DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL SCIENCE - STUDENT PROFILE

Dear Hawks:

As we all grapple to adjust with the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impact on various parts of our daily lives, I am reminded of one simple fact – The difference between stumbling blocks and stepping stones is how we choose to use them.

Although the spring semester has presented us with some unexpected challenges, we will do what we do best as a community – use these challenges as opportunities for growth.  

I know many of you have questions and concerns regarding the remainder of the spring 2020 semester. While we will continue to send you messages throughout the remainder of the term, I want to take a moment to address a few pressing topics that I know are on your mind. 

What’s going on with my classes?
The simple answer is – They are evolving.

Our University custodians are exceptional, and already utilize strong practices for preventing the spread of viruses. Strategies which have proven useful during past virus outbreaks (SARS, H1N1) remain in-place, and include the frequent disinfection of surfaces such as desktops, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, locker handles, faucet handles, etc. Our University utilizes a host of products and devices, including vital oxide disinfectant and electrostatic sprayers. These practices have been successful in minimizing the spread of influenza and other viruses, and an aggressive approach to surface disinfection will continue.Further, beyond the quality academic instruction which they deliver, our faculty and staff also work with students on matters of personal and community hygiene. Students should expect frequent reminders about washing their hands, respectfully coughing/sneezing, etc.

From March 23 - April 3 2020 ,  instruction will be delivered online in courses for which THIS IS POSSIBLE. All other courses, laboratory courses and graduate program courses will operate on a block schedule throughout the week to limit contact. Upon arrival at the University, each student will be screened by Delmar Health Workers, health checkpoints will be set at each entrance of the University and anyone who displays symptoms and or has an axillary temperature above 37.6°C (99.7°F) or a rectal or ear temperature above 38.1°C (100.6°F) WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE CAMPUS. Students and faculty will be allowed back on campus starting Friday March 20th, 2020.

What’s going on with Housing?

ALL on-campus residential students who are not taking labs or graduate courses should begin to make arrangements with their families/guardians to move out of the residence halls and return home for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester.
The Office of Residence Life will work with students to return to campus to retrieve all of their personal items and officially check-out of their housing units beginning Monday, March 23, 2020 through Saturday, March 28, 2020.
Each Area Director will be sending additional information to students regarding check-out procedures no later than Sunday, March 22, 2020.
Students who cannot return home because of international travel restrictions or other extenuating circumstances will be required to submit an On-Campus Housing Appeal form no later than 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2020. While we cannot guarantee housing for all at this moment, exceptions to remain on campus will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Questions regarding housing should be directed to the Office of Residence Life at 410-651-6144 or email reslife@umes.edu. 
Will I get a housing refund for this semester?
Simply put, Yes

Yesterday, our USM Chancellor, Dr. Jay Perman, released a comprehensive statement regarding COVID-19, and specifically addressed the topic of refunds for all USM schools, which includes UMES.
“Distance-learning has still more implications for housing, specifically the fair adjustment of costs associated with room and board. The universities are, again, united in their support of refunding room and board on a prorated basis.”

UMES is currently working with our colleagues across the state to provide adequate prorated refund/credit options for students and families. These options include both refunds in the form of a check and or credits for future enrollment/housing. While these options will not be finalized before the end of the residential check-out period, we do hope to update all of you before the end of the academic semester. Please remember, as with all financial transactions, all refunds will be subject to Federal Aid and Title IV guidelines and will vary depending on your student account of unpaid balances or other charges.
Am I still receiving my regular refund check?

Yes 

With respect to traditional refund disbursements – nothing has changed.  As of today, Friday, March 20, 2020, approximately 70% of all student refunds have been processed and applied to student accounts. Although currently working remotely, the Office of Financial Aid will continue to process the remaining 30% of student refunds and they will be applied to your account accordingly. Please continue to check your student account on a regular basis and contact your chosen financial institution that is handling your check/direct deposit.
 
Is commencement really canceled?

No – but it is postponed.

Commencement is a time-honored magical moment that is celebrated not just by you, but by your family, friends, and the entire Hawk community. As a university, we are committed to ensuring that each of you have an opportunity to experience that magical moment.  However, we must do so in a manner that is both safe and responsible for our local community and the general public.

We are currently exploring options to reschedule commencement for some time during the summer months once the COVID-19 threat has been lifted. However, this planning is being done in conjunction with guidance from national and state health officials.  We will share more information in the days to come as we continue to learn more about this virus and experience the results of our mitigation efforts.
In addition, we will continue to explore virtual options to celebrate you and your monumental achievements.

Remember, you are Kings and Queens who have stared adversity in the face and said, “STILL I stand.” You have persevered through personal struggle, conquered fears, and have earned the right to lead the next generation into an era of prominence.  What you have accomplished over the last few years of your life can never be taken from you. Do not allow a delayed ceremony and or a virus rob you of that reality.

Sincerely,

Hans Cooper

Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Experience