The First Ivy to Move Online: Princeton's Monday Morning Email That Began the Ivy League COVID Cascade

Dear members of the Princeton community, I write to share important changes to Princeton's approach to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Effective March 23, when classes resume after spring recess, all lectures, seminars and precepts will be conducted through virtual instruction for the remainder of the spring semester. We are strongly encouraging undergraduates who are currently away from campus, including those at home for spring break, to remain at home. Graduate students should consult with their departments about their work. Faculty and staff should continue to come to campus as usual, with appropriate social distancing measures in place. These steps are intended to reduce the density of people on campus and limit the risk of transmission within our community. I know that this news will be difficult for many of you to absorb. These are extraordinary circumstances, and we are taking these actions out of an abundance of caution.

Update on Princeton's COVID-19 Response: Following further guidance from public health authorities, the University is now requiring undergraduates who are currently away from campus to remain at their permanent residences for the remainder of the spring semester. Undergraduates currently on campus must depart by Sunday, March 15, unless they have an approved exemption due to inability to return home, international travel restrictions, or other extenuating circumstances. Dining halls will operate on a grab-and-go basis only. The Frist Campus Center and Firestone Library are closed to undergraduates effective immediately. We recognize the significant disruption this creates and the University will work with students to address financial and logistical concerns.