COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease) Information & Updates
Life University will begin a phased return to campus beginning Monday, July 13. Read more in President Dr. Rob Scott’s latest announcement to campus below:
COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS DISEASE) INFORMATION & UPDATES
Life University is closely monitoring ongoing developments related to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak. It was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. Very rapidly, the virus has been detected in numerous countries, including the United States.
For an updated number of COVID-19 cases in Georgia, click here. 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 regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. 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.
Please read the latest campus-wide communications and FAQ below for more detailed information.
Re: Phased Return to Campus
To: Life University Community
I’d like to begin this rather lengthy message by expressing my gratitude for your patience. I know you’ve had many questions – as have we – in a time when there simply have been too many unknowns to provide firm answers. Once the initial two-week shutdown was implemented, subsequent public health directives and guidelines led to a much longer shutdown window, and now we are in our seventh week – nearly two months – of suspension of on-campus classes and the launch of near-100% remote instruction for the Spring 2020 Quarter. That is still hard to believe, and it’s amazing to see just how successful we’ve been, in spite of all the challenges, difficulties and uncertainties.
Every member of the LIFE community – students, faculty and staff – have worked together to make that happen. So, I continue my message with deep gratitude for what you’ve accomplished (and, for anyone who is struggling and needs assistance, please email CARE@LIFE.edu).
Now, it’s time for some decisions.
PHASED RETURN TO CAMPUS
With the passage of time and our ability (albeit limited) to gauge the effects of both COVID-19 and the efforts to mitigate its impact, we now have additional information and guidance available from experience, the CDC, the White House Opening up America Again initiative, the most recent social distancing guidelines, and current executive orders from Georgia’s governor that have assisted us in the decision that Life University will utilize a phased approach in our return to on-campus instruction and operations.
PLEASE NOTE that our phased return for the Summer 2020 Quarter will affect students in some programs differently than others. The link below provides an outline of the details.
View the Life University Return to Campus PDF
Read Dr. Scott’s Full PDF Message Here
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 University
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.
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
FAQ
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?
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.
What happens to students scheduled for PEAK?
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.
Will there be additional emergency loans?
Since we are maintaining the original academic calendar, no changes to the emergency loan process will be necessary. Financial Aid will be disbursed as originally scheduled.
What do I do if I don’t have the appropriate technology?
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.
I am a faculty/staff member with children whose school district is closed. What should I do?
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.
How does this impact the Summer Quarter?
The Summer Quarter will begin as scheduled on Monday, July 13.
I am planning on moving into University Housing. What should I do?
You have options. You can either move in on the regularly scheduled move-in dates, or you may choose to delay your move-in date until on-campus instruction resumes. Please contact Housing & Residential Life at 770.426.2700 or Housing@LIFE.edu to discuss options and intentions.
What should I do if I had previously scheduled travel plans?
Since we are returning to the original academic calendar, all previous travel plans can occur as scheduled.
I am a student-athlete at Life University and have questions about what I should expect during this on-campus class suspension?
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.
What food services will be available during the on-campus class suspension?
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.
I am feeling worried and anxious, and I need help. Who can I turn to?
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
What is COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?
COVID-19 commonly known as coronavirus, is a virus identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers this a serious public health concern, based on current information, the immediate health risk from coronavirus to the general American public is considered low at this time. Similarly to the common cold and influenza, symptoms of the coronavirus include fever, cough and shortness of breath. The CDC believes that symptoms may appear in as few as 2 days or up to 14 days after exposure. For additional information, visit the CDC website.
How is it spread?
Coronavirus disease 2019 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets, which means to become infected, people generally must be within six feet of someone who is contagious and come into contact with these droplets. Symptoms of COVID-19 generally appear within two to 14 days after exposure and include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Reported cases have ranged from mild illness (similar to a common cold) to severe pneumonia that requires hospitalization.
Health experts are still learning the details about how this new coronavirus spreads. Other coronaviruses spread from an infected person to others through:
The air by coughing and sneezing.
Close personal contact, such as touching and shaking hands.
Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose and eyes.
In rare cases, contact with feces.
Are there any confirmed cases of coronavirus at Life University?
Currently, there are no confirmed or presumptive cases at Life University.
How can I prevent getting the coronavirus?
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
The CDC does not recommend the routine use of face masks by the general public to prevent respiratory illness and is not recommending their use at this time for the prevention of COVID-19.
What are the considerations for travel?
Until further notice, all non-essential travel for Life University employees and for University-sponsored events is prohibited.
What should I do if I’ve recently traveled to a country with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice?
The university is following the CDC recommendations for travelers returning from countries with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice.
Who can I contact with more questions?
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.