Click here for the FAQs for Fall 2022 Check-In
Click here for the FAQs for Spring 2022 Check-In
Click here for the FAQs for Spring 2022 Check-In
Questions may be directed to studentlife@valleyforge.edu – We’re glad to help!
Click here for the FAQs for Spring 2022 Check-In
Questions may be directed to studentlife@valleyforge.edu – We’re glad to help!
Click here for the FAQs for Spring 2022 Check-In
Questions may be directed to studentlife@valleyforge.edu – We’re glad to help!
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home. Masks should also be worn outdoors if a person is unable to consistently maintain social distancing from other individuals.
Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home (see the link above). “Home” is a student’s dorm room/apartment/suite. When you are in your dorm room/apartment/suite, you do not need to wear a mask (you and your roommates may choose to do so, but it is not required). Once you leave your dorm room/apartment/suite, expect to wear your mask. That includes wearing a mask in hallways, lounges, laundry and floor kitchen areas.
COVID-19 testing will be conducted on campus as required for varsity athletics and for random screening of our community. Because of the way our tests are packaged and sent to the lab, testing for individuals who think they have been exposed may not be possible and, if possible, would come with a charge. There are, however, several local sites that can provide testing for our students. Contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu to discuss your testing options.
Yes. If a student is advised to take a test and does not have their own transportation, UVF will provide transportation to a local testing site.
Yes. Updated hours will be posted outside the Health Center.
UVF will follow CDC and local health department guidelines to minimize further exposure which may include asking the exposed person to self-monitor or quarantine at home, in their dorm room or in a University-provided quarantine room, and contacting others who may have been exposed. All members of the UVF community are asked report possible exposure to COVID-19 to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Appropriate contact tracing and notification to those who may have been exposed will take place with guidance from local health authorities. The person testing positive will be asked to isolate per health department directives, and exposed persons may be asked to quarantine depending on their level of exposure.
Quarantine: separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick. Students in quarantine may often be able to stay in a quarantine room on their floor/in their building and may leave their room for life-sustaining reasons (picking up food from the Dining Commons or grocery store).
Isolation: separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. Students in isolation will move to an isolation floor and may only leave their room to receive medical attention.
Students may isolate at home or in university isolation housing. Isolation housing has been reserved off campus at the nearby, University-operated Hartwick House. Students who isolate on campus will be provided with instructions, sign a waiver, and receive pre-packaged meals from the Dining Commons. It is important to note that UVF is not a medical facility and cannot provide medical care for those in isolation, although regular check-ins by UVF staff will occur.
Yes. Students are asked to self-monitor their symptoms every day and report any symptoms of illness or a temperature 100.4 F or greater to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
In addition, students will be asked to report their temperature and any symptoms on a screening survey administered throughout the semester.
Athletes will follow testing and temperature testing protocols required by their sport, the CSAC Conference, and the NCAA.
Yes. Events will still take place with appropriate social distancing measures reflective of state and local mandates and guidance.
Yes. The Anvil/Student Center will be open for students. Students are encouraged to clean recreational items before and after use, and wash hands frequently. Students are also encouraged to maintain social distancing when gathering in indoor and outdoor spaces.
Yes. Students may also be given opportunity to reserve select classrooms and campus spaces for group meetings in order to have plenty of space for social distancing. When the weather is warmer, outdoor spaces are available for gatherings and events.
Members of the UVF community will be encouraged to remain 6 feet from one another in educational, social and group settings if at all possible. In some cases, tables, desks, or chairs will be spaced apart or marked to remind people to remain socially distant.
There will be a variety of chapel opportunities. Many chapel services will be live streamed to small groups meeting in various locations around campus. Dorm chapels may be held in residence hall lounges. Academic chapels may be hosted through Microsoft Teams or Zoom. When larger groups are allowed, chapel may be held outdoors, in the Flower Chapel, Krempels Theater, or other larger spaces.
No. In most cases, low-risk chapel options will be available so students can participate in chapel. Students with high-risk health concerns should contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Students who must quarantine or isolate due to fever, cold/flu/COVID-19 symptoms will have virtual options for participating in chapel. If their symptoms are such they cannot participate in virtual options, they will receive a medical exemption. A student may submit a doctor’s note or request a medical exemption by contacting the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Due to the travel restrictions imposed by most states and the sharply rising rate of infection, the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) and the Board of Directors have agreed that winter sports competition will not resume at least through the month of January. While no formal schedules have been adopted at this time, the Board does intend to resume intercollegiate competition during the spring semester and has advised the conference office to incorporate all available data into developing appropriate schedules for each conference-sponsored sport as allowable.
Practices will follow the same COVID protocols as the fall until further notice.
Yes. There will be guidelines in place to reduce risk.
Yes. In Bongiorno Hall, rooms normally housing three students will only house two. In apartments, students housed in multiple rooms have been given options to live in single rooms. In other buildings, rooms that normally house multiple students are now singles.
Single rooms may be available. Please contact the Housing Director at housing@valleyforge.edu.
Yes. Room inspections are important for the health and safety of our community. RAs and ARAs will wear masks and minimize the time in the student’s room when possible.
Yes. Students will be asked to report that they are disinfecting high-use surfaces in their room daily. Room and white glove inspections will be held as usual. Students should communicate with room, suite, or apartment-mates about plans for disinfecting highly used areas and common spaces.
There are currently no open dorms or open lounges.
No, not unless they are on campus for official business purposes. If a student needs to have a parent, family member, or guest in the residence hall temporarily (for example, to bring a heavy item to a student’s room), the students should contact the Student Life Office or Security (after hours) to request authorization.
No
Safety measures include Plexiglas at cashier and service stations, rearrangement of furniture to provide opportunity for social distancing, reduced dining room capacity, food served by dining staff rather than self-serve, meals available for take-out, hand sanitizer placed throughout the dining room, and daily health monitoring of staff.
A selection of meals will be available to order through the BITE app at designated times in the Dining Commons. Pre orders can also be done at Jazzman’s through the BITE app.
The hours of operation will remain the same.
We will continue to prepare healthy and varied meals with quality and safety as our top concern. We are always available for feedback and welcome your input.
The University will modify classroom assignments to support increased social distancing. In most cases there is sufficient classroom space to facilitate this adjustment for larger classes to allow for social distancing. If not possible, we will rotate attendance of the class between in-person and remote instruction.
Yes. If a student needs to self-isolate or quarantine, the student will be able to access the classroom instruction remotely via Microsoft Teams. Students must email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu and receive approval to access remote learning.
Yes. Masks will be required per Pennsylvania mandate and until such time as it is deemed safe to remove masks in classrooms.
If government directives require the University to move all of its fall coursework online before the end of the semester and to close the residence halls, UVF leadership will review and consider issuing an appropriate credit to resident students. Spring 2021 graduates will be taken care of by other means.
Office hours will not change; however, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to make appointments and hold meetings on Microsoft Teams when at all possible.
Yes; however, students are encouraged to explore on-campus jobs if at all possible. If working off-campus, students should comply with all safety protocols required by the business and local authorities, and practice good hygiene before returning to campus. Students are asked to have prior discussions with their supervisor about taking leave from work should the University request them to self-quarantine or isolate.
UVF strongly recommends students restrict travel while attending classes on campus. If students choose to travel, they should carefully consider Pennsylvania travel restrictions and quarantine requirements in light of class attendance and job requirements and discuss their travel plans with room, suite, or apartment-mates. Students should follow the usual process of notifying their RA when leaving campus overnight.
UVF will adjust its plan for opening based on requirements of local and state authorities. Information on Pennsylvania’s plan to reopen may be found here.
How many people have tested positive? Will UVF be releasing names of anyone who tests positive so I can tell if I was exposed or not?
At this point, there have been a very low number of positive cases within the campus community. For some, symptoms occurred after off-campus travel. For privacy reasons, the University is not releasing the identities of individuals who are in isolation or quarantine.
How will I know if I’ve been in close contact with someone who has tested positive?
Student Life and the Health Center have been meeting (virtually) with those who have reported symptoms. Student Life and the Health Center are identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, according to the CDC guidelines (within 6 feet of a known case for more than 15 minutes). If you haven’t been contacted directly by Student Life or the Health Center as a follow-up in one of these cases, you were not affected.
I’ve heard people are quarantining. Does this mean that the number of cases is increasing?
Student Life is reaching out to anyone who may have been exposed in order to place them in quarantine. This is out of an abundance of caution, and will help reduce the possibility of on-campus spread of illness. An increase in the number of quarantining students does not necessarily mean an increase in the number of cases, just that we are being aggressive about controlling any potential spread.
Are people in quarantine sick?
People who are in quarantine are not showing any symptoms, but we are watching to see if any symptoms will develop.
My room/suite mate is in quarantine. Should I be in quarantine as well?
A quarantining person is someone who was directly exposed to someone who is now showing symptoms or has been confirmed to have COVID-19. Individuals who’ve not been directly exposed to someone showing symptoms or confirmed to have COVID-19 are generally not recommended to quarantine. If you have any questions about whether or not you should be in quarantine, please contact the Health Center. Each individual’s situation will be considered independently. We encourage all students to self-monitor for symptoms.
Is someone in quarantine allowed outside of their room for any reason?
A student that is in quarantine is restricted from leaving their room except for very specific reasons, such as getting food to go directly from the Dining Commons, visiting the grocery store, or going to the doctor’s office. They are to go directly to such locations and back, and are not to visit other locations on campus. They are also not to visit with other students, staff, or faculty in person, nor should others visit them in person.
Should I go home if I feel sick? Why are some people quarantining at home?
The CDC recommends not traveling if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive. Some students who have felt sick or been identified as possible contacts were at home when notified. They chose to isolation or quarantine where they were and follow CDC guidelines, in order to protect others. In general, traveling is a risk factor to contracting COVID-19, and the CDC recommends limiting unnecessary travel.
What if an employee or faculty member tests positive?
Faculty and staff are following the same isolation and quarantine procedures, should they start to show an symptoms, test positive, or be exposed to someone who has been sick.
Will on-campus events be cancelled?
Campus events are already planned in ways that will follow physical distancing and limit the likelihood of spread. However, in some instances, it may be necessary to delay an event so that contact tracing can be completed to identify any individuals who may need to be quarantined.
Do commuters and resident students have similar risks?
Commuters and resident students live with and are exposed to familial units, as well as those that they work or interact with. It is important for all students, wherever they are living, to follow the guidelines related to physically distancing, wearing masks, and washing their hands frequently, both on and off campus.
Are seated classes safe?
UVF is following CDC and PA guidelines for institutions of higher education. Classrooms have been modified to promote physical distancing, and all students and professors are required to wear masks at all times. These measures reduce risk and in many cases are lower risk than other activities.
Should I be worried about having to move home before the semester ends?
We believe that the measures that we have taken and are continuing to take will allow us to remain on campus throughout the semester. We are being aggressive in mitigating risk, and have a large number of quarantine rooms available if needed. Experiencing some COVID-19 cases is to be expected and does not indicated that the University would need to complete the semester through online learning. However, we each have a responsibility to protect each other and lower risk by following all guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times, remaining physically distant, and washing our hands frequently.
How frequently will we be updated on the COVID-19 situation on campus?
UVF will provide regular COVID-19 updates through community emails. A this point, we are not planning on a schedule frequency, but will update as needed. This FAQs page will also be updated as needed.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home. Masks should also be worn outdoors if a person is unable to consistently maintain social distancing from other individuals.
Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home (see the link above). “Home” is a student’s dorm room/apartment/suite. When you are in your dorm room/apartment/suite, you do not need to wear a mask (you and your roommates may choose to do so, but it is not required). Once you leave your dorm room/apartment/suite, expect to wear your mask. That includes wearing a mask in hallways, lounges, laundry and floor kitchen areas.
COVID-19 testing will be conducted on campus as required for varsity athletics and for random screening of our community. Because of the way our tests are packaged and sent to the lab, testing for individuals who think they have been exposed may not be possible and, if possible, would come with a charge. There are, however, several local sites that can provide testing for our students. Contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu to discuss your testing options.
Yes. If a student is advised to take a test and does not have their own transportation, UVF will provide transportation to a local testing site.
Yes. Updated hours will be posted outside the Health Center.
UVF will follow CDC and local health department guidelines to minimize further exposure which may include asking the exposed person to self-monitor or quarantine at home, in their dorm room or in a University-provided quarantine room, and contacting others who may have been exposed. All members of the UVF community are asked report possible exposure to COVID-19 to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Appropriate contact tracing and notification to those who may have been exposed will take place with guidance from local health authorities. The person testing positive will be asked to isolate per health department directives, and exposed persons may be asked to quarantine depending on their level of exposure.
Quarantine: separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick. Students in quarantine may often be able to stay in a quarantine room on their floor/in their building and may leave their room for life-sustaining reasons (picking up food from the Dining Commons or grocery store).
Isolation: separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. Students in isolation will move to an isolation floor and may only leave their room to receive medical attention.
Students may isolate at home or in university isolation housing. Isolation housing has been reserved off campus at the nearby, University-operated Hartwick House. Students who isolate on campus will be provided with instructions, sign a waiver, and receive pre-packaged meals from the Dining Commons. It is important to note that UVF is not a medical facility and cannot provide medical care for those in isolation, although regular check-ins by UVF staff will occur.
Yes. Students are asked to self-monitor their symptoms every day and report any symptoms of illness or a temperature 100.4 F or greater to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
In addition, students will be asked to report their temperature and any symptoms on a screening survey administered throughout the semester.
Athletes will follow testing and temperature testing protocols required by their sport, the CSAC Conference, and the NCAA.
Yes. Events will still take place with appropriate social distancing measures reflective of state and local mandates and guidance.
Yes. The Anvil/Student Center will be open for students. Students are encouraged to clean recreational items before and after use, and wash hands frequently. Students are also encouraged to maintain social distancing when gathering in indoor and outdoor spaces.
Yes. Students may also be given opportunity to reserve select classrooms and campus spaces for group meetings in order to have plenty of space for social distancing. When the weather is warmer, outdoor spaces are available for gatherings and events.
Members of the UVF community will be encouraged to remain 6 feet from one another in educational, social and group settings if at all possible. In some cases, tables, desks, or chairs will be spaced apart or marked to remind people to remain socially distant.
There will be a variety of chapel opportunities. Many chapel services will be live streamed to small groups meeting in various locations around campus. Dorm chapels may be held in residence hall lounges. Academic chapels may be hosted through Microsoft Teams or Zoom. When larger groups are allowed, chapel may be held outdoors, in the Flower Chapel, Krempels Theater, or other larger spaces.
No. In most cases, low-risk chapel options will be available so students can participate in chapel. Students with high-risk health concerns should contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Students who must quarantine or isolate due to fever, cold/flu/COVID-19 symptoms will have virtual options for participating in chapel. If their symptoms are such they cannot participate in virtual options, they will receive a medical exemption. A student may submit a doctor’s note or request a medical exemption by contacting the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Due to the travel restrictions imposed by most states and the sharply rising rate of infection, the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) and the Board of Directors have agreed that winter sports competition will not resume at least through the month of January. While no formal schedules have been adopted at this time, the Board does intend to resume intercollegiate competition during the spring semester and has advised the conference office to incorporate all available data into developing appropriate schedules for each conference-sponsored sport as allowable.
Practices will follow the same COVID protocols as the fall until further notice.
Yes. There will be guidelines in place to reduce risk.
Yes. In Bongiorno Hall, rooms normally housing three students will only house two. In apartments, students housed in multiple rooms have been given options to live in single rooms. In other buildings, rooms that normally house multiple students are now singles.
Single rooms may be available. Please contact the Housing Director at housing@valleyforge.edu.
Yes. Room inspections are important for the health and safety of our community. RAs and ARAs will wear masks and minimize the time in the student’s room when possible.
Yes. Students will be asked to report that they are disinfecting high-use surfaces in their room daily. Room and white glove inspections will be held as usual. Students should communicate with room, suite, or apartment-mates about plans for disinfecting highly used areas and common spaces.
There are currently no open dorms or open lounges.
No, not unless they are on campus for official business purposes. If a student needs to have a parent, family member, or guest in the residence hall temporarily (for example, to bring a heavy item to a student’s room), the students should contact the Student Life Office or Security (after hours) to request authorization.
No
Safety measures include Plexiglas at cashier and service stations, rearrangement of furniture to provide opportunity for social distancing, reduced dining room capacity, food served by dining staff rather than self-serve, meals available for take-out, hand sanitizer placed throughout the dining room, and daily health monitoring of staff.
A selection of meals will be available to order through the BITE app at designated times in the Dining Commons. Pre orders can also be done at Jazzman’s through the BITE app.
The hours of operation will remain the same.
We will continue to prepare healthy and varied meals with quality and safety as our top concern. We are always available for feedback and welcome your input.
The University will modify classroom assignments to support increased social distancing. In most cases there is sufficient classroom space to facilitate this adjustment for larger classes to allow for social distancing. If not possible, we will rotate attendance of the class between in-person and remote instruction.
Yes. If a student needs to self-isolate or quarantine, the student will be able to access the classroom instruction remotely via Microsoft Teams. Students must email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu and receive approval to access remote learning.
Yes. Masks will be required per Pennsylvania mandate and until such time as it is deemed safe to remove masks in classrooms.
If government directives require the University to move all of its fall coursework online before the end of the semester and to close the residence halls, UVF leadership will review and consider issuing an appropriate credit to resident students. Spring 2021 graduates will be taken care of by other means.
Office hours will not change; however, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to make appointments and hold meetings on Microsoft Teams when at all possible.
Yes; however, students are encouraged to explore on-campus jobs if at all possible. If working off-campus, students should comply with all safety protocols required by the business and local authorities, and practice good hygiene before returning to campus. Students are asked to have prior discussions with their supervisor about taking leave from work should the University request them to self-quarantine or isolate.
UVF strongly recommends students restrict travel while attending classes on campus. If students choose to travel, they should carefully consider Pennsylvania travel restrictions and quarantine requirements in light of class attendance and job requirements and discuss their travel plans with room, suite, or apartment-mates. Students should follow the usual process of notifying their RA when leaving campus overnight.
UVF will adjust its plan for opening based on requirements of local and state authorities. Information on Pennsylvania’s plan to reopen may be found here.
How many people have tested positive? Will UVF be releasing names of anyone who tests positive so I can tell if I was exposed or not?
At this point, there have been a very low number of positive cases within the campus community. For some, symptoms occurred after off-campus travel. For privacy reasons, the University is not releasing the identities of individuals who are in isolation or quarantine.
How will I know if I’ve been in close contact with someone who has tested positive?
Student Life and the Health Center have been meeting (virtually) with those who have reported symptoms. Student Life and the Health Center are identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, according to the CDC guidelines (within 6 feet of a known case for more than 15 minutes). If you haven’t been contacted directly by Student Life or the Health Center as a follow-up in one of these cases, you were not affected.
I’ve heard people are quarantining. Does this mean that the number of cases is increasing?
Student Life is reaching out to anyone who may have been exposed in order to place them in quarantine. This is out of an abundance of caution, and will help reduce the possibility of on-campus spread of illness. An increase in the number of quarantining students does not necessarily mean an increase in the number of cases, just that we are being aggressive about controlling any potential spread.
Are people in quarantine sick?
People who are in quarantine are not showing any symptoms, but we are watching to see if any symptoms will develop.
My room/suite mate is in quarantine. Should I be in quarantine as well?
A quarantining person is someone who was directly exposed to someone who is now showing symptoms or has been confirmed to have COVID-19. Individuals who’ve not been directly exposed to someone showing symptoms or confirmed to have COVID-19 are generally not recommended to quarantine. If you have any questions about whether or not you should be in quarantine, please contact the Health Center. Each individual’s situation will be considered independently. We encourage all students to self-monitor for symptoms.
Is someone in quarantine allowed outside of their room for any reason?
A student that is in quarantine is restricted from leaving their room except for very specific reasons, such as getting food to go directly from the Dining Commons, visiting the grocery store, or going to the doctor’s office. They are to go directly to such locations and back, and are not to visit other locations on campus. They are also not to visit with other students, staff, or faculty in person, nor should others visit them in person.
Should I go home if I feel sick? Why are some people quarantining at home?
The CDC recommends not traveling if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive. Some students who have felt sick or been identified as possible contacts were at home when notified. They chose to isolation or quarantine where they were and follow CDC guidelines, in order to protect others. In general, traveling is a risk factor to contracting COVID-19, and the CDC recommends limiting unnecessary travel.
What if an employee or faculty member tests positive?
Faculty and staff are following the same isolation and quarantine procedures, should they start to show an symptoms, test positive, or be exposed to someone who has been sick.
Will on-campus events be cancelled?
Campus events are already planned in ways that will follow physical distancing and limit the likelihood of spread. However, in some instances, it may be necessary to delay an event so that contact tracing can be completed to identify any individuals who may need to be quarantined.
Do commuters and resident students have similar risks?
Commuters and resident students live with and are exposed to familial units, as well as those that they work or interact with. It is important for all students, wherever they are living, to follow the guidelines related to physically distancing, wearing masks, and washing their hands frequently, both on and off campus.
Are seated classes safe?
UVF is following CDC and PA guidelines for institutions of higher education. Classrooms have been modified to promote physical distancing, and all students and professors are required to wear masks at all times. These measures reduce risk and in many cases are lower risk than other activities.
Should I be worried about having to move home before the semester ends?
We believe that the measures that we have taken and are continuing to take will allow us to remain on campus throughout the semester. We are being aggressive in mitigating risk, and have a large number of quarantine rooms available if needed. Experiencing some COVID-19 cases is to be expected and does not indicated that the University would need to complete the semester through online learning. However, we each have a responsibility to protect each other and lower risk by following all guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times, remaining physically distant, and washing our hands frequently.
How frequently will we be updated on the COVID-19 situation on campus?
UVF will provide regular COVID-19 updates through community emails. A this point, we are not planning on a schedule frequency, but will update as needed. This FAQs page will also be updated as needed.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home. Masks should also be worn outdoors if a person is unable to consistently maintain social distancing from other individuals.
Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home (see the link above). “Home” is a student’s dorm room/apartment/suite. When you are in your dorm room/apartment/suite, you do not need to wear a mask (you and your roommates may choose to do so, but it is not required). Once you leave your dorm room/apartment/suite, expect to wear your mask. That includes wearing a mask in hallways, lounges, laundry and floor kitchen areas.
COVID-19 testing will be conducted on campus as required for varsity athletics and for random screening of our community. Because of the way our tests are packaged and sent to the lab, testing for individuals who think they have been exposed may not be possible and, if possible, would come with a charge. There are, however, several local sites that can provide testing for our students. Contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu to discuss your testing options.
Yes. If a student is advised to take a test and does not have their own transportation, UVF will provide transportation to a local testing site.
Yes. Updated hours will be posted outside the Health Center.
UVF will follow CDC and local health department guidelines to minimize further exposure which may include asking the exposed person to self-monitor or quarantine at home, in their dorm room or in a University-provided quarantine room, and contacting others who may have been exposed. All members of the UVF community are asked report possible exposure to COVID-19 to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Appropriate contact tracing and notification to those who may have been exposed will take place with guidance from local health authorities. The person testing positive will be asked to isolate per health department directives, and exposed persons may be asked to quarantine depending on their level of exposure.
Quarantine: separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick. Students in quarantine may often be able to stay in a quarantine room on their floor/in their building and may leave their room for life-sustaining reasons (picking up food from the Dining Commons or grocery store).
Isolation: separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. Students in isolation will move to an isolation floor and may only leave their room to receive medical attention.
Students may isolate at home or in university isolation housing. Isolation housing has been reserved off campus at the nearby, University-operated Hartwick House. Students who isolate on campus will be provided with instructions, sign a waiver, and receive pre-packaged meals from the Dining Commons. It is important to note that UVF is not a medical facility and cannot provide medical care for those in isolation, although regular check-ins by UVF staff will occur.
Yes. Students are asked to self-monitor their symptoms every day and report any symptoms of illness or a temperature 100.4 F or greater to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
In addition, students will be asked to report their temperature and any symptoms on a screening survey administered throughout the semester.
Athletes will follow testing and temperature testing protocols required by their sport, the CSAC Conference, and the NCAA.
Yes. Events will still take place with appropriate social distancing measures reflective of state and local mandates and guidance.
Yes. The Anvil/Student Center will be open for students. Students are encouraged to clean recreational items before and after use, and wash hands frequently. Students are also encouraged to maintain social distancing when gathering in indoor and outdoor spaces.
Yes. Students may also be given opportunity to reserve select classrooms and campus spaces for group meetings in order to have plenty of space for social distancing. When the weather is warmer, outdoor spaces are available for gatherings and events.
Members of the UVF community will be encouraged to remain 6 feet from one another in educational, social and group settings if at all possible. In some cases, tables, desks, or chairs will be spaced apart or marked to remind people to remain socially distant.
There will be a variety of chapel opportunities. Many chapel services will be live streamed to small groups meeting in various locations around campus. Dorm chapels may be held in residence hall lounges. Academic chapels may be hosted through Microsoft Teams or Zoom. When larger groups are allowed, chapel may be held outdoors, in the Flower Chapel, Krempels Theater, or other larger spaces.
No. In most cases, low-risk chapel options will be available so students can participate in chapel. Students with high-risk health concerns should contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Students who must quarantine or isolate due to fever, cold/flu/COVID-19 symptoms will have virtual options for participating in chapel. If their symptoms are such they cannot participate in virtual options, they will receive a medical exemption. A student may submit a doctor’s note or request a medical exemption by contacting the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Due to the travel restrictions imposed by most states and the sharply rising rate of infection, the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) and the Board of Directors have agreed that winter sports competition will not resume at least through the month of January. While no formal schedules have been adopted at this time, the Board does intend to resume intercollegiate competition during the spring semester and has advised the conference office to incorporate all available data into developing appropriate schedules for each conference-sponsored sport as allowable.
Practices will follow the same COVID protocols as the fall until further notice.
Yes. There will be guidelines in place to reduce risk.
Yes. In Bongiorno Hall, rooms normally housing three students will only house two. In apartments, students housed in multiple rooms have been given options to live in single rooms. In other buildings, rooms that normally house multiple students are now singles.
Single rooms may be available. Please contact the Housing Director at housing@valleyforge.edu.
Yes. Room inspections are important for the health and safety of our community. RAs and ARAs will wear masks and minimize the time in the student’s room when possible.
Yes. Students will be asked to report that they are disinfecting high-use surfaces in their room daily. Room and white glove inspections will be held as usual. Students should communicate with room, suite, or apartment-mates about plans for disinfecting highly used areas and common spaces.
There are currently no open dorms or open lounges.
No, not unless they are on campus for official business purposes. If a student needs to have a parent, family member, or guest in the residence hall temporarily (for example, to bring a heavy item to a student’s room), the students should contact the Student Life Office or Security (after hours) to request authorization.
No
Safety measures include Plexiglas at cashier and service stations, rearrangement of furniture to provide opportunity for social distancing, reduced dining room capacity, food served by dining staff rather than self-serve, meals available for take-out, hand sanitizer placed throughout the dining room, and daily health monitoring of staff.
A selection of meals will be available to order through the BITE app at designated times in the Dining Commons. Pre orders can also be done at Jazzman’s through the BITE app.
The hours of operation will remain the same.
We will continue to prepare healthy and varied meals with quality and safety as our top concern. We are always available for feedback and welcome your input.
The University will modify classroom assignments to support increased social distancing. In most cases there is sufficient classroom space to facilitate this adjustment for larger classes to allow for social distancing. If not possible, we will rotate attendance of the class between in-person and remote instruction.
Yes. If a student needs to self-isolate or quarantine, the student will be able to access the classroom instruction remotely via Microsoft Teams. Students must email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu and receive approval to access remote learning.
Yes. Masks will be required per Pennsylvania mandate and until such time as it is deemed safe to remove masks in classrooms.
If government directives require the University to move all of its fall coursework online before the end of the semester and to close the residence halls, UVF leadership will review and consider issuing an appropriate credit to resident students. Spring 2021 graduates will be taken care of by other means.
Office hours will not change; however, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to make appointments and hold meetings on Microsoft Teams when at all possible.
Yes; however, students are encouraged to explore on-campus jobs if at all possible. If working off-campus, students should comply with all safety protocols required by the business and local authorities, and practice good hygiene before returning to campus. Students are asked to have prior discussions with their supervisor about taking leave from work should the University request them to self-quarantine or isolate.
UVF strongly recommends students restrict travel while attending classes on campus. If students choose to travel, they should carefully consider Pennsylvania travel restrictions and quarantine requirements in light of class attendance and job requirements and discuss their travel plans with room, suite, or apartment-mates. Students should follow the usual process of notifying their RA when leaving campus overnight.
UVF will adjust its plan for opening based on requirements of local and state authorities. Information on Pennsylvania’s plan to reopen may be found here.
How many people have tested positive? Will UVF be releasing names of anyone who tests positive so I can tell if I was exposed or not?
At this point, there have been a very low number of positive cases within the campus community. For some, symptoms occurred after off-campus travel. For privacy reasons, the University is not releasing the identities of individuals who are in isolation or quarantine.
How will I know if I’ve been in close contact with someone who has tested positive?
Student Life and the Health Center have been meeting (virtually) with those who have reported symptoms. Student Life and the Health Center are identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, according to the CDC guidelines (within 6 feet of a known case for more than 15 minutes). If you haven’t been contacted directly by Student Life or the Health Center as a follow-up in one of these cases, you were not affected.
I’ve heard people are quarantining. Does this mean that the number of cases is increasing?
Student Life is reaching out to anyone who may have been exposed in order to place them in quarantine. This is out of an abundance of caution, and will help reduce the possibility of on-campus spread of illness. An increase in the number of quarantining students does not necessarily mean an increase in the number of cases, just that we are being aggressive about controlling any potential spread.
Are people in quarantine sick?
People who are in quarantine are not showing any symptoms, but we are watching to see if any symptoms will develop.
My room/suite mate is in quarantine. Should I be in quarantine as well?
A quarantining person is someone who was directly exposed to someone who is now showing symptoms or has been confirmed to have COVID-19. Individuals who’ve not been directly exposed to someone showing symptoms or confirmed to have COVID-19 are generally not recommended to quarantine. If you have any questions about whether or not you should be in quarantine, please contact the Health Center. Each individual’s situation will be considered independently. We encourage all students to self-monitor for symptoms.
Is someone in quarantine allowed outside of their room for any reason?
A student that is in quarantine is restricted from leaving their room except for very specific reasons, such as getting food to go directly from the Dining Commons, visiting the grocery store, or going to the doctor’s office. They are to go directly to such locations and back, and are not to visit other locations on campus. They are also not to visit with other students, staff, or faculty in person, nor should others visit them in person.
Should I go home if I feel sick? Why are some people quarantining at home?
The CDC recommends not traveling if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive. Some students who have felt sick or been identified as possible contacts were at home when notified. They chose to isolation or quarantine where they were and follow CDC guidelines, in order to protect others. In general, traveling is a risk factor to contracting COVID-19, and the CDC recommends limiting unnecessary travel.
What if an employee or faculty member tests positive?
Faculty and staff are following the same isolation and quarantine procedures, should they start to show an symptoms, test positive, or be exposed to someone who has been sick.
Will on-campus events be cancelled?
Campus events are already planned in ways that will follow physical distancing and limit the likelihood of spread. However, in some instances, it may be necessary to delay an event so that contact tracing can be completed to identify any individuals who may need to be quarantined.
Do commuters and resident students have similar risks?
Commuters and resident students live with and are exposed to familial units, as well as those that they work or interact with. It is important for all students, wherever they are living, to follow the guidelines related to physically distancing, wearing masks, and washing their hands frequently, both on and off campus.
Are seated classes safe?
UVF is following CDC and PA guidelines for institutions of higher education. Classrooms have been modified to promote physical distancing, and all students and professors are required to wear masks at all times. These measures reduce risk and in many cases are lower risk than other activities.
Should I be worried about having to move home before the semester ends?
We believe that the measures that we have taken and are continuing to take will allow us to remain on campus throughout the semester. We are being aggressive in mitigating risk, and have a large number of quarantine rooms available if needed. Experiencing some COVID-19 cases is to be expected and does not indicated that the University would need to complete the semester through online learning. However, we each have a responsibility to protect each other and lower risk by following all guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times, remaining physically distant, and washing our hands frequently.
How frequently will we be updated on the COVID-19 situation on campus?
UVF will provide regular COVID-19 updates through community emails. A this point, we are not planning on a schedule frequency, but will update as needed. This FAQs page will also be updated as needed.
Yes. Students may come to campus when they have done ONE of the following:
Students will be asked to produce a copy of their negative test result or certify that they have been in quarantine for 10 days upon their return to campus.
All students are asked to limit contact with others, practice social distancing, and monitor for symptoms of illness during the Winter Break.
Pennsylvania requirements may change. Students are asked to stay informed about current Pennsylvania requirements and travel notices. UVF will notify students of changing requirements that could impact a student’s return to campus.
Some students will be exposed to Covid-19 during the Winter Break. Taking a test before returning to campus, or completing a quarantine, greatly decreases the likelihood that a Covid-19 infection will be brought to campus. The testing UVF plans to provide will add an additional layer of screening that could catch cases of Covid-19 missed by other tests or contracted during travel from home to campus.
Students who have previously tested positive for Covid-19 and have fully recovered may not need to be tested PRIOR to retuning to campus if they have a doctor’s note stating that they do not need to be retested for Covid-19. Students must email or bring a copy of this note to the Health Center prior to arrival. Email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu with questions. Students are advised to follow all state and local guidelines for travel even if they have already recovered from Covid-19.
UVF will use a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.
All main campus residential students will be tested. Commuters that are unable to provide negative test results will be tested. Spouses and children of family students living on campus will not be tested.
No. Anyone helping a student check-in, however, will have a temperature check and go through a short screening process.
No.
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. Assigned arrival times ensure a smooth flow for testing and allow for the fastest turn-around time possible.
New students are asked to arrive between 1 and 2 PM on Saturday, January 9. Students who are coming as readmitted students are asked to arrive at 2 PM on Saturday, January 9.
Returning students are asked to arrive Saturday, January 9 and have a staggered arrival time based on the first letter of their last name (A-F = 10-11 AM; G-M = 11 AM-noon; N-S = noon-1 PM; T-Z = 1-2 PM).
Because trained staff must be available to supervise administration of the Covid-19 test before a student begins the check-in process, any student that cannot return during their assigned arrival time must do the following:
Students who are cleared with Financial Services may be able to begin attending classes on Teams before arriving to campus on a case-by-case basis. Contact studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
All main campus students are expected to check-in on campus in person no later than the add/drop deadline Tuesday, January 19.
Some students are required to return to campus early, have lived on campus over Winter Break, or have applied and been approved to return via the Early Return to Campus form. These students will be notified separately about their testing date/time and check-in process.
New Students: Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Detail on where to arrive to begin the process will be communicated separately.
Returning Students: Returning students will be tested for Covid-19, then proceed through Check-in. Information on where to begin this process will be communicated separately. Students who are not cleared by Financial Services may not check in until they are cleared, so it is important that students finalize paperwork during the week prior to their arrival.
Students arriving Saturday, January 9 will likely know the result of their test between 24 and 48 hours. Test results for students arriving Sunday, January 10 may take a day or two longer.
Yes. Students will enter a modified quarantine until their test results arrive. Students will quarantine in the room/apartment assigned to them. Students will only be able to leave their room to pick up food from the Dining Commons or Jazzman’s, and to attend classes. Residence hall lounges, the Anvil, and Student Center will be closed to students awaiting test results.
The Dining Commons will be open for dinner for all students on a board plan beginning Saturday, January 9. Meals will be take-out only during the quarantine period.
Students whose UVF test had a negative result can begin to eat in the Dining Commons, use the Student Center, SRC and Gym beginning Monday, January 11 at 5 PM.
Yes. Students may go directly to and from class from their rooms, and will sit in socially-distanced seating while in the classroom.
New and transfer students will have opportunity to learn about the UVF community before classes begin on Monday, January 11, through virtual meetings and programs hosted by staff and upperclassmen. In-person gatherings will be held later in the week after test results have come back.
UVF will follow already established procedures for isolating students that test positive for Covid-19, and quarantining those who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus.
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
New or readmitted students may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
Returning students should not plan to have any guests with them inside UVF buildings or residence halls. To request an exception for a special circumstance, email studentlife@valleyforge.edu.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
New students and readmitted students will not sign a waiver specifically related to COVID-19; however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student or readmitted student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Dinner Saturday evening.
Yes. Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home. Masks should also be worn outdoors if a person is unable to consistently maintain social distancing from other individuals.
Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home (see the link above). “Home” is a student’s dorm room/apartment/suite. When you are in your dorm room/apartment/suite, you do not need to wear a mask (you and your roommates may choose to do so, but it is not required). Once you leave your dorm room/apartment/suite, expect to wear your mask. That includes wearing a mask in hallways, lounges, laundry and floor kitchen areas.
COVID-19 testing will be conducted on campus as required for varsity athletics and for random screening of our community. Because of the way our tests are packaged and sent to the lab, testing for individuals who think they have been exposed may not be possible and, if possible, would come with a charge. There are, however, several local sites that can provide testing for our students. Contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu to discuss your testing options.
Yes. If a student is advised to take a test and does not have their own transportation, UVF will provide transportation to a local testing site.
Yes. Updated hours will be posted outside the Health Center.
UVF will follow CDC and local health department guidelines to minimize further exposure which may include asking the exposed person to self-monitor or quarantine at home, in their dorm room or in a University-provided quarantine room, and contacting others who may have been exposed. All members of the UVF community are asked report possible exposure to COVID-19 to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Appropriate contact tracing and notification to those who may have been exposed will take place with guidance from local health authorities. The person testing positive will be asked to isolate per health department directives, and exposed persons may be asked to quarantine depending on their level of exposure.
Quarantine: separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick. Students in quarantine may often be able to stay in a quarantine room on their floor/in their building and may leave their room for life-sustaining reasons (picking up food from the Dining Commons or grocery store).
Isolation: separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. Students in isolation will move to an isolation floor and may only leave their room to receive medical attention.
Students may isolate at home or in university isolation housing. Isolation housing has been reserved off campus at the nearby, University-operated Hartwick House. Students who isolate on campus will be provided with instructions, sign a waiver, and receive pre-packaged meals from the Dining Commons. It is important to note that UVF is not a medical facility and cannot provide medical care for those in isolation, although regular check-ins by UVF staff will occur.
Yes. Students are asked to self-monitor their symptoms every day and report any symptoms of illness or a temperature 100.4 F or greater to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
In addition, students will be asked to report their temperature and any symptoms on a screening survey administered throughout the semester.
Athletes will follow testing and temperature testing protocols required by their sport, the CSAC Conference, and the NCAA.
Yes. Events will still take place with appropriate social distancing measures reflective of state and local mandates and guidance.
Yes. The Anvil/Student Center will be open for students. Students are encouraged to clean recreational items before and after use, and wash hands frequently. Students are also encouraged to maintain social distancing when gathering in indoor and outdoor spaces.
Yes. Students may also be given opportunity to reserve select classrooms and campus spaces for group meetings in order to have plenty of space for social distancing. When the weather is warmer, outdoor spaces are available for gatherings and events.
Members of the UVF community will be encouraged to remain 6 feet from one another in educational, social and group settings if at all possible. In some cases, tables, desks, or chairs will be spaced apart or marked to remind people to remain socially distant.
There will be a variety of chapel opportunities. Many chapel services will be live streamed to small groups meeting in various locations around campus. Dorm chapels may be held in residence hall lounges. Academic chapels may be hosted through Microsoft Teams or Zoom. When larger groups are allowed, chapel may be held outdoors, in the Flower Chapel, Krempels Theater, or other larger spaces.
No. In most cases, low-risk chapel options will be available so students can participate in chapel. Students with high-risk health concerns should contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Students who must quarantine or isolate due to fever, cold/flu/COVID-19 symptoms will have virtual options for participating in chapel. If their symptoms are such they cannot participate in virtual options, they will receive a medical exemption. A student may submit a doctor’s note or request a medical exemption by contacting the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Due to the travel restrictions imposed by most states and the sharply rising rate of infection, the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) and the Board of Directors have agreed that winter sports competition will not resume at least through the month of January. While no formal schedules have been adopted at this time, the Board does intend to resume intercollegiate competition during the spring semester and has advised the conference office to incorporate all available data into developing appropriate schedules for each conference-sponsored sport as allowable.
Practices will follow the same COVID protocols as the fall until further notice.
Yes. There will be guidelines in place to reduce risk.
Yes. In Bongiorno Hall, rooms normally housing three students will only house two. In apartments, students housed in multiple rooms have been given options to live in single rooms. In other buildings, rooms that normally house multiple students are now singles.
Single rooms may be available. Please contact the Housing Director at housing@valleyforge.edu.
Yes. Room inspections are important for the health and safety of our community. RAs and ARAs will wear masks and minimize the time in the student’s room when possible.
Yes. Students will be asked to report that they are disinfecting high-use surfaces in their room daily. Room and white glove inspections will be held as usual. Students should communicate with room, suite, or apartment-mates about plans for disinfecting highly used areas and common spaces.
There are currently no open dorms or open lounges.
No, not unless they are on campus for official business purposes. If a student needs to have a parent, family member, or guest in the residence hall temporarily (for example, to bring a heavy item to a student’s room), the students should contact the Student Life Office or Security (after hours) to request authorization.
No
Safety measures include Plexiglas at cashier and service stations, rearrangement of furniture to provide opportunity for social distancing, reduced dining room capacity, food served by dining staff rather than self-serve, meals available for take-out, hand sanitizer placed throughout the dining room, and daily health monitoring of staff.
A selection of meals will be available to order through the BITE app at designated times in the Dining Commons. Pre orders can also be done at Jazzman’s through the BITE app.
The hours of operation will remain the same.
We will continue to prepare healthy and varied meals with quality and safety as our top concern. We are always available for feedback and welcome your input.
The University will modify classroom assignments to support increased social distancing. In most cases there is sufficient classroom space to facilitate this adjustment for larger classes to allow for social distancing. If not possible, we will rotate attendance of the class between in-person and remote instruction.
Yes. If a student needs to self-isolate or quarantine, the student will be able to access the classroom instruction remotely via Microsoft Teams. Students must email healthcenter@valleyforge.edu and receive approval to access remote learning.
Yes. Masks will be required per Pennsylvania mandate and until such time as it is deemed safe to remove masks in classrooms.
If government directives require the University to move all of its fall coursework online before the end of the semester and to close the residence halls, UVF leadership will review and consider issuing an appropriate credit to resident students. Spring 2021 graduates will be taken care of by other means.
Office hours will not change; however, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to make appointments and hold meetings on Microsoft Teams when at all possible.
Yes; however, students are encouraged to explore on-campus jobs if at all possible. If working off-campus, students should comply with all safety protocols required by the business and local authorities, and practice good hygiene before returning to campus. Students are asked to have prior discussions with their supervisor about taking leave from work should the University request them to self-quarantine or isolate.
UVF strongly recommends students restrict travel while attending classes on campus. If students choose to travel, they should carefully consider Pennsylvania travel restrictions and quarantine requirements in light of class attendance and job requirements and discuss their travel plans with room, suite, or apartment-mates. Students should follow the usual process of notifying their RA when leaving campus overnight.
UVF will adjust its plan for opening based on requirements of local and state authorities. Information on Pennsylvania’s plan to reopen may be found here.
How many people have tested positive? Will UVF be releasing names of anyone who tests positive so I can tell if I was exposed or not?
At this point, there have been a very low number of positive cases within the campus community. For some, symptoms occurred after off-campus travel. For privacy reasons, the University is not releasing the identities of individuals who are in isolation or quarantine.
How will I know if I’ve been in close contact with someone who has tested positive?
Student Life and the Health Center have been meeting (virtually) with those who have reported symptoms. Student Life and the Health Center are identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, according to the CDC guidelines (within 6 feet of a known case for more than 15 minutes). If you haven’t been contacted directly by Student Life or the Health Center as a follow-up in one of these cases, you were not affected.
I’ve heard people are quarantining. Does this mean that the number of cases is increasing?
Student Life is reaching out to anyone who may have been exposed in order to place them in quarantine. This is out of an abundance of caution, and will help reduce the possibility of on-campus spread of illness. An increase in the number of quarantining students does not necessarily mean an increase in the number of cases, just that we are being aggressive about controlling any potential spread.
Are people in quarantine sick?
People who are in quarantine are not showing any symptoms, but we are watching to see if any symptoms will develop.
My room/suite mate is in quarantine. Should I be in quarantine as well?
A quarantining person is someone who was directly exposed to someone who is now showing symptoms or has been confirmed to have COVID-19. Individuals who’ve not been directly exposed to someone showing symptoms or confirmed to have COVID-19 are generally not recommended to quarantine. If you have any questions about whether or not you should be in quarantine, please contact the Health Center. Each individual’s situation will be considered independently. We encourage all students to self-monitor for symptoms.
Is someone in quarantine allowed outside of their room for any reason?
A student that is in quarantine is restricted from leaving their room except for very specific reasons, such as getting food to go directly from the Dining Commons, visiting the grocery store, or going to the doctor’s office. They are to go directly to such locations and back, and are not to visit other locations on campus. They are also not to visit with other students, staff, or faculty in person, nor should others visit them in person.
Should I go home if I feel sick? Why are some people quarantining at home?
The CDC recommends not traveling if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive. Some students who have felt sick or been identified as possible contacts were at home when notified. They chose to isolation or quarantine where they were and follow CDC guidelines, in order to protect others. In general, traveling is a risk factor to contracting COVID-19, and the CDC recommends limiting unnecessary travel.
What if an employee or faculty member tests positive?
Faculty and staff are following the same isolation and quarantine procedures, should they start to show an symptoms, test positive, or be exposed to someone who has been sick.
Will on-campus events be cancelled?
Campus events are already planned in ways that will follow physical distancing and limit the likelihood of spread. However, in some instances, it may be necessary to delay an event so that contact tracing can be completed to identify any individuals who may need to be quarantined.
Do commuters and resident students have similar risks?
Commuters and resident students live with and are exposed to familial units, as well as those that they work or interact with. It is important for all students, wherever they are living, to follow the guidelines related to physically distancing, wearing masks, and washing their hands frequently, both on and off campus.
Are seated classes safe?
UVF is following CDC and PA guidelines for institutions of higher education. Classrooms have been modified to promote physical distancing, and all students and professors are required to wear masks at all times. These measures reduce risk and in many cases are lower risk than other activities.
Should I be worried about having to move home before the semester ends?
We believe that the measures that we have taken and are continuing to take will allow us to remain on campus throughout the semester. We are being aggressive in mitigating risk, and have a large number of quarantine rooms available if needed. Experiencing some COVID-19 cases is to be expected and does not indicated that the University would need to complete the semester through online learning. However, we each have a responsibility to protect each other and lower risk by following all guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times, remaining physically distant, and washing our hands frequently.
How frequently will we be updated on the COVID-19 situation on campus?
UVF will provide regular COVID-19 updates through community emails. A this point, we are not planning on a schedule frequency, but will update as needed. This FAQs page will also be updated as needed.
UVF asks all students to self-monitor (take your temperature/check for symptoms) before returning to campus. Pennsylvania recommends that if you have traveled, or plan to travel, to an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19, that you stay home 14 days upon return to Pennsylvania. A link to the most updated information on Pennsylvania’s COVID-19 response may be found here.
For students coming from states on the Pennsylvania quarantine travel advisory , we recommend you self-quarantine 14 days before your return to campus (stay at home, self-monitor for fever or symptoms, and stay away from others as much as possible).
Students are required to bring masks, a thermometer, and disinfectant and cleaning supplies for their room. Students are encouraged to bring several pairs of disposable gloves and hand sanitizer. A camp chair for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Yes. New students have been assigned an arrival time on Thursday, August 20 based on the first letter of their last name (A-E = 9-10 a.m; F-L = 10-11 a.m.; M-R = 11-noon.; S-Z = noon-1 p.m.).
Returning students can arrive either Saturday, August 22 or Sunday, August 23 and have a staggered arrival time on either of those days based on the first letter of their last name (A-I = 2-3 p.m.; J-R = 3-4 p.m.; S-Z = 4-5 p.m.).
Yes. You and those in your party will take a temperature check and short symptom screening survey before you check in.
You may bring two people with you to help you check in and move in. Please ask them to bring and wear a mask and make sure everyone in your party is symptom- and fever-free.
If you have symptoms or a fever within 14 days of your return, contact the Health Center (healthcenter@valleyforge.edu) for next steps. The link to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Symptoms of Coronavirus page and Self-Checker can be found here.
We will work with you to finish check-in and begin your classes. The Director of our Health Center and a member of our Student Life team will meet with you about your options and help you finish check-in through a separate process.
Check-in will occur with social distancing measures in place. According to Pennsylvania mandate, everyone is required to wear a mask. Check-in will begin in Heritage Hallway. Students and their guests will take a temperature check and short symptom screening before they check in. Parties will be escorted to the Student Center/Anvil area where they can relax and remain socially distanced until escorted to Cardone Hall to finalize financial services, receive their room key, etc.
No, not specifically related to COVID-19. UVF students will, however, be asked to sign a covenant of commitment, called the Community Life Addendum, to support the health and wellbeing of our community. New students will be asked to sign a liability waiver related to New Student Orientation activities.
New student guests are asked to vacate the residence halls after moving in their student; however, new student guests can remain on campus until after the Welcome Service Thursday evening. Returning students’ guests are asked to leave campus after moving in their student.
Yes. Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home. Masks should also be worn outdoors if a person is unable to consistently maintain social distancing from other individuals.
Pennsylvania requires people wear a mask/face covering anytime they leave home (see the link above). “Home” is a student’s dorm room/apartment/suite. When you are in your dorm room/apartment/suite, you do not need to wear a mask (you and your roommates may choose to do so, but it is not required). Once you leave your dorm room/apartment/suite, expect to wear your mask. That includes wearing a mask in hallways, lounges, laundry and floor kitchen areas.
No. COVID-19 testing is not available on campus. There are, however, several local sites that can provide testing for our students. Visit our Health Center page on MyValleyForge.
Yes. If a student is advised to take a test and does not have their own transportation, UVF will provide transportation to a local testing site.
Yes. Updated hours will be posted on MyValleyForge and outside the Health Center office.
UVF will follow CDC and local health department guidelines to minimize further exposure which may include asking the exposed person to self-monitor or quarantine at home, in their dorm room or in a University-provided quarantine room, and contacting others who may have been exposed. All members of the UVF community are asked report possible exposure to COVID-19 to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Appropriate contact tracing and notification to those who may have been exposed will take place with guidance from local health authorities. The person testing positive will be asked to isolate per health department directives, and exposed persons may be asked to self-quarantine depending on their level of exposure.
Quarantine: separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick.
Isolation: separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick.
Students may isolate at home or in university isolation housing. Isolation housing has been reserved off campus at the nearby, University-operated Hartwick House. Students who isolate at Hartwick House will be provided with instructions, sign a waiver, and receive pre-packaged meals from the Dining Commons. It is important to note that UVF is not a medical facility and cannot provide medical care for those in isolation, although regular check-ins by UVF staff will occur.
Yes. Students are asked to self-monitor their symptoms every day and report any symptoms of illness or a temperature 100.4 F or greater to the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
In addition, students will be asked to report their temperature and any symptoms on a screening survey administered throughout the semester.
Athletes will follow testing and temperature testing protocols required by their sport, the CSAC Conference, and the NCAA.
Yes. Events will still take place with appropriate social distancing measures reflective of state and local mandates and guidance.
Yes. The Anvil/Student Center will be open for students. Students are encouraged to clean recreational items before and after use, and wash hands frequently. Students are also encouraged to maintain social distancing when gathering in indoor and outdoor spaces.
Yes. Thanks to a generous donor, outdoor spaces are being created for students to gather in a safe and socially distanced manner. Students may also be given opportunity to reserve select classrooms and campus spaces for group meetings in order to have plenty of space for social distancing.
Members of the UVF community will be encouraged to remain 6 feet from one another in educational, social and group settings if at all possible. In some cases, tables, desks, or chairs will be spaced apart or marked to remind people to remain socially distant.
There will be a variety of chapel opportunities. Smaller groups may be in classrooms. Floor chapels and small groups may be held on residence hall floors. When larger groups are allowed, chapel may be held in the Flower Chapel, Krempels Theater, or other larger spaces. There are also options for live-streaming and chapel by Microsoft Teams or Zoom.
No. In most cases, low-risk chapel options will be available so students can participate in chapel. Students with high-risk health concerns should contact the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
Students who must quarantine or isolate due to fever, cold/flu/COVID-19 symptoms often have virtual options for participating in chapel. If their symptoms are such they cannot participate in virtual options, they will receive a medical exemption. A student may submit a doctor’s note or request a medical exemption by contacting the Health Center at healthcenter@valleyforge.edu.
The Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) has suspended fall sports competition with the possibility of moving their season to the spring. The sports impacted are men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s golf, and women’s volleyball. There are ongoing meetings that will continue to re-assess and adjust when needed in this area.
Practices will follow the NCAA return to play guidelines through a three phase process. The Department of Athletics will send further information to clarify these phases to the student-athletes directly.
Yes. There will be guidelines in place to reduce risk.
Yes. In Bongiorno Hall, rooms normally housing three students will only house two. In apartments, students housed in multiple rooms have been given options to live in single rooms. In other buildings, rooms that normally house multiple students are now singles.
Single rooms may be available. Please contact the Housing Director at housing@valleyforge.edu.
Yes. Room inspections are important for the health and safety of our community. RAs and ARAs will wear masks and minimize the time in the student’s room when possible.
Yes. Students will be asked to report that they are disinfecting high-use surfaces in their room daily. Room and white glove inspections will be held as usual. Students should communicate with room, suite, or apartment-mates about plans for disinfecting highly used areas and common spaces.
UVF will postpone open lounge and open dorm for at least the first two weeks on campus. During this period, only residents of that building will be allowed inside the building. We will reassess this after the first two weeks.
No, not unless they are on campus for official business purposes. If a student needs to have a parent, family member, or guest in the residence hall temporarily (for example, to bring a heavy item to a student’s room), the students should contact the Student Life Office or Security (after hours) to request authorization.
No
Safety measures include Plexiglas at cashier and service stations, rearrangement of furniture to provide opportunity for social distancing, reduced dining room capacity, food served by dining staff rather than self-serve, meals available for take-out, hand sanitizer placed throughout the dining room, and daily health monitoring of staff.
A selection of meals will be available to order through the BITE app at designated times in the Dining Commons. Pre orders can also be done at Jazzman’s through the BITE app.
The hours of operation will remain the same.
We will continue to prepare healthy and varied meals with quality and safety as our top concern. We are always available for feedback and welcome your input.
The University will modify classroom assignments to support increased social distancing. In most cases there is sufficient classroom space to facilitate this adjustment for larger classes to allow for social distancing. If not possible, we will rotate attendance of the class between in-person and remote instruction.
Yes. If a student needs to self-isolate or quarantine, the student will be able to access the classroom instruction remotely via Microsoft Teams.
Yes. Masks will be required per Pennsylvania mandate and until such time as it is deemed safe to remove masks in classrooms.
If government directives require the University to move all of its fall coursework online before the end of the semester and to close the residence halls, UVF leadership will review and consider issuing an appropriate credit to resident students. Fall 2020 graduates will be taken care of by other means.
Office hours will not change; however, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to make appointments and hold meetings on Microsoft Teams when at all possible.
Yes; however, students are encouraged to explore on-campus jobs if at all possible. If working off-campus, students should comply with all safety protocols required by the business and local authorities, and practice good hygiene before returning to campus. Students are asked to have prior discussions with their supervisor about taking leave from work should the University request them to self-quarantine or isolate.
UVF strongly recommends students restrict travel while attending classes on campus. If students choose to travel, they should carefully consider Pennsylvania travel restrictions and quarantine requirements in light of class attendance and job requirements and discuss their travel plans with room, suite, or apartment-mates. Students should follow the usual process of notifying their RA when leaving campus overnight.
UVF will adjust its plan for opening based on requirements of local and state authorities. Information on Pennsylvania’s plan to reopen may be found here.
Please read the FAQs as they will address most questions about the check-out process.
Click here to view the 5/22/2020 CARES Act Compliance Report.
Click here to view the 6/30/2020 CARES Act Compliance Report.
Click here to view the 8/14/2020 CARES Act Compliance Report.
Click here to view the 10/10/2020 CARES Act Compliance Report.
Click here to view the 10/30/20 CARES Institutional Quarterly Report.
Click here to view the 1/10/21 CARES Act Compliance Report.
Click here for the FAQs from the Spring 2020 online learning period.