To the Campus Community,
The situation regarding COVID-19 remains fluid, rapidly evolving and presents unprecedented challenges. I appreciate that uncertainty can cause anxiety and stress among the campus community.
I write to inform you that StFX will suspend all in-person classes Monday March 16th to Friday March 20th. This will permit our instructors the time necessary to assess how programs will be delivered through to the end of the term.
It is important to note that we are not closing the campus nor is the academic term cancelled.
Please be aware that classes will resume on Monday March 23rd using online or other alternative delivery methods. The laboratory components of some courses may not be able to continue. In such cases, adjustments to project expectations or lab grades will need to be made. More details on how classes (including exams) will be delivered will be provided in the days ahead.
Though in-person classes are suspended, faculty can continue to work from their offices. As well, our campus, including residences and dining halls, will remain open at this time. Employees should attend work as usual.
Students living in residences who are able to return home are encouraged to do so. Please be assured that anyone who cannot return home for reasons such as international travel restrictions, serious personal reasons, or university obligations will continue to be provided accommodation. For those students staying in residence we reserve the right to move you to another residence in the interests of student safety. Further information regarding residences will be provided by Student Services in the coming days.
The health and safety of our campus community remains foremost our top priority and with patience and understanding, we will continue our resolve and work our way through these extraordinary times.
Kevin Wamsley, PhD
President and Vice Chancellor
StFX University
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions for your reference:
Have classes been cancelled at StFX?
In-person classes at StFX are suspended for the week of March 16-20. This is a preventative measure to increase social distancing, eliminate large-group gatherings, and allow professors time to shift to alternative means of teaching. Continuing and Distance Education classes continue as normal.
Will I be able to complete the academic year?
We are working to ensure that all students will be able to complete their academic year. StFX’s intention is to transition from in-person classes to a remote teaching environment (i.e. online) for the remainder of the term.
When will classes resume?
Classes will resume on Monday, March 23rd. More information on classes will be provided to students in the days ahead.
How will I complete final exams?
StFX is working to finalize arrangements that will allow all students to complete their exams. Students will not be expected to return to campus for exams. There will be more details to come on this next week, as we consult with the Council of Nova Scotia University Presidents and Nova Scotia Public Health regarding next steps.
I am currently on a clinical or co-op work placement or working in a research capacity. Are these being impacted?
Clinical and co-op placements, as well as limited research activities, including thesis-based Masters co-op work placements can continue.
Are residences at the university closing down?
Residences will remain open until April 5th, but we are encouraging all students who can return home to do so.
I am unable to return home. Can I still stay in residence?
Yes. All students who need to continue living in residence will be able to do so. Please note, for students’ continued safety we reserve the right to move students to another residence. Students Services will be sending out more information regarding residences in the days ahead.
Is the campus shutting down?
No. University offices and facilities remain open. The decision to suspend classes represents a measure to reduce large gatherings and increase social distancing.
Employees are expected to report to work as usual.
