Rutgers announces updates on student expectations, coronavirus training

As the beginning of the fall semester approaches, the University has released several announcements on student expectations and requirements.

On Friday, Anne Newman, associate vice chancellor for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, sent a University-wide email detailing the behaviors students living off-campus must adhere to.

She said approximately 8,000 to 10,000 students will live between New Brunswick, Highland Park and Piscataway this fall semester, according to the email. All students, regardless of whether they are living on campus or off campus, are expected to follow the University’s coronavirus disease (COVID-19) procedures, she said.

“While we have done our best to implement protocols and protections on campus, we also need off-campus students to be vigilant with helping slow down the spread of the virus,” Newman said, according to the email. “Given information and guidance about the realities of COVID-19, we encourage you to make good choices to protect yourself and the broader community.”

Newman said students can reduce their risk of getting and transmitting COVID-19 by following Gov. Phil Murphy’s (D-N.J.) executive order on gathering limitations and following the University’s Code of Student Conduct, according to the email. She said students should also practice good hygiene, maintain safe environments, protect others in the event they test positive for COVID-19 and use Rutgers’ online reporting form to report problematic behavior anonymously.

“To minimize transmission of the virus, there is very little room for error: (You) must diligently safeguard your health,” Newman said, according to the email. “We understand this requires a different way of thinking about and approaching life — but we believe you are conscientious and mature enough to adhere to the public health expectations of Rutgers, New Jersey and New Brunswick/Piscataway.”

Additionally, Antonio M. Calcado, executive vice president for Strategic Planning and Operations and chief operating officer, notified students on Saturday of state-mandated COVID-19 training through a University-wide email.

Calcado said all students are required to participate in this training, regardless of whether they are working remote, according to the email.

“These have been trying times for us all, and I personally want to thank you for your patience and understanding,” Calcado said, according to the email. “Every member of our community has been affected by the pandemic. Its broad and sweeping impacts underscore the need to work together as we move forward, rebuild our community and learn to coexist with this virus.”