Coronavirus and Return to Campus Information
Updated: 3:00 p.m. March 7, 2022
This site provides access to the most up-to-date information on Penn State's response to the coronavirus, as well as related campus-specific information.
Resources
KeepLearning.psu.edu: This dedicated website for students offers support for remote learning, resources for academic advising and tutoring, and contact information.
KeepTeaching.psu.edu: Course instructors visiting the site will find information on effective teaching, technology training, webinars and support as they update and teach their courses for the upcoming semester. The site also features a newly created guide for instructors specifically designed for preparing and teaching this fall.
VirusInfo.psu.edu: Penn State’s main website with links to the latest news and answers to frequently asked questions about the University’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. The site’s resources page also contains links to dedicated resources for students and employees; information on testing, contact tracing and monitoring for the campus community; classroom and office guidance; and policies on masking and social distancing.
Penn State COVID-19 Compact: Before returning to campus, students are asked to verify that they understand the behavioral requirements and guidelines, via LionPath.
Updated Information
With cases of COVID-19 declining on Penn State campuses and across the state and nation, University officials are adjusting Penn State’s indoor masking policy to no longer require face masks be worn in many indoor common spaces on campuses in counties designated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to have low or medium COVID-19 Community Levels beginning Monday, March 7.
For the latest announcements, visit https://virusinfo.psu.edu/.
General
Are there any cases of coronavirus at the Fayette campus?
Please refer to the Penn State COVID-19 Dashboard for the latest information.
Do I have to wear a mask and practice social distancing?
As of March 7, face masks will not be required in many indoor settings and common spaces on campuses in counties designated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to have low or medium COVID-19 Community Levels; masks will be required in classes, labs and academic/creative spaces regardless of COVID-19 levels.”
Those who put others at risk by not following the University’s requirements will be held accountable in a manner consistent with how other violations of Penn State guidelines and policies are managed. For policies, visit the Office of Student Conduct website.
What if I don’t feel well?
All individuals who feel sick should stay home. Students experiencing upper respiratory infection or flu-like illness should contact Ronette Poorbaugh, campus nurse, at 724-430-4137. Employees should contact their primary care providers.
According to the CDC, anyone who feels sick should:
- Seek medical advice—Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room. Tell them about any recent travel and your symptoms.
- Stay home and avoid contact with others.
- Not travel while sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to avoid spreading the virus to others.
- Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
What if I test positive for COVID-19?
Individuals who test positive for the virus are expected to isolate for 5-10 days and should notify Campus Nurse Ronette Poorbaugh at 724-430-4137.
Individuals who test positive will be interviewed to identify people with whom they had close contact (less than six feet of distance for 15 minutes or longer within two days before the onset of symptoms). These close contacts will be alerted, asked to quarantine for 5-10 days.
Students who must isolate will receive detailed instructions. The University will work closely with these students to see that they continue to make academic progress, and to assist with any other needs that may arise.
Students
I am experiencing financial hardship.
Penn State Fayette and the University at large have emergency funds available to students who are critically impacted by this situation. Students with critical need should contact Cheri Grubs at 724-430-4132 or submit a Student Emergency Fund Request Form. For more information regarding food services, the food pantry, and other University support services, contact Amanda Collins at 724-430-4122.
Are campus health services still available?
The campus provides mental health counseling by appointment. Please contact Amanda Collins, mental health counselor, at 724-430-4122 and [email protected].
For all other health concerns, please contact Ronette Poorbaugh, campus nurse, at 724-430-4137.
Community
I am a prospective or admitted student. Can I come to campus?
Prospective and admitted students must follow COVID-19 guidelines during Admissions visits and events. Please call 724-430-4130, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., to confirm or schedule your remote Admissions appointment.
How can I help students?
Online monetary giving is the fastest and easiest way to offer your support to the Fayette student food pantry and/or student emergency assistance funds. If you would like to make a contribution, please visit raise.psu.edu:
- Click on “WAYS TO GIVE.”
- Then select “GIVE ONLINE.”
- On the next screen, type “Fayette” into the center box titled “Search for an area to support,” and it will populate with the top Fayette initiatives.
- Select the fund that you wish to support and it will be placed into your cart. You may then proceed to checkout.
Thank you for considering support for our students during this difficult time. For more information, contact the Office of Development at [email protected] or 724-430-4190.
Please continue to watch for communications from Penn State, as the plans outlined above could change. For the latest updates and information, visit https://virusinfo.psu.edu/.
For more information, contact Shannon Sankey or Bill Hager.
