March 12: UMBC COVID-19 Action Update

Campus Status:UMBC will be closed on Friday, March 13. Essential employees should check with their supervisors to learn whether they need to report to campus. Employees who need access to offices can call campus police at 410-455-5555. This also applies to UMBC staff at the Universities at Shady Grove. Full message availablehere.

Currently, there are no suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19, also known as coronavirus, at UMBC.

This update will contain new information for each day. For the most updated information and more information on actions to reduce COVID-19 risks in our community, please visit COVID19.umbc.edu.

Statement by USM Chancellor Jay A. Perman: Guidance on Telework, Study Abroad, and Large Gatherings

Student Services and Support

• Residential students received guidance on vacating campus. A summary is available here.

• UMBC Athletics’ varsity teams will not participate in intercollegiate competitions or practices for the spring 2020 semester. Full statement available here.

• Students across the University System of Maryland who have moved out of residence halls are understandably concerned about reimbursement for housing and dining services. We are actively working on this matter and coordinating with the USM. 

• Staff are currently assessing where student employees may both be essential to continuity and can work safely during times where the university is open but classes are online. With respect to students employees whose shifts are cancelled during this period, we are seeking guidance from the USM about applicable policies and laws.

• The Academic Success Center is prepared to assist students who may be in need of support as it relates to exploring academic policy options, tutoring, supplemental instruction, academic success meetings, academic success courses, first year interventions, writing center support, academic advocacy, and more. 

Events

• The UMBC Events Center is canceling or postponing all events until at least April 5, in accordance with UMBC’s events policy.

Dining

• In the interest of health, True Grit’s will be transitioning to all take-out containers. Updated dining hours are available here.

• Retriever Essentials remains open. Details here.

Travel

• Based on the latest guidance and information, UMBC is now suspending ALL study abroad programs for the spring 2020 and summer 2020 term and is actively working to bring students home from all programs. More information available on the website.

Academic Continuity and Faculty Support

• Classes are canceled Thursday, March 12, and Friday, March 13 to provide time for faculty to convert to online course delivery beginning March 23. Support for online instruction is available here. 

Business Continuity and Staff Support

• UMBC will be closed on Friday, March 13. Essential employees should check with their supervisors to learn whether they need to report to campus.

• Faculty and staff also received additional guidance today regarding remote work and leave. 

If you have questions or concerns, please email COVID19@umbc.edu.