COVID-19 Dashboard Update with Important Health, Safety, and Well-Being Reminders for Highlander Students

Radford University Message from President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. Important Update COVID-19 Global Health Pandemic

Dear Parents:

Throughout the COVID-19 global health pandemic, Radford University has consistently and thoughtfully engaged in accountability and transparency with regard to planning, response, and reporting. That important work began in the spring months and has continued throughout the Fall 2020 semester. Our shared commitment to students, faculty, and staff, as well as the broader community, will continue as we move forward together.

As such, today, I am sharing the latest installment and eighth update to the COVID-19 University Dashboard, which is now available. Following five weeks of declining cases, this past week marked 179 campus-based administered tests with 17 positive results. The slight increase in positive cases has been attributed to a limited number of small pop-up clusters that have not been linked to any specific activities and/or events. Public health officials have confirmed that there is no broader risk to the campus or the community. Individuals should continue to wear face coverings, exercise physical distancing, and practice good hygiene. This is truly the best defense against the spread of COVID-19.

It is critically important for students, faculty, and staff to follow Commonwealth requirements, University expectations, and public health guidance to limit the spread of COVID-19. As the weather changes and individuals spend more time inside, the 10-person gathering limitation for main campus, including both on-campus and off-campus activities, must be followed.

The University is aware that students want to spend time with classmates and friends. However, that time must be spent in very small groups, while both masking and distancing are followed. We are asking for your assistance and support in both encouraging and reminding Highlander students of their responsibility to follow these critical steps and the potential risks if they are not followed. In order to finish this semester strong, it will take each and every one of us being both diligent and vigilant in our efforts and in all settings!


With Highlander Pride,

Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.