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Seton Hall University

Semester Starting, COVID-19 Updates and Academics  

Dear Setonians,

With the start of Spring 2021 classes just days away, we offer you our prayers and good wishes for a successful and enjoyable semester at Seton Hall.

The HICT continues to meet weekly, monitoring the ever-changing path of the virus, University and public health statistics, and government guidance. We may need to amend our plans and procedures during the semester. Your health and safety remain paramount in Seton Hall’s planning and actions.

Cases rising; Hospitalizations steady; Vaccines arriving

COVID-19 cases continue to rise, setting new records and confirming predictions about increased winter spread. The transmission rate remains above 1, indicating that the spread is accelerating.

There are two pieces of good news. Hospitalization levels have remained steady, and at lower than peak levels. This is a positive sign, as an overtaxed healthcare system has myriad negative effects.

Although beset by issues, vaccination rollout continues. The federal government has distributed 31 million doses to the states, who are responsible for administering the vaccinations. Over 10 million individuals have received at least one dose.

COVID-19 vaccines are on the way to hospitals and clinics across New Jersey. You can reserve your spot to get a vaccine by pre-registering with the State of New Jersey.

Essex County’s COVID web site provides valuable information and the ability to register for a test or vaccination.

Governor Murphy recently expanded the list of those eligible for a vaccination to include individuals ages 65 and older and persons 18-64 with high-risk medical conditions. Please carefully check the guidelines; you may be eligible earlier than you realize.

New Jersey-based Johnson & Johnson is moving into final stages of its own vaccine. Unlike the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, this is a one-dose vaccine and could be a "game changer" according to Governor Murphy.

Academics

As we did last semester, during the spring 2021 semester, students who opted to attend classes in HyFlex mode will rotate between attending in person and attending remotely. Students will be assigned to a rotation group a few days before classes begin. Rotation groups will be visible to students on their schedule found in Pirate Net. A rotation calendar is also available. Faculty members can identify students' HyFlex or remote choice by consulting class lists.

Sincerely,

Shawna Cooper-Gibson, Ed.D.
Vice President of Student Services

Matthew Borowick '89/MBA '94
Vice President of University Relations

Co-chairs, Health Intervention and Communication Team

Categories: Campus Life, Health and Medicine

For more information, please contact: