lincolnu College

ABOUT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) 
(From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)  

There are many types of human coronaviruses including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses. COVID-19 is a new disease, caused be a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans. 

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.

Seek medical care if you have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you have recently traveled from a region with widespread COVID-19 cases.  

Prevention(From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases.  

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Washing your hands is easy, and it's one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community. 

Did you know that drying your hands is just as important as washing them?  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, germs can be transferred more easily to and from wet hands.  Be sure after you have washed your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds that you dry them completely using a clean towel or warm air dryer.  

Other Prevention Techniques
At the start of cold and flu season last fall, the custodial team increased their focus on door handles, handrails and other surfaces that are commonly touched.  Their technique, which follows recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, involves wiping down these areas and then applying a strong disinfectant. 

In your personal workspace, disinfecting wipes can be used on staplers, phone handsets, conference room tables and chairs.

Please note there is a difference between cleaning and disinfecting.  Cleaning removes surface dirt and can reduce the risk of spreading germs. Disinfecting kills the germs, which is most helpful in reducing the spread of germs. The CDC recommends allowing the surface to stay wet for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure proper disinfecting. 

As always, proper handwashing is still the first line of defense in preventing the spread of germs.  Follow these five steps every time: 

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.
4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Stay Informed While Staying Calm 
Dr. Mara Aruguete says the uncertainty over the Coronavirus/COVID-19 can make people anxious. Aruguete, Professor of Psychology, tells KJLU that getting information from reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization, and not social media, is the best way to keep anxiety down.  With so much unknown at this time, it is understandable that people would be worried, but she says there is one hidden positive effect and that is better hygiene. "So are we harmed by washing our hands more?  Absolutely not.  We're much less likely to get a whole bunch of other viruses because we wash our hands more… Let's just practice good hygiene, just in case." For the complete story from KJLU, please visit http://www.kjluradio.com/newsroom/lu-professor-offers-tips-to-overcome-covid--anxiety/article_57263f88-5d7b-11ea-b269-eba4866126cd.html. 

For more information on COVID-19, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html or https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019. 

With safety in mind, last spring Lincoln University launched RAVE Guardian, a free mobile app, that turns your smartphone into a personal safety device. By downloading the app on your mobile phone, you'll have access to safety features that directly connect you to the Lincoln University Police Department or local authorities in an emergency situation, as well as the ability to submit anonymous tips should you see something suspicious. In addition, RAVE Guardian is another tool for communication in situations like the current COVID-19 pandemic, which sends information you need right to your phone.  Now is a great time to download the free app.  Simply search "Rave Guardian" in the app store on your mobile device and register through our campus portal at https://getrave.com/login/lincolnu. 

Protecting Your Mental and Emotional Health

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Travel
All University-sponsored travel has been suspended until further notice. No additional travel bookings nor requests for reimbursement of personal funds used to book travel during this suspension will be approved at this time.  For travel that has been previously booked, please contact the travel admin within your unit to assist in your cancellation.

Some of you may have registered for a conference that has recently been cancelled for precautionary reasons associated with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) or other reasons.  The attached procedure will guide you through the steps to cancel your associated reservations and seek refunds where applicable.  Please review this procedure and retain for future reference.  If you have clarifying questions, please feel free to reach out to your department Travel Liaison, Accounts Payable, Purchasing or the Title III Office as applicable in the guidance attached.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises postponing or canceling trips to China, Iran, South Korea and Italy due to widespread cases of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Those who are considered to be at-risk due to age or chronic medical conditions are advised to postpone travel to Japan.

·       Air Travel
Although the risk of infection on airplanes is low due to how the air is filtered and circulated, passengers should still avoid contact with sick passengers and use proper handwashing techniques or hand sanitizer. 

·       Cruises
Cruises bring together a larger number of people from various countries around the world, which increases the risk of spreading germs.  Travelers should avoid sick passengers; avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth; and use proper handwashing techniques or hand sanitizer. 

For more information on COVID-19, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. 

Extended Spring Break
With the ongoing and growing crisis of COVID-19, Lincoln University will extend Spring Break for students through March 20. The residence halls will be closed through the week. Students with purchased travel arrangements should contact their provider regarding the change in plans.

This extension will allow the university time for additional deep cleaning and to prepare alternative course delivery, if necessary. Faculty and staff will have regular business hours during the week of March 16.

Students, faculty and staff are asked to continue to monitor campus email for further updates.

Event Suspension 
Events on campus, including campus tours are suspended until further notice.  Please continue to monitor your campus email for further updates.

Response Plan Week of March 16
As a reminder, Lincoln University has extended Spring Break for students through March 20, with the exception of those taking courses at Fort Leonard Wood.  The previously posted course schedule for that location will be followed.  The residence halls are not open for returning students. 

 Here is a brief outline of what will happen during the week of March 16. 

·         Faculty and staff will resume normal business hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

·         Faculty will complete training on alternative course delivery options

·         Crews will do a more focused cleaning of classrooms and other shared spaces, as well as continue to disinfect common touch areas such as door handles, elevator buttons and handrails  (Please note that the cleaning agents used during this disinfecting are commercial strength, but are no more harmful or create no greater chemical smell than those you use in your home. There is no hazard in faculty and staff being present in buildings during cleaning) 

·         Crews will install additional hand sanitizer stations near elevators, drinking fountains and building entrances 

·         Doors that will not create safety, security or privacy issues will be propped open (and should remain in an open position) to minimize the number of common touch areas

·         A task force of various units around campus will continue to monitor the situation and meet daily to prepare for the restart of classes and the remainder of the semester

We remind you to continue to keep yourself and those around you safe and helping to prevent the spread of germs by practicing good handwashing techniques, covering your cough or sneeze and avoiding others if you are ill in any way.  Campus Recreation and Wellness suggests adding immune strengthening foods to your diet such as grapefruit, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, cinnamon, berries, mushroom, kale and others. 

Please continue to monitor your campus email for updated information or visit https://www.lincolnu.edu/web/lincoln/health-safety-information.  For additional information on COVID-19, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. 

COVID-19: Online Campus
With the safety of our entire University in mind, all coursework will be offered through alternative delivery methods beginning March 23.  Additional information on these plans will be released in future communications, but please note that on-campus classes will not be held moving forward. 

Following federal recommendations to postpone or cancel gatherings with more than 10 people, all campus events have been cancelled, including the Farmers' Market, ROTC Military Ball, Honors Convocation and the President's Gala. Please monitor your email for future announcements regarding Commencement 2020.    

The campus remains closed to returning students. Additional information on campus housing and how and when to retrieve your belongings will be communicated by Wednesday, March 18. 

Please continue to monitor your campus email for important updates regarding classes, events and prevention. This information is also available online at https://www.lincolnu.edu/web/lincoln/health-safety-information.  For more information on COVID-19, please visit, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. 

THE LINC Facility Closure
To curb the spread of COVID-19, JC Parks and Lincoln University have decided to temporarily close The Linc effective Tuesday, March 17, starting at 7:00 pm.

The wellness and recreation center will remain closed through Friday, March 27. Staff will then reevaluate the situation to determine if the facility closure needs to be extended. Credits will be issued to members based on the length of time The Linc is closed.

The doors may be closed for a bit, but we still have plenty of ways to keep you moving! Our exercise instructors are working on a plan to bring fitness classes to you. Watch for announcements on The Linc Facebook page and by email. The Linc app is another great resource during this time. The app already has pre-set workouts and customizable programs, many of which you can do without fitness equipment.

The Linc staff and instructors appreciate your understanding during this challenging time. Stay healthy and stay safe. We're looking forward to welcoming you back to The Linc soon! 

Inman E. Page Library Hours 
As the University works to continue to adjust to the COVID-19 pandemic, Inman E. Page Library will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and closed on the weekends until further notice.   

Residential Life Moving Schedule
In response to the rapidly evolving situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, Lincoln University will transition to remote learning. Additionally, University residence halls will close on March 29, 2020 at 5 p.m.  All residents must move out of their current space by 5 p.m. on March 29. We have developed a plan to assist those students who would like to pick up their belongings. It is important to make every effort to adhere to the schedule below. We thank you for your patience and cooperation as we navigate through this challenging situation. We understand that you will have many questions regarding the logistics, schedule, procedures, and other important information regarding this sudden transition, so please read the following information carefully.  

Checking Out of Your Residence Hall
To check out of your room, you will need to remove all items from your room, clean the room and return your keys to staff at the front desk. Please note that resources such as blue bins and move out carts may be limited at this time.

March 21 | 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall – 2^nd Floor and 4^th
Tull Hall – 1^st Floor and 3^rd Floor
Anthony Hall – 2^nd Floor and 3^rd Floor

March 21 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall –3^rd Floor, and 5^th Floor
Tull Hall – 2^nd and 4^th Floor
Anthony Hall – 1^st Floor

March 22 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Sherman Hall – 2^nd Floor – 4^th floor
Perry Hall– 2^nd Floor and 4^th Floors
Bennett Hall – All residents
Anthony Hall – 2^nd Floor and 3^rd Floor

March 22 | 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sherman Hall – 1st Floor – 3rd floor
Perry Hall– 1^st Floor and 3^rd Floors
Hoard Hall – All residents
Yates Hall – All residents
Anthony Hall – 1^st Floor

March 23 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall – 7^th Floors, 9th Floors
Martin Hall – Ground Floor and 2^nd Floor

March 23 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall – 6^th Floors, 8^th Floors, and 10^th Floor
Martin Hall – Ground Floor and 2^nd Floor

March 27 | 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall – 2^nd Floor and 4^th
Tull Hall – 1^st Floor and 3^rd Floor

March 27 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall –3^rd Floor, and 5^th Floor
Tull Hall – 2^nd and 4^th Floor

March 28 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Sherman Hall – 2^nd Floor – 4^th floor
Perry Hall– 2^nd Floor and 4^th Floors
Bennett Hall – All residents

March 28 | 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sherman Hall – 1st Floor – 3rd floor
Perry Hall– 1^st Floor and 3^rd Floors
Hoard Hall – All residents
Yates Hall – All residents

March 29 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall – 7^th Floors, 9th Floors
Martin Hall – Ground Floor and 2^nd Floor

March 29 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Dawson Hall – 6^th Floors, 8^th Floors, and 10^th Floor
Martin Hall – Ground Floor and 2^nd Floor

We know that you may not be able to take all of your items home. Local storage companies, such as U-Haul, are offering discounted storage options for students during this time. You can reach the local U-Haul storage provider at 573-635-7244 to obtain additional information.

Regular trash should be taken to one of the large dumpsters located near each building.

If you need to arrange a time to return to campus to check out of your residence hall other than the dates listed above due to extenuating circumstances, please email the Housing office at Housing@lincolnu.edu. A staff member will review your request and respond within 24 hours.

Accommodations for students who are unable to move
Due to the developing nature of the situation, we will be flexible in supporting students through this transition. We know that there are certain circumstances where a student may not be able to move off campus.

Please visit the Housing Office to complete a request to stay on campus through May 8. Our staff will review your request and respond to your Lincoln email with our decision within 24 hours.

Support services, meals and systems will be in place to accommodate students that are approved to remain on campus.

Mail, Packages and Forwarding Address
We encourage you to pick up your mail, packages and complete forwarding address paperwork (if needed) to ensure you receive any future mail that may be delivered to the residence halls.

Housing Fees
The discussions of adjustments for housing and/or dining fees are postponed while we focus this time on working to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  We will resume those very important discussions once the urgency of protecting the university community from this disease has decreased. 

Please note that anyone who is currently self-isolating or returning from a country listed on the CDC's Level 2 or 3 travel health notices should make alternative arrangements to have someone pick-up their belongings.

If you have traveled outside Missouri during Spring break, we strongly encourage you to report your travel history. Registering will help the University ensure the health and safety of our campus community and to connect individuals with any needed resources upon their return.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Office of Residence Life at Housing@lincolnu.edu

Update from Cole County Health Department 
The Cole County Health Department announced today, March 17, a confirmed case of the novel Coronavirus/COVID-19.  The case is not on the Lincoln University campus. Please continue to practice prevention techniques recommended by the CDC including social distancing, proper handwashing and drying, and disinfecting shared spaces and common touch areas. 

For more information on the University's actions as we deal with this global pandemic, please visit https://www.lincolnu.edu/web/lincoln/health-safety-information.  For more information on COVID-19, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.   

Academic Appeals
Students who have been suspended from the university for academic reasons and who wish to submit an appeal to the Academic Routine Committee, can still do so via the website https://bluetigerportal.lincolnu.edu/web/academic-routine-committee/academic-routine-committee. The deadline for ARC appeals for the Fall 2020 semester is June 1, 2020.  

Thompkins Health Center 

Office of Access & Abilities: During this time of change and adaptation, the Access and Abilities Office is committed to providing support for the students of Lincoln University.  While some services might be modified we will still provide assistance and support to the best of our abilities.  If you have any questions or concerns about existing accommodations, or would like to discuss enrolling in the program, please contact Greg Holtmeyer at 573-681-5167 or email holtmeyerg@lincolnu.edu.

Student Health Center: As health services will be limited, please call Thompkins Health Center (573-681-5870) or email kirbyt@lincolnu.edu  with your health concerns so that Nurse Kirby can give you further instructions. The nurse practitioners will be unavailable during this time, but standing orders will still apply. If you are experiencing the following symptoms: cough, difficulty breathing and/or fever, PLEASE CALL 1-877-435-8411. The Covid-19 Information hotline is being operated by medical professionals and is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Student Counseling Center: While unable to meet in person, the counseling center can still conduct remote sessions with students via telecommunication. If you are struggling with your mental well-being or feeling concerned about current events and would like to talk, please contact Chrystala Smith, M.Ed., LPC at 573-681-5164 or email at smithc@lincolnu.edu In addition to our counseling services, the Federal Government has set up a Disaster Distress Helpline that you can call or text if you would like to discuss your concerns regarding the Covid-19 virus. Call toll-free: 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWIthUs to 66746

Director, Student Health & Counseling Services: Leasa Weghorst – 573-681-5970 weghorstL@lincolnu.edu

Residents' Mail
Students who are returning to campus for move out will be able to pick up their mail at the front desk of their respective hall.  

Moving Out: Travel Concerns
It is our understanding that some students may be prohibited from traveling due to state and/or local regulations in their home locations. The university will secure those rooms with belongings in them, but assumes no liability for any loss or damage. Please continue to monitor your campus email or this page for the most current information on the university's response to the evolving pandemic crisis. 

A Letter from President Woolfolk

New Date for Commencement 2020 

Mail Services
Campus mail services will be adjusted during the campus closure announced yesterday.  The Mail Room will continue to be open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. However, during the university closure, the mail will be held in the Mail Room and not delivered to respective offices.  Please visit the Mail Room to collect and drop off mail at your convenience. For students remaining in campus housing, Residential Life staff will pick up mail for the hall.  

Library Services to Record Online Content 

Page Library would like to extend its services to assist instructors in creating online content for their instruction. One of the Library classrooms has been set up for recording, complete with microphones, lighting equipment, and cameras. The classroom has a whiteboard that may be utilized, and SMART Boards for PowerPoint presentations, videos, and more. Assistance is available for teachers to help them, in whatever manner they may need.

 

To use any of these services, please go to lincolnu.edu/web/library/reserve and book the Digital Media Lab for the amount of time that you need. The reservations are automatically set up for one-hour blocks; therefore, it is best to overestimate the amount of time needed and book several blocks, thus ensuring no overlap of instructors trying to use the room. For any comments, questions, or concerns, please contact Stacy Winters at winterss@lincolnu.edu or Dylan Martin at martind2@lincolnu.edu.

Move Out Will Continue During Closure

Students still needing to remove their belongings from campus housing are still able to do so through March 29.  Residents are asked to contact staff at housing@lincolnu.edu if you need to vary from the posted schedule or are unable to travel due to restrictions in your home city or state or if you are ill or have been in the presence of someone who is ill.  

Updated Payroll Procedues During Closure

Email ALL completed timesheets to PAYROLL@LINCOLNU.EDU. 

The University timesheet can be downloaded from the following link:  https://www.lincolnu.edu/web/comptroller/payroll

 

Our staff will only be in the office as necessary so will not be able to receive timesheets in person and review for completeness.  Please ensure all data noted on the timesheet is filled out accurately (including GL/Project, rate of pay, etc) 

 

Timesheets for hourly employees are due April 1, by 5:00 p.m.* Please EMAIL all timesheets to Payroll@lincolnu.edu. 

 

 

 *If timesheet or paperwork is delayed or has incorrect or missing information, employee will be paid on the next scheduled pay cycle pay date after receipt of timesheet/correction.  The Payroll Office is not responsible for late, misdirected or missing timesheets.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions
Lincoln University is working to address the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic by joining the rest of the nation in doing our part to flatten the curve of infection. Please see the list of frequently asked questions below which address common concerns students, faculty and staff may have.  If you have a question, please email communications@lincolnu.edu. 

Q: How will students who are currently enrolled proceed with the semester? 
A: All coursework will be offered through alternative delivery methods beginning March 23, 2020. In-person coursework has been suspended for the remainder of the semester.   

Q: Can I live on campus until the end of the semester? 
A: The University has closed our residential facilities. You have through March 29 to retrieve their belongings.  Students who are unable to move from campus are asked to contact the Office of Residential Life to complete a request to stay. Please see your campus email or visit https://www.lincolnu.edu/web/lincoln/health-safety-information for the move-out schedule. 

Q: Will I receive a credit or refund for my housing? 
A: The discussions of adjustments for housing and/or dining fees are postponed while we focus this time on working to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  We will resume those very important discussions once the urgency of protecting the university community from this disease has decreased. 

Q: I planned to attend an event on campus. Is it still happening? 
A: Following federal recommendations to postpone or cancel gatherings with more than 10 people, all campus events have been canceled including the Farmers' Market, ROTC Military Ball, Springfest, Honors Convocation and the President's Gala. Commencement 2020 will be held Saturday, August 1.  

Q: Can I contact Financial Aid or other offices on campus? 
A: The university is closed and work is being done remotely. Staff in various offices can still be reached via email including: Admissions:admssions@lincolnu.edu; Financial Aid: financialaid@lincolnu.edu; Information Technology Services: helpdesk@lincolnu.edu; Registrar: registrar@lincolnu.edu; Residential Life: housing@lincolnu.edu; and Student Accounts: studentaccounts@lincolnu.edu.

Q: What is Lincoln University doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19? 
A: All university-sponsored travel has been suspended. Lincoln University's main campus extended spring break for students to allow time for faculty to prepare alternative course delivery methods, as well as to complete a more thorough cleaning of shared spaces and common touch areas. As the situation continues to develop, the decision was made to discontinue in-person classes and transition to alternative teaching methods. In addition, the university will close campus housing for the remainder of the semester after all students have had the opportunity to move out on or before March 29. Finally, all on campus events, including campus tours, are suspended until further notice.

Q: How can I protect myself from COVID-19? 
A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended common-sense measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus. 

• Practice good hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Dry your hands completely, wet hands spread germs more easily. 
• Use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available. 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. 
• Practice social distancing. Keep at least 6 feet away from others. Avoid gatherings in groups of more than 10 people. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid discretionary travel and shopping trips. Businesses and institutions are offering services online or by limiting person-to-person interactions to slow transmission of the novel coronavirus. 
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces using regular household cleaning spray or wipe daily including tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks. 
• Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19. Follow CDC guidelines on what to do if you feel sick.

Q: When is Commencement?
A: Commencement has been rescheduled from May 9 to August 1.  

Q: Can I go to the library? 

A: Inman E. Page Library is currently only open to Lincoln University students from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.  

Q:Can I still move out while campus is closed?  
A: Students still needing to remove their belongings from campus housing are still able to do so through March 29.  Residents are asked to contact staff at housing@lincolnu.edu if you need to vary from the posted schedule or are unable to travel due to restrictions in your home city or state or if you are ill or have been in the presence of someone who is ill.