COVID-19 Dashboard Update Reflects Campus Compliance

Dear Radford Family:

Radford University has put a great deal of effort into COVID-19 planning, response, and reporting. On numerous occasions, we have pledged to continue these important efforts in both a frequent and transparent manner. As such, today, I am sharing the latest installment and ninth update to the COVID-19 University Dashboard, which is now available.

Following five weeks of declining cases and then a slight increase as part of the prior update, this past week marked 270 campus-based administered tests with 59 positive results. The response to this information is simple: we can do better, and we must do better!

More than half of the positive cases from the past week have been attributed to attendance at an off-campus party, which was hosted by a student organization. The party should have never occurred as attendance exceeded the 10-person gathering limitation. Also, the party was not in accordance with prior action by Radford University’s Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council, and National Pan-Hellenic Executive Boards, which collectively declared their unified commitment for operating in a safe and responsible manner. Due to these violations, the organization has been placed on interim suspension. Additionally, individual students found responsible for such violations will face disciplinary action and could be suspended from the University depending upon their level of involvement.

Radford students should not host or attend activities and events, including parties, that violate the gathering limitation as they can – and will – be held responsible. And, all 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.

In our continued efforts, the University will offer another surveillance testing opportunity on the main campus. That testing will be available next Friday (October 30, 2020). Details regarding testing locations and times, including appointment sign-ups, will be provided by e-mail to students, faculty, and staff.

As I have shared on numerous occasions, 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 a University, we have provided a safe learning and living environment, but continued compliance and social responsibility are critical for those efforts to be successful at the individual level. Please stay focused and finish the semester strong!

With Highlander Pride,

Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President