A message from Drexel President John Fry to the community about classes moving online after Philadelphia city officials implemented new restrictions amid surging COVID-19 cases in the area:
Dear Members of the Drexel Community,
As you may have heard, Philadelphia city officials have implemented new restrictions amid surging COVID-19 cases in the area. To comply with these new restrictions, starting this Friday, November 20, Drexel University will be conducting all courses remotely, one week earlier than anticipated.
Additional details include:
- Clinical coursework at the College of Medicine and College of Nursing and Health Professions will continue at this time.
- Drexel’s Recreation Center, as well as Student Centers on campus, will be closed.
- Library services will be available remotely. Library buildings will be closed.
- Students who have scheduled to be tested for COVID-19 throughout the remainder of this week will still be tested.
- Students who feel ill or who are certain they have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact the Student Health Center right away by phone (215.220.4700) or through the Drexel Health Tracker
- Approved on-campus research activities will continue. Please check with your supervisor concerning specific plans.
I urge every member of the Drexel community to do everything possible to help stop the spread of this virus by continuing to wear a mask, practice social distancing and thorough handwashing (20 seconds, using soap and water), as well as sanitizing common-use surfaces. Please refer to the recent announcement concerning Thanksgiving safety as you plan your holiday time. We all have a role to play in staying healthy, stopping the spread of COVID-19 and getting this pandemic under control.
I understand the intensifying spread of coronavirus, along with this sudden pivot to online-only courses, may be unnerving. Please know that Counseling Center therapists continue to be available for support during this difficult time. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a therapist should they need to seek help by emailing counseling@drexel.edu or calling 215.895.1415.
For employees, I encourage you to access free, confidential counseling sessions through Drexel's Employee Assistance Program by calling 888.628.4824. Additional resources can be found on the Human Resources COVID-19 Resources page here.
Please remain vigilant and do all that you can to protect yourself and those around you during this critical time. I send my best wishes to you and your family for a happy and restful Thanksgiving break.
Sincerely,
John Fry
President