Edinboro University Suspends On-Campus Classes Due To Coronavirus

EDINBORO, PA - Edinboro University has become the first university in western Pennsylvania to temporarily suspend face-to-face classes as the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread.

Edinboro is extending spring break for those enrolled in face-to-face classes through the week of March 16 so faculty can prepare to teach online, university President Guiyou Huang announced in a message Wednesday to students, parents, faculty and staff. Classes will switch to online delivery during the weeks of March 23 and March 30 with a planned return to face-to-face instruction beginning April 6.

As for housing, the university is asking students to move off campus for the week of March 16th, 23rd, and 30th. Edinboro also has canceled domestic and international travel.

"We realize that many of these temporary changes are disruptive and decisions around them were not made lightly," Huang stated. "We appreciate your patience and your support as we make arrangements that will allow us to proceed with confidence."

Several colleges in eastern Pennsylvania have already taken the steps Edinboro announced:

• Chestnut Hill College: The college will close until Sunday, March 15. A decision regarding a reopening will be determined over the weekend. MORE.

• West Chester University: The university announced Tuesday it will suspend on-campus courses through the end of the semester due to the virus. MORE.

• Bucks County Community College: The college will close all campuses through March 22 to mitigate the spread of coronavirus. MORE.