Gordon Anderson, dean of the ETSU College of Arts and Sciences, emailed members of his dean’s group March 20. In the email, obtained by the East Tennessean, Anderson said Quillen College of Medicine Dean William Block and College of Public Health Dean Randy Wykoff have recommended the university “be much stronger in its direction to stay home, and off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”
Anderson wrote that Block has reported three new local cases of COVID-19, including a Tusculum student and a Washington County resident. Anderson also wrote that Block reported health officials now believe “younger people are more at risk than previously thought.”
The message also states that Anderson believes all classes will move online for the rest of spring semester.
The College of Arts and Sciences dean went on to explain updates regarding lab research, remote work and to encourage graduate programs to waive GRE requirements.
Anderson stated in the email he expects a university announcement by President Brian Noland this afternoon. ETSU Chief Communications Officer Joe Smith said an announcement by Noland about course structure for the remainder of the semester would likely come within the hour when asked at 2:55 p.m. on Friday.
At this time, nothing has been confirmed by the university.
More updates to follow on easttennessean.com.
