Augusta University president announces plans to reopen campus

In an email to students, faculty and staff today, Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel, PhD, unveiled plans for the phased and gradual return to in-person instruction for the fall semester.

“We’re excited to welcome you back this fall and are prepared to offer you the academic and campus experience so many of you have come to expect from Augusta University,” he said in the email.

University leaders submitted a detailed campus reopening plan to the University System of Georgia in May that included specific guidance on how to safely resume normal operation of classrooms and residence halls, administrative offices, athletics, student life and activities, research and more.

Keel said those plans, which are the product of nearly a dozen workgroups, received approval from the university system this week and resources and guidance related to those plans are being made available to students, faculty and staff. He went on to say additional plans specific to individual office environments are being developed by executive vice presidents and directors and encouraged employees to check with their supervisor before returning to work.

“Individual responsibility to abide by health guidelines will be key to the success of our institutional efforts, as the controls we put in place will only be as effective as the willingness of individuals to carry them out,” he said.

As part of a recent town hall, Keel said new safety measures will include asking everyone to social distance and limit in-person meetings and encouraging the use of face coverings.

The university will resume operations in phases, with in-person activities on the Health Sciences and Summerville campuses starting July 1 and Aug. 3, respectively. Students are expected to return for classes Aug. 10.

Learn more about campus reopening plans.