On Apr. 29, President Rev. Brian F. Linnane, S.J. emailed the Loyola community about potential plans for reopening and the risks involved. 

Following the guidance of the State of Maryland and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the university has expectations to reopen in the fall with precautions in place. Linnane cited a possible scenario in which in-person classes would be offered, but “students with health challenges, those still in states with shelter-at-home orders, and international students” would be able to continue online. Still, the university continues to weigh all options. 

“We are looking ahead to the fall semester with a blend of optimism, practicality, innovative thinking, and adaptability,” Linnane said. 

According to the email, the fall semester will have more clarity in the coming weeks and the university will continue their communication efforts with the Loyola community about moving forward.

The email also addressed commencement and move-out plans. The university is hopeful to share a date for an in-person celebration soon and is creating virtual ways to celebrate in the meantime. Move-out plans are also not yet finalized, but the initial planning stages are underway. Linnane noted an email sent on Apr. 28 from Neil Andrito, director of Student Life, in which students are being asked to respond to a questionnaire about their move-out intentions by May 8. 

The university is also following the guidance of the U.S. Department of Education in disbursing the CARES Act stimulus funds to eligible students. Additional information will be sent once this disbursement has more clarity. 

“I find hope and faith in knowing that the transitions we made this semester occurred with little notice and time for discernment, and yet we have achieved extraordinary results,” Linnane said. “We walk forward with gratitude for the strength of our community, as well as faith, hope, and deep determination to meet the challenges that lie before us head-on.” 

For more information about COVID-19 and its effects at Loyola, keep up-to-date with The Greyhound.