Towson University Moves Classes Online For Week Over Coronavirus

TOWSON, MD — The first week of the fall semester will be conducted entirely online for Towson University students, officials announced Saturday, Aug. 22. The fall semester was set to begin Monday, Aug. 24.

Towson attributed the shift to "an increase in positive COVID-19 results" from a sample this week conducted by the University Health Center, according to a statement from the university.

The University System of Maryland requires a negative test for all students, faculty, staff and contract workers before the start of the fall semester.

Of 627 tests on campus conducted Wednesday and Thursday by the University Health Center, officials said 55 came back Saturday as positive.

"The temporary move to fully remote learning is critical for the continued health and safety of our community, which remains TU’s top priority," according to a statement from Towson University. "These actions are being taken out of caution and concern for all students, faculty and staff."

While none of those who tested positive are on campus and the university's positivity rate is 1.63 percent for the past two weeks, including Saturday's results, university officials said they were taking these measures in the interest of public health:

• Classes will be conducted remotely from Monday, Aug. 24, through Sunday, Aug. 30.
• No visitors will be allowed on campus.
• All in-person activities are canceled on campus from Sunday, Aug. 23, to Sunday, Aug. 30.
• Burdick Hall will be closed.
• Move-in is suspended temporarily starting Monday, Aug. 24. Students already moved into residential facilities on campus will get guidance from the Office of Housing and Residence Life.
• All nonessential faculty and staff will continue working remotely.

The university's health center will remain open for coronavirus testing Sunday, Aug. 23, and throughout the week.

"The university will continue to abide by all local, state and federal guidelines. We ask for your continued support and adherence to the protocols put in place to minimize the potential for the virus to come on campus," according to a statement from Towson University. "Please remember to wear your mask at all times when on campus, practice safe physical distancing of 6 feet or more, avoid large gatherings of people and wash your hands often."