptacle will be emptied once per night or as needed upon request. A soapy solution has been scientifically proven to eradicate COVID-19 virus. For immediate refill of any supplies, call 856-256-4650 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. After hours and weekends, call 856-256-4922 or email housekeeping@rowan.edu.

Lounges, Study Rooms and Kitchens
When common spaces in student residential environments may be opened in accordance with state guidance, the following will apply. In the interim, references to common spaces refers to those in buildings where such spaces are permitted to be used and occupied. The use of common spaces, including study rooms, lounges, and, in some buildings, kitchens, adds significant value to students’ enjoyment of the residential buildings and affords options for collaborative academic work and community building. Based on current CDC guidelines, we will:

• Post notices indicating the revised/restricted occupancy limit of common spaces to numbers that assure students can utilize the space in a manner that maintains the recommended physical distancing.
  
  
• Post notices not to share utensils and dishes and to frequently wash hands with soap and water in all common area kitchens. Common food storage by resident students will be prohibited in these locations.

Implement enhanced daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces in these spaces using EPA-rated products approved for disinfection purposes.

Enhanced Cleaning Protocols in Student Life

Departments within Student Life will implement enhanced cleaning protocols in an effort to assist in minimizing exposure to viruses and bacteria. The University will maintain regular communications to ensure the implementation of updated guidelines and protocols.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting Areas in High-Traffic Areas for Students

• Rowan’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety provided guidance and training to custodial staff on recommended disinfection practices, proper use of PPE, and evaluating social distancing guidelines.
• The department is working diligently with custodial staff to ensure cleanliness of all instructional areas, offices, common areas, and restrooms.
• The custodial staff uses Spartan Chemicals – BNC-15 and Halt, as well as Renown – Reno 7135-SB disinfectant, Purell surface disinfectant, Lysol disinfectant spray and foaming cleaner, and Sani-professional sani-cloth wipes on a regular basis to ensure a sanitary learning environment.
• Instructional areas, common areas, and restrooms are disinfected daily.
• Fogging and spraying cleaning techniques are being incorporated.
• All staff members in Residential Learning and University Housing, Campus Recreation, Chamberlain Student Center & Campus Activities, and other appropriate staff in Student Life will receive basic training information related to how to report, handle, and assist others with cleaning-related concerns.
• Staff members will participate in additional trainings to refresh and/or enhance their knowledge and practices. Designated staff members also will regularly review daily task sheets to ensure priority is given to identified areas.

Common Areas
Common areas (i.e.: The Pit, residence hall lobbies, elevators, etc.) will be cleaned once per day during normal hours by custodial staff. Trash cans will be emptied and all tabletop and horizontal surfaces will be disinfected and wiped down. Door handles (where applicable) and other high-touch items will be disinfected. The areas will be furnished with “self-use” soap bottles and paper towels. Those materials will be checked on a regular basis and replenished as needed.

Meeting Spaces
Meeting rooms will be cleaned once per day and after each scheduled use. Trash cans will be emptied and all tabletop and horizontal surfaces will be disinfected and wiped down. White boards will be erased and cleaned unless information is to remain. Door handles and other high-touch items will be disinfected. The areas will be furnished with “self-use” soap bottles and paper towels. Those materials will be checked on a regular basis and replenished as needed.

Offices
Staff members will be asked to take a certain level of responsibility for maintaining personal office spaces to allow custodial staff additional time to focus on high-traffic areas. Offices will be entered daily to empty trashcans and wipe down desks and door handles. Individuals must ensure confidential information is secured within offices. The custodial crew will not remove stacks of papers or items on desks or shelves to clean. A disinfecting wipe will occur on all surfaces. If personal items are in spaces, the Custodial crew has been advised to avoid disturbing those areas. Vacuuming will occur on a weekly basis or more frequently as needed or requested.

Enhanced Cleaning at Campus Recreation Facilities

Campus Recreation is committed to providing facilities and programs to allow students, faculty, staff and community members with a safe and clean environment. Campus Recreation is enhancing cleaning protocols with several measures and will collaborate with—and request guidance from—various campus partners.

Campus Rec plans to maintain a high level of communication both on-site and on social media platforms about what steps administration is taking to ensure staff and member safety. Hand sanitizer, Flex Wipes, or soapy water with paper towels will be available in all general spaces to provide the ability of users and staff to disinfect regularly.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting at Campus Recreation Facilities

In addition to the protocols for custodial staff outlined in the Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting section above, the Campus Rec custodial staff will work diligently with maintenance staff and Golden Eagle Cleaning Service to ensure cleanliness of all offices, common areas, fitness spaces, locker rooms and restrooms.

The maintenance staff uses Spartan Chemicals, plus Halt, Lysol disinfectant spray, Clorox disinfectant wipes, Oxivir disinfectant wipes, Flex Wipes (for fitness equipment available to members) and Lysol toilet bowl cleaner. Campus Rec is looking to incorporate Benefact Botanical Decon for carpets and Betco Pine Quat to supplement Spartan Chemicals - Xcellente for disinfection of floors.

All Campus Rec staff members are receiving enhanced education on dwell times and proper use of PPE.

Additionally:

• 16 additional hand sanitizer stands are being installed in common areas in both the Recreation Center and Fitness Center.
• Antibacterial wipes or soapy water spray bottles and paper towels will be placed into locker rooms and restrooms for patrons/members to have the ability to clean as needed.
• When the Rec Center pool and Esby pool are scheduled to open, there will be a slight increase in chlorine PPM (parts per million) from 1.5 to 2.0 or 2.5. The state requirement is 1.0. The pools also are equipped with a supplemental ultraviolet light system that eliminates micro-organisms and toxic byproducts.
• Disinfection of the Intramural Field will be twice per year, in March and September.

General Areas
Enhanced cleaning is planned for all general areas, including lockers and cubbies. Enhanced disinfection of all door handles and high-touch points will occur and as many doors as possible will be propped open to reduce transmission. All trash cans will be emptied daily. Lobby floors will be swept and the use of an auto scrubber with disinfection material will be applied daily. All table tops and seat backs in the lobby and conference rooms will be disinfected daily. Hand soap, hand sanitizer and soapy water with paper towels will be replenished as needed. Vacuuming of area rugs will be completed at least once per day. For restocking of supplies, contact Brian Calio at Calio@rowan.edu or call 856-256-4982. 

Fitness Equipment
All available fitness equipment will be cleaned once per day by Campus Rec staff and all users are required to clean their equipment pre- and post-workout. Trash cans will be emptied daily. Door handles and other high-touch items will be disinfected. Hand sanitizer dispensers will be replenished as needed. Disinfectant wipes or spray bottles with soapy water and paper towels will be readily available and restocked as needed. For restocking of supplies, contact Brian Calio at Calio@rowan.edu or call 856-256-4982.

Outdoor Facilities
Campus Recreation will follow University guidance and CDC restrictions for facility usage and social distancing requirements. Facilities include: tennis courts, Mimosa basketball courts, sand volleyball court and the Intramural turf field.

Offices
Office trashcans will be emptied daily. Occupants of each office will be given disinfection spray or wipes and doors will be propped open if requested. Vacuuming will occur on a weekly basis or more frequently as needed or requested.

Restrooms
Restrooms are fully cleaned twice per day and are checked regularly throughout the day. All sinks, floors, and toilets are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. All paper products and soap dispensers are replenished and waste is removed from receptacles. All surfaces are wiped with a disinfectant solution. Door handles, stall locking mechanisms, and mirrors are wiped down and disinfected.

Enhanced Cleaning at the Chamberlain Student Center & Campus Activities

In an effort to provide a clean and disinfected learning environment, The Student Center & Campus Activities (SCCA) building maintenance team performs the following cleaning processes to assist in minimizing exposure to viruses and bacteria. Along with the new procedures, several suggestions have been included for occupants of Rowan University to complete to assist in maintaining cleanliness.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting

• Rowan’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety provided guidance and training to custodial staff on recommended disinfection practices, proper use of PPE, and evaluating social distancing guidelines.
• The department is working diligently with custodial staff to ensure cleanliness of all instructional areas, offices, common areas, and restrooms.
• The custodial staff uses Spartan Chemicals – BNC-15 and Halt, as well as Renown – Reno 7135-SB disinfectant, Purell surface disinfectant, Lysol disinfectant spray and foaming cleaner, and Sani-professional sani-cloth wipes on a regular basis to ensure a sanitary learning environment.
• Instructional areas, common areas, and restrooms are disinfected daily.
• Fogging and spraying cleaning techniques are being incorporated.
• The maintenance team uses a Clorox T360 machine to disinfect and sanitize main touch points, lounges, and bathrooms throughout the Student Center.

Restrooms

• Restrooms are maintained at least twice per day and are monitored during occupied times or as needed due to an incident requiring attention. All sinks, floors, and toilets are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected per cleaning. All paper products and soap dispensers are replenished and waste is removed from receptacles. All surfaces are wiped with a disinfectant solution. Door handles, stall locking mechanisms, and mirrors are wiped down and disinfected. To have supplies replenished, contact the building manager at 856-256-4605.
  
  
• A Kaivac machine also is used to do a deep clean of each restroom at least once a week. This includes using the Kaibosh cleaning solution, which is a no-rinse Hospital Use disinfectant cleaner for COVID-19.
  
  
• Every Monday and Thursday, the Clorox T360 Electrostatic Sprayer system will be used to sanitize restrooms.

Offices
Offices will have the option to have the maintenance team enter their office to pick up their trash or to put it outside their door at the end of the day for the night crew to come pick it up. The night crew will sanitize the door handles on all the offices and suite doors. A request for a deeper cleaning of an office can be made through the Assistant Director of building operations.

Deep cleaning of suite areas in the building, including Suite 210, Suite 220, RowanCard Office, SGA, and Suite 117a will occur at night or on the weekends so that building activity is not disrupted. This includes deep cleaning of carpeting, as well as sanitizing common areas in those suites.

Main Entrances and Lounge Areas
Lounge spaces, including The Pit, table seating, quiet lounges, and the commuter lounge will be cleaned and disinfected every night. Staff will monitor these areas throughout the day to refresh as needed. During the day, a staff member is assigned to each area to refresh clean area as much as possible. The Clorox T360 machine is used every Monday and Thursday for enhanced cleaning and will increase frequency based on the traffic of the space.

Major touch points in the building, including handrails and door handles, are wiped down as often as three times a day by staff stationed around the building who watch over the common spaces’ major touchpoints.

Meeting Rooms
Meeting rooms will be disinfected and cleaned after every use. Staff will coordinate with the events team to make sure there is enough time in between events to sanitize the room. All requirements regarding social distancing set forth by the University and the CDC will be followed.

Replenishing Supplies
For supplies, contact the building manager, 856-256-4605.

Reopening University Libraries

The University Libraries have a five-phase plan for providing services. Phase 1 has been underway during campus closure. A modified curbside pickup service began on Monday, June 29th. Patrons request books in our on online catalog, call during the service hours to notify library staff they are ready to pick it up, library staff will then bag the books and put them on a table outside the library for the patron to pick up. The service is contactless and the library staff have been issued gloves and masks in compliance with the Administrative Order that authorized curbside pickup for libraries. The service hours are currently 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday to Thursday.

Campbell Library will shift to Phase 2 to provide limited in-person service exclusively to Rowan community members. Our current target date to open this service is Monday, July 14. We plan to maintain the same service hours as for the contactless pickup service and to limit additional staff presence. Before reopening we will have plexiglass barriers installed at service points and in shared staff spaces, signage to support appropriate social distancing, and sanitizing stations throughout the public areas of the library. IRT will also be readying public computer lab spaces in the library to support social distancing. We will observe the 25% of maximum capacity guideline, and any additional guidance issued by Rowan or the State.

The plan for reopening continues as follows:

Phase 2

Implement Library Pickup Service

• Prepare the building for the return of staff, according to policies and procedures laid out in Return to Rowan documentation.
• Require employees to wear masks, gloves, and maintain social distancing.
• Provide sanitizing products for staff.
• Require staff to clean areas of shared workspace before and after their shift (public desk stations, shared computers).
• Establish special cleaning procedures with maintenance crews in all areas of the building, including disinfecting of keyboards, touchscreens, tables and other surfaces.
• Share the re-entry plan with tenants and vendors and ask them to share their plans, questions, and concerns with us.
• Discuss potential changes to contracts.
• Partner with University Publications and Facilities to produce display signage regarding masks and social distancing.
• Where feasible, remove or relocate furniture in order to encourage social distancing.
• Review options for printing with IRT, Housekeeping.
• Review options for water fountains, restrooms with Housekeeping.

Library Operations

• The building should remain closed to the public until the Library has implemented the
• Necessary procedures to comply with the Governor’s forthcoming guidance on reopening libraries (as of June 29 this guidance has not been issued).
• Determine which employees are called back on an as-needed basis or for specific tasks.
• Maintain telework option for employees as possible to limit the number of people on site.
• Schedule staff in the building in phases and on a staggered basis.
• Space employee desks and workstations so they are a minimum 6 ft. apart. Use study rooms for office space as needed.
• Determine quarantine space/timeframe for materials plan based on professional recommendations.
• Continue to hold staff and committee meetings online.
• Services, Programming & Customer Support
• Offer contactless book pickup service for Rowan community members.
• Promote digital offerings.
• Continue ILLiad electronic interlibrary loan.
• Provide programming via live-streaming or pre-recorded videos.
• Provide customer support via phone, chat platform, email or other virtual means.

Phase 3

Campbell Library Resumes Limited In-Person Services
Resume limited in-person operations and services in alignment with Return to Rowan guidelines and State guidance.

• Require staff to wear masks and maintain social distancing.
• Continue special cleaning schedules as defined in Phase 2.
• Implement materials management protocols.
• Display signage regarding masks and social distancing. Post signage by entrance and exits.

• Closed to the broader public; open for Rowan University faculty, staff, and students (up to 25% of capacity).
• Re-evaluate the need for more on-site employees and schedule staff in the building in phases and on a staggered basis.
• Implement team-based staffing model with alternating schedules (Team 47 (Delsea Drive) and Team 322 (Mullica Hill Road)).
• Cross-train across teams to support continuity of service.
• Continue telework option for employees as possible to limit the number of people on site.
• Refine plans for Phase 4 in preparation for expanding services.
• Continue contract negotiations and subscription reviews pending release of budget.
• Continue to hold staff and committee meetings online.
• Implement materials management plan developed in Phase 2.

Services, Programming and Customer Support

• Encourage continued use of digital materials.
• Introduce scanning service for reserve materials. Upload into Canvas and/or Alma.
• Limit number of people in building using recommendations from health officials (25% capacity).
• Require members of the public entering the building to wear masks.
• Provide distance markers where lines form.
• Reconfigure public spaces to encourage social distancing—remove furniture, spread out seating, public computers etc.
• Continue to provide Library Pickup service for items in the Campbell Library collection.
• Implement E-Z Borrow using IDS delivery.
• Continue ILLiad electronic interlibrary loan.
• Consider live-streaming programs hosted at library with no public attendance.
• Provide customer support via phone, chat platform, email or other virtual means.
• To enable continued services within the building while maintaining physical distance introduce a Virtual Service Point (VSP). The VSP enables a real-time personalized response to queries within the building while providing our front-line staff with the ability to offer this service from a remote location.
• Encourage study groups to rely on virtual group options.
• Post signage related to printing, procedural changes.

Phase 4

Libraries Provide Additional Services to Support a Return to On-Campus Instruction
This phase will allow libraries to expand operations and increase services as students return to campus for the Fall semester.

• Require staff to wear masks and maintain social distancing.
• Continue special cleaning schedules as defined in Phase 2.
• Maintain and refine materials management protocols, including specialized handling for Course Reserves materials.

Library Operations

• Closed to the broader public; open for Rowan University faculty, staff, and students.
• Re-evaluate the need for more on-site employees and schedule staff in the building in phases and on a staggered basis.
• Maintain the team-based approach to scheduling and cross-training to support continuity of service.
• Continue telework option for employees as possible to limit the number of people on site.
• Modify Phase 4 service plans as need to maintain alignment with Return to Rowan and State guidance.
• Continue contract negotiations and subscription reviews pending release of budget.
• Hold staff and committee meetings online.
• Refine materials management plan developed in Phase 2.

Services, Programming and Customer Support

• Provide access to public computers by appointment and offer assistance using remote desktop tools.
• Offer and encourage self-checkout, self-service holds pick up, remote printing, and other selfservice solutions.
• Open stacks and collections to public. Use signs or floor tape to indicate one-way or one-personat- a-time access for aisles.
• Encourage continued use of digital materials.
• Continue scanning service for print course materials, upload into Canvas.
• Limit number of people in building using recommendations from health officials (currently projecting 33% capacity).
• Require members of the public entering the building to wear masks.
• Provide distance markers where lines form.
• Reconfigure public spaces to allow for social distancing—remove furniture, spread out seating, public computers etc.
• Continue to provide Library Pickup service for items in the Campbell Library collection.
• Continue E-Z Borrow ILL service using IDS delivery.
• Continue ILLiad electronic interlibrary loan.
• Consider live-streaming programs hosted at library with no public attendance.
• Provide customer support via phone, chat platform, email or other virtual means.
• Encourage study groups to rely on virtual group options.

Phase 5

Adapt to New Normal at Campbell Library
This phase will prepare libraries for an extended period of disruption as we follow public health directives for cleaning of surroundings, wearing masks and social distancing.

Library Operations

• Open buildings to the public with regular hours of operation.
• Spread seating and workstations apart and mark areas for social distancing.
• Reevaluate materials management plan developed in Stage 2.

Services, Programming and Customer Support

• Resume regular programming following social distancing guidelines.
• Resume regular in-person and virtual customer support, including one-on-one appointments
• Continue digital services, scanning services, and electronic ILL.

Using Campus Shuttles

Rowan University appreciates that the shuttle provides important services for many students, faculty, and staff. As a result, University officials are working with South Jersey Transit Authority (SJTA) to create a plan that will provide shuttle services to the fullest extent possible while implementing protocols to reduce health-related risks. The following procedures will be implemented for the Fall of 2020 shuttle service: 

• SJTA has instituted a cleaning and disinfecting approach for all shuttles and for every ride, which includes disinfecting frequent touchpoints such as handholds, armrests, seating, and door handles, before and after each trip.
  
  
• Hand-sanitizer and/or wipe dispensers will be provided on each shuttle.
  
  
• Shuttle passengers will be required to wear a cloth face covering.
  
  
• Shuttle drivers will not use recirculated air for shuttle ventilation. Instead, they must use shuttle vents and/or lower the vehicle’s windows to bring in fresh outside air.
  
  
• In order to maintain a safe distance between each passenger, passenger limits will be 50% of the posted capacity per trip. The shuttle pick-up will be first come, first served.
  
  
• Passengers will be asked to social distance (6 feet minimum) while entering a shuttle.
  
  
• Passengers must maintain one empty seat between them and the next passenger on the shuttle.
  
  
• Information will be posted on-line and around campus as shuttle routes may change to enhance efficiencies and/or due to other University policy changes.
  
  
• Riders who fail to comply with the safety measures outlined below will not be allowed to ride the shuttle and may face disciplinary action for noncompliance.

Rowan University Travel

Given the uncertainty about when travel will again be safe and when countries will begin lifting current travel restrictions, we share the following guidance for all populations affiliated with Rowan University including undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, and staff. This guidance is in place until further notice but please be advised that guidance is changing rapidly as conditions change throughout the country and internationally. 

Rowan University has taken the following steps regarding university-related travel:

• All Rowan-led study abroad programs are suspended for the summer.
• All Rowan-led international spring break programs were canceled.
• All students in third-party study abroad programs were strongly encouraged to return.
• All Rowan-sponsored international travel is suspended.
• Any member of our community returning from international travel is required to self-isolate in accordance with CDC guidance before returning to campus.
• All international travel must be reported to Rowan through the Student Wellness Center.

Rowan-sponsored Domestic Travel Guidance
COVID-19 is rapidly spreading throughout the United States and we do not have systematic advice from government authorities about the safety of domestic travel.  We therefore maintain a strong recommendation against non-essential Rowan-sponsored domestic travel.

We urge those who engage in such travel to exercise caution and good judgement.  Travelers should heed the advice of authorities in the states they are departing from and to which they are traveling.  For further advice, please consult the CDC’s advice for domestic travel.

Many states have a “shelter in place” order so we expect domestic travel in the near-term to be limited.  In addition, several states now require quarantines for those arriving from cities and states affected by large-scale outbreaks.  We encourage those considering domestic travel to develop medical and logistical contingency plans in case restrictions change, including in the state to which they plan to return.

If your domestic Rowan-related travel is essential, you must consult with your immediate supervisor regarding the appropriateness of the travel and to determine if any alternatives to travel might be effective. Essential travel will require approval of the Provost or your divisional Senior Vice President.

All of the travel recommendations listed above apply to university business including, but not limited to, teaching, study abroad, conferences, presentations, internships, research, recruiting, and athletic competitions.

Governor’s Directive on Travel – The March 5, 2020, directive issued by Acting New Jersey Governor Sheila Oliver regarding domestic and international travel by state employees does not bind Rowan employees.

Health Care Faculty, Staff, and Students Guidance
Those faculty, staff, and students who interact directly with patients, in the Rowan medical schools, are directed to:

• Cease all domestic business-related travel, including travel to Philadelphia and New York, for any and all Rowan sponsored activities; however, this ban does not prohibit travel needed to provide patient care.
• These travel limits are in addition to the university’s limitations on international travel and the domestic guidance above applicable to Rowan employees and Rowan’s community.
• Not attend meetings on or off campus with more than 15 people.
• Cancel in-person group meetings that are not related to patient care.

Study Abroad
All Rowan-led study abroad programs have been canceled for summer 2020. Study abroad and Student Exchange Programs for fall 2020 have also been cancelled. Students may defer their programs to Spring 2021. If you have questions, you may contact the Rowan University International Center.  

Students in partner university or other third-party programs are urged to consider delaying participation in those programs. While we strongly recommend against your participation in these programs and recommend that you consult information available from the CDC and the Department of State prior to making any financial commitments, please know that the final decision on participation in those programs is up to the affected students and their families.

Personal Travel
We continue to strongly urge against international and domestic personal travel (vacations, visiting friends/family) given the uncertainty of travel and the possibility of flight cancellations, travel restrictions, and self isolation periods. However, personal travel is not prohibited. 

If you choose to engage in international personal travel, you should enroll in the DOS Smart Traveler’s Enrollment Program (STEP) (or similar programs offered by other governments for their citizens/nationals), purchase travel insurance (note that most policies do not cover COVID-19 related evacuation or repatriation), and closely monitor local travel advisories.  Please notify Rowan at [insert] of your international personal travel plans and please observe any periods of self-isolation imposed by the State or local health department. 

Employee Financial Considerations for Travel Cancellations
All Rowan-sponsored international travel is suspended and domestic travel is not recommended until further notice. If you book any Rowan-sponsored travel in violation of this guidance or without approval as outlined above, you will not be reimbursed for any travel related expenses.  

Use of Face Coverings

Employees and students are required to wear face coverings in all indoor public/shared areas, including, but not limited to: office common areas, hallways, restrooms, kitchens, elevators, stairwells, cafeterias, etc. Masks are not required in private offices or residence hall rooms.

While there are on-going discussions with regard to which materials are most effective, current data suggests that acceptable options include: bandanas, neck gaiters, homemade face coverings, scarves, and tightly woven fabrics. It is important to note that these face coverings/masks are intended to protect others from the wearer’s respiratory droplets, not protect the wearer from being exposed to the virus.

The safety and well-being of the University community is of the utmost importance, and we will continue to dedicate unified efforts to reduce the likelihood of transmission of COVID-19. If you have any questions, please email the Environmental Health and Safety Department at EHS@rowan.edu.

Employee and student responsibilities

• Students are required to supply their own face covering/mask. The University, however, will provide students with one cloth mask. Residential students will receive theirs upon check-in and commuter students can pick up theirs at the dean of Students Office in Savitz Hall in September.
  
  
• Employees will be supplied one cloth mask upon their return to campus. They are responsible for cleaning of their own masks. Depending on the type of work employees are engaged in, they will receive the appropriate OSHA-required mask for that setting.

Back-up masks
The University will be purchasing a supply of disposable masks to share with individuals who forgot or lost their mask on a particular day. Each building will have a designated office where disposable masks can be requested.

Employees who forget their masks will be supplied with a reusable plastic mask designed by the College of Engineering. It is designed for easy cleaning (soap and water), however, the filter will need to be changed periodically. Instructions for cleaning and changing of the filter come with the mask.

Medical exemptions
Those with respiratory conditions like asthma or other reactive airways diseases, should carefully watch their increased respiratory effort as any mask or face covering can aggravate certain conditions. Employees should contact Human Resources and students the Dean of Students Office for instructions on how to receive medical exemptions for wearing a mask.

Overview of the Daily Screening Process

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to aid in our "Return to Rowan" efforts, Rowan University will institute a Daily Screening application to collect baseline information on the wellness of the community.

In order to enable all members of the Rowan University community to provide this information, we will leverage the “CAS” system, a single sign-on system, for users to provide information through a stand-alone web application. CAS offers the ability to interrupt the log-in process and present an Acknowledgment Prompt, informing the user that they will need to follow up with a process in order to continue.  

Overview of the User Experience

The Daily Screening web application will present two basic questions to a user:

• Do you have a fever of 100.4ºF or greater?
• Do you have any of the following symptoms: shortness of breath, cough, chills, muscle pain, loss of taste or smell or headache?

The user will then provide the feedback, where it will be stored anonymously & securely within our database. If the user responds positively to either question, a notification will appear for the user advising them of the next steps: contacting the Wellness Center, RowanSOM, or other reporting as determined. 

To encourage daily submission of wellness information, the CAS single sign-on platform (login.rowan.edu) will be used to remind users to submit a daily update. CAS is used as the point of authentication for many of our web-based services.

For an individual accessing a CAS-authenticated service, they will attempt to log into the service. CAS will check to see if a daily wellness update has been completed. If the user has not yet completed the daily screening form, they will be temporarily stopped and asked to visit the Daily Screening application. After completing the Daily Screening form, they will be redirected back to CAS and will be able to continue to log in to the requested service. The Daily Screening acknowledgement prompt will only appear if the individual has not entered the form that day. Individuals will not be required to fill out the form multiple times within the same day if logging into different services. 

The Daily Screening application will store information in two forms: a Daily Screening receipt that will be associated with the individual and will allow them to continue with the log-in process, and a record of the responses disassociated from the individual. In aggregate, the responses will be used for a health trends dashboard to be developed for use by the Wellness Center and RowanSOM.

IRT is able to set the populations that will be required to complete a Daily Screening form each day. Current plans are that all individuals attempting to log into a Rowan University web application will be prompted to complete the Daily Screening form. 

General Guidance for a Healthy Rowan

• Protect Yourself and Others
  CDC guidelines of social distancing of 6 feet or greater, hand washing (minimum of 20 seconds with soap), covering mouth and nose, cough etiquette, cleanliness, and sanitation should be rigorously practiced.
  
  
• Face Coverings/Masks
  Effective April 8th, Governor Murphy, via executive order #122, required workers and customers to wear face coverings while on the premises; faculty and staff working on-campus in situations where they are in close proximity (within 6 feet) of others should wear similar cloth face coverings. This also is directed to all who are visiting campus, including students, contractors and visitors (10 years of age or older). See Appendix D.
  
  
• Health Checks
  Prior to coming to work, individuals must self-screen for any of the following new or worsening signs or symptoms of possible COVID-19: cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, diarrhea, feeling feverish or a measured temperature (greater than or equal to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit), or known close contact with a person who is lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. If you have any of the symptoms on any work day, do not come on campus. Contact your immediate supervisor as soon as reasonably possible. In the case of a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19, contact Health Services at the Wellness Center (856-256-4333). Students should contact the Wellness Center if they exhibit any of the above symptoms.
• Health checks at log-in
  The University will institute a Daily Screening application to collect baseline information on the wellness of the community. Students and employees will be prompted to fill out a two-question survey upon logging on to their computers the first time each day. See Appdendix E for details.
  
  
• Travel
  Travel restrictions and self-quarantine rules continue to apply and are described in the Appendix C.
  
  
• Contact Tracing
  Every individual must agree to participate in contact tracing—which means that they will maintain and regularly update a list of substantive and known face-to-face contacts that they have had during the preceding two weeks. This information will be made available to the Wellness Center, when requested, to facilitate contact tracing and shall be used for public health purposes only.
  
  
• Common Areas
  People are discouraged from eating together/gathering in common areas, such as kitchens or break rooms. These areas, including appliances, must be cleaned regularly.
  
  
• Closed Workspaces
  Closed workspaces that are open to users in libraries, archives, etc. must be disinfected regularly. Single-occupancy workspaces that are small and enclosed should not be occupied by more than one person per work period.
  
  
• Meetings
  Group meetings should not be conducted face-to-face. If a face-to-face meeting is necessary, limit the number of participants and hold the meeting in a larger space to allow for appropriate spacing.
  
  
• Visitors
  All visitors must be scheduled in advance. Visitors will be asked to self-report any symptoms of COVID-19 and a log will be kept of their visit and which areas they visited. Logs will be submitted to each building manager for contact investigation if needed. Visitors must follow face covering and social distancing policies. Rowan employees who host visitors must inform their guests of all public health policies.
  
  
• Protective Equipment in Research Labs
  In collaboration with the Public Health Department, it is the primary investigator’s responsibility to determine what kind of protective equipment is needed and to ensure equipment availability to members of their research group while they work in university research spaces.
  
  
• Training and Education
  Rowan’s plan for reopening is heavily reliant on raising awareness. Rowan has developed training modules for employees and is in the process of developing one for students. The modules focus on COVID-19, means of infection and reducing the risk of infection, including: hand and respiratory hygiene, face covering, social distancing, and cleaning and disinfecting. Students will be required to participate in the training prior to return. In addition to training modules, Rowan has developed significant signage to remind its community of the importance of the health and safety protocols outlined above. 

Visiting Our Campuses

Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 (updated June 11)

Following medical protocols, we will continue to inform the people in the Rowan community who were in close contact with the individuals before and as they started showing symptoms. Although the risk of infection is low for those beyond the individuals’ inner circles, we will continue to inform others (i.e., roommates, close personal contacts) and ask that they isolate themselves for up to a 14-day period depending on the level of exposure. 

Due to federal patient- and student-confidentiality regulations, we cannot provide more details about the individuals. 

The following is a listing of confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the Rowan community.

Total number of cases in the Rowan community: 29