July 30

Good morning, Jimmies! August is quickly approaching and with that comes your pending arrival to campus! We are excited to welcome you to the family or back to campus for our returners! I want to assure you that we are making every effort to protect the health and safety of our campus community as we prepare for your return, and want to keep you as informed as possible as changes occur. Upon your arrival you will see changes to classrooms, social spaces, and other spaces across campus; additionally, you will find new expectations shared below that are aimed at providing everyone with a safe environment on campus.

We are again sharing an email that contains a lot of information; while it is long it is extremely important so we ask that you please review thoroughly.

FACE COVERINGS REQUIRED
As a university, we have a responsibility to do what is prudent to protect the institution, our students, our employees and the community in which we live and work. There is no doubt that if we do nothing to prevent the spread of COVID we are putting the University and our community at risk. Therefore, it is necessary to take steps to maintain a healthy campus. After lengthy discussions and much consideration the following policy was created and will be effective August 1, 2020.

Face coverings (masks, shields, scarfs, etc.) will be required by all students, staff, and faculty under the following circumstances:

You do not have to wear a face covering if:

Each UJ student will be provided a mask at your check-in and additional masks will be available for purchase at the Jimmie Connection. We strongly recommend that you purchase additional masks as they need to be laundered frequently (daily is recommended with proper care for reuse throughout the day).

COVID TESTING
Testing will be provided free of charge to all UJ students, staff, and faculty, at an on-campus location on the following dates (specific details will be shared in another email by August 4th). It is strongly recommended that everyone be tested leading into the school year.

COVID CONTACT INFORMATION

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL/STUDENTS
See email from Dustin Jensen (Subject: Urgent Information – International Students Returning to UJ) delivered to your UJ email address on 7/30/2020 at 11:00 am.

Please note that if you are traveling internationally you are required to complete a 14-day quarantine. Contact COVID@uj.edu if you are in that situation.

CHECK IN PROCESS
All check in’s will be conducted in a drive through fashion this year. Students must enter through the UJ main entrance along 5th Ave. NE where numerous groups will be available to welcome you and supply you with the items you need to complete the move-in process. Please see the times listed below to determine the specified time for your arrival.

FRESHMAN CHECK-IN
Thursday, August 20
Freshman from all states except North Dakota
Check In Between: 12:00 – 5:00 pm

Friday, August 21
Freshman from North Dakota
Check In Between: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

RETURNING AND TRANSFER CHECK-IN
Saturday/Sunday, August 22-23
Returning and Transfer students
Check In Between: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
*UJ Place check-in details have been shared from EPIC Management to student residents.

Early Arrival Fall Athletic Programs – Move-In Details

Dustin Jensen
Dean of Students/Vice President for Student Affairs

July 30

Good morning, Jimmies!

Yesterday, the state of North Dakota adjusted their policy for international college/university student arrivals.

Please read this thoroughly as it has changed and could impact your desired date of arrival at UJ.

International students traveling to North Dakota must quarantine immediately upon arrival. Following their arrival, the student should be tested for COVID-19 (preferably within 48 hours). The student must remain in quarantine between the time of arrival and their test (even if it is more than 48 hours) and until they receive a negative result.

Testing will be provided free of charge to all UJ students at an on-campus location on the following dates (specific details will be shared in another email by August 4th):

Students who are in this situation need to complete the following:

COVID CONTACT INFORMATION
UJ COVID Email Questions: COVID@uj.edu
UJ COVID Call/Text Line: A hotline will be available beginning the week of August 3-7 and shared at that time.

Please note that we will continue to have campus open for international students should you want to arrive at any time between now and the first day of classes on August 24.

Sincerely,

Dustin Jensen
Dean of Students/Vice President for Student Affairs

July 8

Dear Jimmies,

July is upon us and we are quickly approaching your first day, or return to, college! To our incoming freshman and transfer students, welcome; your Jimmie family eagerly awaits your arrival on campus!

The following email contains a lot of information; while it is long it is extremely important. Please review thoroughly as some of the arrival days/times have been adjusted and new options have been created specifically for international students.

NOTE: International Students are required to spend 14-days in quarantine upon entry into the state of North Dakota by ND government mandate. See additional information below and rest assured that UJ will assist your and support you through this process.

Last week, Provost Dr. Paul Olson outlined the steps UJ will take related to academics and COVID for a successful fall semester. If you missed his email, refer back to the July 1st email titled UJ Academic Plans for Fall 2020. In his email, Dr. Olson shared the final sentence of our mission statement, which reads, “Our commitment to the Christian faith encourages an atmosphere of self-discipline, responsibility, and concern for the continuing growth of the individual.” Succinctly put, Dr. Olson shared that “having a successful fall will require you to have self-discipline, act responsibly, and have concern for the continued growth of your fellow Jimmies. We know you can do it, and we expect you to do it.”

It is the intention of the UJ to begin the Fall 2020 semester on-time and conclude the semester on-time in December followed by the standard spring schedule beginning in January and concluding in May.

As we navigate the everchanging world through a COVID lens, campus is evolving. In addition to the academic changes outlined by Dr. Olson, Campus Dining is working to reduce population density in our dining hall, they are creating opportunities for pre-ordering meals as well as expanding grab-and-go options. Additionally, they are modifying circulation, adding specific entrance and exit locations, and adding contactless scanners to promote health and safety in the dining hall, at the Java Hut, and in their new space, Knight & Day (open in UJ Place in September featuring the proudly brewing Starbucks brand!). Regardless of whether students reside on or off campus, we are committed to providing programming and support that enhance connections, belonging, and community, safely. Student Activities; Residence Life; Strength, Conditioning, and Campus Wellness; Campus Dining; Intramurals; and more, will work with students to develop new strategies for programming, gathering, and engaging across campus.

Sincerely,

Dustin Jensen
Vice President for Student Affairs

July 1

Dear Jimmies,

Although we are still more than a month away from the start of the fall semester, move-in day will be here quickly and classes will be starting before we know it on August 24. With that understanding, I want to give you a bit of a preview about what you can expect from your classes this fall. This is a long email, but I want to be thorough. Also, this email only deals with the academic side of life at UJ and not residence life, athletics, or student life and only applies to students taking courses in Jamestown.

Our feedback from the spring tells us that the vast majority of you want to be on campus and have face-to-face classes this fall. We also know that the musicians among you want to have concerts and other performances. The actors want to act. The student chaplains want to have chapel. The athletes want to play their sports. We want all of these things to happen, too, and you play an important role in this. Our mission statement ends with the sentence:

Having a successful fall will require you to have self-discipline, act responsibly, and have concern for the continued growth of your fellow Jimmies. We know you can do it, and we expect you to do it.

We have completed an audit of all of our classrooms, and I’m happy to report that we will be able to have almost all of our courses face-to-face at the times you registered for this coming semester. The rooms, however, will look different when you get back. We will practice social distancing in the classrooms, and that means that our classrooms will have far fewer tables, chairs, and desks than you are used to seeing. Most of our classrooms will operate at about 25%-40% capacity. We will also be using the DeNault Auditorium more than we typically do. In classrooms with two doors, one will be designated the entrance and one the exit to help with social distancing. We expect you to stay six feet apart from each other in the classrooms and as you enter and exit the classrooms.

Even with social distancing in place, we will expect you to follow some other guidelines:

• All buildings will be equipped with hand sanitizers or have places to wash your hands. Wash your hands whenever you go into a building; you should do this at least 10 times each day. You may also want to purchase hand sanitizer for your backpack and residence hall room.
• We have not yet made a campus-wide decision about requiring masks in all public areas, but you will be required to wear a mask in all of our classrooms. YOU SHOULD PLAN TO BRING SEVERAL MASKS WITH YOU TO CAMPUS THIS FALL.
• We will be encouraging students to sit in the same seat for every class session with the practice being required in some rooms.
• Finally, DO NOT GO TO CLASS IF YOU ARE SICK. We are investing heavily in technology this summer and will be able to record many of our classes this fall. We would rather have you attend class virtually than be in class if you are sick.

Because labs often require that students and faculty work in close proximity to each other, we will require the use of masks, plastic facial shields, and gloves in all of our labs this fall. The university will supply you with a facial shield and gloves for your labs. The same protocols for entering and exiting the classrooms mentioned above will apply to our labs.

Our computer labs will function at about 50% capacity this fall. IT is removing the keyboard and mouse from alternate stations over the summer so users will not be able to sit within six feet of each other. The same protocols that apply to our classrooms also apply to our computer labs.

A small number of courses, particularly those that meet in computer labs, will operate in either a hybrid or HyFlex model this fall with some of the course content delivered online and some being delivered in a face-to-face format. Some of these courses will have half of the students attend on one day and the other half attend on the next. In those courses, the students not physically in attendance will participate virtually. You will be notified by the Registrar’s Office prior to the start of the fall semester if one of your courses will be offered in this format.

Similarly, a few courses will be offered exclusively online as a result of COVID-19. We have done our best to minimize the number of courses offered this way, but some courses will only be available online. You will be notified by the Registrar’s Office prior to the start of the fall semester if one of your courses will be offered online.

If you have a medical condition that puts you at-risk, are an international student who is unable to return to campus, or are concerned about your ability to be on-campus for the fall semester, please contact Mike Woodley (registrar@uj.edu) or John Lynch (JoLynch@uj.edu) to discuss your situation. Part of what makes UJ who we are is our willingness to work with students to keep you on track for graduation, so if you have specific concerns, please let us work with you to find solutions.

Paul J. Olson, Ph.D.
Provost

June 12

Executive Summary, University of Jamestown Fall 2020 Plan

Since 1883, the University of Jamestown has been a student-oriented institution of higher education with a faculty and staff committed to providing the highest quality of education to our students.

As our mission states, the University of Jamestown is a community dedicated to the development of wholeness in our students. We adhere to a curriculum of academic excellence which blends the liberal arts with sound professional preparation. Our commitment to the Christian faith encourages an atmosphere of self-discipline, responsibility, and concern for the growth of the individual.

With our mission at the center of all University activity, we prepare to resume in-person instruction and activity in both our Jamestown and Fargo locations guided by the following principles:

1. We are committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for faculty, staff, and students.
2. A robust on-campus experience including face-to-face instruction, rich co-curricular activities, engagement with our broader community, and a vibrant campus ministry program guides our undergraduate operations, when possible.
3. We are committed to face-to-face instruction at the undergraduate level and in our Doctor of Physical Therapy program while minimizing risk to all. We recognize that intentional and purposeful use of hybrid, high flex, and online modalities, coupled with our commitment to highly interactive faculty-student relationships, can also provide meaningful educational experiences for students.
4. We value the ingenuity and problem-solving ability of all University community members, and welcome their input and feedback regarding our planning and processes.
5. All of our decisions are informed and guided by the advice and practices recommended by federal, state, and local public health organizations. We expect all members of our community to practice self-discipline and to act responsibly in accordance with good health practices.

The President’s Cabinet members devised fall 2020 plans for their respective areas that address safe practices related to COVID-19 including hygiene, social distancing, screening/testing, identification, and isolation. The plans consider the uniqueness of our campus and Fargo location, including available residence halls, dining services, student activities, the Student Success Center, auxiliary student services, enrollment management (recruitment and retention), and technology needs. Specific attention was paid to classroom and labs and the characteristics of operations and student movement related to fine arts participation, athletic events, and course enrollment. Plans for staff safety in marketing and development include plans for large events and travel.

To ensure the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors, the University is committed to the following general practices guided by the five basic principles of overall wellness: Hygiene, Social Distancing, Screening/Testing, Identification, and Isolation as outlined below. Due to evolving recommendation at the local, state and federal level, this list is not exhaustive and will continue to be monitored throughout the summer and updated as necessary.

• Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, equipment, and objects under the guidance provided by the CDC including classrooms, event centers, and other public spaces using EPA-approved disinfectant solutions: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/disinfecting-building-facility.html
• Encourage frequent hand washing, and refrain from touching face including nose, mouth, and eyes
• Use of hand sanitizers placed at entrances and exits of buildings
• Use of non-medical or cloth masks when not able to social distance
• Use of PPE for employees and students, when necessary
• Utilize windows for outside air intake when possible
• Limit use of equipment, classrooms, and facilities when necessary
• Follow prescribed procedures for cleaning and disinfecting in the event of a COVID-19 positive test: https://sf.gov/business-guidance-if-staff-member-tests-positive-covid-19

• Follow guidance provided by ND Smart Restart: https://ndresponse.gov/sites/www/files/documents/covid-19/ND%20Smart%20Restart/Standards%20for%20all%20Industries.pdf
• Label entrances and exits to buildings for purposes of proper social distancing
• Reduce occupancy and/or increase space between furniture in classrooms and public spaces
• Stagger work stations when possible
• Provide physical barriers such as Plexiglas sneeze guards where appropriate to avoid direct contact between individuals
• Provide signage on walls, floors, and other areas as needed to identify safe spacing, walking patterns, etc.
• Consider time limits for planned activities
• Alternate days and/or locations to accommodate appropriate classroom safety protocols
• Allow employees to work remotely when necessary
• Utilize technology for large meetings
• Consider use of technology and specific ticket entrances and assigned seats at athletic, fine arts, and other large events: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html

• Educate and encourage self-monitoring procedures daily
• Utilize health screening questionnaire and temperature checks daily for individuals who are in activities where social distancing options are limited
• Encourage individuals to stay home/in their residence hall room if not feeling well
• Work with local health care providers to provide testing for symptomatic individuals
• Work with CDC to support contact tracing in the event of a positive test
• Encourage individuals with pre-existing health concerns to avoid high traffic areas and events and provide necessary accommodations when possible

• Reserve campuses houses 2 and 3 as designated residences in the event of a COVID-19 infection
• Provide for food and other needs for those who are quarantining or are in isolation due to the virus
• Follow CDC and North Dakota State Health Department guidance related to isolation and readiness to return to work or class https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/strategy-discontinue-isolation.html
• Support continuation of study through use of technology for students in quarantine or isolation
• Support continuation of essential job functions for employees, allowing employees to work remotely or to seek temporary leave options

With a commitment to the health and well-being of all members of our community, this plan was created to allow us to continue to care for each other, grow together, and experience the fullness of collegiate life in the fall of 2020.

June 8

Larson Center Weight Room and Cybex Room

Below are details relating to the opening of the Larson Center Weight Room and Cybex Room as we enter our Phase 2 Protocols. As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, we ask that everyone continues practicing every day preventative behaviors, such as: staying home when sick, practicing social distancing, avoiding contact with sick people, covering coughs and sneezes, frequently washing hands with soap and water, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.

Monday-Thursday – 3pm-5pm – All workouts and cleaning must be completed by 5pm
Friday-Sunday – CLOSED

Before entering the Larson Weight Room, the following protocols must be done:

• Daily COVID-19 Symptoms Questionnaire must be answered – (Provided by the Front Desk Worker) – If any symptom questions are answered – Yes – you will not be allowed to enter the workout facilities
• Temperature must be taken by staff member, not to exceed 100.4. Must be documented in the monitor form provided by the Front Desk Worker
• If temperature exceeds 100.4 – you will not be allowed to enter the workout facilities
• Wash/Sanitize hands before entering the Larson Center Weight Room

The following protocols will be implemented during open times:

• Social Distancing will be required during the training session (6ft). We will not exceed 30 participants in the Weight Room.
• 20 participants in the Larson Weight Room
• 10 participants in the Cybex Room
• Community water fountains will be off limits, you are asked to bring your own water bottle, you will be allowed to refill the bottle at the refill station
• No community chalk bowls – chalk will not be allowed during workout times
• Machines/equipment must be sanitized and properly dried after each use, especially during multiple person usage by the user
• After the training session is complete, a complete wipe down of all equipment used will be performed by the person who used the equipment
• A clean/dry towel, provided by UJ, must be used on each piece of equipment being cleaned

Thank You,
Ryder Weischedel

May 12

April 21

Campus Hours of Operation

April 9

Quarantine Update

Are you currently on campus and considering traveling during the Easter break? Or, are you considering travelling back to North Dakota? Please be aware of the following urgent information:

All individuals traveling back to North Dakota from international locations and states in the U.S. (updated to include all 50 states on 4/8/20) must quarantine immediately upon reentry to the state of North Dakota and for a period of 14 days or for the duration of the person’s presence in North Dakota, whichever period is shorter.

Students who are still residing on campus, if you travel, must contact Nicole Heinle at Nicole.Heinle@uj.edu to discuss arrangements.

Failure to Adhere: A person is guilty of a class B misdemeanor if that person fails to cooperate with this order to quarantine, which could result in 30 days imprisonment and/or up to $1500 fine.

CLICK HERE for a full list details and requirements.

April 8

Commencement

We look forward to celebrating 2020 Commencement with our UJ seniors from undergraduate, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and online master’s programs. The Commencement ceremony will take place on Saturday, October 10 at 9:30 am in Harold Newman Arena. Please share this information with your family and friends—and invite them to share in this momentous occasion in your academic career! Additional details about Commencement, and Homecoming 2020, will follow when we are closer to the event date.

Easter Break Adjustments

UJ’s Easter break will be slightly adjusted as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Below is a schedule of campus dining and building availability during the break.

April 4

UJ Undergraduate Students –

Many students have asked our staff if they need to be moved out of their UJ residence hall, including all of their belongings, to receive the credit by Monday, April 6th.
The answer is simple, NO! If it is your desire to no longer reside in your residence hall room for the remainder of the semester you will receive the credit (if you are eligible and fill out the form). When filling out the UJ COVID-19 Credit Allocation form indicate that it is your intention to no longer live and/or eat on campus. If you cannot return to gather your items from your room simply indicate that you will have items remaining in your room on the form. You’ll receive the credit (if you are eligible and fill out the form) and we will work with you on when you get your items or when we pack them up and store them for you.

April 2

UJ COVID-19 CREDIT

Each UJ student who is enrolled in a UJ housing contract and/or a meal plan for the spring 2020 semester should CLICK HERE to fill out the UJ COVID-19 Credit Allocation Form. Deadline to submit the form is April 6, 2020.

See the full details in the March 27, 2020, email send to students.

NORTH DAKOTA TRAVEL QUARANTINE ORDERS

Are you considering travelling back to North Dakota? Please be aware of the following urgent information:

All individuals traveling back to North Dakota from international locations and states in the U.S. that have been classified as having widespread disease by the CDC (list below) must quarantine immediately upon reentry to the state of North Dakota and for a period of 14 days.

Failure to Adhere: A person is guilty of a class B misdemeanor if that person fails to cooperate with this order to quarantine, which could result in 30 days imprisonment and/or up to $1500 fine.

CLICK HERE for a full list details and requirements.

March 27

Dear Jimmies,

A one-time COVID related credit will be granted to residential and dining students as described below. The credit will appear as a one-time allocation to your fall 2020 semester charges, and will not be refunded, with the exception of seniors graduating by the end of summer, 2020. Students who wish to receive the credit(s) must make arrangements to check out of the residence halls by April 6, 2020. If you are not able to return to campus by April 6, 2020, please review the FAQs for information on how to make arrangements for on-campus storage of your belongings.

For students who wish to stay in campus housing as you complete your courses online, the UJ residence halls will continue to remain open and dining options will continue to be available. The one-time COVID related credit allocation will not apply for students who choose this option.

Graduating seniors who participate in residential housing and/or dining will be granted a refund upon completion of their coursework by the end of summer, 2020. The credit will be applied first to any outstanding balance due; any remainder will be remitted to you at the address we have on file in the Business Office.

Each UJ student who is enrolled in a UJ housing contract and/or a meal plan for the spring 2020 semester should use the link sent to their email from Dustin.Jensen@uj.edu on Friday March 27th at 2:00 pm to fill out the UJ COVID-19 Credit Allocation Form. Deadline to submit the form is April 6, 2020. If you cannot find the link in your email, please contact Dustin.Jensen@uj.edu.

UJ COVID-19 CREDIT FAQS

Students who are currently enrolled in a UJ housing contract and/or a meal plan for the spring 2020 semester and are enrolled for the fall 2020 semester are eligible for this credit. Graduating seniors, please see the information below. Students who are receiving housing waivers during spring 2020 semester are excluded from receiving the credit applicable to housing. A COVID-19 Credit Allocation Form must be completed and returned to the Office of Student Affairs in order to be eligible for this credit.

Students graduating in May 2020 or August 2020 can expect a refund. They will receive a check in the mail from the University after the end of the semester in which they graduate. The refund will include the amount of their credit minus any unpaid balance they owe to the University.

The UJ COVID-19 Credit is a one-time credit applied toward either a student’s Fall 2020 charges or to Summer 2020 housing. Students not returning to UJ for the Fall 2020 semester will not receive the UJ COVID-19 Credit.

Students must make arrangements to retrieve their belongings by the end of the day, April 6, 2020. Please contact your RD or Eric.Thorson@uj.edu if you are unable to return to campus prior to that date.

We will do our best to work with students who are unable to return to campus to gather their belongings for reasons beyond their control. Items will be packed and stored in a secure location on campus for pickup at a later date.

Students who do not complete the form by the end of the day on April 6, 2020, will continue with their current UJ housing contract and/or meal plan through May 8, and therefore, no credit will be granted.

CAMPUS LIFE AND FACILITIES:

The campus in Jamestown remains open, and students who wish to remain on campus as they complete courses online are welcome to do so. Dining options will continue to be available, and our facilities will be open on a limited basis according to guidance provided by federal and state officials.

ACADEMICS AND COMMENCEMENT

The University of Jamestown moved to 100% online classes for the rest of the spring semester as of March 23, 2020.

Commencement is an important event for all of us in the UJ community. We want to honor all seniors in the Class of 2020 who are receiving their undergraduate degrees, master’s degrees, and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees. On the morning of Saturday, October 10, degrees will be conferred in a ceremony at the Harold Newman Arena. Commencement will be a part of the Homecoming festivities, and will culminate with a celebration on Allen Field prior to the Homecoming football game.

Raugust Library remains open from Monday through Friday from 8 am – 5 pm. The library will mail books to students if you would like; interlibrary loan is still operational; and many online resources are available. Phyllis Bratton (pbratton@uj.edu) and Brenda Fischer (bfischer@uj.edu) welcome your questions, and your use of Raugust Library.

Visit UJ Calendar, to learn more about virtual Campus Ministry events. Student events that have been canceled at this time include, but are not limited to: Honors Day; choir, band, and theatre performances and productions; athletic events. More information will be provided as it becomes available regarding other campus events.

Online registration for summer and fall 2020 terms will begin March 30, and continue until April 17.

Registration begin dates for each class are:

(For additional details, see your email from Registrar Mike Woodley dated March 18, 2020.)

VISITING CAMPUS

If you have a friend or family member who wants to attend UJ, our Admissions team will work with prospective students. As of March 20, visits to our campus are limited. Please contact your admissions representative for more information, or our office at 1-800-336-2554, or admissions@uj.edu.

March 24

With the remainder of the semester’s courses being moved online, campus tutoring will also be transitioning to an online format.

To request a tutor, or join a study/review session, please go to https://www.uj.edu/current-student/academics/academic-aids/tutoring-study-sessions for instructions.

The Writing Center will be available to schedule online help sessions via https://uj.mywconline.com

John Lynch

March 23

March 21

Dear University of Jamestown Community,

I am writing tonight to share with you that the University of Jamestown has reached a decision to move to online delivery through the end of the school year. This decision includes all students, including those in the graduate programs and students enrolled in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program in Fargo.

As you are aware through previous communications, the Administration has been committed to retaining the in-person classroom experience for our residential programs, while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those we serve. Unfortunately, with the rapidly changing circumstances that inform and influence our decisions, we have concluded that it is in the best interest of all that we move to an online learning environment for the remainder of the spring semester.

We have engaged in continuous communication with the ND Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control, members of the ND State University System, and the Governor’s office as we reached this decision. Together, we are united in our nation’s efforts to slow the spread of the novel Coronavirus. Thus, we feel it is in the best interest of our UJ community that we make this decision now so that our students, faculty and staff have the time necessary to plan accordingly.

As we have shared in earlier communications, the University of Jamestown will remain open, and students who wish to reside in campus housing as they complete their courses online are welcome to do so. Dining options will continue to be available, and our facilities will be open on a limited basis according to guidance provided by federal and state officials.

The Administration is continuing to discuss options for the 2020 commencement ceremonies, and will provide additional information to you shortly. Please know that we are doing everything we can to ensure that our seniors, along with our master’s degree and DPT graduates, will have an opportunity to celebrate in the presence of their family, friends, faculty, and colleagues with the same ceremonial pomp and circumstance they have earned.

This decision has been one of the most difficult decisions we have faced as a University. However, after observing the efforts of our faculty, staff, and students this past week, I am confident that we will be a stronger University for what we have accomplished together.

The University’s Character in Leadership program commits us to the development of knowledge, values, and servant leadership. Development of these character traits naturally leads to service for the greater good of all. We are being called upon now to demonstrate our character in leadership as we navigate the days ahead together. I am confident that we will succeed in our efforts.

Thank you for your prayers and understanding.

In Christ we Trust,

Dr. Polly Peterson
President

<HR

March 20

UJ community,
We have already been seeing some of this activity being sent to our users. Stay safe out there, physically and virtually!

State officials provide COVID-19-related cybersecurity threat information

BISMARCK, N.D. – Chief Information Security Officer Kevin Ford, along with North Dakota’s Joint Information Center leadership team, today provided information regarding widespread phishing and social engineering attacks malicious actors are using to exploit the coronavirus pandemic.

“The global spread and widespread news coverage of COVID-19 has created an opportunity for criminals to take advantage of people, making cyber hygiene equally as important as physical health and safety precautions.” said Ford. “In the same way that we want all citizens to follow recommended guidelines to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, we want to encourage all North Dakotans to exercise extreme care when surfing the web or sharing information online.”

Current cyber threats include social engineering activities like phishing emails that try to manipulate end users into clicking on links or attachments that are infected with malware or ransomware. These messages appear to come from a legitimate source, like the Centers for Disease Control or World Health Organization websites. They may also request personal information or ask users to provide financial information under the guise of donating to charities.

Malicious actors are also making fake maps with interactive dashboards. These maps use global data and look nearly identical to maps hosted by legitimate sources. However, the fake maps deploy malware that infects the user’s computer. This can result in information-stealing, including stealing accounts and personal information, as well as creating secret accounts to control computers. There is also evidence that malicious maps are showing up in online advertisements and Google searches.
Users should only use coronavirus dashboards and websites from trusted and reputable sources like well-known news organizations, healthcare providers or universities. As long as this global health threat remains in the news and top-of-mind, hackers will try to exploit it for illicit gain. Top tips include:

Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem also issued a press release earlier this week advising North Dakotans to be cautious about coronavirus-related scams, including helpful tips.

NDIT is also playing an active role supporting the transition of most state government team members to work remotely following an executive order issued by Gov. Burgum yesterday.

Although access to the Capitol and other state facilities will be restricted, state services will continue to be available in alternative ways, such as online. Burgum reinforced that state government remains open and functioning, but rather is modifying the way agency business is conducted during this unique and unprecedented time.

For the most updated and timely information related to COVID-19, visit the NDDoH website at www.health.nd.gov/coronavirus, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, and visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

March 19

Dear Jimmies,

Given the disruption that has accompanied the current semester, we want to give our undergraduate students the opportunity to take courses on a pass-fail basis without many of the normal restrictions on the practice. The policy for the pass-fail grading option can be found on page 37 of the 2019-2020 academic catalog. I will address the particulars of the policy below as they will apply to the Spring 2020 semester (the individual parts of the policy are italicized and preceded by black dots and how we will treat them this semester are the clear dots that follow):

If you want to change some or all of your courses to pass-fail, you need to do the following:

We are providing you with this policy change as a way to help you handle the disruptions that have occurred this semester and to take some of the pressure off of you as we transition to online courses for the next few weeks. We hope it gives you the opportunity to concentrate most heavily on the courses in your major(s) while still meeting all of the learning objectives for your other courses. We also hope that by giving you the option of taking at least some of your courses pass-fail, you are able to make choices that help you to maintain or improve your GPA while keeping you on track for graduation and life after UJ.

Sincerely,

Dr. Olson

Major Courses for Pass-Fail Letter Grade

Please take a moment to read COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions put out by Sanford Health for their employees.

March 18

March 17

Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, and Friends,

I begin this notice tonight with a heart filled with gratitude to all of you for the compassion and commitment you have shared during this incredibly difficult time. This week has given me even greater confidence that the work we do, and the students we serve, matter deeply.

Together we have held on to the belief that what is most important is the long-term health and wellness of our communities, and that the short-term sacrifices we are all facing provide opportunities for us to learn and grow. We are being stretched outside of what is comfortable and familiar, but through our collective efforts, we will be a stronger University, community, nation, and world because of what we have learned.

Throughout the past few weeks, the Administration’s desire has been to retain the classroom experience for our residential programs while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those we serve. Unfortunately, with the rapidly changing circumstances that inform and influence our decisions, the Administration has made the decision to continue our semester in an online learning environment through Monday, April 13, with the goal of returning to campus on Tuesday, April 14. During this time, we will be engaged in continuous communication with the ND Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control, and others, and will share any changes with you as quickly as we are able to do so.

For students in the online and graduate programs, your programs will continue as previously communicated. Please discuss any questions you may have with your Program Director.

During this time, the University of Jamestown will remain open, and students who wish to remain in campus housing as they complete their courses online are welcome to do so. Dining options will continue to be available, and our facilities will be open on a limited basis according to guidance provided by federal and state officials.

Lastly, Dr. Paul Olson will be in touch with undergraduate students shortly via email to provide additional information related to this transition to an online learning environment. I know this is not an ideal situation, but I believe in the persistence and perseverance of our UJ family, and I am optimistic that our efforts will lead to success. I ask that you please check your emails and the UJ website often as there will be numerous communications over the next few weeks, and these will be our official means of reaching you.

Thank you for being part of our University of Jamestown family. The decisions we are making are made easier knowing we are in this together.

May our faith in Christ lead us,

Dr. Peterson

March 16

Dear University of Jamestown Community,

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this historic time. With the COVID-19 pandemic still rapidly developing, the well-being of our students and employees is at the forefront of each decision made. We are receiving updates in real time as we consider the format of the remainder of our Spring Semester.

Today, topics of discussion include:

Regarding our academic programs at the University of Jamestown:

Regarding Spring Sports:

In respect to co-curricular activities:

If you are on campus, and you feel ill:

As this week progresses, we will keep you informed about any new developments that occur. Until that time, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as we continue to plan for the days and weeks to come.

God bless,

Polly Peterson
President

March 12

With Spring Break quickly coming to an end, the University of Jamestown administration has made the decision to alter its spring schedule to support prevention efforts aimed at slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and to provide for the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff.

The first case of COVID-19 in North Dakota was confirmed on the evening of Wednesday March 11, 2020, in Minot, a city 170 miles from Jamestown. The confirmed patient contracted the virus while traveling outside the state and is currently being monitored in his home. Although the risk to the campus community is relatively low at this time, we believe it is important to proceed with caution and provide extra time for the University to consider its options in collaboration with its academic and athletic partners. Therefore, the following schedule will begin immediately:

Undergraduate in-person classes and activities will be suspended through Sunday, March 22, resuming on Monday, March 23. Faculty and staff will return to campus Monday, March 16, as originally scheduled. Faculty, please watch for a forthcoming e-mail from Dr. Olson outlining plans and preparations that will occur beginning Monday morning, March 16.

Online undergraduate and graduate courses that are already underway will continue as scheduled. Online courses scheduled to begin on Monday, March 16, will begin as originally scheduled.

Doctor of Physical Therapy courses will be moved to an online format beginning Monday, March 16; we currently plan to resume courses in-person on Monday, March 30. Doctoral students, please watch for a forthcoming e-mail from Dr. Sara Voorhees for further details regarding this decision.

Athletic competitions and practice schedules will proceed according to the evolving guidelines and recommendations of the Great Plains Athletic Conference and the NAIA.

Internships, clinicals, student teaching, and other experiential education placements will proceed according to the policies, practices, and decisions of their cooperating organizations.

All University-sponsored international travel planned through May 31, 2020, is being canceled at this time.

For students who wish to remain on campus throughout the week of March 16, our residence halls will remain open, and dining options will be available. We ask, however, that you remain committed to the ND Department of Health’s and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s efforts to limit the spread of the virus by adhering to the following precautions:

As we approach the final weeks of the spring semester, our current intention is to resume in-person classes on the timelines presented above. However, we recognize that the situation we are facing is unprecedented and ever-changing. We will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation with local, state, and federal public health officials and will respond accordingly when called to do so.

We ask that you join us in prayer for the safety and protection of our community, our nation, and our world.

God bless,

Dr. Polly Peterson
President

March 11

The University of Jamestown is closely monitoring developments related to COVID-19. Our primary sources of information are: North Dakota Department of Health, World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the U.S. Department of State.

What is the University of Jamestown’s plan in response to COVID-19?

Self-isolation is not quarantine. It is a preventive status voluntarily maintained by someone to protect others from possible contagion, particularly if their health status is not clear and exposure was possible.

What are the Recommended Preventative Behaviors and Hygiene Etiquette?

In all classes, activities, and work on campus, exercise good hygiene etiquette.

Be mindful that it is currently flu season, and the ways to limit the flu and the coronavirus are the same:

What Preventative Measures May I Take?

Attention to personal preventive measures is recommended for keeping safe. In addition:

What is the Status of COVID-19 in North Dakota?

According to the North Dakota Department of Health on March 11, 2020, in North Dakota there is 1 positive case, 0 hospitalizations, 0 deaths, 7 currently monitoring, 25 total monitored to date, and 13 total tested.

Definitions:

March 6

Dear UJ Campus Community,
May you have a safe and healthy Spring Break! With many students traveling during Spring Break, please keep in mind that international travel may come with additional risks, screenings, and restrictions. More than 60 countries now have confirmed cases of COVID-19, and the CDC advises against all non-essential travel to China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea. International travel is your decision, but keep in mind the spread of the virus may complicate your return to the United States, even if your destination has no confirmed cases today. Further, if you come into contact with a confirmed case during your travel, you may be required to complete a 14-day quarantine. Some countries’ health systems may also become overwhelmed by the virus, limiting your options should you find that you need care. Additional travel information is available on the CDC’s travel website.

Per CDC guidelines, during your travels, if you become ill with fever, cough, or shortness of breath, avoid contact with others, and call your health care provider. Additionally, students should email Dustin.Jensen@uj.edu in UJ’s Office of Student Affairs.

Students, please keep in mind that residence halls are open throughout Spring Break if your travel plans change.

We want you to remain healthy while you are away, and we look forward to hearing about your adventures when you return.

Consider these basic protective measures against the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

March 4

Dear University of Jamestown Community,

With the prevalence of the coronavirus, or COVID-19 in the news, we feel it is important to share with you what we are doing to protect our students, employees, and campus. Dustin Jensen and his staff have developed a policy under our Emergency Preparedness Plan to ensure that we are ready, should the virus make its way to campus. University administration is staying informed regarding COVID-19, and will share with you any pertinent news we may receive about this topic. North Dakota Department of Health (NDDoH) is closely monitoring the virus with state, local, and private partners. We are fortunate to have Central Valley Health in Jamestown as a source of information and assistance. Currently, nine individuals are being monitored in ND, and there are no cases of coronavirus. The NDDoH explains that being monitored means that a person has recently traveled from China, but does not currently have any symptoms of the virus.

For those who are planning upcoming travel during Spring Break or later, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posts up-to-date travel health notices on their website.

Likewise, the U.S. Department of State publishes travel advisories on their site. The World Health Organization (WHO) also shares accurate and helpful information. The University will be monitoring these sites to determine if University sponsored trips will proceed as planned.

Please be mindful that it is currently flu season, and the ways to limit the flu and the coronavirus are the same:

Finally, all members of the UJ community can receive UJ emergency text alerts on your cell phone. If you did not receive the test text in January and want to register for this service, please contact Director of Campus Safety Nicole Heinle at Nicole.Heinle@uj.edu.

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