MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — West Virginia University officials continued their Campus Conversation series on Thursday with a focus on the phased return at the Morgantown campus.
Officials announced Monday freshmen and graduate students will be allowed on campus when the fall semester begins Aug. 26, while other undergraduate students will return at a later date.
Corey Farris, WVU’s dean of students, said Thursday the impact of the coronavirus pandemic has changed everyone’s typical fall plans, including Welcome Week.
“Entering class of the fall of 2020, once we know we’re safe and able to do it, we have plans to work with you and have a special welcome for you,” he said.
Students and faculty are eligible for free testing, in which the final day for faculty is Aug. 8 and the final day for students is Aug. 18. Testing is required for all students.
“Even if you have all online courses, you intend to be in Morgantown and being in our library, using our transportation or dining facilities,” Rob Alsop, vice president for strategic initiatives, said. “You will be required to take that test.”
Incoming freshmen will be allowed to move into dorms between Aug. 15 and Aug. 22. Students will have to confirm a move-in date and time before Aug. 15.
Face coverings and social distancing are required while on campus. Provost Maryanne Reed said officials are considering plans to accommodate other student needs, including a tent behind the Mountainlair student union building with access to high-speed internet.
The Dec. 19 commencement ceremony will take place online. August graduates will be recognized at that time as well.
Classes at the Beckley and Keyser campuses are scheduled to begin Aug. 19.