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COVID-19

Status:

April 3, 2020, 8:00 p.m.
Update from President Schneider.

 

Classes resume remotely.

 

March 27, 2020, 9:00 p.m.
Update from President Schneider.

 

March 17, 2020, 7:15 p.m.
McPherson College announced today it will complete the second semester remotely using online technology beginning March 30, 2020. More details are outlined in the FAQ section below.

 

March 16, 2020, 2:18 p.m.
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced today that it is cancelling the spring 2020 sports season, effective immediately in response to the current COVID-19 situation.
Read more about the NAIA decision.

 

March 14, 2020, 5:30 p.m.
The uncertainty of this situation presents challenges and many considerations. McPherson College will make a decision by Thursday, March 19 regarding whether students will return to campus for in-person classes or complete the semester remotely using online technology. Students, families, faculty, and staff can find more information in an email dated March 14, 2020 from President Michael Schneider.

 

Message from President Michael Schneider, Prof. Becki Bowman, and our students.

 

March 13, 2020, 4 p.m.
Following the recent decision made by the KCAC, McPherson College Athletics will suspend indefinitely all athletic-related practice, travel, and competitions out of an abundance of caution due to the coronavirus. Read more about the KCAC decision.

 

March 12, 2020, 8 p.m.
McPherson College is dismissing students for the 2020 spring break one week early, beginning Monday, March 16.

 

Our highest priority at McPherson College is providing a healthy and safe campus environment for our students, faculty, staff, and guests. In addition, we are committed to all of our students completing their degrees and coursework this semester even given the challenges related to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Therefore, even though Kansas is still considered a low-risk state for the spread of the novel coronavirus, McPherson College is dismissing students for the 2020 spring break one week early, beginning Monday, March 16.

From President Schneider

Campus Message - April 3, 2020

Campus Community,

Thanks to your great work, we finished our first week of remote classes on our way to completing the second semester. There continues to be a lot of uncertainty in the world; however, it is nice to be part of a focused institution with a persistent student body.

I had the chance to meet with student leaders today via Microsoft Teams. I am impressed with their work to keep other students informed and engaged. We talked about student concerns related to finishing the semester as well as engaging students online and recognizing our senior class. I want to personally thank our Student Government Association president, Diamond Blaylock-Norris. She has shown strong leadership keeping our student organizations in place, while advising me and others on staff, during this difficult situation.

As we look to next week, students displaced from campus dorms should be receiving notices of credits toward their student accounts, and by next Friday there will be more information in the FAQ section of this page related to the CARES Act and how MC can support students. In addition, make sure to follow MC on social media as there will be a lot of activity to connect students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends.

Facebook: McPhersonCollege
Twitter: @Mac_College
Instagram: @mcphersoncollege

Finally, I heard from MC graduate Lou Schneider ’06 this week. Lou is managing over 100 physicians who are battling the COVID-19 outbreak in New Orleans. His family has a special connection to MC. When Hurricane Katrina left them homeless in August 2005, Lou’s family joined him in McPherson as classes started that fall. They lived for several months in a home owned by the college. This week Lou was reflective of his time at MC and was moved to share a few words of encouragement with our campus. I’ll share his thoughts with you Monday on social media.

Lou is one of many alumni and friends who have reached out to me over the past week. Please know that people are thinking about you and praising your good work.

Enjoy the weekend.

Michael Schneider
President, McPherson College

Campus Message - March 27, 2020

Campus Community,

Our first day of the second semester starts Monday. Although this isn’t the semester that any of us planned, here we are together at our digital devices finding a way to move forward. Most of the campus is working remotely. Leading from a laptop presents new challenges but I’m finding a new appreciation for our work and lucky to be surrounded by so many talented co-workers.

Many of you continue to have concerns and questions. I would encourage you to look for updates here. The “FAQ” at the bottom of the page provides information related to students. Congress recently passed unprecedented legislation called the CARES Act, which is a $2 trillion COVID-19 relief package. There are important allocations for higher education to support emergency aid to students. Although we don’t have enough guidance on the new bill to share specifics, we are still committed to credits for displaced students and we plan to notify those students about credits to their accounts by April 6. We are evaluating all costs associated, including the percent of interterm/spring semesters remaining, fixed costs associated with the credit as well as the timing. I also recognize others are struggling with hardships and we are working on ways to support you. We will share more details on how we can help in the next few weeks.

Students, as you sit down in front of a screen next week to start classes, know that there is a person on the other end—a person who cares and worries about you. A person who is working hard to find a way to finish the year in spite of our current situation.

Faculty, you inspired our campus the past few weeks. You stepped up and exceeded my expectations to recreate how learning will happen in courses.

Seniors, I am in awe. It was me who made the decision to upend the year. I cancelled the spring athletic seasons and end-of-year events. I moved classes online. And I asked many of you to leave campus. It was hard to share all of this with you two weeks ago when we were together in Brown Auditorium. I expected to be met with anger and resentment. However, what I found was grace. Many of you were worried about me— the guy who ruined your year. Your overwhelming support has made me better. You motivate me to find a way forward.

It isn’t what we planned but you are ready. Have a great first day of class!

Michael

FAQ:

NOTE: This is a complex, challenging, and fluid situation which continues to evolve rapidly. All information is subject to change as deemed necessary by college leadership in accordance with guidance and recommendations issued by federal, state, and local public health and government officials.

Guidance for Students (academics)
Will on-campus classes resume this semester?
Students will complete courses remotely using online technology.
What if I don't have a computer?
Students who do not have a computer or wifi should contact Carole Barr, Director of Academic Development, at barrc@mcpherson.edu. Be sure to set yourself up for success by prioritizing academics in your new environment! If you need assistance with the new process, access, etc., please reach out to the staff at in academic affairs: Carole Barr, barrc@mcpherson.edu; Linda Barrett, barrettl@mcpherson.edu; or Lisa Goering, goeringl@mcpherson.edu.
How will courses with labs, studios, performances, or other hands-on projects required for credit be completed?
Your faculty are committed to developing creative, realistic solutions for meeting all of course requirements. You will hear directly from your instructors about how to proceed.
Do I attend class during the regularly scheduled time?
A few classes may still meet virtually at the regularly scheduled time, but most will not. Each professor will give clear instructions on the expectations for class attendance and participation.
What if I have issues with Bulldog Connect?
Students who are struggling to access their online course through Bulldog Connect should contact helpdesk@mcpherson.edu. Be sure to set yourself up for success by prioritizing academics in your new environment! If you need assistance with the new process, access, etc., please reach out to the staff at in academic affairs: Carole Barr, barrc@mcpherson.edu; Linda Barrett, barrettl@mcpherson.edu; or Lisa Goering, goeringl@mcpherson.edu.
What tutoring services are available?
Tutoring services are available. Please contact Carole Barr, Director of Academic Development, at barrc@mcpherson.edu. Be sure to set yourself up for success by prioritizing academics in your new environment! If you need assistance with the new process, access, etc., please reach out to the staff at in academic affairs: Carole Barr, barrc@mcpherson.edu; Linda Barrett, barrettl@mcpherson.edu; or Lisa Goering, goeringl@mcpherson.edu.
How will I enroll for my Fall 2020 classes?
We want you to focus on finishing your courses this semester so the registrar’s office will take care of enrolling you for next fall! If questions come up, we will certainly reach out to you by phone or email. Students will be notified once they have been enrolled to view their schedule in Bulldog Connect by selecting the Fall 2020 semester. Your enrollment will also be coordinated with your online touchpoint person (Carole Barr, Linda Barrett, or Lisa Goering) to let them know when you are enrolled. Once you return to campus, you will work with your advisor to enroll for Interterm and Spring 2021.
Will the library remain open?
The library building is closed through the rest of the semester. Librarians are still available to help with research needs, and can be contacted at library@mcpherson.edu or 620-242-0487. Visit the Online Catalog to access off-campus links to the library’s 100,000+ eBooks and Online Journals. A chat service will also be available on the Online Catalog M-F, 10a-4p. Materials borrowed from Miller Library are now due back on 5/25/2020.
Will the college hold a graduation ceremony?
The college will announce a decision about Commencement by April 24.
How will I get my diploma?
Diplomas are always mailed to home addresses about six weeks following commencement.
Guidance for Students (housing, meals, employment, campus life)
Is campus open?
Yes. While students have been asked to leave dorms, staff will continue to provide services both in-person and virtually.
Will offices remain open?
The administrative offices will be open unless the threat of COVID-19 continues to spread and it is a threat to the safety of the campus. At that time, employees may work from home.
When can students come get personal belongings from resident halls?
Once it is safe for students to return to campus to collect the items they have stored in their residence hall rooms an email will be sent with directions as to how to collect these items. Arrangements can be made by contacting Danielle Sutter (sutterd@mcpherson.edu) or Jamie Pjesky (pjeskyj@mcpherson.edu) in the Office of Student Affairs.
Is there help for travel expenses?
Students needing assistance should contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Will students be reimbursed for room and board?
Students displaced from dorms (Metzler, Morrison, Dotzour, Bittinger) will receive an adjustment to their account beginning on April 6. The process and amount of credit was outlined in an email and letter that was sent to students on April 6.
Will I get a refund if I live in campus housing other than Dotzour, Metlzer, Bittinger, or Morrison?
Students in campus apartments (Baer, Harter, Lakeside Towers, Tara Nova, Deerfield) and other McPherson College housing who have not been asked to vacate, will not receive a credit for room and board.
Is tuition being refunded?
Tuiton is not being refunded as students will be finishing the academic year.
Is there an emergency fund?
Students in need of emergency assistance should contact the Office of Student Affairs.
What will happen to my sports eligibility?
No spring sport student-athlete will be charged a season of competition. Any spring sport student-athlete who was enrolled full-time in 2020 will be awarded two additional semester terms of attendance or the equivalent, according to a statement released by the NAIA.
Will resident halls be closed for the remainder of the semester?
We will make available limited housing and dining services for those who are unable to leave campus.
What if I can’t go home now?
Students who are unable to go home are allowed to stay in the residence halls. These students need to coordinate with the Office of Student Affairs by contacting Danielle Sutter (sutterd@mcpherson.edu) or Jamie Pjesky (pjeskyj@mcpherson.edu). However, students staying in the residents halls are not allowed to travel outside of McPherson County.
Will packages and mail be forwarded from school to home?
Please complete the form found at https://mcstudentlife.formstack.com/forms/forwarding_addresses to submit the address you would like to have your mail forwarded to. All USPS mail and packages will be forwarded. We are unable to forward UPS or FedEx packages.
If I live on campus where can I eat?
The dining hall will remain open for brunch hours Monday-Sunday 11:30 AM-1:00 PM and 5:00-6:30 PM. The food, single use utensils, plates, cups, napkins, and condiments are no longer self-serve and will be served by cafeteria staff (new cups will be used for refills). Students are also reminded to practice social distancing (maintaining a 6-foot distance from others if possible.)
What steps are McPherson College taking during meals to protect student safety against COVID-19?
  • Students are instructed about any new policies or procedures and asked to use hand sanitizer before entering the dining hall.
  • Cafeteria staff monitor students during check in and ensure there are no more than 40 patrons total at any time in the cafeteria.
  • Food, single use utensils, plates, cups, napkins, and condiments are no longer self-serve and are served by cafeteria staff (new cups will be used for refills).
  • Students are asked to touch only the chair they sit in and get assistance when needing additional service (i.e. microwave, blender, etc.).
  • Students are also reminded to practice social distancing (maintaining a six-foot distance from others if possible).
  • Cafeteria staff presence has also been increased in the dining hall to aid in disinfecting the areas in use and assist students with their needs in navigating all of changes during meal times.

If the COVID-19 situation progresses, cafeteria staff are prepared to move toward a to-go service only and provide delivered meals if a quarantine situation were to occur.  All cafeteria staff are frequently reminded that if they are symptomatic in any way, they are asked to go/stay home for everyone’s safety.  Please note during this time the cafeteria will only serve students and essential staff, no public or non-essential staff will be served.

If I am in town with a meal plan, can I still eat on campus?
Yes, students living in town will still be able to eat on campus. The dining hall will remain open for brunch hours Monday-Sunday 11:30 AM-1:00 PM and 5:00-6:30 PM. The food, single use utensils, plates, cups, napkins, and condiments are no longer self-serve and will be served by cafeteria staff (new cups will be used for refills). Students are also reminded to practice social distancing (maintaining a 6-foot distance from others if possible.)
Will I be allowed to come back if I visit home for spring break?
Students living in the residence halls who travel outside of McPherson County will not be permitted to return to campus. This includes residence halls and dining facilities. Students who do not live in residence halls but have meal plans and travel outside of McPherson County must self-quarantine for two weeks before returning to the dining facilities. Food service will deliver meals to those students during that time. Any student traveling outside of McPherson County must contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Can students leave their car on campus?
Students may make arrangements to leave their car on campus and make arrangements to pick up their belongings at a later date. Students should coorindate with the Office of Student Affairs.
Will my access card be turned off after I temporarily check-out?
Once you have left campus, your access card will be shut off. This will prevent access to those who are not approved to be in the residence halls. When you return to campus students should contact the Office of Student Affairs to have their access reactivated.
What services are available to me if I am still on-campus?
For those students who remain in campus housing, dining services will provide modified meals.
Is the campus health clinic open?
Yes. The clinic has a separate waiting area available for people who have symptoms including a fever, and ask that if you are not feeling well, please call the campus health clinic at (620) 242-0404. Office visits are free to full-time students.
Are mental health services available to students?
Yes. The counselors at Client Centered Counseling are still available, either in person or remotely, to students, faculty and staff of McPherson College. Please call (620) 241-2300 to make an appointment and mention you are a McPherson College student. Services are free to students.
Will the campus store remain open?
The campus store will be open Monday-Friday from 9:30 AM-Noon.
Can I use the gym or other workout facilities?
At this time campus facilities will not be accessible to students.
Is the CARS Car show cancelled?
Due to circumstances surrounding the coronavirus, the McPherson College C.A.R.S. Club has announced the cancellation of its 2020 car show scheduled for May 1-2. Pre-registrations for this year’s show will be retained and registered for the 2021 event.
How can I secure housing for next semester?
Students can complete the 2020-21 Housing Application found at https://mcstudentlife.formstack.com/forms/returning_student_housing_application
Guidance for Families
Will on-campus class resume this semester?
Students will complete courses remotely using online technology.
What if I don't have a computer?
Students who do not have a computer or wifi should contact Carole Barr, Director of Academic Development, at barrc@mcpherson.edu.
When I left for Spring Break, I didn't take everything from my room, how and when will I be able to get my things?
Students may make arrangements to leave their items in their residence hall and make arrangements to pick up their belongings at a later date. Students should coorindate with the Office of Student Affairs.
Is campus open?
Yes. While students have been asked to leave dorms, staff will continue to provide services both in-person and virtually.
Will offices remain open?
The administrative offices will be open unless the threat of COVID-19 continues to spread and it is a threat to the safety of the campus. At that time, employees may work from home.
When can students come get personal belongings from resident halls?
Once it is safe for students to return to campus to collect the items they have stored in their residence hall rooms an email will be sent with directions as to how to collect these items. Arrangements can be made by contacting Danielle Sutter (sutterd@mcpherson.edu) or Jamie Pjesky (pjeskyj@mcpherson.edu) in the Office of Student Affairs.
Is there help for travel expenses?
Students needing assistance should contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Will students be reimbursed for room and board?
Students displaced from dorms (Metzler, Morrison, Dotzour, Bittinger) will receive an adjustment to their account beginning on April 6. The process and amount of credit was outlined in an email and letter that was sent to students on April 6.
Will I get a refund if I live in campus housing other than Dotzour, Metlzer, Bittinger, or Morrison?
Students in campus apartments (Baer, Harter, Lakeside Towers, Tara Nova, Deerfield) and other McPherson College housing who have not been asked to vacate, will not receive a credit for room and board.
Is tuition being refunded?
Tuiton is not being refunded as students will be finishing the academic year.
Is there an emergency fund?
Students in need of emergency assistance should contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Will the college hold a graduation ceremony?
The college will announce a decision about Commencement by April 24.
What will happen to my sports eligibility?
No spring sport student-athlete will be charged a season of competition. Any spring sport student-athlete who was enrolled full-time in 2020 will be awarded two additional semester terms of attendance or the equivalent, according to a statement released by the NAIA.
Is the CARS Car show cancelled?
Due to circumstances surrounding the coronavirus, the McPherson College C.A.R.S. Club has announced the cancellation of its 2020 car show scheduled for May 1-2. Pre-registrations for this year’s show will be retained and registered for the 2021 event.
Guidance for Prospective Students
Can I visit campus?
In-person campus visits are suspended at this time. Prospective students will be able to sign up for a virtual tour in the coming days.
Are enrollment/orientation days cancelled?
We will be moving our enrollment/oriention days to an online format. Students will receive information on how to enroll in classes for fall 2020.
Are you still doing Presidential Scholarship Days?
Since group visits are suspended we will be hosting the last Presidential Scholarship Day online. Students who are signed up for this event will receive notification on how this will take place.
When will I find out if I've been accepted?
The offices of admissions and financial aid are committed to timely communication. This includes communication about acceptance, visit days, enrollment and next steps.

 

Have a question not answered in the FAQ?

ask@mcpherson.edu

Staying Healthy:

Follow these guidelines to limit exposure to COVID-19:

  • 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.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home if/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.
  • Avoid sharing personal household items
  • Practice social distancing

Resources: