COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease) Information & Updates
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COVID-19 Information & Updates
As we continue with our phased approach returning to campus, safeguarding the health and safety of our campus requires the cooperation of each one of us. Your cooperation is imperative and expected under the University’s Honor Code and employee requirements. Remember, it is not merely an individual decision; COVID-19 is a reportedly contagious virus, and your specific behavior may impact the health and safety of the entire campus community.
As we make every effort to continue safeguarding our students, faculty and staff, we are relying on your full cooperation. Please take all reasonable precautions, including;
- Refraining from large gatherings in which social distancing is not possible or sustainable for the duration of the event (examples include crowded seminars, conventions, concerts, parties, and other gatherings and festivities).
- Avoiding symptomatic individuals.
- Maintaining a healthy diet as well as supporting a strong immune system.
- Having your spine checked on a regular basis for vertebral subluxation.
We want everyone to take every precaution that will allow us to continue to deliver the highest quality education and student support possible. Please do not place yourself or others in harm’s way by exhibiting behaviors that may put them at risk.
COVID Update: 2021 Summer and Fall Quarters
Monday, August 2, 2021 at 9:58 A.M.
TO: Campus Community
COVID Update: 2021 Summer and Fall Quarters
The University's faculty, staff and administration continue to work diligently to ensure the campus provides a safe environment for your education, as well as addressing the realities of COVID-19. The administration has and will continue to monitor active COVID cases on a daily basis to ensure appropriate actions are taken for the safety of our community and to maintain compliance with local, regional and state public health recommendations.
For information regarding LIFE Community COVID information, please see the following link: www.LIFE.edu/campus-life-pages/health-services/coronavirus.
Update: Course Structure - Summer Quarter 2021
The University continues to encourage individuals to practice personal safeguards, including face coverings, wherever and whenever as they deem appropriate. Face coverings are not mandatory in the classrooms or buildings; however, when appropriate physical distancing of six (6) feet cannot be maintained in the classroom, face coverings should be utilized.
Face coverings are required in laboratory(ies) where physical distancing of six (6) feet cannot be maintained, and face covering are always required in the chiropractic clinic and clinical settings. Additionally, specific COVID cleaning and sanitation measures will continue as the situation warrants.
College of Chiropractic and College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies
Classroom and Laboratory
D.C. students are encouraged to maintain their assigned odd/even weeks for on-campus lecture course attendance.
For those D.C. students who are not able to, or choose not to return to campus because of COVID related issues, you will need to stay in contact with your instructor(s); however, you are also required to log into Blackboard and attend synchronously during your scheduled course time.
Chiropractic Lab Courses
D.C. course lab attendance is dependent upon the registered lab. On-campus labs have a room location, such as CCE 117 or CGUS 106. All remote labs have a location designation of DDE.
For any specific course structure related questions, please feel free to contact the COC Dean of Instruction at LeslieK@LIFE.edu.
Clinic Practicum Courses
Clinic practicum course participation will continue in its current format. Student involvement in patient care will proceed with adherence to CDC guidelines, including face covering requirements.
Details for Returning- Fall 2021
All College of Chiropractic (CoC) and College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies (CGUS) students are expected to return to in-person class participation beginning 2021 Fall Quarter. Remote options will no longer be available.
Over the past nine months, the University has been working to implement LIFE Flex. LIFE Flex will become fully implemented for the 2021 Fall Quarter. Communications will continue coming out during the Summer Quarter with more information, and an FAQ page will be available.
The LIFE Flex approach to teaching allows students to engage with their class in a face-to-face experience on campus or synchronously (real-time) online via Blackboard, LIFE’s learning management system. A self-guided, asynchronous (not real-time) option may also be available in Blackboard for a portion of your course. In this student-directed learning experience, you have options in how, where and when to engage with your professor and your classmates.
Please feel free to address academic questions to Academics@LIFE.edu.
COVID Notification Requirements
You must notify the Dean of Students office ASAP via email at DeanofStudents@LIFE.edu if you meet any of the following criteria:
You’ve tested positive for COVID.
You’ve come in direct *close contact with an individual who has tested positive for COVID (*Close contact means you’ve been closer than 6 feet for more than 15 minutes with an individual who has tested positive for COVID).
You are having COVID symptoms.
For residential students, the No Visitation Policy remains in effect. We are anticipating returning to pre-COVID visitation at the beginning of the Fall Quarter.
Previous Coronavirus Email Updates
Tuesday, June 8, 2021 at 12:1 P.M.
TO: Campus Community
As efforts resume across the country to reopen businesses and schools, please be informed that the time will come for ALL Life University campus operations to resume pre-COVID function beginning the Fall Quarter 2021, in the absence of any government directive to the contrary.
Effective October 2021, our new “LIFE Flex” instruction will be available in both on-campus colleges, the College of Chiropractic and the College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies, to continue to provide students and faculty with some flexibility in attendance. However, students in these on-campus programs should be aware that, per pre-COVID standards, it will no longer be possible to complete an entire course(s) via LIFE Flex.
Therefore, to facilitate planning and operations for the upcoming Fall Quarter, all members of the campus community - students, faculty and staff - should make the necessary arrangements to be back to regular, on-campus operations.
For students enrolled in the College of Online Education, degree programs and individual online classes will be available as per the quarterly.
With regard to employees, both faculty and staff, ONLY those individuals whose job descriptions have been updated via Human Resources to reflect prior supervisory permission will be eligible to permanently work remotely.
It is gratifying to know that the number of COVID cases on our campus, throughout the period of pandemic-related closure and restrictions, remained impressively low for an institution our size. Thanks to everyone for your efforts in ensuring that we continue to provide a healthy on-campus experience for our students, faculty and staff.
Sincerely,
Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life University
Monday, May 3, 2021 at 10:13 A.M.
TO: Campus Community
Effective immediately, Life University will revert to our pre-Thanksgiving face covering requirement. Face coverings will not be required on campus where physical distancing can be maintained. Appropriate face coverings are still required during Lab classes and within the clinical setting. Individuals are still encouraged to practice personal safeguards, including face coverings, as they deem appropriate. COVID cleaning and sanitation measures will continue as currently scheduled.
We have arrived at this decision based on our campus COVID data and as a result of the Governor’s executive order.
We will continue to monitor our environment and make changes as indicated. Please address any questions to COVID@LIFE.edu.
Wednesday, March 15, 2021 at 3:50 P.M.
The University's faculty, staff and administration continue to work diligently to ensure the campus provides a safe environment for your education, as well as addresses the realities of COVID-19. The administration continues to review active cases on a daily basis, and the data continues to reveal low levels of active case numbers on campus.
The University will continue to monitor the number of active COVID cases on campus to ensure our campus numbers do not escalate. For information regarding LIFE Community COVID information, please see the following link: https://www.LIFE.edu/campus-life-pages/health-services/coronavirus.
Details for Returning- Spring 2021
College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies (CGUS) Course Structure
As a result of the traditional benefit of small class sizes in the CGUS, the Spring Quarter 2021 class schedule has returned to the regular face-to-face class format; there are no remote options. The attendance policy is in effect.
Lecture
- All Face-to-Face instruction
- All lecture sessions will be recorded and made available for all students; those with excused absences are expected to view class recordings and complete the academic related activity.
Lab
- All Face-to-Face instruction
- For any specific course structure related questions, please feel free to contact the CGUS Dean at Jana.Holwick@LIFE.edu.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DCP) Course Structure
With the safety measures that are in place, and our campus’ low COVID positivity rate, chiropractic students are strongly encouraged to return to in-person lectures. The expectation is for the continuation of D.C. students to return to campus for Spring Quarter 2021. Lectures and labs will be offered in a face-to-face/hybrid class format. However, the on-campus D.C. classroom structure and capacity has been significantly modified to accommodate current physical distancing guidelines. The D.C. program will utilize a hybrid method of instruction that incorporates students receiving a combination of on-campus, face-to-face instruction and remote instruction.
For those D.C. students who are not able to, or choose not to, return to campus because of COVID related issues, you will need to contact your instructor(s) in writing to notify them that you are choosing the remote only instruction option; you will need to inform the instructor(s) in your written notification that your non-return is due to a COVID related issue. However, you are required to log into Blackboard and attend synchronously during your scheduled course time.
DCP Student-Assigned Course Time
Lecture
- D.C. students will attend on-campus lecture courses during either even or odd weeks of Spring Quarter 2021.
Those students whose last name begins with the letters A through M are required to attend on-campus lectures during odd weeks (Weeks 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), and those students whose last name begins with the letters N through Z are required to attend lectures on even weeks (Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10). The attendance policy is in effect.
- NOTE: During weeks that students do not participate in their assigned on-campus lecture time, they are required to participate through ‘remote’ instruction by logging into Blackboard and attending synchronously during the scheduled course time.
Final exams for all D.C. courses will occur remotely during Week 11.
Lab
D.C. course lab attendance is dependent upon the registered lab. On-campus labs have a room location, such as CCE 117 or CGUS 106. All remote labs have a location designation of DDE.
- For any specific course structure related questions, please feel free to contact the COC Dean at LeslieK@LIFE.edu.
Clinic Practicum courses
Clinic practicum course participation will continue in its current format. Student involvement in patient care will proceed with adherence to CDC guidelines, including face covering requirements.
As a reminder, face coverings are required in all classrooms, labs, clinic and public spaces in all buildings.
Future Additional Options
Over the past 6 months, the University has been working to implement LIFE Flex. When LIFE Flex becomes fully implemented, you may choose to engage with your class in a face-to-face experience on-campus or synchronously (real-time) online via Blackboard, LIFE’s learning management system. A self-guided, asynchronous (not real-time) option may also be available in Blackboard for a portion of your courses. In this student-directed learning experience, you have options in deciding how, where and when to engage with your professor and your classmates.
Please feel free to address academic questions to Academics@LIFE.edu.
Remember to stay safe, healthy and positive.
To: Life University Community
The University's faculty, staff and administration continue to work diligently to ensure the campus provides a safe environment for your education, as well as addresses the realities of COVID-19. The administration continues to review active cases on a daily basis, and the data continues to reveal low levels of active case numbers on campus.
The University will continue to monitor the number of active COVID cases on campus to ensure our campus numbers do not escalate. For data regarding our LIFE Community COVID reporting, please see the following link: LIFE.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/COVID-CASES-031021.pdf
Details for Returning
College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies (CGUS) Course Structure
As a result of the traditional benefit of small class sizes in the CGUS, the 2021 Spring Quarter class schedule has returned to the regular face-to-face class format; there are no remote options.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DCP) Course Structure
With the safety measures that are in place, and our campus' low COVID positivity rate, chiropractic students are strongly encouraged to return to in-person lectures. The expectation is for the continuation of D.C. students to return to campus for the 2021 Spring Quarter. Lectures and labs will be offered in a face-to-face/hybrid class format. However, the on-campus D.C. classroom structure and capacity has been significantly modified to accommodate current physical distancing guidelines. The D.C. program will utilize a hybrid method of instruction that incorporates students receiving a combination of on-campus, face-to-face instruction and remote instruction.
For those D.C. students who are not able to, or choose not to, return to campus *for lectures because of COVID related issues, you will need to contact your instructor(s) in writing to request a remote only instruction option; you will need to inform the instructor(s) in your written notification that your non-return is due to a COVID related issue.
DCP Student-Assigned Course Time
D.C. students will attend on-campus lecture courses during either even or odd weeks of the 2021 Spring Quarter.
Those students whose last name begins with the letters A through M will attend on-campus lectures during odd weeks (Weeks 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), and those students whose last name begins with the letters N through Z will attend lectures on even weeks (Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10). During weeks that students do not participate in their assigned on-campus lecture time, they will participate through remote instruction. When you are not attending on-campus lectures, the expectation is for you to receive your instruction remotely. Finals for all courses will occur Week 11 remotely.
Chiropractic course lab attendance is dependent upon the registered lab. On-campus labs have a room location, such as CCE 117 or CUS 106. All remote labs have a location designation of DDE.
Clinic Practicum Courses
Clinic practicum course participation will continue in its current format. Student involvement in patient care will proceed with adherence to CDC guidelines, including face covering requirements.
As a reminder, face coverings are required in all classrooms, labs, clinic and public spaces in all buildings.
Future Additional Options
Over the past six months, the University has been working to implement LIFE-Flex. When LIFE Flex becomes fully implemented, you may choose to engage with your class in a face-to-face experience on-campus or synchronously (real-time) online via Blackboard, LIFE's learning management system. A self-guided, asynchronous (not real-time) option may also be available in Blackboard for a portion of your courses. In this student-directed learning experience, you have options in deciding how, where and when to engage with your professor and your classmates.
Students are encouraged to read the On-Campus COVID-19 Operations document posted on the Life University website to familiarize yourself with the institutional guidelines, our principles and values, as well as other important COVID-19 data. The University continues to follow current CDC and State of Georgia guidelines, as well as monitor class sizes and physical distancing requirements, and the On -Campus COVID-19 Operations document will be updated as necessary.
Please feel free to address academic questions to Academics@LIFE.edu.
Remember to stay safe, healthy and positive.
Return to Modified On-Campus Instruction for 2021 Spring Quarter
To: Life University Community
Monday, February 22, 2021 at 1:55 P.M.
The University's faculty, staff, and administration continue to work diligently to ensure the campus provides a safe environment for your education, as well as addresses the realities of COVID-19. The administration has reviewed the active cases and the data reveals active case numbers have dropped back to the original low levels on campus.
The University will continue to monitor the number of active COVID cases on campus to ensure our campus numbers do not escalate. For data regarding our LIFE Community COVID reporting, please see the following link: www.LIFE.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/COVID-CASES-1-13-21.pdf.
Details for Returning
College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies (CGUS) Course Structure
As a result of the traditional benefit of small class sizes in the CGUS, Winter Quarter 2021 class schedule starting Week 3 will return to the regular face-to-face class format; there are no remote options.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DCP) Course Structure
The expectation is for D.C. students to return to campus for Winter Quarter 2021. Lectures, labs and clinic will be offered in a face-to-face/hybrid class format. However, the on-campus DCP classroom structure and capacity will be significantly modified to accommodate current physical distancing guidelines. The DCP will utilize a hybrid method of instruction that incorporates students receiving a combination of on-campus, face-to-face instruction and remote instruction.
For those DCP students who are not able to return to campus, or choose not to return, contact your instructor to request a remote instruction option.
DCP Student-Assigned Course Time
DCP students will attend on-campus lecture courses during either even or odd weeks of Winter Quarter 2021.
Those students whose last name begins with the letters A through M will attend on-campus lectures during odd weeks (Weeks 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), and those students whose last name begins with the letters N through Z will attend lectures on even weeks (Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10). Finals for all courses will occur Week 11 remotely. During weeks that students do not participate in their assigned on-campus lecture time, they will participate through remote instruction. All finals will be remote during Week 11.
Lab attendance is dependent upon the registered lab, and clinic practicum course participation will continue in its current format.
Clinic Practicum courses
Student involvement in patient care will proceed with adherence to CDC guidelines, including face covering requirements.
As a reminder, face coverings are required in all classrooms, labs, clinic and public spaces in all buildings.
Students are encouraged to read the Return to Campus document posted on the Life University website to familiarize yourself with the institutional guidelines, our principles and values, as well as other important COVID-19 data. The University continues to follow current CDC and State of Georgia guidelines, as well as monitor class sizes and physical distancing requirements, and the Return to Campus document will be updated as necessary.
Please feel free to address academic questions to Academics@LIFE.edu.
Remember to stay safe, healthy and positive.
To: Life University Community
Re:Temporary Face Covering Requirement
To: Life University Community
Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 3:59 P.M.
The University's faculty, staff, and administration continue to work diligently to ensure the campus provides a safe environment for your education, as well as addresses the realities of COVID-19. The administration has reviewed the active cases and the data reveals active case numbers have dropped back to the original low levels on campus.
The University will continue to monitor the number of active COVID cases on campus to ensure our campus numbers do not escalate. For data regarding our LIFE Community COVID reporting, please see the following link: www.LIFE.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/COVID-CASES-1-13-21.pdf.
Details for Returning
College of Graduate and Undergraduate Studies (CGUS) Course Structure
As a result of the traditional benefit of small class sizes in the CGUS, Winter Quarter 2021 class schedule starting Week 3 will return to the regular face-to-face class format; there are no remote options.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DCP) Course Structure
The expectation is for D.C. students to return to campus for Winter Quarter 2021. Lectures, labs and clinic will be offered in a face-to-face/hybrid class format. However, the on-campus DCP classroom structure and capacity will be significantly modified to accommodate current physical distancing guidelines. The DCP will utilize a hybrid method of instruction that incorporates students receiving a combination of on-campus, face-to-face instruction and remote instruction.
For those DCP students who are not able to return to campus, or choose not to return, contact your instructor to request a remote instruction option.
DCP Student-Assigned Course Time
DCP students will attend on-campus lecture courses during either even or odd weeks of Winter Quarter 2021.
Those students whose last name begins with the letters A through M will attend on-campus lectures during odd weeks (Weeks 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), and those students whose last name begins with the letters N through Z will attend lectures on even weeks (Weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10). Finals for all courses will occur Week 11 remotely. During weeks that students do not participate in their assigned on-campus lecture time, they will participate through remote instruction. All finals will be remote during Week 11.
Lab attendance is dependent upon the registered lab, and clinic practicum course participation will continue in its current format.
Clinic Practicum courses
Student involvement in patient care will proceed with adherence to CDC guidelines, including face covering requirements.
As a reminder, face coverings are required in all classrooms, labs, clinic and public spaces in all buildings.
Students are encouraged to read the Return to Campus document posted on the Life University website to familiarize yourself with the institutional guidelines, our principles and values, as well as other important COVID-19 data. The University continues to follow current CDC and State of Georgia guidelines, as well as monitor class sizes and physical distancing requirements, and the Return to Campus document will be updated as necessary.
Please feel free to address academic questions to Academics@LIFE.edu.
Remember to stay safe, healthy and positive.
Quick Guide for Employees and Students
To: Life University Community
Re:Temporary Face Covering Requirement
To: Life University Community
Tuesday November 24, 2020. 11:13 A.M.
Our primary goal is to protect the health and safety of our campus community members and ensure the quality of our students' education. Due to the increase in COVID cases in the State of Georgia and the potential for further increases following the holiday break, we have implemented a temporary Face Covering Requirement.
Effective November 30, 2020, face coverings will be required in all Life University buildings and common areas. Consistent with the Georgia Department of Public Health and CDC guidance, the University is implementing the following requirement in order to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 among University community members while pursuing our goal of on-campus instruction. The face covering requirement will continue until further notice, unless modified by the University President.
Applicability
The face covering requirement applies to all faculty, staff, students and visitors, and requires all individuals to wear face coverings that cover their mouth and nose. In addition, physical distancing of at least six feet shall be observed when possible.
Face coverings are required in all Life University buildings.
Exceptions to indoor Face Covering requirements
Employees are not required to wear face coverings while at their work stations. Additionally, exceptions may be granted by the President for particular classes or University activities.
While wearing face coverings is required in all Life University buildings, they are not required in the following circumstances:
- While eating in a dining hall (Socrates Café, Lyceum Dining Hall);
- While inside residential rooms within the residence halls;
- While inside apartments located within the residence halls;
- While exercising at indoor campus exercise facilities in designated exercise areas.
However, face coverings must still be worn while entering or exiting a dining hall and while waiting to obtain food in such locations.
With respect to indoor campus exercise facilities, face coverings must be worn while entering or exiting an indoor campus exercise facility, and while utilizing the common areas of such facilities (including restrooms, stairwells, elevators and lobbies).
While engaging in activities where face coverings are not required, it is particularly important to engage in physical distancing of at least six feet. Accordingly, the layout within dining halls and indoor campus exercise facilities may be modified to the extent possible in order to facilitate physical distancing.
Please refer to the Life University Athletics web page for requirements at athletic events (Click Here).
Face coverings will be required to be worn at all University activities and events that present a higher risk of transmission and/or where physical distancing of at least six feet is not feasible. Signage will be posted communicating applicable face covering requirements.
Exceptions to Face Covering requirements
In the event that an individual cannot comply with the face covering requirement due to a documented disability, they may initiate the University's interactive accommodations process in order to request a "reasonable accommodation." Students who wish to request an accommodation may contact the Director of Disability Services. Employees who wish to request an accommodation may contact the Human Resources.
Expectations
We are dedicated to the health and safety of our campus community members and the quality of our students' education. We value the importance of on-campus instruction. Our expectation is that our community will adhere to this requirement to ensure the safety, well-being and continued education of our students.
Please direct any questions to the Vice President of your area.
Sincerely,
Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life University
Quick Guide for Employees and Students
To: Life University Community
We recognize the situation regarding COVID-19 is an area of concern for all of us in the LIFE community, especially related to:
- If you’re concerned you’ve been exposed to COVID-19
- You may have COVID-19 related symptoms
- A family member, colleague, fellow student or friend tested positive for COVID-19
What is considered an "exposure" to COVID-19?
The University follows the CDC guidelines on exposure, which define it as close contact (within 6 feet or less for 15 minutes or more) with a laboratory confirmed positive individual.
I’m concerned that I may have been exposed to COVID-19. What should I do?
Report your concern directly to the contact provided below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
I have symptoms that may be related to COVID-19. What should I do?
The most typical symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, shortness of breath, new loss of smell and/or taste, and myalgia (muscle pain) and/or chills. If you have any symptoms that indicate you are ill, you should stay home to limit the possibility of spreading any illness you may have. Let your faculty(s) or supervisor know that you will not be in class or at work. Additionally, you should report your symptoms directly to the contact provided below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
A family member, colleague, fellow student or friend tested positive for COVID-19. What should I do?
The person being tested will follow their provider’s instructions and will be required to self-isolate. Current CDC guidance says that unless you were within 6 feet or less for 15 minutes or longer with this person, you shouldn’t need to be concerned about contracting COVID-19 from them.
If you were within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes with the individual who tested positive, it is possible you were exposed, and you are strongly encouraged to undergo testing. You may be required to self-quarantine. Report your possible exposure directly to the contact provided below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
A student or employee has possible COVID-19 symptoms, exposure or concern. What should I do?
Faculty and/or supervisors should refer the individual directly to the appropriate contact below. In the event the student or employee is unable to make direct contact, the faculty or supervisor should make the report on their behalf to the contact below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
Full Contact Information
Lisa Reed, Director of Human Resources
Email: HRDirector@LIFE.edu
Phone: 770-426-2611
Designee: Fran.Boykins@LIFE.edu
Sincerely,
Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life University
To: Life University Community
As we approach the date of our phased return to campus to open the 2020 Summer Quarter on Monday, July 13, it is vital that we do so with an understanding and respect for the procedures and protocols that will need to be in place and observed for the safety of our LIFE community and campus visitors. A University Task Force, comprised of representatives from Academic Affairs, Athletics, Campus Recreation and Wellness, Enrollment, Events, Housing and Student Affairs have contributed to the Return to Campus document linked above and also available at LIFE.edu/Coronavirus. It is of utmost importance that every member of the LIFE community takes the time to read this document to ensure the smoothest of transitions in getting on-campus operations back up and running.We thank you for your continued commitment and patience during this unprecedented time, and as always, stay positive and stay well. We'll see you soon.
Sincerely,
Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life University
To: Life University Students, Staff and Faculty
In planning for the institution's response to the State of Georgia and Public
Health Department's request to suspend instruction on campus, LIFE's COVID19 Task Force diligently assessed the current situation, while communicating
with local public health officials and other institutions of higher education in the state. Friday evening, the initial strategy for class suspension was disseminated to the LIFE community. The intent behind this strategy was to maintain the integrity and content of the 11-week instruction cycle and prepare for online instruction, as opposed to a return to campus, at the end of the prescribed 14-day window.
Since then, and with the uncertainty surrounding the ongoing situation, the strategy has been revised to the following for the purpose of your planning:
• Effective Friday, March 13, all on-campus classes for the Winter 2020
quarter have ended.
o Faculty will communicate via email, Blackboard, etc. to assist
students with questions regarding their course(s) and final
examinations.
• March 16-20 will be utilized for student study time in preparation for
online final examinations.
o Final examinations will not include materials or content planned for
Week 10.
• March 23-27 will be utilized for online final examinations.
o For a COC course(s) with a lab component, a single online
examination, inclusive of classroom and lab material, will be
required for all registered students during Week 11.
• Clinic interns who have not obtained all quarterly clinic requirements will
receive a grade of IP (In Progress) and be able to complete the
requirements at a later date.
o Overall clinic graduation requirements will still need to be met prior
to graduation.
o Further information regarding chiropractic clinic intern participation
will be provided in the near future.
• For graduate students in the Master of Athletic Training (MAT) program
and students in the Dietetic Internship (DI) program, the respective
accrediting bodies are allowing flexibility for meeting clinical
requirements. Further directions will be provided by your respective
Clinical Coordinators.
• The Spring Quarter will begin April 6, 2020. Classes will be provided
through remote online instruction until further notice; a minimum of 7
days' notice of return to on-campus instruction will be provided.
• Suspension of activities including all university academic building
activities, athletics/sports, clubs, organizations and trips continues until
further notice.
• All faculty/staff will be available Monday, March 16; further information will
be provided directly to faculty/staff.
Please make sure to read all FAQs at LIFE.edu/coronavirus.
I realize that this is a different strategy than originally communicated and that some students may have already made plans according to the information
previously communicated that may now be in conflict. If that is the case, please contactCOVID19@LIFE.edu so that we can assist in resolving it.
As we venture into this uncharted territory as an institution, I personally want to thank all of the LIFE community for their patience, understanding and
cooperation. I assure you that everyone working on the planning for this
unprecedented occurrence is doing so with the intent to minimize the uncertainty and worry that comes with the unknown.
Sincerely,
Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life University
Updates to Life U's Academic Calendar Changes in Response to COVID-19
Since the announcement of shifting the Academic Calendar in response to governmental guidance to prevent additional spread of the COVID-19 (coronavirus), the University has received dozens of emails. Most of the emails fall into a few of categories that this notice will answer as comprehensively as possible. If you have remaining questions after reviewing the entirety of this notice and reading all of the FAQs on LIFE.edu/coronavirus, please email COVID19@LIFE.edu with specific questions. The administration continues to evaluate multiple calendar options, and we are open to alternative suggestions that you can send to CalendarSolutions@LIFE.edu.
The calendar shift was NOT an easy decision; however, it was the best decision for the majority of constituents of Life University. Our quarter schedule does not allow a great deal of flexibility when attempting to fit in all of the necessary instruction and assessment. We will be utilizing the entire two week on-campus class suspension to transition as much of the curriculum to remote instruction as possible. In any event, we will resume instruction on Monday. March 30. We are continuing to work on the Spring and Summer Quarter schedules. Additional details will be provided when finalized, which will be no later than Wednesday, March 18 at 5:00 p.m.
Travel Plans
If you have non-cancelable travel plans, such as a wedding or other extenuating circumstances, contact your academic dean who will work with you to determine the best resolution for your individual situation. These are unprecedented times. We will make every effort to work with students to minimize the unforeseen impact.
How can I apply for an emergency loan?
The institution is currently working on the application process for emergency loans for the Spring Quarter. We expect to have this process in place no later than Friday, March 20. For those Title IV eligible students who can demonstrate financial hardship, emergency loan disbursements will be made as close to the original living expenses disbursement date as possible.
You are Ultimately Responsible for Your Own Health Care.
If you are a member of the Life University community and you develop symptoms such as fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. Older individuals and others who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild. If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips of face, contact your healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately. Your healthcare provider will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.
If you are a student at higher risk for serious illness, and concerned about completing the Winter Quarter (Lab and Lecture Finals), the University will help facilitate completion of the requirements. For those students at higher risk who are concerned about returning to campus in April for the Spring Quarter, you may need to consider a brief interruption in your academic progression pending what transpires over the next few weeks in regard to COVID-19 public health recommendations.
Please make sure to read all FAQs at LIFE.edu/coronavirus.
Important Information Regarding Life University's On-Campus Class Suspension
Life University has updated the COVID-19 web page with important and critical planning information for students, faculty and staff. Visit LIFE.edu/coronavirus and make sure to read all FAQ information.All faculty and staff should plan to report as normally scheduled Monday morning, March 16 unless you hear differently from your supervisor or Vice President. Those normally scheduled to work remotely will continue to do so.Students should not report to campus, as on-campus classes and student-related activities are suspended as of close of business Friday, March 13 and through Sunday, March 29. Students taking online courses and students whose academic programs are exclusively online will continue those courses and programs during this on-campus class suspension period.View PDF
To: Life University Students, Staff and FacultyAs anticipated, the student who sought medical attention for severe flu symptoms, tested positive for adenovirus, a common form of the flu. In response to Public Health guidelines for institutions of higher education, LIFE was in constant contact with officials at the Cobb County Health Department and will continue to respond proportionately to any given situation that arises that is in the best interest of our students and the LIFE community.It is important to recognize that COVID-19 exposure is extremely rare, and even if positive, manifests in typical "flu-like" symptoms that are non-threatening to healthy people. The importance of using common sense and judgement is strongly encouraged to avoid the unnecessary and unproductive burden of fear and worry. To date, there are 6 confirmed and 11 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Georgia. As this is an evolving situation, please refer to the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health if you are interested in the most up-to-date information. You may also call 1-866-PUB-HLTH (782-4584) or 404-657- 2588.Additional Precautions We Are Taking
So that students can exercise best judgement regarding their health, we have temporarily loosened the class attendance policy. If in a student's judgement it is necessary to miss a scheduled class, they are responsible for communicating this directly with the instructor. It is the student's responsibility to obtain material covered in regularly scheduled classes.As an additional precaution, we are sanitizing all common places and The Commons Residence Hall bathrooms. The University will continue regular cleaning and treatment of high-volume areas, including dining operations. Cleaning supplies will also be distributed, and hand sanitizing stations will be kept full to the extent that supplies are available to us.We will continue to monitor and send updates to the community as needed.Sincerely,Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life UniversityView PDF
Re: COVID-19 Update
To: Life University Students, Staff and FacultyEarly last night we were made aware of a Life University student who sought medical care for flu-like symptoms. Since then, we have been in constant communication with the both the student and the Cobb & Douglas Public Health Department. It is important to note that at this time, the student, while symptomatic of the flu, has not been positively identified with COVID-19. While the risk to the LIFE community of COVID-19 is extremely low, we are responding in a precautionary manner. In the meantime and with guidance from county public health department personnel, the institution took immediate and appropriate measures with the individual involved until testing is conducted and the results are known. If any further action or update on this situation is required, it will be done and communicated with expediency. Until then, the usual precautions are in place for our staff and students:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick. Err on the side of caution.
- Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue; then, discard the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Get your spine checked and adjusted regularly to ensure your nerve system is able to optimally adapt to these external stresses.
- Get rest, eat well and exercise.
Sincerely,
Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life University
FROM: Emergency Action Task Force (EATF) As was communicated by President Dr. Rob Scott on Tuesday morning, Life University is closely monitoring ongoing developments related to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak and its potential impact on the LIFE community.In accordance, Life University's Emergency Action Task Force (EATF) is meeting regularly and staying abreast of continual updates on all things related to the virus, while making appropriate plans and procedures for the University in the unlikely event that COVID-19 becomes a more immediate risk to our campus community. The task force is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines as well as obtaining information from the Georgia Department of Public Health and Cobb and Douglas Public Health.Ultimately, it is important to remember that while the CDC considers COVID-19 as a serious public health concern, it represents a low immediate risk to the American public at this time.Currently there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus at Life University and fewer than five in the state of Georgia.Be assured that any important updates regarding COVID-19 and its potential impact on the LIFE community will be disseminated if or when they arise.In the meantime, for more information and updates on COVID-19, please visit the CDC website at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.View PDF
Re: Message Regarding COVID-19
To: Life University Students, Staff and FacultyAs a diverse institution with global activities, Life University has been closely monitoring developments related to the COVID-19 outbreak and its potential impact on the LIFE community. The health and safety of our faculty, staff and students is our highest priority.As with other local institutions, we are following guidance from The Georgia Department of Public Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the U.S. Department of State. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers coronavirus a serious public health concern, the agency considers the immediate risk to the American public low at this time. Therefore, while the CDC is taking proactive preparedness precautions, the advice for the coronavirus is similar to the precautions suggested to combat the flu and other viruses. Basic hygiene practice is strongly encouraged when in contact with others:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick. Err on the side of caution.
- Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue; then discard the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
And, get your spine checked and adjusted regularly to ensure your nerve system is able to optimally adapt to these external stressors.
University-Sponsored Travel
Until further notice, Life University employees and students will not be permitted to travel to China, Iran, Italy or South Korea. We will continue to evaluate university-sponsored travel in other countries as this dynamic situation evolves.
In the unlikely event of a serious pandemic, we are formulating a plan and communication regarding alternative ongoing teaching and learning should it become necessary to have an elongated closing of the University. Such a plan would take advantage of Blackboard, as well as live online tools such as Zoom and other platforms.
As always, you are the final authority on your health and personal safety decisions.
We will communicate additional updates as necessary.
For real time statistics and resources on the COVID-19, see worldometers.info/coronavirus/.
Sincerely,
Rob Scott, D.C., Ph.D.
President, Life University
COVID Self-Reporting
Students
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, have been in direct contact (closer than 6 ft for more than 15 minutes) with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, and/or you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms please fill out the DOS COVID Questionnaire and the Office of the Dean of Students will communicate any next steps.
Students can also email DeanofStudents@LIFE.edu with any COVID related concerns or questions.
Faculty & Staff
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, have been in direct contact (closer than 6 ft for more than 15 minutes) with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, and/or you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms contact the Office of Human Resources.
Faculty and Staff can also email the Director of Human Resources at HRDirector@LIFE.edu with any COVID related concerns or questions.
Campus Screening Information
For those students, faculty and staff who will be on campus.
All employees and students are to self-screen before arriving on campus. Students and employees will comply with the following guidelines. Employees will also follow instructions provided by the Human Resources Department.
If your response to all of the screening questions below and on the following page indicates you should come to campus, please proceed to campus.
Prior to arriving on campus, you must self-certify that you are able to come to campus by answering the following questions (Click here for larger, image version.):
7-Day Return-to-Campus Protocol (close contact)
After seven full days have passed since your most recent exposure occurred, and you fulfill ALL THREE of the following criteria: 1. You are tested for COVID-19. The test should be a diagnostic test (PCR or antigen) and the specimen for your test may not be collected more than 48 hours before the time of planned quarantine discontinuation. If you plan to discontinue quarantine after seven full days, this means you should not have a sample collected for a test until after you have completed five full days of quarantine (tested on day six). 2. Receive a negative result. You may not discontinue quarantine until you have completed a minimum of seven full days since your most recent exposure, even if you receive your negative test result earlier. If your result is positive, you must follow DPH isolation guidance. 3. Do not experience any symptoms during your monitoring period.
10-Day Return-to-Campus Protocol (close contact)
After 10 full days have passed since your most recent exposure occurred, if you fulfill BOTH 1 and 2 of the following criteria: 1. a. Are NOT tested for COVID-19, OR b. Test negative for COVID-19 but do not meet criteria for 7- day return AND 2. Do not experience any symptoms during your monitoring period.
Prior to arriving on campus, you must self-certify that you are able to come to campus by answering the following questions (Click here for larger, image version.):
Campus Response to Confirmed Cases
The University has established a COVID Response Team to respond to confirmed COVID-19 cases on campus. Specific procedures are being followed to isolate positive cases so that the spread of the virus can be mitigated. Any positive tests activate our Response Team to identify other individuals who may have been in close contact with the individual who tests positive. The Response Team reaches out to those individuals and notifies them to quarantine in accordance with the CDC guidelines.
Weekly Status Update
Personal Protective Equipment
Hand sanitizer stations will be available throughout campus for those who wish to utilize them.
Employees
Employee Personal Protective Equipment will be made available by the University.
Effective May 3, 2021: Face coverings will not be required on campus where physical distancing can be maintained. Appropriate face coverings are still required during Lab classes and within the clinical setting. Individuals are still encouraged to practice personal safeguards, including face coverings, as they deem appropriate.
Types of PPE available from the University include face coverings, face shields (plastic), gloves and shoe coverings. Any additional PPE not on the above list is the employee’s responsibility.
The PPE supply station will be located in the Life U Shop during their normal business hours Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and Friday 7:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Students
Face coverings are available in the Life U Shop.
How to properly wear a face covering.
How to properly put on and remove gloves.
Testing Sites and Information
Cobb and Douglas Public Health
For an online testing referral form from the Georgia Department of Public Health, please visit: http://www.cdphcovid19testing.org/
To make an appointment with Cobb and Douglas Public Health, please call 770-514-2300.
Wellstar Urgent Care
WellStar Urgent Care clinics are open 7 days a week and walk-ins are welcome. They have numerous locations in Acworth, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Holly Springs, Kennesaw, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Smyrna and Stockbridge.
Please click here for more information about WellStar Urgent Care.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols
The Life University custodial team (Varsity, et al.) implemented a new cleaning and disinfecting routine effective June 3, 2020 that exceeds or complies with established guidelines as published by the Office of the Governor of Georgia and other federal guidelines. The program consists of scheduled (see below) clean up and wipe downs of hard surfaces in high traffic areas and low or no traffic areas throughout all our buildings in order to ensure a clean and safe environment. This will include the use of approved and effective cleaning agents. Our custodial vendor (Varsity) has been notified that COVID-19 screening is required when arriving on campus. The cleaning and wipe down routine will be in effect and be followed throughout the academic day. This process incorporates additional staff and added frequency to the previously established cleaning schedule for the protection and safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors.
These processes and procedures will be monitored by the Facilities Management Department.
Effective July 6, 2020:
- Classes and offices will be cleaned by overnight crew and ready by 6:00 a.m.
- Wipe down and clean up at mid-day: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
- Two-hour interval for wipe down of surfaces during the day for all buildings with high traffic
- Four-hour interval for wipe down of surfaces during the day for low traffic buildings
In addition, certain University designated departments will implement additional cleaning and disinfecting procedures.
- Restrooms
- Reception Areas/Lobbies
- Stairwells
- Elevators
- Break Rooms
- Conference Rooms
- Walkways/Corridors
- Chemical Resistant Gloves
- Chemical Splash Goggles
- 3M Respirator
- Door Knobs/Door Handles
- Door Push Plates
- Light Switches/Cover Plates
- Reception Desks
- Elevator Call Buttons and Cover Plates
- Refrigerator Handles
- Water Fountains
- Microwave Buttons
- Copy Machine Buttons
- Stair Railings
- Waiting Area Furniture
- Vending Machine Buttons
- Hard Surfaces
- Restroom Fixtures
- Paper Towel Dispensers
- Restroom Partition Door Handles
- Faucet Handles
- Soap Dispensers
- Toilet/Urinal Flush Handles
Morning
| 8:45-9:00 AM | 1085 Physical Plant |
| 9:00-9:15 AM | The Commons Housing |
| 9:15-10:00 AM | Sport Health Science Center |
| 10:00-10:15 AM | C-HOP 1415 |
| 10:15-10:30 AM | 1085 Physical Plant |
| 10:30-10:45 AM | The Commons Housing |
| 10:45-11:30 AM | Sport Health Science Center |
| 11:30-12:00 | NOON C-HOP 1415 |
Afternoon
| 1:00-1:15 PM | C-HOP 1415 |
| 1:15-1:30 PM | 1085 Physical Plant |
| 1:30-1:45 PM | The Commons Housing |
| 1:45-2:15 PM | Sport Health Science Center |
| 2:15-2:30 PM | C-HOP 1415 |
| 2:30-2:45 PM | 1085 Physical Plant |
| 2:45-3:00 PM | The Commons Housing |
| 3:00-3:30 PM | Sport Health Science Center |
| 3:30-3:45 PM | Security |
| 3:45-4:30 PM | 1075 |
| 4:30-5:20 PM | 1085 Physical Plant |
Evening
| 7:00-7:30 PM | Treehouse |
| 7:30-8:00 PM | CCE - Chiro |
| 8:00-8:30 PM | CGUS |
| 8:30-9:00 PM | Ctr-LRC |
| 9:00-9:15 PM | HCCE |
| 9:15-9:30 PM | Mod 3, 4, 5 and 7 |
| 9:30-9:45 PM | Treehouse |
| 9:45-10:15 PM | Sports Complex and Track |
| 10:15-10:45 PM | CCE - Chiro |
| 10:45-11:15 PM | CGUS |
Area-specific Cleaning Procedures
- Classrooms/Labs
- Campus Center for Health
and Optimum Performance
(CC-HOP)
Center for Health
and Optimum Performance
C-HOP - University Advisement (CETL
PAR, and Assessment and
Mastery Testing Center)
Students Cleaning Labs/Rooms:
- Students are to wipe the table with an Advantage sanitizing wipe (wipe dispenser) in front of the lab partner and roll fresh face paper onto the table.
- In the labs, students are to wipe the table with a sanitizing wipe (wipe dispenser) in front of the lab partner and roll fresh face paper onto the table.
- When a student finishes with a lab partner, the used face paper is to be removed from the table but not replaced. Used face paper is to be placed in the trash can within the room.
- When the student finishes in the lab, the student is to wipe down the table again.
- Wash hands or use sanitizer on hands when switching partners.
Student Intern Cleaning Responsibilities
Students are to wipe the table with the approved disinfectant in front of the patient and roll fresh face paper onto the table.
When a student finishes a patient visit, the used face paper is to be removed from the table but not replaced. Used face paper is to be placed in the trash can within the room.
Wash hands or use sanitizer to clean hands.
Staff Cleaning Open Areas/Shared Workspaces
Open or common areas where workspaces are shared, as well as shared offices, require more frequent cleaning and disinfecting. The same supplies are needed, and the standard protocols are to be followed.
- In waiting areas, all flat/hard surfaces should be cleaned/disinfected at least twice a day; door handles should be cleaned more frequently.
- In common areas such as reception desks, all flat surfaces should be cleaned several times a day following the standard protocols. Keyboards, mice and telephone receivers as well as any other shared equipment should be cleaned each time there is a change in user(s).
- In the case of shared offices, flat surfaces and door handles should be cleaned daily, following the standard protocols. Any shared equipment should be cleaned more frequently.
Standard Cleaning Protocols - Complete Daily
- Check the area and remove any clutter/trash, gowns and/or paperwork left behind.
- Clean the room:
- Check all flat surfaces, tables, desks, etc. for signs of anything visibly dirty.
- Clean surface with the approved disinfectant. On Activator tables, check the hanging tray on bottom of table near head area and clean as needed.
- Check any mirrors in the area for smudges and use approved cleaner and paper towels if mirrors need cleaning.
- Disinfect the room:
- Spray all surfaces (tables, desks, etc.) with the approved disinfectant and allow surface to remain wet for 10 minutes.
- Wipe with a clean towel (other than the one used with the multi-surface cleaner) and allow to air dry.
- Wipe down keyboards, mice, light switches and door handles with the damp towel being used with the approved disinfectant solution.
Supply the Room:
- Check the area for adequate face paper; re-supply as needed. Do not allow multiple rolls of paper to collect in the room; maximum of two rolls.
- Check the area for adequate facial tissues and re-supply as needed.
- Check the area for hand sanitizer and replace bottle as needed.
Inspect the Room:
- Check the area for any repair/maintenance items that need to be addressed (holes in walls, burned out light bulbs, badly stained carpet, etc.). Notify your supervisor via a single email containing all issues for the designated area.
Return Supplies to Designated Area
- Wipe down both spray bottles, including the spray heads and triggers, with the towel being used with the approved disinfectant solution and return the bottles to their designated area.
- Place used towels in the dirty laundry bin.
- Discard gloves.
- Wash hands thoroughly with warm soapy water and dry using a paper towel.
One Room/Area Per Day (in addition to all daily duties, one room/area per day should receive the following on a rotational basis).
- Wipe down table base(s) using the same steps as above.
- Dust all frames on walls.
- Raise hi-lo tables and dust/wipe down areas under the table bed.
Clinic Laundry Procedures
- It is recommended to wear disposable gloves and mask when handling dirty laundry; discard after each use. If using reusable gloves, those gloves should be dedicated for cleaning and disinfection of surfaces for COVID-19 and should not be used for other household purposes. Clean hands immediately after gloves are removed. If no gloves are used when handling dirty laundry, be sure to wash hands afterward.
- If possible, do not shake dirty laundry. This will minimize the possibility of dispersing virus through the air.
- Launder items as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely.
- Clean and disinfect clothes hampers according to guidance for hard and soft surfaces. If possible, consider placing a bag liner that is either disposable (can be thrown away) or can be laundered.
Staff Cleaning Room/Area Maintenance
- Each clinic staff person is assigned a unit or area that they are responsible for cleaning and maintaining daily. These duties are best completed during the time period between 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. and again as a part of closing.
- Once a student or employee is cleared and has a wristband, they may enter into the building or department.
- Students and employees will adhere to all Life University signage/direction, to include adherence to traffic flow and maximum number of people allowed in each area.
Student Cleaning Responsibilities
- Students are to sanitize/wipe down computers, workspace used, etc. when finished and prepare space for the next user.
Staff Cleaning Responsibilities
- Department staff will clean/disinfect their personal workspace, as needed, while in use.
Third-Party Testing (Accuplacer, ACT/SAT, CLEP, NBCE, etc.)
- Life University expects its employees to adhere to the University’s institutional guidelines, consistent with those outlined by the state’s executive orders and recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The University also expects adherence to those guidelines from third-party testing agencies during the preparation and administration of examinations on campus. LIFE’s guidelines will be followed for those third-party examinations (e.g., Accuplacer) that are directly administered by the institution. However, some agencies (e.g., ACT, SAT, NBCE) may have slightly different requirements than the University’s general guidelines and should be adhered to wherever possible.
Athletics
- Student Athletes
- General Operations
- Illness Outbreak
Comm Plan - Phases of
Training - Travel
- Competition
(Operations) - External
Communication - Fan Attendance
Protocol
The Department of Athletics will continue a phased operation of all athletic programs. The Department of Athletics, through Athletic Care, will carefully monitor the health of all student-athletes and move individual teams, or appropriate small groups within teams, to proper phases as described within this document when necessary. Monitoring begins with daily NAIA self-screening and phasing is subject to change as it is dependent upon any changes in COVID-19 cases within the team and/or small group.
In accordance with state and University guidelines, we have also used the following documents in planning:
- NCAA Core Principles of Resocialization of College Sport
- National Strength & Conditioning Association COVID-19 Return to Training
- NAIA COVID-19 Response Manual
- National Athletic Trainers Association Pre-Return & Return to Campus Preparation and Communication Plan
- USA Wrestling Return to the Mat Guidelines
- USA Rugby Return to Play Guidelines
- NCAA Resocialization of Collegiate Sport: Action Plan Considerations
- Mid-South Conference Return to Play Guidelines, Protocols, and Procedures In Response to COVID-19
The Department of Athletics will also abide by guidance set forth by Life University. While the criteria to train and compete may be more strict due to the physical and communal nature of sports, the general rules and philosophies still apply.
NOTE: At all phases, Athletics staff will be held to similar standards/guidelines as student-athletes. Additionally, at all phases the Department of Athletics will ensure proper cleaning protocols are taking place, and student-athletes use their own towel and water bottles to mitigate the spread of the virus.
ATHLETIC CARE
Staff/Student-Athlete Interaction
Staff are to maintain social distancing while working with patients unless it is absolutely required for care. Due to limited space, athletic care staff will work shifts to minimize contact and maintain the acceptable social distance of six feet. All staff and patients are to wash their hands immediately upon entering the clinic and after working with each patient.
Vulnerable student-athletes, athletics health care providers, coaches and athletics personnel should continue to shelter in place. Vulnerable populations include individuals with serious underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity and asthma, and those whose immune system is compromised, such as by chemotherapy.
Staff Scheduling
- Six feet is to be observed between working spaces and personal space.
- No more than two people to an office for daily use.
- Staff are to stay in assigned clinics. No hanging out in another clinic during hours.
- No staying and working in your office during another’s shift.
- Clinicians will wash their hands after a patient’s appointment.
AT Patient Care (Injuries/Prehab/Rehab)
- Staff are to wash hands prior to and after caring for a studentathlete.
- No patient is to be in the office area at any time for any reason.
- Self-stretching should always be encouraged.
- Only if it is completely necessary for care can you provide hands-on care.
- Provide verbal directions for patients to maintain distance.
- At the end of care, patients will place their masks (if they chose to wear one) into an ice bag provided by the AT who will also write their name on the bag for the patient. These can be replaced weekly.
- Patient masks will be stored in the cubby area and reused by the patient upon returning for care.
- No masks will be given to the student-athlete to take home unless it is their old mask that is being replaced.
- All surface areas and equipment will be sanitized immediately after the appointment where the patient had contact with during care
Chiropractic Patient Care
- Tables are to be sanitized before and after every patient use, paying close attention to the head piece and hand rests.
- Any utilization of masks during chiropractic care will follow
- AT Patient Care mask protocol.
Strength and Conditioning
- All S&C support resources and coaching is done virtually.
Academic Support
- All academic support resources are to be provided virtually.
Laundry
- Wear disposable gloves when handling dirty laundry and discard after each use. If using reusable gloves, those gloves should be dedicated for cleaning and disinfection of surfaces for COVID-19 and should not be used for other household purposes. Clean hands immediately after gloves are removed.
- If possible, do not shake dirty laundry. This will minimize the possibility of dispersing virus through the air.
- Launder items as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely.
- Clean and disinfect clothes hampers according to guidance for hard and soft surfaces. If possible, consider placing a bag liner that is either disposable (can be thrown away) or can be laundered.
Locker Room
- Locker rooms are to be cleaned daily via campus cleaning protocols.
- Extra cleanings are scheduled to take place prior to outside competition use to ensure room is sanitized prior to their use.
In the Event of a Confirmed COVID-19 Positive Diagnosis
- Facilities occupied by the diagnosed student-athlete will be closed to all until appropriately cleaned.
- Athletics initiates illness outbreak communication plan
- Director of Athletics will contact the conference commissioner per Mid-South guidelines.
- Athletic care will continue to check in and monitor those diagnosed.
- A doctor’s note clearing the student-athlete to participate must be obtained by the Director of Athletic Health Care to resume participation.
| Director of Athletic Health Care Chris Markie |
|
| Team Physician(s) Dr. Greg Matechak/Dr. Greg Lee | |
| Athletic Director Jayme Pendergast
|
|
| Athletic Trainers |
|
| Head Coach |
|
| Athletic Media Relations |
|
| Physical Plant |
|
The Department of Athletics, through Athletic Care, will carefully monitor the health of all student-athletes and move individual teams, or appropriate small groups within teams, to proper phases as described within this document when necessary. Monitoring begins with daily NAIA self-screening and phasing is subject to change as it is dependent upon any changes in COVID-19 cases within the team and/or small group.
It is important to note that for some teams, it would be appropriate for some on the team to be at Phase I and for others to be at Phase 2 or Phase 3 as tracing close contacts is dependent upon the nature of the sport.
Phase I
Note: Any student-athlete or staff member who have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been contact-traced are required to isolate/quarantine and are not permitted in campus facilities.
- S&C plans will be accessible through TeamWorks app (If the student-athlete is well enough to be active)
- Use of personal equipment only
- All coaching occurs virtually
- All team activities are to be done virtually.
- Academic meetings are to be performed virtually.
Phase II
Note: This phase is designed to be a natural “conditioning” and return to play period for our student-athletes. Access to facilities is no longer restricted.
- Designated Athletic Trainers will submit required screening verification to NAIA daily.
- Daily symptom screening will occur when the team is active that day. The student athlete will verify their daily health status through a daily symptom screen in the Athletic Trainer System Software. The athletic trainer will review any flagged student athletes to determine if they are medically disqualified from practice or competition based from a graded symptom score designed by the NAIA. Based off the symptoms and score the student-athlete may be referred for COVID-19 testing. If the symptoms qualify for Life University disqualification the athletic trainer will inform the Dean of Students office.
- A 5-day graduated return to play will occur for positive COVID-19 cases. Any case with prolonged or severe symptoms may require further testing before being allowed to return to activity upon clearance of the team physician. Teams that are quarantined for 14 days will only require a 3-day graduated return for full practice or competition. A graduated return may be altered based on updated guidelines provided by the Department of Health and adopted by Life University.
- Strength & Conditioning to resume in person. Technical skill training allowed but must abide by graduated return to play protocol, under the direction of the Athletic Trainer.
- Contact allowed but must abide by graduated return to play protocol, under the direction of the Athletic Trainer. No outside competition allowed.
Phase III
Note: Teams in phase III are cleared to participate in accordance with graduated return to play protocol, MD clearance (If applicable), and outside competition allowed.
- Traditional training and contact allowed.
- Rigorous cleaning of equipment and spaces continue.
- Competition resumes with attention to other institutional/state guidelines.
- Travel logistics may be altered to reduce risk of spread of virus.
Travel
- Spacing and other relevant factors will be considered In all transportation assignments.
- Use boxed/individual meals – no buffet-type food is to be served.
- Additional protocol for travel is listed in the Mid-South Conference
- Return to Play Guidelines, Protocols and Procedures Manual.
- On game day, Life University will follow all Mid-South Conference Return to Play Guidelines, Protocols, and Procedures In Response to COVID-19, which can be found at http://www.mid-southconference.org/.
- Normal screening protocols in place and must be completed on visiting team, game day workers and guests attending.
- Game-day operations should have someone ready to screen two hours prior to competition. We expect guest screening to start with visiting team and officials and continue with spectators.
- Those taking payment must wear gloves.
- Concessions must sell individually packaged food/drink.
- Those working concessions must wear gloves.
- It is the responsibility of the Game Administrator to monitor for compliance with screening and the wearing of bands.
- All individuals present at the competition must have the designated wristband associated with the university for that day.
- Guests without bands must be asked to leave.
- Attendance at outdoor events will be unaffected as appropriate space exists to maintain distancing protocols.
- All indoor competitions will be moved to the Lower Gym until further notice to accommodate for increased spacing.
- Visitors can view game-day Information at https://liferunningeagles.com/sports/2020/7/14/life-uathletics-covid-policies-and-procedures.aspx .
- Director of Athletic Health Care (or designated ATC) is to communicate Life U’s institutional guidelines and required institutional information required by the Mid-South Conference to visiting team 72 hours in advance of competition date.
Life University values the support of our fans. Our primary goal is to protect the health and safety of our campus community members and ensure the quality of our students’ education. Until further notice, spectators will be required to wear a mask or other face covering at all athletic events.
All fans are required to be screened according to Life University policies, before entering the athletic venue.
Attendance/Fan Procedures at Life U Athletic Venues.
Eagles’ Nest (lower gym)
- Maximum attendance of 300.
- There will be no fans from visiting teams allowed.
- Visiting teams will be limited to a travel roster of 25, including student-athletes, coaches, athletics trainers, and bus drivers.
- The home team will be allotted a guest list that will be chosen at the discretion of the team's head coach. Fans MUST be on the list to gain entrance after screening.
- The remaining number of guests will be open to Life University students, faculty, and staff. These tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis and Life University ID is required.
- All fans will be able to pick up a ticket at the check-in table located at the entrance to the Eagle’s Nest.
Upper Gym
- No fans allowed.
- Game day personnel only.
Lupo Family Field
- Currently no limit on attendance. Subject to change.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How to Report Symptoms, Exposure and Concerns Quick Guide for Employees and Students
- What should I do as a Life University student or employee if I have been or think I have been exposed to the Coronavirus? Also, what if I become aware of another member of the LIFE community expressing symptoms of the virus?
- What happens to students scheduled for PEAK?
- What do I do if I don’t have the appropriate technology?
- I am a faculty/staff member with children whose school district is closed. What should I do?
- I am planning on moving into University Housing. What should I do?
- I am a student-athlete at Life University and have questions about what I should expect during this on-campus class suspension?
- What food services will be available during the on-campus class suspension?
- I am feeling worried and anxious, and I need help. Who can I turn to?
- What is COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?
- How can I prevent getting the coronavirus?
- What should I do if I’ve recently traveled to a country with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice?
- Who can I contact with more questions?
We recognize the situation regarding COVID-19 is an area of concern for all of us in the LIFE community, especially related to:
- If you’re concerned you’ve been exposed to COVID-19
- You may have COVID-19 related symptoms
- A family member, colleague, fellow student or friend tested positive for COVID-19
What is considered an "exposure" to COVID-19?
The University follows the CDC guidelines on exposure, which define it as close contact (within 6 feet or less for 15 minutes or more) with a laboratory confirmed positive individual.
I’m concerned that I may have been exposed to COVID-19. What should I do?
Report your concern directly to the contact provided below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
I have symptoms that may be related to COVID-19. What should I do?
The most typical symptoms for COVID-19 are fever, cough, shortness of breath, new loss of smell and/or taste, and myalgia (muscle pain) and/or chills. If you have any symptoms that indicate you are ill, you should stay home to limit the possibility of spreading any illness you may have. Let your faculty(s) or supervisor know that you will not be in class or at work. Additionally, you should report your symptoms directly to the contact provided below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
A family member, colleague, fellow student or friend tested positive for COVID-19. What should I do?
The person being tested will follow their provider’s instructions and will be required to self-isolate. Current CDC guidance says that unless you were within 6 feet or less for 15 minutes or longer with this person, you shouldn’t need to be concerned about contracting COVID-19 from them.
If you were within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes with the individual who tested positive, it is possible you were exposed, and you are strongly encouraged to undergo testing. You may be required to self-quarantine. Report your possible exposure directly to the contact provided below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
A student or employee has possible COVID-19 symptoms, exposure or concern. What should I do?
Faculty and/or supervisors should refer the individual directly to the appropriate contact below. In the event the student or employee is unable to make direct contact, the faculty or supervisor should make the report on their behalf to the contact below:
Dean of Students
Director of Human Resources
Full Contact Information
Lisa Reed, Director of Human Resources
Email: HRDirector@LIFE.edu
Phone: 770-426-2611
Designee: Fran.Boykins@LIFE.edu
The majority of symptoms related to COVID-19 resemble those of the common flu. If you have these symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, coughing, fever, shortness of breath) and they are progressing, contact your local healthcare professional and notify the University at COVID19@LIFE.edu.
PEAK operations and intern assignments will continue as scheduled. If there are extenuating circumstances, please contact the Level 3 Clinic Director, Dr. John Markham at John.Markham@LIFE.edu.
Blackboard is designed to work on a multitude of platforms, including smartphones and tablets. If you are a Life University student and do not have access to a computer or tablet, contact us at ITsupport@LIFE.edu.
Supervisors will work with the Vice President of their area to determine which positions can fulfill their job functions remotely. Faculty/staff must work with their supervisor to determine how best to fulfill their job duties. This could entail working from home on a part- or full-time basis during the period of on-campus class suspension. Pending guidance from the federal government, some changes may impact the number of personal leave days available.
Please contact Housing & Residential Life at 770.426.2700 or Housing@LIFE.edu to discuss options and intentions.
Updates on Life U Athletic competition and practices, as well as NAIA, Mid-South Conference and USA Rugby updates, will be posted to LIFERunningEagles.com.
Both Eagles’ Landing and Plato II Go will be closed through the dates of suspension. The following options will be available during this time:
- Lyceum Grab & Go will be open daily from 8:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
- Lyceum Dining Hall will be open Monday through Friday only for brunch (10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.) and dinner (4:30-6:30 p.m.)
- Socrates Café will be open Monday through Thursday only.
Door rates for non-meal plan visits to Lyceum Dining Hall will be reduced.
Students may contact their on-campus Counseling Services, whose website can be found here. There you can also find many outside resources available depending on your specific need.
You can also contact your county's local health departments at the following websites: Bartow County Health Department; Cherokee County Health Department; Clayton County Board of Health; Cobb & Douglas Public Health; Dekalb County Board of Health; Fulton County Board of Health; Gwinnett County Board of Health; Paulding County Health Department
For information, visit the CDC website.
Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent COVID-19 infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends typical infectious disease precautions, just as those used to prevent cold or flu:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes.
Cover coughs and sneezes with your arm or a tissue.
Avoid exposure to others who are sick.
Stay home while you are ill (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.
Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Get your spine checked and adjusted regularly to ensure your nerve system is able to optimally adapt to these external stressors
Life University’s position is that wearing masks/face coverings will not be required during our return to campus; however, negative comments to those deciding to wear masks (or not to wear masks) will not be tolerated. Face masks and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may be necessary/required in the healthcare provider areas as outlined by the state’s executive orders and recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). For the CDC's advice on the use of face masks by the general public, please click here.
The University is following the CDC recommendations for travelers returning from countries with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice.
Further questions on the coronavirus and its impact to Life University can be directed to COVID19@LIFE.edu. More information can be found at the Centers for Disease Control website or the Georgia Department of Public Health.
Housing and Residence Life
- Move-in Process
- Residence Hall
Operations - Housing and
Residence Life Support - Facility Operations
- An email with instructions will be sent to all students’ Life University email addresses scheduled to move in during the appropriate quarter.
- Residents will be assigned designated move-in timeslots in order to regulate the amount of people in the residence hall and common spaces to maintain physical distance.
- Move-in signage will be placed on Barclay Circle leading students to The Commons (1100 Barclay Circle, Marietta, GA 30060) for both Life’s Village Retreat and The Commons check-in.
- Only two people, the resident plus one, will be allowed to enter the residential areas of the buildings to take belongings to the resident’s room.
- Residents checking in will be directed to park in short term parking and enter Lyceum Dining Hall to check in.
- Students will turn onto Huntington Road from Barclay toward The Commons and directed to our short-term parking area.
- Life University team members will be available to direct guests to check-in.
- The resident will enter Lyceum Dining Hall and finish the check-in process inside The Commons. Resident Assistants and Housing and Residence Life team members will assist the student with check-in. The resident will then be provided additional move-in information.
- Life University team members will be available to direct guests to check-in.
- On-Site Resources
- Card services will be available on site to take ID pictures and distribute student IDs.
- Housing & Residence Life
- Campus Dining/Meal Plans and Mail Services Information
- Enrollment
- Financial Aid
- Student Accounts
- Campus Safety
- Once checked in, the student will then be invited to unload their vehicle and begin moving into their assigned residence hall.
- Directional signs will be posted in the halls.
- LVR – clockwise direction all floors.
- The Commons – each hallway will have one direction.
- Only two people, the resident plus one, will be allowed to enter the building to take belongings to the resident’s room.
- Residents and a guest will only be able to go up on the elevators (no more than two in a car) and down on the main stairwells.
Regulations and Guidelines
- Face Coverings
- Face coverings are required within all residential buildings/common areas when a student is not in their assigned room/apartment.
- Face coverings can be provided by the Housing and Residence Life team if student does not have one.
- Nonresidential guests are not allowed within the residential areas of the residence halls on-campus.
- Remaining at least 6ft physical distance when around other Life student and professional staff in the residence halls.
- Increased signage throughout the building and email reminders are sent to students of implemented regulations and guidelines.
- Each floor in the Residence Halls has a Resident Assistant (RA) available to support residential students with anything they need.
- RAs host programs to educate and involve students within their residential community. Topics for programs include: Stress Management, Wellness (Mental/Physical), Bingo Nights, Design a Face Covering and many more!
- For both buildings on-campus, we have Isolation Technicians who are professional staff members that assist and support our students in quarantine and isolation while living on campus.
- These technicians will deliver meals to the students, do student check-ups and assist students with any other needs they may need while in quarantine and isolation.
- Each residence hall has a live-in professional staff member called a Residence Life Coordinator (RLC) that supports the RAs of the building and assists with any issues/concerns in their residence hall.
- The RLCs provide support to the residential students while also promoting the residential curriculum to help students develop personally and professionally while on-campus.
- RLCs will send out monthly newsletters to their residential community keeping them updated on programs in the residence hall, on-campus and keeping students up to date on LIFE's regulations and policies.
- The residence halls are cleaned daily 7 days a week by Building Cleaning Solutions, Inc.
- When cleaning is underway, frequently touched surfaces are addressed multiple times throughout the day.
- Additional cleaning is done throughout the Isolation Area and electro-spraying takes place once a student moves in/out of Isolation.
Campus Services
- Fitness Center
- Registrar’s Office, Student Accounts
Financial Aid - Student Success Center
- Academic Support
- Disability Services
- Counseling
- SI Sessions
- Peer Assisted Learning
- The facility is open and appropriate restrictions are in place to facilitate physical distancing protocols.
- The locker rooms, spin studio and group exercise room are open and comply with current guidance from the Governor’s Executive Orders.
- Patrons are encouraged to limit workouts to 60 minutes.
Physical Distancing
- Equipment is spaced a minimum of six feet apart. Equipment that cannot be spaced out will be taken offline.
- Adhere to current Governor’s Executive Orders with regards to Fitness Center operations and facility capacity.
Cleaning
- Professional and student staff student staff are cleaning and disinfecting of touchpoints of all equipment following the Life University Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocol (LUCDP).
- Patrons are required to wipe down all equipment after each use. Student staff are asked to remind patrons of this requirement. This applies even between sets, if a patron leaves that piece of equipment, equipment is to be cleaned – no excuses (e.g., getting water).
- Opening staff arrive 30-45 minutes prior to opening to begin facility cleaning responsibilities. Closing staff remain 30 minutes after closing to complete end-of-day cleaning responsibilities.
- Additional cleaning of the facility will occur mid-day during the week from 1:00pm-2:00pm - the facility will be closed one hour to clean and disinfect touchpoints and equipment.
- Patrons are required to have ID card to enter the Fitness Cente
- Patrons are to swipe their own ID card to check in to facility to practice physical distancing.
- Patrons who are sick or experiencing any symptoms will be asked to leave the facility.
Facility Staffing
- Facility staff members are encouraged to wear appropriate gloves when cleaning equipment, machines and touchpoints.
- Student staff are encouraged to use hand sanitizer and/or wash hands throughout shifts.
- Facility staff are scheduled in clusters to limit total exposure.
- All staff will complete a reorientation/training prior to resuming work that covers new policies, procedures and education on COVID-19.
Facility Capacity Management
- All patrons are required to follow posted occupancy guidelines which allow for physical distancing within the facility. Occupancy can be tracked by downloading the Life U Recreation and Wellness App available for free in the app store.
Communication
- Signs are posted around fitness center to encourage positive hygiene practices and handwashing. Policy signage will be posted in both locker rooms, facility entrance, front desk, on social media pages, and website.
- Patron’s are encouraged to visit myrec.life.edu or download the Life U Recreation and Wellness App from the app store for further information and updates from Campus Recreation and Wellness.
Policy and procedures will be monitored and updated as needed or as required to maintain compliance with all federal and local laws and University requirements related to COVID-19.
The Student Advocacy Center and all of the departments within the Student Administrative Department will follow Life University guidelines with regards to physical distancing and appropriate environmental cleaning.
- Remote Students: Please call 770-426-2700 and share your issue with the Student Advocate who will facilitate contact with the appropriate individual. Contact may be through either audio or video conferencing.
- On-Campus Students: Students who are on campus may visit the Student Advocacy Center. One of the Student Advocates will assist you in contacting the appropriate individual to resolve any issue or answer any question you may have.
The Student Success Center (SSC) services are available currently in person or through remote options. Please contact the specific area to determine the best form of communication.
https://www.life.edu/campus-life-pages/student-success-center/
Academic Support
- Academic Support professional staff will be on-campus daily schedule between 8am and 6pm.
- Individual meetings will occur virtually or outside of the staff member’s office.
- Make-up tests are available on-campus for lecture, paper-based tests only.
- All PAL lecture sessions (Undergraduate and DC) will be held on-campus.
- TutorMe, online tutoring, is available for students to utilize if they cannot make it to a PAL session.
- Open lab PAL sessions will be held fully on-campus. Basic Sciences and Clinical Skills PAL sessions open labs will be open on Saturdays and Sundays. There are also weekday scheduled open labs during the week.
Contact Academic Support: AcademicSupport@LIFE.edu
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Times may vary based upon coverage for accommodated exam times needed.)
Contact Disability Services: SSC@LIFE.edu
770-426-2725
https://www.life.edu/campus-life-pages/student-success-center/disability-services/
Contact Counseling: Counseling@LIFE.edu
770-426-2725
https://www.life.edu/campus-life-pages/student-success-center/counseling/
SI Schedule posted on SSC Webpage: www.LIFE.edu/campus-life-pages/student-successcenter/academic-support/
- Lecture SI sessions will continue to be offered fully on Blackboard Collaborate Ultra or Zoom.
- Open lab SI sessions will continue to be offered online via Blackboard Collaborate Ultra/Zoom and/or on-campus.
- On-campus open sessions will have one SI leader (except for Mopal, which will have two leaders, and Clinical Skills’ open labs, which will have no more than four SI leaders present) in the lab to assist students. To control the students entering the labs and/or maximum number of students in the lab, Academic Support will create a sign-up schedule for students to sign up to attend the labs. The link will be on our site, Blackboard, and on the schedule.
- If a student arrives without scheduling their time, an iPad will be available for students to sign up for a time slot.
- Remote sessions will have one leader per course on Blackboard Collaborate Ultra/Zoom.
- Each on-campus SI session will be limited to 25 minutes with time between students for the SI leaders to clean the equipment before the next student arrives.
PALS Schedule posted on the Academic Support webpage: https://www.life.edu/academic-pages/academic-support/services/
All PAL (Undergraduate, DC, lecture, and lab) sessions will be offered on-campus only.
- Open lab PAL sessions will continue to be offered online via Blackboard Collaborate Ultra/Zoom and/or on-campus.
- To control the students entering the sessions, students will need to sign up to attend the sessions. The link will be on our website, Blackboard, and on the schedule.
- If a student arrives without scheduling their time, an iPad will be available for students to sign up for a time slot.
Events & Gatherings
- Guidelines for Planning/
Scheduling an Event - Gatherings
- Student Organizations and Clubs
- Scheduling Event Space
- Planning the Event
- Guidelines for Check-in
and During the Event - Post-Event Guidelines
- Resources for
Event Planning - Campus Tours
All events will follow the guidelines set forth by the University with regards to physical distancing and the use of PPE. Specifically:
- We will adhere to the current guidelines as published by the Office of the Governor of Georgia and federal guidelines.
- When possible, consider outdoor event spaces (the more open and well-ventilated a space, the better).
- Form to be filled out be the Event Organizer on DocuSign.
The University is strongly recommending that all members of the institution adhere to the current guidelines as published by the Office of the Governor of Georgia and federal guidelines. Respect the physical distancing of six feet between persons. While not always possible, every effort will be made to maintain physical distancing. Some measures may include markers on the floors and in hallways, shields at certain office locations and remote assistance when practical.
Food Service
Any event involving food service will adhere to the following minimum guidelines:
- No self-service buffets or self-serve areas are to be used.
- Stagger food and drink stations.
- Drinking fountains and hydration stations are to be monitored.
- Serve pre-packaged or individually packaged food/meals and individually bottled beverages.
- Request trash cans in room schedule/setup FSDirect details.
- Schedule custodial service for intermittent trash pickup during the event.
Food service provided by Chartwells in Lyceum Hall and Socrates Café will abide by the current guidelines as published by the Office of the Governor of Georgia and federal guidelines in addition to their current corporate guidelines that will include daily screening of all employees.
- Registered clubs and organizations may request rooms through Engage based on very limited availability.
- All cleaning protocols, occupancy and event restrictions will be enforced by their registered advisor.
- Student organizations will not be allowed to congregate or meet without a faculty advisor present for the entire meeting as well as approved event registration.
- All attendees must wear the appropriate wristband.
- Submit a room schedule request through FSDirect Room Scheduling a minimum of two weeks prior to the event.
- Schedule an event space large enough to accommodate physical distancing requirements (a minimum of six feet between individuals) for the expected attendance.
- The number of attendees should comply with the Governor of Georgia’s Current Executive order and allow for a minimum distance of six feet apart.
- Consider actual room size after setup with staging, pipe and drape, registration area, etc. – anything that will minimize current empty room size when you are estimating guest count.
- Consider outdoor event spaces (the more open and well-ventilated a space, the better).
- Confirm the requested room is available and request is approved before finalizing plans for the event. myschoolbuilding.com/myschoolbuilding/myrequest.asp
- A dedicated isolation space should be identified for use should a participant develop symptoms during the event (including events spanning one or more days, or if a participant is unable to leave the event immediately).
- Attendance numbers should not exceed the maximum number of guests allowed by the Governor’s Executive Order for group gatherings.
- Require guests to RSVP so you can plan accordingly.
- Setup/Breakdown and Event Start/End Time
- Schedule event setup/breakdown times to ensure safety precautions are followed during setup and breakdown of event and to allow necessary sanitization before and after the event.
- All participants will be screened according to current Life University protocols and wear the appropriate wristband. No exceptions!
- Set the end time of the event to allow sufficient time for achieving the objectives of the event and minimize time for social gathering.
- Include tables for safety equipment (thermometers, hand sanitizer) in the check-in area in the FSDirect set-up detail.
- Registration tables, check-in and prescreening area(s) should be set up in a separate area outside of the dedicated event space.
- Ensure physical distancing (maintain six foot distance between all attendees).
- Sanitation and Safety Guidelines per Life University cleaning and disinfecting protocols
- Varsity employees will be subject to on-campus, daily screening.
- Ensure all furniture and fixtures are cleaned/sanitized before the start of the event.
- Face masks will be made available for attendees (non-university employees and students) upon arrival at the event. Face masks/coverings are required when physical distancing is not possible.
- Physical Distancing
- Incorporate physical distancing and precautionary measures as published by the Office of the Governor of Georgia and federal guidelines (currently maximum of 50 guests).
- Mark floors in six-foot intervals at check-in.
- Arrange tables for seating of groups of five or fewer per table (72-inch round), less if using smaller tables.
- Space tables to allow a six-foot open space between the backs of chairs when guests are seated.
- Booth Seating: seat guests in every other booth.
- Seating-Only Events: arrange chairs to allow for a six-foot area on all sides of each chair.
- Food Service
- No self-service buffets or self-serve areas are to be used.
- Stagger food and drink stations.
- Drinking fountains and hydration stations are to be monitored.
- Serve pre-packaged or individually packaged food/meals and individually bottled beverages.
- Request trash cans in room schedule/setup FSDirect details.
- Schedule custodial service for intermittent trash pickup during the event.
- Informational communications from event organizers should include:
- All Life University communications regarding COVID-19 are found on the following web page: LIFE.edu/campus-life-pages/health-services/coronavirus/.
- Post standard Life University COVID-19 prevention posters.
- Include directives that individuals who are ill or not feeling well should not attend the event.
- Those who are high risk should take extra precautions in attending the event.
- Include pre-screening questions per the Life University return to campus process
Event Staff Requirements
- Face coverings are required except for when eating or drinking.
- Mark separate entrances and exits from the event room.
- Prop doors open for entering and exiting event room.
- Use the Engage website (for students), iPads, phones or another form of “no contact” check-in; no pens or paper.
- Follow the Life University screening process.
- Based on CDC guidelines, Life University reserves the right to deny admission to any individual(s) in the best interest of the safety and health for the LIFE community (anyone presenting with a fever of 100.4 degrees or more and/or with active COVID-19 symptoms).
- Have appropriate cleaning and PPE available at event.
- Encourage people to replace handshakes with greetings that do not require skin-to-skin contact.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces as per the Life University guidelines (LUCDP).
Attendees
- Face coverings are required except for when eating or drinking.
- All participants will be screened in order to attend events as per the current Life University protocol.
- Once successfully screened, guests will be required to wear a visitor’s wristband for the duration of their stay on campus.
- Individuals feeling unwell or experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) should not participate in the event.
- Life University reserves the right to deny admission to any individual(s) in the best interest of the safety and health of the LIFE community (anyone presenting with a fever of 100.4 degrees or more and/or with active COVID-19 symptoms).
- If a guest develops symptoms during the event (including events spanning one or more days, or if guest is unable to leave the event immediately), a dedicated isolation space will be provided.
Food Service
- Do not share food or beverages with others.
- Food service staff will follow appropriate procedures for safe handling and serving of food.
Signage
- Organization and program materials/handouts pertaining to your event should be displayed at check-in and registration table area.
- Life University Safety and Prevention signage will be displayed in and around the event space including check-in/registration and screening area.
Sanitation & Safety Guidelines
- Clean all frequently-touched surfaces such as countertops and tabletops, remote controls, computers and keyboards, A/V controls, chairs, doorknobs, etc. Use cleaning agents as recommended by Life University Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols (LUCDP) to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – In consideration for the community health and wellbeing, Life University will provide general items for events. Masks, nitrile gloves, shoe covers and hand sanitizer can be requested by emailing Purchasing@LIFE.edu with the item and quantity needed. Any desired PPE outside of those four items must be requested by the VP of that department and approved by the EVP of Finance prior to an order being placed.
- No-touch scanning thermometers
- Hand Sanitizer
- Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Facial tissues
- Paper towels
- Floor markers
- Disinfectant wipes (for wiping down surfaces and thermometers)
- Informational posters
- Wastebaskets, trashcans (reserve with schedule request through FSDirect)
- The number of participants will be limited to current guidance from the Governor’s Office:
- One Student Ambassador
- One Campus Tours Coordinator
- One Faculty Member
- One Enrollment Specialist
- One Financial Aid Representative
- Guests will not be required to wear PPE equipment; however, it will be made available.
- All staff members and Student Ambassadors should have wristbands from daily temperature check-in.
- Tour schedule adjusted and shortened to reduce overcrowding and exposure.
Materials Needed
- Hand sanitizer station for guests
- Social Distancing signage
- Cleaning agents
- No-touch thermal forehead scans
- Life University Face Coverings will be provided.
Guest Communications
- Guests will receive standard physical distancing guidelines and safety instructions prior to their arrival to campus.
- Guests will also be informed of what safety precautions we are taking to ensure their safety.
- Guests will also be screened according to the current Life University protocol and receive a wristband indicating that screening has occurred.
Cleaning Procedures and Guidelines
- Treehouse will be properly cleaned and sanitized after each tour ends following CDC guidelines. Work orders will be placed to ensure the proper cleaning supplies are used.
- Any areas used for dining will be properly cleaned and sanitized after each tour ends following CDC guidelines.
- Enrollment Conference Room will be properly cleaned and sanitized after each tour ends following CDC guidelines.
CARES ACT Reporting Requirements
Certification and Agreement Application
LIFE University signed and returned to the Department of Education the Certification and Agreement to apply for Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF) on April 28th, 2020. Our institution assures that no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act were used to provide emergency financial aid grants to our students.
Total Amount of Funds Received
LIFE University is receiving a total allocation of $1,677,181 from the CARES Act. Pursuant to LIFE’s Certification and Agreement for emergency financial aid grants signed on April 28, 2020, the institution received $838,590 for emergency financial aid grants to students. This funding was authorized and available for access by our institution on May 14, 2020.
Pursuant to LIFE’s Certification and Agreement for emergency financial aid grants signed on July 9, 2020, the institution received $838,591 as the institutional share of emergency grant funding. This funding was authorized and available for access by our institution on July 13, 2020.
Total Amount Distributed to Students
As of June 9, 2020, the total amount of emergency financial aid grants distributed to our students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act was $838,590.
As of August 13, 2020, the total amount of emergency financial aid grants distributed to our students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act was $1,255,340.
Estimated Total Number of Eligible Students
There were 1,996 total number of students at LIFE who were eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus were eligible to receive emergency financial aid grants under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act. The determination of eligibility for grants was based on the guidance and directives received from the Secretary of Education on April 30, 2020.
On August 13, 2020, there were 1,665 total number of students at LIFE who were eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus were eligible to receive emergency financial aid grants under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
Total Number of Students Who Received Grant
The total number of students who have received an emergency financial aid grant, as of June 9, 2020, is 1,996.
The total number of students who received the second disbursement of an emergency financial aid grant by August 13, 2020 was 1,665.
Method of Determination
LIFE University distributed emergency financial aid grants to Title IV eligible students who submitted a valid 2019/2020 FAFSA and were actively registered on April 22, 2020. The grants were awarded based on the primary factor of financial need as determined by the 2019/2020 FAFSA. The amounts awarded ranged from $200 to $500 based on three levels of need using the EFC. All grants were transferred via direct deposit to a student’s bank account or via paper check where banking information was not available.
LIFE University distributed second disbursements of emergency financial aid grants to Title IV eligible students who submitted a valid 2020/2021 FAFSA and were actively registered on August 5, 2020. The amount awarded to those students was $250. All grants were transferred via direct deposit to the student’s bank account or via paper check where banking information was not available or were used to reduce current account balances.
Guidance on Emergency Financial Aid Grants
Students were notified of LIFE’s plans to distribute the emergency financial aid grants via several emails, beginning on May 3, 2020 through May 15, 2020. Students were not required to apply for these grants, as all eligible Title IV students were included in the method used to determine grant recipients.
Students were notified of LIFE’s plans to distribute the institutional portion of emergency financial aid grants via several emails, beginning on June 2, 2020 through August 4, 2020. Students were not required to apply for these grants, as all eligible Title IV students were included in the method used to determine grant recipients.
Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting
View Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting PDFs: