Coronavirus Updates

January 6, 2022

To Caldwell University Students,

Due to the increased transmission of COVID-19 in the region, the continued spread of the Delta and Omicron variants across the globe, and the CDC having approved COVID-19 booster shots for everyone ages 16 and older, Caldwell University has decided to require all members of the campus community to receive a COVID-19 booster if eligible no later than January 31, 2022. According to our records, this deadline is six months from when most students were fully vaccinated, making most individuals eligible for their boosters within this window. The University will work directly with those who are not yet eligible for their booster by January 31. 

Booster shots will be made available on campus in January. Additional information will follow.

The decision to require booster shots was made based on a review of recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as state and local health officials.  The University reserves the right to update or amend this policy as needed in the interest of health and safety for our campus community, to respond to recommendations by the CDC as appropriate, and to comply with federal, state, and local health regulations. 

Those who have not yet received a booster may schedule an appointment by visiting the state of NJ vaccine finder or Essex County vaccine finder. 

If you are currently eligible for your booster or have already received your booster, please upload your card into Medicat.

To upload your card to the secure Medicat database, please follow these instructions: 

          In Cougar Apps, choose the Health Services Portal

•    Enter your Caldwell University user ID and password
•    Click on the upload tab at the top of the page
•    Choose “Booster COVID Student” from the dropdown box
•    Select file and upload a picture of the front of your vaccine card

  Another way to access the Health Services Portal is:  https://caldwell.medicatconnect.com

If you received approval for an exemption from the COVID vaccine requirement, the exemption will remain in place for the spring ’22 semester.  You must continue to follow the testing protocol outlined in a separate email.

You did a great job in the fall! Let’s come together and live our core values of Respect, Integrity, Community, and Excellence. We’ll get through this challenge smartly, safely, and by working together to keep each other safe! 

Thank you for your continued commitment to keeping our campus healthy, safe, and vibrant. 

Sincerely, 

The Return to Campus Task Force 

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020, Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA), Public Law 116-260, signed into law on Dec. 27, 2020 and the American Rescue Plan (ARP). Public Law 117-2. signed into law on March 11. 2021. 

As of December 2021, Caldwell received $11,561,052 in HEERF I, II, and III funds since March 2020: $4,854,137 for student aid, $6,005,796 for institutional aid and $701,119 for the MSI portion. 

As of January 1, 2022, $2,748,120 in HEERF III funds was distributed to 2,075 students. All eligible students enrolled in Fall 2021 were given an award of either $2,200 (students with EFC between $0-999 – 660 recipients), $1,500 (EFC of $1,000-4,999 – 255 recipients), $1,200 (EFC of $5,000-$14,999 -295 recipients), or $600 (EFC of $15,000+/Non-Filers – 864 recipients). Distribution amounts were determined by the expected family contribution (EFC) range based on students’ FAFSA filings. Remaining funds will be disbursed on a need basis based on extenuating circumstances as identified by the University. To date, $4,702,374.46 has been awarded to 2,951 students since March 2020. 

The attached spreadsheet shows that Caldwell University did not spend any HEERF Institutional Portion and MSI Institutional Grant funding during the period from September through December 31, 2021. Caldwell University anticipates spending down a majority of the remaining funds in January 2022. [Please note that the university did not receive any funding under 18004(a)(3).] 

Any questions about this report can be addressed by Patricia Levins, Grant Director at 973-618-3604. 

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020, Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA), Public Law 116-260, signed into law on December 27, 2020 and the American Rescue Plan (ARP), Public Law 117-2, signed into law on March 11, 2021. 

As of September 30, 2021, Caldwell University has been awarded $11,561,052 in total HEERF funding since March 2020: $4,854,137 for student aid, $6,005,796 for institutional aid and $701,119 for the MSI portion. 

Regarding the disbursement of emergency grants to students in 3rd quarter, $2,739,270.46 of the more recent HEERF III funds was awarded to 2,074 eligible students. All eligible students enrolled in Fall 2021 were given an award of either $2,200 (students with expected family contribution (EFC) between $0-999 = 660 recipients]; $1,500 (EFC of $1,000-4,999 = 255 recipients); $1,200 (EFC of $5,000-$14,999 = 295 recipients); or $600 (EFC of $15,000+/non filers = 864 recipients). No application was used for this disbursement round; distribution amounts were determined by the EFC range based on students’ Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) filings. 

Remaining funds will be disbursed on a need basis due to student’s extenuating circumstances as identified by the university going forward. To date, $4,693,524.46 has been awarded to 2,950 students since March 2020. 

y was allocated an additional $2,821,588 in HERRF III institutional funds in May 2021; in August 2021, $1,022,158 was used to replace lost revenues. The university was also allocated a new HERRF III institutional award of $349,619 for Minority Serving Institutions in August 2021; $203,714 was spent during the quarter to replace lost revenues. 

The revised attachment demonstrates how Caldwell University spent the HEERF Institutional Portion and MSI Institutional Grant during the period from July 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021. Please note that the university did not receive any funding under 18004(a)(3). Any questions about this report can be addressed by Patricia Levins, Grant Director at 973-618 3604.

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students, 

It is thrilling to have all of you back on campus for this fall semester!  The Caldwell University campus is alive once again with bustling classrooms, students occupying our residence halls, athletic teams bringing home wins and the marching band practicing in the parking lot.  These are just a few examples of how we have seen our Cougars Come Together this fall and we are just getting started!

We hope your transition to being back on campus has been as seamless as possible. Please know that the Return to Campus Task Force (RTC) continues to work behind the scenes to discuss topics like vaccination status, transmission rates, and most importantly, your health and safety.  A vast majority of our students and employees are fully vaccinated: over 92% of our students and 95% of faculty and staff are either fully vaccinated or awaiting their second doses at this time.  We applaud your commitment to ending this pandemic!  

Thus far this semester we have experienced very few COVID cases, due in large part to your compliance with our Covid-19 policies and procedures.  In an effort to keep the trend going, we have decided to extend the indoor mask mandate for all vaccinated and unvaccinated members of the University community until the Christmas break in December.  We will continue to monitor the data and recommendations provided by the CDC and local and state health departments and update you accordingly.

Masks and face coverings must cover the nose and mouth and be in compliance with the CDC recommendations.  CDC: Your Guide to Masks

Let’s make the rest of the semester, the best of the semester!

Sincerely, 

The Return to Campus Task Force

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020, Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA), Public Law 116-260, signed into law on December 27, 2020 and the American Rescue Plan (ARP), Public Law 117-2, signed into law on March 11, 2021. 

Caldwell University was authorized $2,170,144 in HEERF II institutional funds in January 2021 and $2,821,588 in HERRF III institutional funds in May 2021. The entirety of the January allocation (HEERF II) was spent in April 2021 to replace lost revenues. None of the May award (HEERF III) was spent during this quarter.

Caldwell University was also allocated a HERRF II award of $203,714 for Minority Serving Institutions in May 2021; none of that award was spent during this quarter.

The attachment demonstrates how Caldwell University spent the HEERF Institutional Grant and MSI Institutional Grant during the period from April 1, 2021 through June 30, 2021. Please note that the university did not receive any funding under 18004(a)(3).

Any questions about this report can be addressed by Patricia Levins, Grant Director at 973-618-3604.

Dear Caldwell University Students, 

Since the pandemic began, the administration, faculty, staff, and of course you, the students of Caldwell University, have worked diligently to provide a safe living and learning environment. As you have already heard me say, our plan for the fall semester is to welcome everyone back for on-campus instruction, full capacity in our residence halls, on-campus student activities, and full athletic schedules. 

In order to minimize the transmission of COVID-19 and outbreaks among the campus community and to promote the public health of the campus consistent with recently released guidance from the CDC for institutions of higher education, we are announcing that all students planning to attend Caldwell University for the fall semester must receive COVID-19 immunization. Exemptions will be allowed only for religious or medical reasons, or for students enrolled in fully online programs. Students must upload documentation of their completed FDA or WHO approved COVID-19 vaccination series to the Health Services Portal, by August 1st, 2021.  FAQs are available online.  Questions about the policy or your personal vaccine schedule can be sent to Student Health Services at shs@caldwell.edu. 

All individuals age 12 and older are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.To locate a vaccine facility near you, you may use either the New Jersey Vaccination Finder or the National Vaccination Finder. Many locations are now offering walk-in vaccinations without appointments. 

I strongly urge each of you to get vaccinated as soon as possible, as it will protect you, your loved ones, and our campus community. It will allow us to have the rich, engaging, on-campus learning experience that defines Caldwell University. We have done a tremendous job so far–let’s keep the momentum rolling! I truly cannot wait to see all of you here in the Fall!

Sincerely, 

Matthew Whelan, Ed.D. 

President, Caldwell University

Dear Caldwell University Community,

In only a matter of days, we will be welcoming our students and faculty back to campus to enjoy the vibrant campus environment we have missed.  The Return to Campus Taskforce (RTC) and University administration have been doing everything possible to provide a safe environment.  The RTC continues to monitor the guidance and information from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), and other state and federal agencies relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

As we have all seen, the Delta variant has surged in our state and in our nation.  On July 27, 2021, the CDC announced new recommendations that vaccinated and unvaccinated people should wear masks in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmissibility. On July 28th, Governor Murphy and Health Commissioner Persichilli made an announcement urging residents and visitors to follow these recommendations in New Jersey.  The CDC also asks us to consider wearing masks in crowded outdoor settings in areas with high numbers of COVID cases and for activities with others who are not fully vaccinated.  As of this writing, according to the CDC, all of New Jersey is in the high transmission category.  As the semester begins and the population of our campus increases in density, we are announcing a mandatory mask policy for all faculty, staff, students and visitors effective Wednesday, August 25, 2021.  The policy will remain in effect at least through September 30th.  We will update the campus community as we continue to review the data and the guidance.

Our policy is as follows:

• Masks must be worn indoors at all times unless in a private room or office or in student residential space for students who reside in that space. 
• Masks may be removed briefly for eating or drinking except in classrooms.
• Masks must be worn at all times inside of University vehicles.
• Masks should be worn outdoors in crowded settings and when social distancing is not possible.
• Masks must cover the nose and the mouth securely.
• Employees who have a medical reason not to wear a mask must request an accommodation from Human Resources.
• Students who have a medical reason not to wear a mask must request an accommodation through the Office of Accessibility Service (OAS). 
• Multi-layer, cloth masks are preferable.  CDC Guide to Masks.
• Hosts of approved outside visitors are responsible for enforcing the mask policy with their guests.

Anyone who believes that they have witnessed a case of non-compliance with this policy may report it to COVID-19 Incident Report Form.  All reports will be investigated.

We are very optimistic that the combination of mandatory vaccinations and the wearing of masks will enable us to get as close to “back to normal” as possible this fall.  Your cooperation in getting vaccinated is greatly appreciated.  As Pope Francis said on August 18th;  “getting vaccinated is an act of love.”  

Thank you for your anticipated cooperation in wearing your masks and showing the love!

The Return to Campus Taskforce

The policy statements and requirements put in place in Fall 2020 for undergraduate and graduate internships will remain in effect. Students completing in-person, on-site internships or other clinical experiences should work with their site supervisors to complete the attached written assurance of compliance form. Graduate students pursuing in-person clinical experiences (practicum and internships) with the School of Psychology and Counseling must also complete the attached assumption of risk form. 

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020, Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA), Public Law 116-260, signed into law on Dec. 27, 2020 and the American Rescue Plan (ARP), Public Law 117-2, signed into law on March 11, 2021.  Caldwell received $10,926,998 in HEERF I,  II, and III funds and will disburse at least $4,921,202 to students in emergency grants.  

As of June 30, 2021 $1,953,954  has been distributed to eligible students.  
There were 2956 estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

2,474 students have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant.

For the initial distribution, all eligible students enrolled in Spring 2020 were given $500 followed by several rounds of applications for emergency grants.  In alignment with Federal recommendations, Caldwell has developed a rubric to help evaluate who is in most need and help determine how to distribute the funds. Students will self-disclose their “need” by answering a series of questions: 

• Current Housing Location
• Expenses Incurred as a result of COVID-19 
• Estimated costs and details of expenses  

The application and communication can be found here.

Then in Spring 2021 all eligible students were offered various levels of grants ranging from $200-$1,000 depending on their level of financial need. 

To All Students, Staff, and Faculty:

As we have recently noted, the Return to Campus Task Force, along with the Cabinet and other campus leaders, have continually monitored guidance from the state and CDC in order to update our on-campus COVID policies. 

Last week Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 242 which lifted a significant number of the COVID-19 restrictions currently in place. This is the most significant step to date in the reopening of the state. Included in Executive Order 242 was the elimination of the indoor mask mandate and relaxation of certain social distancing requirements. With this, we wanted to let the campus community know that fully vaccinated individuals will no longer be required to wear masks indoors. A fully vaccinated individual may choose to continue to wear a mask and we ask others to respect their choice to do so. Those who are not fully vaccinated should continue to wear masks. 

This is another significant step in the reopening of our state, as well as another strong signal that we continue to be on a path to a full reopening of Caldwell University this fall. We cannot wait to see campus bursting with activity this fall. We plan to return with full residence halls, classrooms, and certainly full hearts, thankful the journey is coming to an end. We will continue to plan for a full restart this fall to enable the full Caldwell experience together. 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of the RTC.  We will continue to keep you updated as the governor relaxes additional protocols. Stay well, and remember, the best way to keep our campus community safe is for everyone who can get vaccinated to get vaccinated!

The Return to Campus Task Force (RTC)

To All Students, Staff, and Faculty:

In light of the ever-changing environment in which we find ourselves, the Return to Campus (RTC) Task Force is currently reviewing and updating Caldwell’s on-campus COVID policies and guidance as we continue our progress towards what we expect to be a normal fall semester. 

With Governor Murphy recently signing Executive Order 245 which eliminates the outdoor mask mandate in the state of New Jersey, we wanted to let the campus community know that effective May 21, 2021 people on the Caldwell University campus will no longer be required to wear masks outdoors.

Individuals may choose to continue to wear masks outdoors and we ask others to respect their choice to do so. Masks will still be required indoors.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of the RTC.  We will continue to keep you updated as the governor relaxes additional protocols. Stay well, and remember, the best way to keep our campus community safe is for everyone who can get vaccinated to get vaccinated!

The Return to Campus Task Force (RTC)

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020 and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA), Public Law 116-260, signed into law on Dec. 27, 2020..  Caldwell received $5,212,247 in HEERF I and II funds and will disburse at least $2,028,039  to students in emergency grants.  

As of March 31, 2021 $961,854 has been distributed to eligible students.  
There were 2,351 estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.

1,547  students have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students.

All eligible students enrolled in Spring 2020 were given $500 followed by several rounds of applications for emergency grants.  In alignment with Federal recommendations, Caldwell has developed a rubric to help evaluate who is in most need and help determine how to distribute the funds. Students will self-disclose their “need” by answering a series of questions: 

• Current Housing Location
• Expenses Incurred as a result of COVID-19 
• Estimated costs and details of expenses  

The application and communication can be found here.

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020, Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (CRRSAA), Public Law 116-260, signed into law on December 27, 2020.

Caldwell University was granted a supplemental HERRF I institutional award of $1,233 in December 2020 in connection with Minority Serving Institutions that was spent in January 2021 to replace lost revenues.

The attachment demonstrates how Caldwell University spent the HEERF Institutional Portion and MSI Institutional Grant during the period from January 1, 2020 through March 30, 2021. Please note that the university did not receive any funding under 18004(a)(3).

Any questions about this report can be addressed by Patricia Levins, Grant Director at 973-618-3604.

To The Caldwell University Community: 

One year ago, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted life as we knew it. Stay-at-home orders, quarantines, and the transition from on-campus classes to remote learning were implemented  to combat the spread of COVID-19. I was humbled as I watched Caldwell University’s faculty, students, and staff demonstrate the resourcefulness, ingenuity, and commitment to our core values of Respect, Integrity, Community, and Excellence by successfully navigating the unprecedented environment with which we were faced. Thank you for your amazing efforts!

Now, a little more than one year later, we remember and pray for those students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends who have felt the devastating impact of the virus. Some have lost loved ones, others became sick, while more have felt the negative impacts of long-term social isolation. However, we are now beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We learned to cope with the virus by wearing masks, adhering to social distancing, and washing our hands. We developed increased infection controls around campus and also saw improved treatment for those afflicted with COVID-19. Additionally, three vaccines are available to help reduce transmission of the virus. There is great hope for the future.

So, today we would like to announce that Caldwell University plans to resume normal operations for the fall 2021 semester. This includes our traditional on-campus instruction, full capacity in our residence halls, on-campus student activities, and full athletic schedules as we return to a new normal.  Of course, we always remain subject to New Jersey state regulations and other regulatory advisories, but as of today we are planning for a full restart. This includes planning on-campus orientations for our new students throughout the summer, as well as planning for a full move-in process this fall.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to the campus community to ensure that you have the latest information available with regard to fall plans, so please continually check your Caldwell email for the latest updates.  Please continue to be vigilant in wearing masks, social distancing, washing your hands, and complying with contact tracing protocols. Additionally, as more vaccine appointments are made available, we strongly encourage you to get vaccinated when you become eligible.

As you can imagine, my first year as president of Caldwell University has been anything but normal, but please know that I remain optimistic about Caldwell’s capacity to thrive through the pandemic. I am eager to welcome you back to campus, sit with you in the dining hall, listen to a speaker in the Alumni Theatre, cheer on the Cougars, or just have a quick chat on campus to catch up. As Catherine of Siena has said “Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring.” We have certainly endured through this pandemic; I am optimistic for what the future holds. We will keep you posted and look forward to seeing you on campus this fall.

Sincerely, 

Matthew Whelan, Ed.D.

President

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020.  Caldwell received $2,028,129,in CARES funds and will disburse 50% ($1,014,064) to students in emergency grants.  

As of December 31, 2020 $961,854 has been distributed to eligible students.  
There were 2,351 estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
1,547  students have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.

All eligible students enrolled in Spring 2020 were given $500 followed by several rounds of applications for emergency grants.  In alignment with Federal recommendations, Caldwell has developed a rubric to help evaluate who is in most need and help determine how to distribute the funds. Students will self-disclose their “need” by answering a series of questions: 

• Current Housing Location
• Expenses Incurred as a result of COVID-19 
• Estimated costs and details of expenses  

The application and communication can be found here.

In the 4^th quarter of 2020, an additional $89,212.16 was disbursed to eligible students under section 18004(a)(1) funding.  A grand total of $960,353.70 has been applied since March 2020.

On December 20, 2020, Caldwell University was notified that it would receive an additional $1,233 of funding under section 18004(a)(2) as part of the minority serving institutions grant.

The policy statements and requirements put in place for Fall 2020 internships and clinicals will remain in place through Spring 2021. Please see the policy and documentation requirements below, in the 8/21/2020 update.

The attachment shows how Caldwell University (CU) spent the CARES Act Section 18004(a)(1) Institutional Portion (grant of $1,014,064) and the 10884(a)(2) Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) Portion (grant of $146,553) from March 30, 2020 through September 30, 2020. It should be noted that this does not address any Student Aid funded under 18004(a(1) that has been described in other sections of this Coronavirus-Update webpage. Also, CU did not receive any funding under 18004(a((3).

Any questions about this report can be addressed by Patricia Levins, Grants Director at 973-618-3604.

View the quarterly budget and expenditure report (PDF).

The Pass/Fail policy put in place during the spring 2020 semester will remain in place for Fall 2020 with one modification: students will be allowed to declare their intent to file for a P/LP/F up to one week after their final grade has been posted. To elect the Pass/Fail option, students complete the online Pass/Fail form available on the Students section on the portal.

To date, a total of $871,141.54 has been disbursed to eligible students. A final round of CARES Act applications will be opened to eligible students in October 2020. Applications will be due by the end of October with plans to disburse funds prior to Thanksgiving.

In a video message to the Caldwell University community, President Matthew Whelan and Sister Kathleen Tuite, vice president for student life, thank the members of the university community for their efforts to remain compliant to stem the tide of COVID-19. They remind everyone to “keep it up” and focus on their academics, their physical well-being and staying safe from COVID-19 by washing their hands, wearing their masks and staying socially distant. “And we’ll beat this thing,” said Dr. Whelan. “CU Strong!” said Sister Kathleen.

Caldwell University President Matthew Whelan and Coop the Cougar, Caldwell’s mascot, kick-off the semester urging the CU family to take personal responsibility to help keep the campus community safe from the coronavirus. 

In a video message with Coop, Dr. Whelan urges everyone to come with them on a “90-day journey” until Thanksgiving (marking the end of in-person instruction) by applying the university’s four core values of respect, integrity, community and excellence to everything they do on campus.  

Respect.- “We need your help,” says Dr. Whelan.  “Respect yourselves and others. Wear your masks. Keep your distance.” 

Integrity –   “The integrity to follow the protocols and wash your hands, or paws, when we need to do so we can avoid the spread of COVID-19,” says President Whelan.   

Community –  The “understanding that we all belong to this community.  We care about you as individuals and we all should care about our community, both on campus and off campus.”

Excellence –  “The excellence to show the world that Caldwell University can come through this process and come out the other side in a better place for all of us.”

Dr. Whelan closes the video out out by once again encouraging  Caldwell Cougars to “join us on our 90-day journey, and we’ll see you at Thanksgiving as we’ve come successfully through this effort.   Be safe. Stay healthy. And go Cougars!”

Video of President Whelan

Dear Students,

Welcome to the Fall 2020 semester!  I hope that the last few months have found you and your loved ones safe and that you were able to find some time to enjoy the beautiful weather recently.  As a newcomer to Caldwell, I want you to know that I am honored and humbled to serve as President of Caldwell University and am proud to have each of you be a member of the Caldwell family.

As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic has completely altered our daily lives.  Last semester ended with the switch to remote status in accordance with Governor Murphy’s executive order in an effort to reduce the spread of the virus. The faculty, staff and administration worked hard all summer to prepare the campus for your safe return.  Recently, Governor Murphy signed another executive order clearing colleges and universities to reopen for in-person instruction, dining and residence hall occupancy with proper protocols in place. However, I am sure you have by now heard of other universities that have welcomed students back to campus and have already made the difficult decision to revert to remote status.  In each of these cases, the leading cause of the need to halt in-person instruction may be tied to the lack of student compliance with the safety protocols and guidelines.

This cannot be the story for Caldwell University.  I believe you are better than that and I want you to succeed. Remember, our history is rich with success: our very founding in 1939, our innovative academic offerings, our excellent athletic programs and our rise in rankings throughout the years.  Since day one, we have been a shining example of an institution of higher education that gets it right.  We have done this by adhering to our mission, honoring our traditions, and holding our values of Respect, Integrity, Community and Excellence in the highest regard.

Now, more than ever, we must keep that awareness at the forefront of our actions; we must respect ourselves and one another by keeping our distance and wearing face coverings, we must treat our relationships with integrity by refraining from activities that promote the spread of COVID-19, we must think of all of those in our communities who will benefit from our success, and we must be sure that Caldwell University continues on its path of excellence by complying with the health protocols and guidelines in place.  We cannot be the next story of a university that returns to remote learning because of a lack of consideration for our community – that is not who we are, that is not Caldwell University.

Here is who we are: we are a successful institution of higher education with a rich 80-plus year history.  We are strong.  We are resilient.  We are compassionate and empathetic.  There are just 90 days separating us from Thanksgiving and the end of in-person instruction for the Fall semester.  This is our 90-day journey! Let us show the world just how empathetic, compassionate, resilient, and strong we are by crafting our own ending…let’s not be just another institution on the list of those that opened and then had to switch back to remote status. Let’s be the success story.  Let’s show the world that at Caldwell University we respect one another, we have integrity, we care about our community, and yes, we are an excellent University and, above all, a family.  We can get this right – but we need your help, so please play your part in keeping Caldwell University COVID-19 free for the fall semester.

I thank you for choosing to be part of the Caldwell University family, and wish you a wonderful and prosperous semester. I’ll see you on campus…wearing a mask of course!

Sincerely,

Matthew Whelan, Ed.D.
President, Caldwell University

Undergraduates:

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions on workplaces recommended and/or mandated by state and federal government, Caldwell University students seeking internships for academic credit for Fall 2020 are encouraged to work remotely.

If a student wishes to complete an internship on-site, the student and their employer must provide documentation of the processes and procedures in place to maintain a safe working environment to align with the guidelines of the local and state government and recommendations from the CDC in effect at the time of placement. The employer will also be asked to complete an “assurance of compliance” form.

Graduate Students:

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions on workplaces recommended and/or mandated by state and federal governments, Caldwell University graduate students who take classes that require a clinical component are encouraged to seek clinical placements which permit the clinical experiences to be completed remotely in Fall 2020 semester.

Any student who wishes to complete an on-site clinical experience must work with the site and provide to the Chair/Associate Dean of the Department/School the written assurances that the site will maintain a safe working environment, in accordance with applicable governmental requirements and CDC recommendations. The written assurance of compliance should be documented using the attached form.

As of July 16th, an additional round of funds were disbursed to eligible students who applied for additional funding. Amounts disbursed varied based on individual applications with a maximum possible allocation of $1500. Funds were disbursed to 139 students totaling $141,641.54. To date, a total of $871,141.54 has been disbursed to eligible students. Another round of applications will be opened in the Fall 2020 semester.

Dear Cougars, 

On Monday of this week, we announced that Caldwell University would open under Stage 2 of our institutional restart plan as it did not appear imminent that the State of New Jersey would move to Stage 3 of its Restart Plan. However, Wednesday afternoon at his press conference, Governor Murphy suddenly and unexpectedly announced he would be …”signing an executive order allowing colleges and universities to reopen this fall with in-person instruction, as long as social distancing and other protections are adhered to.”  Yesterday, he signed Executive Order 175 which allows for colleges and universities to resume in-person instruction, not previously permitted under Executive Order 155, and also allows colleges and universities to open dining halls to students and employees. Residence halls will also open with reduced occupancy.

We will continue working with the faculty to finalize which courses will be offered on campus. However, students who wish to take some or all of their classes remotely will still be able to do so. Additionally, residence life staff are continuing their work to accommodate room assignments for those requiring them due to their geographic distance from campus, housing, food, or internet insecurity or other qualifying issues. The dining hall will also be open this fall for in-person dining, subject to state regulations including capacity restrictions, social distancing protocols and proper sanitizing techniques, among others. We have implemented a reservation system to assist students with this. More information is forthcoming on these efforts.

The key to managing through this pandemic and its impact on Caldwell University has been, and will continue to be, flexibility. Our plans have been designed to allow us to pivot quickly as the situation changes. This very recent development was frankly not something anyone in the higher education community in New Jersey anticipated this week, but it does allow us to reopen campus with safety precautions in place, while offering more flexibility to our students to learn in their preferred environment. We will continue to monitor announcements by the state and other officials to determine how we can best serve our community safely and adjust our plans accordingly.  

We will continue to issue important communications like this to your Caldwell email as well as the coronavirus update page.  Additional information will be coming to all campus constituencies  about the impact of these changes, so please be vigilant in checking your Caldwell University email to stay up to date with any changes. We will work expeditiously to get you information about any changes to instruction, residency and other campus operations as soon as possible.

Sincerely, 

Matthew Whelan, Ed.D.
President

Academic Information: 

The majority of our courses in Stage 2 will be delivered remotely except for courses that are labs, clinical requirements, technical, and hands-on in nature, and these classes may have remote components as well. Our faculty and academic affairs team have been working throughout the past several months to prepare for this contingency and to ensure continued excellence in instruction. To confirm which of your courses has been designated as remote versus on-campus, login to your MyCaldwell Portal to check your course schedule for the appropriate designations. Courses assigned as ‘Remote’ or ‘Online’ will be designated as such while courses that show a room assignment will be held at least in part, on campus. 

If you have already communicated that you would like to take all of your courses remotely, this will continue to be the case, even if one of your courses shows on your schedule as being offered on campus. If you intended to take some of your classes on campus and are scheduled for an on-campus course, but now prefer to take all of your classes remotely, please email registrar@caldwell.edu.

On-Campus Residence Information 

Currently, the State of New Jersey remains in Stage 2 of Governor Murphy’s Restart Plan. Therefore, as we start the fall semester, capacity in the residence halls must be limited to incoming freshmen and other cohorts defined by the Restart Standards as students with special housing needs.  

Elements of the Stage 2 Residence Life Plan:  

• Approximately one-half of our designed room capacity will be held for residential students.
• Residents will include freshmen, out-of-state students who have already completed their quarantine forms, special housing students and Residence Life staff.
• Common areas/lounges in the residence halls will not be opened per Stage 2 restrictions.
• There will be reduced occupancy in individual rooms, where possible.
• Dedicated quarantine and isolation space will be reserved.
• If at any time resident students are suspected of having COVID-19 or have been notified they were in direct contact with someone who has tested positive, they will be asked to quarantine or isolate at home. At the discretion of the University, isolation or quarantine arrangements may be made for students who cannot travel home for this period.
• We may require tests for students who are suspected of having COVID-19. 
• There will be no guests permitted in the residence halls.
• Additional policy changes pertaining to resident students will be communicated.

Incoming freshmen who already have a housing assignment will keep their space in the residence halls but their physical assignment may change. Any freshmen currently on the waiting list will be assigned housing. The same applies for returning students from quarantine states and countries who have already completed the quarantine forms. The following students will be eligible to apply for special housing for this fall: 

• Undergraduate students currently living on campus
• International students
• Students with on-campus courses or activities 
• Students who are deemed to have an extenuating circumstance (distance, housing or food insecurities, personal hardship)

If you meet any of the above requirements and would like to live on campus this fall, please complete the Special Housing Application by Thursday, August 13, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. ET. Those who apply for housing will be notified on a rolling basis whether or not they are approved but no later than Wednesday, August 19, 2020.  All other housing assignments will be terminated on Friday, August 14, 2020. Once your assignment has been terminated it will take up to 72 hours to be reflected on your student account. For those students who have previously been a part of our vibrant residential community but can no longer be with us for the fall semester, we will create an equitable process to reapply for spring housing that will prioritize those who had housing assignments previously. While we cannot guarantee the same space or roommates, we will try our best to accommodate. 

Dining

Dining will be delivered in a grab-and-go model out of the Dining Hall in the Student Center. The University is working to provide covered outdoor areas where students can dine in community, subject to state limits, if the indoor dining space remains unavailable for in-person dining as it does in Stage 2.

While there are some changes in the way meals are delivered, Gourmet Dining is also working on different access options that may be available long after the pandemic is resolved, meaning that students may be able to use the mobile ordering app in the future. As has been available since our partnership began with Gourmet Dining, there will continue to be access to the nutritionist for anyone who wants assistance with planning or making healthy meal choices. Healthy, nutritious meals will be provided within the to-go options. As a reminder, all on-campus residential students are required to participate in the meal plan as per their housing contract.

Financial Information

The pandemic has devastated individual, local, state, federal, small business and corporate finances, and Caldwell has not escaped this reality. However, we have made significant investments to prepare for the coming academic year including upgrades to our core technology to allow for improvements to remote learning, new classroom equipment, and improved online tools for students, faculty and staff. We have invested in our infrastructure to create social distancing in classrooms and common areas, purchased PPE and sanitizing equipment for student, faculty, staff and administrative use as needed, scheduled additional cleanings for classrooms and common areas, and created limits of how many people can be in different spaces at one time to comply with the state orders.

Course content and learning outcomes are expected to be equivalent regardless of method of delivery. Services and activities will be provided throughout the semester, although the format of many of these will change. Programming is being planned for in-person (as allowable) and virtual settings. Students will continue to have opportunities to be involved with campus activities and leadership experiences. Our facilities will be open to the extent allowed, and alternative methods of service delivery will be offered. The potential for student learning, growth, and development is great, and like any other semester, one only has to take advantage of what is available. The University is working on a reduction to the comprehensive fee, and room and board costs for resident students, for the fall 2020 semester due to the impact of COVID-19 on impacted campus operations. More information on this is forthcoming soon.

Because we know that many families have felt an economic impact due to the current health crisis, we are announcing two options for students to receive some financial assistance based on the impact of COVID-19. First, we are pleased to announce a new “COVID-19 Cougar Emergency Financial Aid” fund, where students with demonstrated financial impact due to COVID-19 can apply for a grant to help offset direct costs (tuition, fees, room and board). Students can apply for this fund online with an application that will be sent to students later this week via Caldwell email. Additionally, eligible students will be able to apply for another round of CARES grant funding right after the start of the semester to offset other costs that are due to the disruption of campus operations. The application will be sent to students during the first week of classes. Finally, late fees on student bills will not be assessed until after the start of the fall semester.

My Fellow Cougars,

The COVID-19 pandemic, which has plagued our area since the Spring, and has spread throughout the U.S., has changed the world, our country, our state, our community and our lives forever. There is no escaping the fact that the world is a different place than it was prior to COVID-19. And while it has also changed much across the landscape of higher education– changes which may be around for some time to come– it has spurred innovation, creativity and technology solutions heretofore unexplored by some colleges and universities. 

The creative and energetic endeavors of our faculty, chairs, associate deans, students, staff and administrators allowed Caldwell to continue to do what we do best–to educate students as individuals and change students’ lives for the better! The situation we face will continue to evolve, as will we, to meet the demands of a new reality. Our teaching and learning processes have, and will continue to develop to handle COVID-19. At the center of this evolution, is the willingness of students and faculty to embrace the changes and do what is necessary to ensure educational continuity for all involved in the safest way possible.

With that, I would like to share with you Caldwell University’s Restart Plan: Cougars Come Together  which has also been submitted to the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE). This robust and thorough plan developed by our Return to Campus Task Force outlines the steps we need to take as a community to ensure we can deliver an education based on the principles of our core values, Respect, Integrity, Community, and Excellence in accordance with public health guidelines. 

Please know that Caldwell is focused on bringing you back to campus this fall, provided we remain able to do so under current state regulations outlined in the OSHE Restart Standards.  The plan details policies and procedures the university will follow based upon recommendations associated with each stage of the Restart Standards. As updates are required or promulgated by state or other agencies we will be prepared to revise the plan at a moment’s notice, make the necessary changes to campus operations and be sure that information is shared with you  

While Caldwell is prepared for an opening in Stage 3, as of today, New Jersey remains in Stage 2 of the Governor’s Restart Standards and may only return to campus classrooms for those students and faculty associated with courses meeting criteria for certain laboratory, clinical rotation, technical, and hands-on instruction or those for which a waiver has been submitted. All other courses will be expected to be delivered remotely, until such time as the state allows us to reopen in Stage 3, hopefully in the coming weeks. In addition, in both Stage 2 and 3 students can move into the residence halls. However, there are restrictions on both the number of students and the requirements for living in the dorms in both stages including fewer students being allowed in the dorm, reduced lounge usage,  mask requirements, and visitor requirements, to name but a few. As we get closer to the start of the fall semester, you will receive more information about which stage we anticipate opening in, and therefore, how courses will be offered as well as other pertinent information.  

Regardless of the stage in which we find ourselves, I wanted to introduce you briefly to some of the other changes you’ll see on campus this fall. Whether it is face coverings (mandatory for all), increased handwashing for 20 seconds while you hum your favorite tune, daily self-health self-screenings and affirmations, social distancing, and the use of barriers to ensure students, faculty and staff minimize the risk of transmitting or contracting COVID-19, our efforts to protect our community are at the center of our plans. We all know the actions of a few can impact many, so it is our shared responsibility to follow the health and safety measures of the plan. 

These changes, and others you may see, will allow us to continue to serve you within the tradition of Caldwell University and treat you as individuals, all of whom can make a positive contribution to the society in which we live.  Thank you for your patience and understanding as we address the challenges of the pandemic, while continuing to deliver the nationally recognized education for which we are known. 

Please check the coronavirus update website as well as your Caldwell email often for updates and additional information, which we will post as soon as they become available.

Sincerely, 

Matthew Whelan, Ed.D.
President

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to change and evolve.  The State of New Jersey Travel Advisory requires students who are from designated states and countries to quarantine in New Jersey. As a result, the University will require students from these affected states to quarantine off campus for 14 days prior to entering campus.  Please see below for your quarantine options. The guidance was issued due to COVID-19 outbreaks that may occur in other states and international travel advisories set by the CDC. The list is constantly changing and all community members are expected to check if they are affected.   The following states have been identified as of 7/28/2020: 

• Alabama (added 6/24/20)
• Alaska (added 7/21/20)
• Arkansas (added 6/24/20)
• Arizona (added 6/24/20)
• California (added 6/30/20)
• Delaware (re-added 7/21/20)
• District of Columbia (added 7/28/2020)
• Florida (added 6/24/20)
• Georgia (added 6/30/20)
• Illinois (added 7/28/2020)
• Iowa (added 6/30/20)
• Idaho (added 6/30/20)
• Indiana (added 7/21/20)
• Kansas (added 7/7/20)
• Kentucky (added 7/28/2020)
• Louisiana (added 6/30/20)
• Maryland (added 7/21/20)
• Minnesota (re-added 7/28/2020)
• Mississippi (added 6/30/20)
• Missouri (added 7/21/20)
• Montana (added 7/21/20)
• Nebraska (added 7/21/20)
• Nevada (added 6/30/20)
• New Mexico (added 7/14/20)
• North Carolina (added 6/24/20)
• North Dakota (added 7/21/20)
• Ohio (added 7/14/20)
• Oklahoma (added 7/7/20)
• Puerto Rico (added 7/28/2020)
• South Carolina (added 6/24/20)
• Tennessee (added 6/30/20)
• Texas (added 6/24/20)
• Utah (added 6/24/20)
• Virginia (added 7/21/20)
• Washington (added 7/21/20)
• Wisconsin (added 7/14/20)

An updated list of impacted states can be found here.

For a list of countries who fall under level 3 and 4 travel advisories, please refer to the CDC.

Quarantine Options: For On Campus Residential Students

Option A: Quarantine Off Campus in NJ Hotel at Student’s Expense 

In an effort to assist , the University has arranged for a room block with a group rate of $63.00/night plus tax. Students must make their own reservations by reserving at the link provided or by calling the hotel directly and saying that they  are with Caldwell University. The University will work to help reimburse a portion of the costs. More information about possible reimbursement will follow. Students will have to keep the hotel bill for verification and provide their plane ticket or EZ-Pass/toll receipt to verify the date they entered the state. The Hotel Information is below. 

Option B: Quarantine Off Campus: Staying with a Relative in the Area

If a student has family within NJ, the student is welcome to stay and quarantine in their family’s home. The University will need the name and address of where the student will be staying as well as supporting documentation such as a plane ticket or EZ-Pass/toll receipt documenting when the student entered the state of New Jersey.. Students can email residencelife@caldwell.edu with the name, address, and relationship to the person they will be staying with. 

Quarantine Instructions for: Commuters, staff & faculty who are traveling in to the state of NJ or have traveled to an affected area before arriving on campus

Those who are traveling into NJ or who have recently traveled, are expected to quarantine in their own space for 14 days prior to coming on campus for instruction or any other business. Documentation of travel arrangements for verification must be submitted. 

Please note** As per the state of New Jersey, anyone who is quarantining, is not permitted to host guests, or leave to visit others. Individuals in quarantine are only permitted to leave their space for essentials relating to food, doctor visits and/or medicine. Students quarantining in the hotel may have a family member that has traveled with them from home, staying in the hotel for the duration of the quarantine period. The purpose of quarantining is to monitor for any COVID-19 symptoms. If at any point during the quarantine period a student develops any symptoms the student must seek medical attention from a healthcare provider (HCP) and contact Health Services at  SHS@caldwell.edu 

Faculty or staff  who develop symptoms during the quarantining period, must seek medical attention from a healthcare provider (HCP) and contact Human Resources at mstauss@caldwell.edu 

Additionally, if the quarantine period overlaps with the beginning of class instruction remote accommodations will be made for the student to complete the quarantine period before coming to campus. 

Travel Form

Students, faculty or staff members who are planning to travel outside of the state of NJ or have done so in the past 14 days,  are required to fill out the CU Coronavirus Travel Form. Additionally, any students who do not reside in the state of NJ who are traveling into NJ to attend Caldwell University, must also fill out the travel form. 

Hotel Information

Hampton Inn & Suites Fairfield

Address: 118 US-46 East, Fairfield, NJ 07004

Phone: (973) 575-5777

Representative: Jaclyn Spoto

Email: Jaclyn.Spoto@hilton.com

To include family in the reservation, please contact Ms. Soto.  Please note students can only have 2 additional people with them helping during move in. Face coverings are required. Students cannot share a room with another Caldwell student. 

Book your hotel stay.

Caldwell University is looking forward to greeting its students on campus for the start of the fall semester contingent on the following conditions.

In accordance with the restart standards for all New Jersey institutions of higher education issued on June 18 and mandated by the state of New Jersey, Caldwell’s goal is for the campus community to return in the fall to the safest possible environment. There will be policies and procedures for sanitizing, practicing social distancing and the wearing of face masks, in accordance with regulations and evolving guidance and mandates from New Jersey government and public health officials. The university is committed to providing a safe environment for students, faculty and staff. Returning to campus will certainly be a different experience, but our community will do everything it can to ensure that students will have the excellent and engaging educational experience for which Caldwell is known.

A campuswide team is meeting on an ongoing basis to develop the specifics of our return to campus. As our new President, Dr. Matthew Whelan notes, “We are hoping and planning to see many of you here in the fall, and while the circumstances will no doubt be different, the focus on each of you as individuals will not.”

The pandemic situation is still evolving and our plan is subject to change due to mandates from local, state and federal bodies. We will continue to closely monitor all information as we approach the beginning of our academic year. Our plan is based on the assumption that New Jersey will be in Stage 3 of its recovery and restart plan at the time the semester starts. Should New Jersey remain in Stage 2 at the beginning of the semester, in order to comply with the New Jersey regulations, the vast majority of courses must be delivered remotely with the exception of some labs, technical, clinical and hands-on courses. While the plan is not finalized yet, we want to share the following key highlights for Stage 3 restart as we prepare for the beginning of the fall semester:

Academics

• With the exception of courses already designated as exclusively online, all courses will be offered with a remote option. By offering courses in this format, students will have the option to take courses on-campus or remotely throughout the semester as needed. Additionally, this will allow for a smoother transition in the event courses need to be fully remote if circumstances require. A survey will be sent to students about their individual preferences for course delivery.
• The semester will start on time, however, in order to condense the semester, classes will be held on the following dates: Monday, September 7 (Labor Day), Monday, October 12 and Tuesday, October 13 (Columbus Day) and a full day on Wednesday, November 25 (day before Thanksgiving). Caldwell Day of Service will be postponed and classes will be held that day.
• On-campus delivery of courses will end on Wednesday, November 25 and all courses will be remote from that point until the end of the fall semester, which will now end on December 12.
• Classrooms/labs/computer labs will be set up in a socially distant manner, allowing for six feet and/or partitions between students. There will be ample signage and training to help with student/faculty expectations and safety standards.

Residence Halls

• There will be a reduction of spaces in each building to reduce density, provide quarantine housing, if necessary, and to adhere to social distancing standards. We have adjusted occupancy in each bedroom to be single or double occupancy; students will sleep head to toe in double rooms.
• No commuter or outside guests will be permitted for day or overnight visitation and common areas will only be opened if social distancing can be achieved.
• Residential move-in will be by assigned appointment time, staggered across several days. While moving in, there will be a limit to the number of people who can accompany the students to ensure a socially distant environment.  More information will be provided to resident students about this process by the Office of Residence Life at a later date.

Dining Halls

• The residential continuous dining plan will transition into a block meal plan which will allow for more flexibility to choose meals.
• Eating areas will include socially distant indoor and outdoor options as the state allows. To eat indoors, a reservation system will be introduced to reserve a time slot, ensuring sanitization between services.
• ”Grab and Go” options will be available at each service and other options for meal ordering will be implemented.

Student Engagement/Clubs and Organizations

We are committed to providing a safe environment while exploring opportunities for appropriate social interaction, leadership development and events. Many of these opportunities may continue virtually or in size appropriate settings until we can facilitate larger gatherings.

Administrative Offices

• Staff will return to campus in a phased plan that will include ongoing staggered schedules to ensure social distancing.  Since many offices are too small to accommodate face to face meetings, it is likely that there will continue to be a significant amount of video conferencing and telephone engagement with constituents. Many routine transactions and services will be conducted virtually. Offices are working out individual plans that will adhere to the general policies of the university while providing the highest level of service possible.
• Administrative offices will also be open on the following dates, matching the academic calendar: Monday, September 7 (Labor Day) as well as Monday, October 12 and Tuesday, October 13 (Columbus Day). Staff required to work on these days will be given floating holidays to be used during the 2020-2021 fiscal year.
• With the exception of the changes relating to holidays in the fall semester, the administrative office calendar will continue as originally scheduled ending December 23rd, 2020 for the Christmas holidays.

Cleaning, Health and Safety

• All members of the campus community will be asked to take personal responsibility for adhering to personal hygiene protocols as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other agencies.  Handwashing, using hand sanitizer, coughing into elbows, wearing a face covering and respecting social distancing are critical elements of a plan for health and safety on campus.  Signage and training will be provided to assist everyone in complying with these requirements.
• All students, faculty, staff, and visitors will be required to wear face coverings while on campus. Exceptions will be made while eating and for resident students in their rooms. Caldwell University will be supplying an initial CU reusable mask to all faculty, staff and students. Individuals must maintain an adequate supply of personal face coverings to allow for washing and daily use.
• Enhanced cleaning protocols for all areas of the campus have been developed.  Classrooms and common spaces will be cleaned more frequently and will be clearly signed with distancing requirements.  Classrooms will be set up appropriately and supplies will be available to faculty and students for individual use between cleanings.  High touch areas such as computers labs will have specific protocols.
• Faculty, staff and students will be expected to conduct a daily self-assessment of their own health using guidelines provided by the CDC. Anyone exhibiting symptoms related to Covid-19 will be asked to stay at home and seek medical advice. These symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, new loss of taste or smell, among others. Resident students exhibiting symptoms may be asked to go into quarantine housing if they cannot return home. Contact tracing for confirmed and presumptive cases of Covid-19 will be coordinated through local health agencies with campus health officials.

As we continue to fully develop the Caldwell University Plan for Reopening in accordance with the restart standards for the state of New Jersey, we will keep you informed. These highlights offered today are to assist you in planning for the fall and will be incorporated into our full plan which will be published on the website at least 14 days prior to the start of the fall semester. Please note that these highlights may be subject to modification as the Covid-19 pandemic evolves in our state.

Thank you.

Return to Campus Task Force

Sheila O’Rourke Co-chair – Operations
Sister Kathleen Tuite, OP, Co-chair – Student Life
Kevin Boyle – Development & Alumni Affairs
Stephen Quinn – Enrollment Management and Communications
Ben Lammers – Faculty Council President
Ian White – Academic Affairs
Michelle Stauss – Human Resources
Liz Elices – Compliance and Risk Management
Cindy Striano – Health Services
Crystal Lopez – Residence Life
Heather Arabitg – Athletics
Glenn Gates – Campus Safety & Security
Ray Williams – Facilities

[/spoiler][spoiler title=”7/9/2020 – Statement To International Students – SEVP Temporary Exemptions”]

To the International Students of Caldwell University, 

On Monday, The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) announced modifications to temporary exemptions for nonimmigrant students taking online classes due to the pandemic for the fall 2020 semester. The new temporary exemptions for the fall 2020 semester include that students on F-1 visas may not take a full online course load and remain in the United States. However, nonimmigrant F1 students attending schools adopting a hybrid model, like Caldwell University is planning for the fall 2020 semester, will be allowed to take more than one class online, provided the institution certifies that the program is not fully online and the student is taking the minimum number of online courses to make normal progress to degree. This hybrid model offers you the opportunity to take classes this fall and not only remain in the United States but more importantly, continue progress towards your degree as a student at Caldwell University. 

We understand that this new policy may cause some anxiety and uncertainty for you as you plan for the fall semester. Caldwell University will remain steadfast in our support for you and will work to ensure all available paths to compliance are explored. Additionally please know that Caldwell University is working with several of our membership organizations to lobby for the relaxation of some of these new requirements during the pandemic.

As always, we remain subject to the regulations of the State of New Jersey as well as the federal government so we will continue to keep you informed as this situation progresses.  Please be sure to continue to check your Caldwell email on a regular basis. You are a valued member of the Caldwell community and we look forward to welcoming you on campus this fall. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Matthew Whelan
President, Caldwell University

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020. Caldwell received $2,028,129,in CARES funds and will disburse 50% ($1,014,064) to students in emergency grants.

Beginning on May 7th, 2020, eligible students were sent emergency grant checks in the amount of $500.00 and were additionally made aware of an application form for additional relief funds.

Emergency Financial Aid Grants Awarded

As of May 15th, 2020, 1,459 students have been sent checks totaling $729,500.

Starting May 13th, 2020, students were able to apply for additional assistance by completing the CARES Act Fund Application.

Additional student assistance will begin to be distributed during the Fall 2020 semester.

Caldwell University is committed to providing financial assistance to students in need, and all the more during the crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic. The most immediate source of grants are Federal funding, which begins with the recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Process and Evaluation

In alignment with Federal recommendations, Caldwell has developed a rubric to help evaluate who is in most need and help determine how to distribute the funds. Students will self-disclose their “need” by answering a series of questions:

• Current Housing Location
• Expenses Incurred as a result of COVID-19
• Estimated costs and details of expenses
• Eligibility

As per the federal requirements, all currently enrolled students who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizen with a valid social security number are eligible for the Higher Education Emergency Relief funding under the CARES Act. Students enrolled exclusively in an online program on or before March 13, 2020, are not eligible for this funding. International, undocumented, and DACA students are ineligible; as well as, students who are in a SAP (satisfactory academic progress) denied status, students who have not registered for Selective Service (male only), and/or students who have defaulted on federal student loans. At this point in time, funding from the CARES Act will be limited to those students who were registered for Spring 2020.

We are committed to helping you make the most of the investment you have already made in your education. We encourage you to take advantage of the support available to you as soon as possible.

If you have questions or need assistance, please caresgrants@caldwell.edu

Caldwell University signed the Funding Certification and Agreement Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act on April 14th, 2020.  Caldwell received $2,028,129,in CARES funds and will disburse 50% ($1,014,064) to students in emergency grants.  

As of May 15, 2020 $729,500 has been distributed to 1,459 eligible students.  
There were 1,459 estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
1,547 students have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.

All eligible students enrolled in Spring 2020 were given $500. 

Starting May 13th, 2020, students will be able to apply for assistance by completing the CARES Act Fund Application .

Caldwell University is committed to providing financial assistance to students in need, and all the more during the crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic. The most immediate source of grants are Federal funding, which begins with the recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Process and Evaluation

In alignment with Federal recommendations, Caldwell has developed a rubric to help evaluate who is in most need and help determine how to distribute the funds. Students will self-disclose their “need” by answering a series of questions: 

• Current Housing Location
• Expenses Incurred as a result of COVID-19 
• Estimated costs and details of expenses  

Eligibility

As per the federal requirements, all currently enrolled students who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizen with a valid social security number are eligible for the Higher Education Emergency Relief funding under the CARES Act. Students enrolled exclusively in an online program on or before March 13, 2020, are not eligible for this funding. International, undocumented, and DACA students are ineligible; as well as, students who are in a SAP (satisfactory academic progress) denied status, students who have not registered for Selective Service (male only), and/or students who have defaulted on federal student loans. At this point in time, funding from the CARES Act will be limited to those students who were registered for Spring 2020.

We are committed to helping you make the most of the investment you have already made in your education. We encourage you to take advantage of the support available to you as soon as possible.

If you have questions or need assistance, please caresgrants@caldwell.edu

Eligibility for these funds is based on federal guidelines and was not determined by Caldwell. Students must have filed a FAFSA for the 2019-2020 academic year, or have been eligible to file for that year, in order to meet requirements to receive CARES Act funds.

If you feel your incurred expenses due to the COVID-19 disruption exceed this amount, Caldwell University has created a CARES Act Fund Application. Students in need may complete and submit the form below for consideration for additional funds.  Please note, funds are limited, and amounts granted will be based on individual needs/circumstances.  Priority deadline for application submission is May 22nd, 2020.

CARES Act Fund Application

Effective April 23rd, all classes will be taught remotely through the end of the Summer 2020 session, 8/23/2020

Caldwell University has made the following temporary revisions to the Pass/Fail academic policy and for Spring 2020, for the purposes of (1) maintaining equity among students in their ability to make progress in their degree programs, (2) minimizing consequences to students experiencing unprecedented challenges, and (3) promoting additional flexibility in course design and implementation as instructors move to remote instruction. 

The conditions for taking a course pass/fail, listed in the undergraduate catalog, are suspended for the Spring 2020 semester. The following rules will also apply to all graduate courses, but any specific conditions for pass/fail grades currently listed in the graduate catalog (e. g., the School of Education policy that a grade of B or better must be earned to receive a P in a graduate class) will remain in place: 

1. I. Any student may opt to take a course pass/fail – for undergraduates, this option is no longer limited to juniors and seniors II. Any course* may be taken pass/fail – for undergraduates, this option is no longer limited to courses outside of the major or core requirements III. There is no limit on the number of courses that can be taken pass/fail in Spring 2020 IV. Students must still declare their intent to take a course pass/fail with the Registrar’s office; however, the deadline for doing so is extended until the Friday before exams (through May 1, 2020). Once the student makes the decision to take a pass/fail grade, the decision is final and the student may not change back to a letter grade. 

*Departments may have course restrictions. Students should consult with their advisor or Department Chair/Associate Dean before making decisions to switch to the Pass/Fail option. *The option to switch to pass/fail is not available to Nursing majors or any student in the process of applying for an internal transfer to the Nursing major for any of the required prerequisite courses or their Nursing major courses. For those courses, the student must still receive a letter grade in order to maintain the current School of Nursing admissions and progression standards. 

In addition, for the Spring 2020 semester only, pass/fail to grade for undergraduate courses will be altered the following way: 

P (Pass) A grade of P in a course may be used to fulfill major requirements. The faculty should assign a grade of P to students who would have received a C or better. P grades are not factored into a student’s GPA index. LP (Low Pass) A grade of LP in a course can be used to fulfill core requirements or as elective credit, but will not fulfill a major requirement. LP grades are not factored into a student’s GPA index. The faculty should assign a grade of LP to students who would have received a D or D+. F (Fail) A grade of F is factored into a student’s GPA index and carries a value of 0.0 quality points as specified in the catalog. 

For graduate courses, the pass and fail grades will be distributed the following way: 

P (Pass) A grade of P is assigned to students who would have received a B- or better. P grades are not factored into a student’s GPA index. LP (Low Pass) A grade of LP is assigned to students who would have received a C+ or lower. Students who receive a Low Pass grade will be flagged for probation purposes and, based on a program of study, may be required to repeat the course. LP grades are not factored into a student’s GPA index. F (Fail) A grade of F is factored into a student’s GPA index and carries a value of 0.0 quality points as specified in the catalog. 

Credit towards degree completion will be granted for a grade of P or LP, and no credit awarded for a failing grade. 

When students choose a P/LP/F grading option for a course, a note will appear on their transcripts to indicate the circumstances of the COVID-19 outbreak, in an effort to minimize any impact of how transcripts are viewed by other universities or potential employers.

Dear Caldwell University Community,

Due to the increased testing taking place in our area, we are receiving more information regarding positive COVID-19 diagnoses, including members of the Caldwell Community. This should not be a cause for alarm; we are sharing this information to promote transparency.

Please be assured that due to the timing in which Caldwell University transitioned to alternative learning modalities and remote work, it is unlikely that the COVID-19 virus was contracted and spread among people at the University. The Department of Health will contact you if there is any risk of exposure to a positive case, regardless of the source (at Caldwell or elsewhere).  Please also note that the University will continue to use the emergency notification system as a way to inform the campus community of an immediate threat to its members. If you are not already enrolled in the emergency notification system, please do so by enrolling online in the system.

How to Help Flatten the Curve

Please stay inside as much as possible. For an excellent guide on the importance of social distancing, please view this illustration by The Washington Post.

For continued updates, please check our CU COVID-19 webpage.

If you are a student and have questions, concerns or have tested positive for the virus, please contact: Cindy Striano – shs@caldwell.edu

If you are an employee and have questions, concerns or have tested positive for the virus, please contact: Michelle Stauss – mstauss@caldwell.edu

Our goal continues to be keeping our community safe and informed. Stay connected. Stay calm. Be well. Know we are here for you.

Sincerely,

The Pandemic Response Team

Members of the Caldwell University Community,

Yesterday morning, I wrote the message below, acknowledging the difficulties we are all facing, but attempting to rally the troops, so to speak, to persevere.  I also wanted to express appreciation for everyone’s patience as we struggle through the difficulties of daily existence in what has become ‘the new normal.’ And while that message is still true and I hope you will read it, everything changed for Caldwell late yesterday afternoon when I learned that Alexis Demby, a member of the Class of 2008, succumbed to COVID19 at the age of 34.  As I said in my message announcing her passing to the Caldwell University community last night, Alexis’ life ended far too soon, and we are shocked and saddened by her death. We send our prayers to Alexis’ family and friends as they mourn her loss. May she rest in peace.

Today, we have entered into a new era:  All instruction has moved to remote methods of delivery for the remainder of the spring semester; residence halls have been closed to all but a few students who were granted exemptions to remain, and the campus has been closed to all but designated ‘essential personnel.’  For all of us, these changes have brought anxiety and uncertainty. I want to acknowledge that many of you are feeling stressed, frustrated, or perhaps even angry at this unexpected turn of events over which none of us had any control.

In this message, however, I want to provide a promise of support to our students, faculty, and staff during this difficult time.  The administration continues to work to implement the various state executive orders and federal mandates while ensuring the continuation of our mission to provide an excellent education to our undergraduate and graduate students.  We also want to assist all of our constituents in carrying out their respective tasks remotely by providing technical assistance and regular communication that gives the latest information available on COVID19 and New Jersey’s response to this virus.  In order to avail yourselves of this information, please regularly check your Caldwell email account, look at our website or go onto the portal for updates.

I am so grateful for all of the faculty and staff who have shown tremendous creativity and resilience in transferring their face-to-face instruction and daily tasks to remote alternatives.  I am also grateful for our students who have been patient and understanding while the campus prepared for these transitions. Working together, we have created an alternative that meets all state regulations and allows for the spring semester courses to continue.  At the same time, I share the disappointment expressed particularly by students that many spring activities and events have had to be canceled or postponed, including commencement. Please know that we will do everything possible to ensure that graduation ceremonies will be held although the date maybe during the summer or even early in the fall, depending upon when social gatherings are once again allowed to occur. We will find a way to celebrate the accomplishments of our 2020 graduating students!

Like most of you, I would prefer to be spending these last weeks of the spring semester on campus as part of a community that studies, lives and works together, but we now know that this is not going to be possible.  As we come together virtually to ensure a successful conclusion to the 2019-2020 academic year, please know that all of you remain in my daily thoughts and prayers.

Please continue to practice social distancing and good hygiene.  Be safe and be well. God bless each of you in the coming days and weeks until we are all back together once again at Caldwell.

Dr. Blattner

Dear Caldwell University Community,

The Caldwell University Pandemic Response Team continues to work to navigate our community through the ever-changing situation that we find ourselves in due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) as well as comply with Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 104. In this environment, we want to inform you of operational changes and other important information:

• All instruction moves to remote learning on Monday, March 23rd, and will continue to the end of the spring semester. Faculty will be in contact with students to inform them of how remote learning will occur for each class.
• The residence halls will be closing for the remainder of the semester and we are asking students to remove all their items and check out by Sunday, March 22, 2020, by 6:00 pm. There will be a process to petition to remain on campus due to extenuating circumstances. All detailed information about the process will be located on the residence life section of the MyCaldwell Portal. 
• All events, gatherings, and campus tours have been canceled for the rest of the semester. 
• Beginning today, March 18th, all administrative offices will be working remotely with the following exceptions which are subject to change at any point as the situation changes:
  • Campus Security will be on campus 24/7 and can be reached at 973-618-3286/3289. In case of an emergency, dial 911; then call Campus Security.
  • The mailroom will be open and staffed on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from noon-5pm. There will be no pick up of outgoing mail from offices or anywhere on campus.  All outgoing mail must be brought to the mailroom. Incoming mail will not be delivered; it must be picked up in the mailroom. No personal mail or packages will be mailed or received at the mailroom.
  • The dining hall will remain open on a limited basis with grab and go items for those on campus. 
  • For Information Technology (IT) needs, please call 973-618-3904 or email helpdesk@caldwell.edu
  • The Office of International Student Services will be open on Fridays. 
• As most faculty and staff will be working remotely, students are highly encouraged to contact faculty and staff via Caldwell email. A directory of office email addresses is listed on the Coronavirus Update website. 
• If students have a need for additional technology to complete their learning, the library has a limited number of Chromebooks and iPads available to check out so they can participate in their classes remotely. The Library will be open on Thursday, March 19, 2020, and Friday, March 20, 2020, both days from 11 am to 4 pm. If there are any questions, please contact the library by emailing library@caldwell.edu.
• Please continue to check our Coronavirus Update website for resources that are continually added, including information to obtain free or discounted internet access if you need it, as well as other third parties offering discounts and opportunities for students to navigate this crisis. 
• Caldwell University is committed to providing Commencement Exercises for our December 2019 and May and August 2020 graduates. We understand this achievement is an important milestone for our students, their families, supporters, and the campus community as a whole. We encourage all impending graduates who wish to take part in their respective ceremonies to place their online orders for regalia. The deadline to order has been extended to March 31, 2020. In the event the university is not able to provide an appropriate ceremony, refunds will be available. The April 21st Salute to Grads event is postponed indefinitely. Graduating students are reminded that they are responsible for attaining eligibility for degree conferral. Students will be contacted individually with important reminders. 

It continues to be vital for all students, faculty, and staff to continue to check their Caldwell email accounts throughout this situation since this will continue to be the means of official communication to our constituents. As we have seen, information and circumstances can change rapidly, and we will continue to monitor and update you accordingly. 

The health and safety of our community is our first priority. Be sure that you take precautions to stay healthy. Practice social distancing.  Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds several times during the day. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you feel unwell, please consult your health care professional. 

These are unprecedented times for all of us, but I know that the strength of Caldwell is its community, and our community will persevere. Please take care of yourself and your loved ones and know that you all remain in my daily thoughts and prayers. 

Be well, 

Nancy H. Blattner, Ph.D., OPA
President

UPDATE: Caldwell University continues to monitor the Covid-19 pandemic in New Jersey and in the nation.  The administration has decided that effective Monday, March 23, 2020, all classes will be taught remotely through Monday, April 13. Additional information about campus operations will be provided shortly. The residence halls remain open at this time to students who are unable to travel home or who have an extenuating personal hardship. Please continue to practice social distancing, good hygiene, frequent hand washing, and self-care during these difficult times.

Dear Caldwell University Students,

The Caldwell University Pandemic Response Team has been meeting regularly for the last few weeks and has been closely monitoring the developing COVID19 outbreak.  This is a rapidly evolving situation, and our plan continues to be developed in compliance with guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and in partnership with local and state health officials.

Although no known cases have been reported among our campus community, in an abundance of caution, we are taking the following steps:

• Classes will be suspended during the week of March 16 through 22 to allow for faculty to prepare for online and other remote methods of course delivery. During this time, classrooms, residence halls and common areas will be deep cleaned and disinfected.  
• The residence halls will follow the same protocols as during spring break.  If there are questions or concerns, you may contact Residence Life at cllopez@caldwell.edu
• The Dining Hall will operate under normal business hours. Starbucks will be closed.
• Administrative offices will remain open.
• All scheduled meetings, events and activities on campus for the week of March 16 are postponed.
• Athletic events will take place in compliance with CACC and NCAA guidance.  For the latest updates, please check caldwellathletics.com.  

Be sure that you take precautions to stay healthy.  Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds several times during the day.  Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. If you feel unwell, please consult your health care professional but do not come to or stay on campus. 

In the coming days, please be sure to regularly check your Caldwell email address for updates on the resumption of classes and campus events.  

Stay safe,

Nancy H. Blattner, Ph.D., OPA

President