Tonight (Nov. 15, 2020), Gov. Whitmer announced that the Michigan Department of Health
and Human Services has issued an emergency order enacting a three-week pause in activities
designed to curb rapidly rising COVID-19 infection rates. Under this order colleges
and universities are to move to remote learning effective Wednesday morning, Nov.
18. This includes all locations of Ferris State University. Information on any classes
that will be permitted under this order to resume face-to-face instruction after Thanksgiving
will be forthcoming from deans’ offices.
Employees are asked to report to work as planned for Monday, Nov. 16. Under this order,
which takes effect Wednesday, offices may remain open. Supervisors will work with
vice presidents on these arrangements. The new guidelines are in effect until Dec.
8 and may be extended at that time. Residence halls, dining facilities, the FLITE
Library, University Center and UREC remain open. COVID-19 testing will be added on
Tuesday, Nov. 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Wink Arena. This is in addition to the
COVID-19 testing already scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 18.
The full text of the emergency order may be accessed on-line. Along with the emergency
order, three infographics were released on Pause to Save Lives, Safe Social Pods and
Social Gathering. It is important we wear masks, socially distance and wash hands
as this pandemic continues.
As we make these changes to the university and class offerings, we thank you for your
assistance in helping our students. Please continue to be safe in your actions. Together
we will work through these changes and keep Ferris State University a safe and healthy
workplace. Additional information will be forthcoming on Monday from the Re-entry
Committee.
President David L. Eisler