CMU postpones spring commencement ceremonies, extends online classes
Central Michigan University has postponed commencement ceremonies for the spring semester until further notice due to coronavirus concerns, university officials announced.
”This decision is to protect the health and well-being of you and your family, in accordance with state and national recommendations — but that doesn't mean it was an easy choice,” President Bob Davies said in an email sent to the university community.
CMU also extended online-only classes through the rest of the spring semester, according to an email from Davies Friday.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order on March 13 prohibiting all gatherings of more than 250 people in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. The governor also ordered the closure of all public K-12 schools until April 6.
“This is about protecting the most people we can from the spread of coronavirus,” Whitmer said in a released statement. “My administration will continue to do everything we can to mitigate the spread, and to ensure our children, families, and businesses have the support they need during this time. We are going to get through this, but we must be flexible and take care of each other.”
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommended on March 15 that event organizers throughout the United States cancel or postpone all in-person events with over 50 people until at least Sunday, May 10.
There are currently no identified cases of COVID-19 at CMU, Davies said in a released statement on March 15. However, the number of confirmed positive cases in the state continues to rise daily.
There are currently more than 100 confirmed positive coronavirus cases in Michigan. The first two positive cases were identified in Oakland and Wayne counties on March 10.
On March 13, CMU officials suspended all in-person classes until April 6, moving all classes online to curb the spread of the virus. CMU reopened residential halls on March 15 for those who needed a place to stay, but urged students to stay off campus if possible.
"We recognize residence halls and university apartments are the only housing option for some students," Davies said in a release statement. "In keeping with CDC guidance, CMU continues to recommend that students with permanent residences off campus remain there at this time."
Health agencies in Isabella County have taken precautions after cases were confirmed in Michigan, including travel screenings at patient registration areas and suspending all routine visiting.
The city of Mount Pleasant has announced various event cancellations and restrictions on city services amid coronavirus concerns. Although public meetings like City Commission will continue as scheduled, residents are encouraged to watch the meetings at home to limit the number of people at the meeting.
Stay up-to-date with CMU's coronavirus information here: https://www.cmich.edu/news/article/Pages/CMU-coronavirus-updates.aspx.
