To the Case Western Reserve Community:
As planning for the Sept. 29 Presidential Debate progresses, your health and safety continue to be our highest priority. Our university and Cleveland Clinic teams have worked closely with local, state and federal agencies on security preparations since early August, and deeply appreciate the dedication and diligence of everyone involved.
All that said, we know well that even the most comprehensive plans cannot anticipate every possibility, and so approach next week from a perspective of abundant caution. As a result, the university will significantly reduce all on-campus operations starting at 3 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28, and continuing through midnight, Tuesday Sept. 29.
Specifically:
- All classes that start at 3 p.m. or later on Monday (Sept. 28) and all classes on Tuesday (Sept. 29) will transition to remote delivery. Classes will return to their regular formats on Wednesday, Sept. 30. If a course cannot be delivered remotely (for example, one that requires access to a lab), the respective school leaders will collaborate with faculty to determine whether exceptions will be granted or alternative arrangements made.
- With the exception of those deemed essential to campus operations (e.g. safety, facilities, custodial staff, etc.), employees working on campus next Monday may depart at 3 p.m. and should not return to campus until Wednesday (Sept. 30). Other than essential employees, all staff should work from home on Tuesday; human resources will provide additional details about the adjustments in a separate communication.
- University Counseling Services will provide virtual “support spaces” for students the evening of the debate, and will provide additional details later this week.
- The Division of Public Safety has increased patrols on campus, including on the Nord Greenway and in the vicinity of the Maltz Performing Arts Center, and will maintain them through until after the debate. Those who park on streets are encouraged to make alternative arrangements on the day of the debate.
We and leaders from other offices will provide additional information in the coming days, but wanted to provide this guidance as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding as the debate approaches.
Barbara R. Snyder
President
Ben Vinson III
Provost