Archived Updates

Updated Monday, March 27, 2023

Dominican University will continue to monitor the campus COVID-19 infection rates. All students and staff must continue to submit positive results using the COVID tracker.

Following the current CDC recommendations if you test positive for COVID you must isolate for a minimum of 5 days, and if symptoms are improved and you are without fever you can leave isolation wearing a tight fitting mask through day 10 of your infection. Once you complete the COVID tracker the Wellness Center will provide you with isolation guidelines.

  • If you are an on-campus resident and you test positive for COVID-19 and live within a 200-mile radius of campus, you will be required to isolate off campus. If you live over 200 miles you will be given the option to isolate in our on campus isolation rooms.
  • If students have a shared residence, the student may be allowed to repeat COVID test on their day 6 in the Wellness Center and if negative move back into their residence.

There will be antigen COVID tests available for students by appointment in the Wellness Center.

Also following the CDC guidelines if you are exposed to COVID you should wear a mask around others through your 10th day, and get tested at least 5 full days after your exposure.

The university’s COVID vaccination requirement will remain in place for all students, faculty and staff for the remainder of 2022-23 academic year. Medical and religious accommodations will continue to be considered.

Students please upload your vaccination card to the Wellness Center portal to comply.

Updated Thursday, September 8, 2022

Updated Health Guidelines for Fall 2022

Dominican’s Incident Management & Assessment Team (IMAT) would like to provide a brief update on a few recently approved policies that go into effect at the start of the school year.

It is important to note that all the following decisions were made after comprehensive discussion among IMAT members and thorough deliberation with our partners at Rush University Medical Center and in accordance with current CDC guidelines.

Updated COVID-19 Guidelines
  • The university’s vaccination requirement will remain in place for all students, faculty and staff.
    •  Though mandated, the university will no longer collect and store staff and faculty vaccination cards.
  • Students, faculty, and staff with an approved exemption will no longer be required to undergo weekly surveillance testing as part of our COVID-19 mitigation measures.
  • Dominican University will continue to align with masking guidelines from the CDC. We recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout campus, particularly in situations where distancing is not possible and when community transmission levels are elevated. Additionally, the university encourages members of our community to wear masks if that increases their level of comfort on campus.  

For the health and safety of all, and in accordance with guidance from the Cook County Department of Public Health, we will continue to monitor the recommendations of the CDC, and as situations change, we will re-evaluate our requirements.  

We ask that as a community, we continue to respect and support the needs of others during this time. We will remain committed to treating everyone in our campus community with fairness, kindness and respect as we all collectively uphold the Caritas Commitment.*

  • The university will continue to offer PCR and antigen testing through our Wellness Center; surveillance testing will no longer be offered.
  • We will continue our contract tracing measures but will simplify our process to focus only on individuals who test positive as opposed to exposures to the virus.
    • Our plans directly align with the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which was updated Thursday, Aug. 11.
    • Updated CDC guidance states, among other recommendations, that individuals exposed to COVID-19 no longer need to quarantine. The agency’s updated guidance can be found here.
  • Guests will be allowed in the residence halls following the guest policy.
  • Students living in the residence halls who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to isolate off campus if they live within a 200-mile radius. We will allow students to test out of isolation on the fifth day after a confirmed case of COVID-19 and move back into their residence on the sixth day given that their symptoms have subsided and that they do not have a roommate.
Monitoring Monkeypox

IMAT is paying close attention to the evolving spread of the Monkeypox virus. Earlier this month, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health declared the current outbreak a public health emergency in the state.

Dr. John Segreti, lead epidemiologist at Rush Hospital, briefed IMAT on the current Monkeypox outbreak while detailing the nature of the virus during its most recent meeting.

Monkeypox is a viral illness transmitted through close contact with rash, lesions, body fluids, and/or contaminated materials from an infected person or animal.

The Monkeypox virus is “not nearly as easily spread as COVID-19,” according to Dr. Segreti, who also noted that the virus is difficult to transmit. The current mortality rate of the virus is “extremely low,” per Dr. Segreti. As of this communication, there have been zero deaths in the United States related to the virus.

Additionally, at this time, there are no reported cases of Monkeypox at Dominican University.

Testing for the virus is readily available both at the local and state level. Treatment for the virus, including an effective and safe vaccine and additional medications, is also available. Approximately 20 sites in the Chicago area are currently administering the Monkeypox vaccine.

Additional information from the CDC related to Monkeypox can be found here.

IMAT will continue to thoroughly monitor updates from the CDC and IDPH to ensure that all necessary plans are in place to support our students, staff and faculty members as we navigate this most recent public health concern.

Thank you, as always, for your understanding and support. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have.

Sincerely,

Incident Management & Assessment Team (IMAT)



*Content updated by IMAT on Friday, August 26, 2022.

Updated Wednesday, August 24, 2022

Student Loan Repayment Pause Extended Through December 31, 2022

On August 24, 2022, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) extended the student loan payment pause through December 31, 2022.

The pause includes the following relief measures for eligible loans:

  • A suspension of loan payments
  • A 0% interest rate
  • Stopped collections on defaulted loans

They have also announced a plan to forgive student loan debt. Learn about the details here: The Biden-Harris Administration's Student Debt Relief Plan Explained.

Updated August 2022

Caritas Commitment

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a disruptive, stressful influence on all of our lives. As a member of the Dominican University community, I understand that I have an important role in keeping myself healthy and in protecting others from the spread of this virus. My commitment to the following community expectations is a lived expression of Dominican caritas and veritas.

Community
  • Extending patience and support to others, knowing that this is a complex and stressful situation for all
  • Fostering a just and humane campus climate by treating each person fairly and with respect, and helping one another to adhere to this commitment with compassion and empathy
Prevention
  • Complying with the University’s vaccination policy
  • Following recommendations and requirements related to travel and gatherings on and off campus
  • Apprising visitors and guests on campus, including in the residence halls, of Dominican’s policies
  • Washing my hands frequently with soap and water or sanitizing them regularly
  • Complying with mask mandates, when in place
  • Practicing respiratory etiquette and covering my cough/sneeze
  • Cleaning and disinfecting my personal space, shared common space, and my belongings daily
Monitor and Care
  • Conducting daily self-monitoring for symptoms of COVID-19
  • Reporting any positive COVID-19 tests to the COVID Tracker
  • Agreeing to self-isolate if I test positive for COVID-19 and to follow guidance on returning to campus
  • Participating in COVID-19 testing, if required
  • Participating fully and honestly with contact tracing to determine whom I may have exposed to COVID-19

I understand that Dominican University may modify these guidelines and expectations, based on the fluidity of the COVID-19 virus. It is my responsibility to stay informed to protect myself and the University community. I also acknowledge that these expectations are a condition of my enrollment and/or employment and that any failure to comply with the Caritas Commitment may lead to disciplinary action.

I understand COVID-19 is a highly contagious virus and it is possible to contract the disease, even if I follow all of the safety precautions above and those recommended by the CDC, local health department, and other agencies. I understand that, although the University is following the guidelines issued by the CDC and other experts to reduce the spread of infection, I can never be completely shielded from all risk of illness caused by COVID-19 or other infections.

I understand that Dominican University is not responsible, and cannot be held liable, if any community member becomes infected with COVID-19.

I have read this document and understand it is my responsibility as a member of the Dominican community to uphold the Caritas Commitment.

Updated Tuesday, June 7, 2022

The University will be using a new platform to track COVID-19 cases on campus. We will no longer use the #CampusClear app and, instead, all positive cases, and exposures must be submitted using this COVID tracker link.



We will continue to use this data to monitor campus infection rates to ensure the community stays safe. Thanks in advance for your cooperation.

Updated Thursday, March 3, 2022

Masking Guidelines

In accordance with updated masking guidelines from Gov. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health, Dominican University will no longer require face masks be worn indoors. While masks will no longer be mandated at Dominican, the university recommends face coverings be worn indoors. Faculty may require students to continue wearing masks inside on-campus class locations, such as in some labs where students are working in close proximity to each other. Faculty may work directly with Deans to coordinate masking within their classroom or lab space.

Masking will continue to be required in the university’s Wellness Center as well as the Goedert Center.

Several other key mitigation measures will remain in place at the university, including the use of the #CampusClear reporting system and our vaccination requirements. Our testing and quarantine requirements will also continue. Additionally, we encourage the campus community to continue diligence with reporting positive tests and symptoms through #CampusClear.

Updated Wednesday, January 5, 2022

Student Loan Repayment Pause Extended Through May 1, 2022

On Dec. 22, 2021, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) extended the student loan payment pause through May 1, 2022.

The pause includes the following relief measures for eligible loans:

  • a suspension of loan payments
  • a 0% interest rate
  • stopped collections on defaulted loans

Learn more about the Student Loan Repayment Restart (link opens in new window).

Updated Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Keeping our campus community safe

Face coverings required inside all university buildings

Consistent with updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Governor Pritzker’s Executive Order, Dominican University will require all students, faculty, staff and visitors to wear face coverings inside all university buildings regardless of their vaccination status.

This change, which we hope will be temporary, is in response to the CDC’s recent recommendation that even fully vaccinated people wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission. Though Dominican’s COVID-mitigation strategies have been effective, Cook County is now experiencing a substantial level of community transmission.

Updated indoor face covering requirement
  • All faculty, staff, students and visitors must wear a face covering in indoor university spaces regardless of their vaccination status.
  • Individuals who are not fully vaccinated must wear face coverings in any indoor or outdoor public space on campus.
  • For all individuals, a face covering does not need to be worn while eating or drinking or when alone in a private space, such as an office or room.
  • Exceptions will be made for those who cannot tolerate a mask because of a medical condition or disability.
  • These changes are limited to face coverings; there are no changes to social distancing guidelines, capacity limits or planning for face-to-face classes and programming this fall.

We are continuing to monitor guidance and will communicate changes as decisions are made.

As a reminder, our previously announced COVID-19 vaccine requirement for faculty, staff and students remains in effect. Vaccines are our best means of ensuring the safety and well-being of our campus community while expanding the face-to-face learning experience this fall.

We understand this return to masking is frustrating, but we are confident that taking these measures now will allow us to relax restrictions as soon as conditions in our surrounding communities allow.

Updated May 14, 2021
COVID-19 vaccine required for all students, faculty and staff

As vaccine supplies and access increase, Dominican University will require students, faculty and staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before the start of the fall 2021 semester. This applies at both the undergraduate and graduate levels to anyone who intends to be on campus for any period of time.

Vaccines have proven safe and effective, and are a critical tool in stopping the COVID-19 pandemic. Requiring vaccination is the best means of ensuring the safety and well-being of our campus community while expanding the face-to-face learning experience this fall.

We understand that some members of our community may not be able to take the vaccine, including for medical and religious reasons, and exemptions on those grounds will be considered. Learn more.

To learn more about our vaccine requirement, including the deadline for vaccination and how to provide vaccination status, please read our full vaccine requirement page and visit our FAQs. Your safety and the safety of our entire community is our number one priority, and we look forward to an exciting fall semester that is engaging and dynamic.

Planning for an expanded face-to-face experience this fall

Dominican University is planning for an expansion of face-to-face learning this fall as a result of robust COVID-19 testing and other campus mitigation efforts, including our students’ strong commitment to safety, that have successfully prevented community spread over the past year.

Barring major changes in the current trajectory of the pandemic, we fully intend to offer a majority of classes on campus this fall. And we’re confident we can do so safely. Nearly half our classes are currently in-person or hybrid and we’ve had zero major outbreaks of COVID-19 to date.

Fall 2021 will be more than just business as usual

If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that large-scale disruption comes with opportunities for fresh approaches. So we’re capitalizing on an extraordinary year of innovation by optimizing courses specifically for the formats that best suit each program and produce the strongest learning outcomes. The feedback from current students has been overwhelmingly positive—in fact, recent surveys show students are more satisfied with professors' commitment to their academic success now than pre-pandemic.

We're also expanding on-site and remote support services that have made us a model for student success. We’re building upon creative approaches to physical spaces like our new Learning Commons, home to the WeatherTech Innovation Lab. And we’ve permanently expanded our library’s digital offerings, giving students access to outstanding resources whenever and wherever they need them.

Here are a few of the exciting developments you can expect this fall:
  • A majority of classes face-to-face or in hybrid formats, but also a mix of modalities to better suit specific programs and students’ desire for flexibility
  • Online courses tailored specifically for the screen to ensure you’re engaged and connected to the curriculum and your classmates—no matter where you study
  • Higher residence hall occupancy with more living learning communities grouped by interest
  • Even more scholarships, on-campus jobs and leadership opportunities
  • Expanded access to the Learning Commons and creative spaces like our WeatherTech Innovation Lab and media center
  • More innovations in our already outstanding career development program
  • A full athletics schedule
  • A tuition freeze that will keep costs the same as this year
Continued commitment to the health of our community

Recognizing that the pandemic is constantly evolving, Dominican continues to hold community safety as its first priority. In consultation with our long-term partner, Rush University Medical Center, we’re developing the details of our fall semester plan in alignment with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Illinois Board of Higher Education and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s Restore Illinois Plan. 

Here’s a look at how we’ve kept cases low:
  • Our students, faculty and staff use the #CampusClear app daily for monitoring symptoms, reporting testing outcomes, and contact tracing.
  • Dominican community members sign and uphold our Caritas Commitment, committing to follow the strong protocols in place to ensure their fellow Stars’ safety, including mask-wearing, distancing, preventative hygiene and more.
  • We’ve expanded testing as one of the inaugural members of the SHIELD Illinois testing program. This allows us to offer the saliva-based test, which the University of Illinois has been using on its campus, and to produce faster results than the nasal tests.
  • We upgraded HVAC operations and equipment to improve air flow and quality and added thermographic scanners at each of our key entrances for additional monitoring.

We continue to meet biweekly with experts from Rush University Medical Center to review prevalence data on campus and in the community and will adjust our approach as needed. The Dominican University COVID-19 Tracking dashboard is updated on a weekly basis and published by 5 p.m. every Friday, offering a view of cases on campus. We will provide more details as they develop.

Updated Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Download the Return to Campus Guide

The past 18 months have been extraordinarily challenging, and we commend Dominican University’s faculty, staff and students for their resilience and compassion for each other since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of robust mitigation strategies, Dominican has successfully avoided an outbreak of the coronavirus on campus. While we anticipate opening this fall under “new normal” conditions, with more face-to-face classes and opportunities for in-person interactions, we remain diligent in monitoring the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) in combatting COVID-19.

We have appreciated the expertise of Rush University Medical Center epidemiology professionals, who have met regularly with our Incident Management and Assessment Team (IMAT) over the past year and continue to inform many of our decisions.

Relationship is at the heart of Dominican University’s mission, and community, a legacy of the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa, is a pillar of our distinctive culture. We are committed to fostering an environment that provides a sense of belonging and well-being for all faculty, staff and students. It is in this context that we are mandating a vaccination policy that we believe will promote the safety of our community. You can read more about this policy in this Return to Campus Guide.

The trajectory of the coronavirus is still a fluid situation and our planning will need to remain flexible as we continue to deal with this global pandemic. The following plan represents our best attempt, at the current time, of responding to the pandemic in ways that promote the success of our students while keeping our community safe.

Updated February 23, 2021

Dominican University commends students, faculty and staff for their rigorous commitment to the health and safety of the campus community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our cases of COVID-19 have been relatively low and contact tracing has kept the virus from spreading throughout campus. Thank you!

We have been working diligently to ensure that we can offer students a healthy, safe environment, while providing the relationship-centered, excellent education that has always been a Dominican hallmark. Safety measures include regular deep cleaning protocols throughout campus, the use of Plexiglas shields in high-traffic areas and antimicrobial film on high-touch surfaces, improved HVAC operations and, of course, the requirement that all faculty, staff, students and guests wear face coverings. In addition, classrooms have been reconfigured to reduce density and allow for physical distancing. You can read more about our safety measures in our Return to Campus Guide.

The COVID-19 outbreak is a constantly evolving situation and our planning will need to remain flexible as we deal with this global pandemic. We appreciate the expertise of professionals at our long-term partner, Rush University Medical Center, for providing guidance on our reopening plans. Our ongoing response to the pandemic has aligned with recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Illinois Board of Higher Education and Illinois Governor Pritzker’s Restore Illinois Plan. We continue to monitor this situation locally, regionally and nationally and will continue to follow the guidelines of these agencies.

Dominican University is a compassionate, mission-driven community. Our faculty, staff and students have shown great resilience and concern for each other since the beginning of this pandemic. While the university continues to do all that it can to provide a safe environment, the well-being of our community is a shared responsibility and we expect all students, faculty and staff to be mindful of their responsibility to the health of others—this is the caritas upon which Dominican was founded. We are in this together!

Fall 2020 Semester

Updated September 11, 2020

Dominican University is pleased to welcome new and returning students to campus and while this semester is certainly different, in many ways, from previous semesters, we are confident that you will have a successful, rewarding experience at Dominican. We have been working diligently to ensure that we can offer you a healthy, safe environment, while providing the relationship-centered, excellent education that has always been a Dominican hallmark.

The COVID-19 outbreak is a constantly evolving situation and our planning will need to remain flexible as we deal with this global pandemic. We appreciate the expertise of professionals at our long-term partner, Rush University Medical Center, for providing guidance on our reopening plans.

Since last spring, our ongoing response to the pandemic has aligned with recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Illinois Board of Higher Education and Illinois Governor Pritzker’s Restore Illinois Plan. We continue to monitor this situation locally, regionally and nationally and will continue to follow the guidelines of these agencies.

Safety measures include regular deep cleaning protocols throughout campus, the use of Plexiglas shields in high-traffic areas and antimicrobial film on high-touch surfaces, improved HVAC operations and, of course, the requirement that all faculty, staff, students and guests wear face coverings. In addition, classrooms have been reconfigured to reduce density and allow for physical distancing. You can read more about our safety measures in our Return to Campus Guide.

Dominican University is a compassionate, mission-driven community. Our faculty, staff and students have shown great resilience and concern for each other since the beginning of this pandemic. While the university continues to do all that it can to provide a safe environment, the well-being of our community is a shared responsibility and we expect all students, faculty and staff to be mindful of their responsibility to the health of others—this is the caritas upon which Dominican was founded. We are in this together!

Updated August 20, 2020

Dominican University is looking forward to welcoming students back to campus this fall, with appropriate safety protocols. We have been working diligently all summer to ensure that we are providing a healthy, safe environment while offering the excellent education that is a Dominican hallmark. The following Return to Campus Guide outlines our plan for reopening campus for classes on Monday, August 31, 2020. Download the Return to Campus Guide

Updated August 4, 2020

How is the University working to ensure the safety of all students?

Dominican has established a COVID-19 response team comprised of administrators and health care providers who are working with the university’s long-term partner, Rush University Medical Center to institute measures that ensure the well-being of students, faculty and staff. The university continues to align its response to COVID-19 with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) and the Restore Illinois plan.

The university is using a mobile app, #CampusClear, for self-monitoring and self-reporting and as a first-line of defense for detecting COVID-19. Individuals are expected to self-monitor at home or in their residence hall room and report symptoms on the Covid Tracker. Based on their answers to several questions, individuals either will be cleared to report to a screening station for a temperature check or prompted to stay off campus or return to their residence hall rooms.

#CampusClear also will be used for contact tracing following direct exposure to someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19. If #CampusClear indicates that a COVID-19 test is warranted, a test will be provided at no charge.

Other safety measures include:

  • Organization of classrooms to ensure 6 feet of social distance between all students and faculty
  • Single occupancy option for all resident students
  • Onsite nurse practitioners under physician oversight ready to respond to student health needs
  • Installation of Plexiglas shields at strategic high-traffic areas and main student service points
  • Installing antimicrobial film on high-touch surfaces
How is the University working to ensure the safety of resident students?

The university has adopted a single occupancy strategy which allows for safe social distancing within the residence halls. Our single occupancy strategy works to reduce density in the residence halls.

How will single occupancy affect the cost of living on campus?

Single rooms will be priced at the lower double room rate. Some double rooms will also be available, at the reduced price of a triple room, to a limited number of students who opt to live with a roommate.

Will courses be offered in a face-to-face format?

Yes. Dominican will hold face-to-face classes this fall with courses available in multiple modalities. Face-to-face classes with safety-conscious physical distancing protocols in place, hybrid classes, or fully online classes—some with fixed, scheduled online meeting times, and some without—will all be offered. You’ll work with your advisor to determine a schedule that meets your specific need. Our intentionally small classes have an average of just 16 students, so you can feel confident in your safety in any case.

What is the university doing to proactively mitigate the spread of COVID-19?

Some of the strategies include:

Face coverings/masks: Face masks or face coverings must be worn by all students when in the presence of others and in public settings where other safe social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., common workspaces, meeting rooms, classrooms, etc.).

  • Dominican-branded, washable cloth masks will be made available for all faculty, staff and students.
  • Disposable masks will be provided by the university, at all Welcome and Information Desk (WID) locations around campus.

Social Distancing: Keeping a safe distance between you and others is one of the best tools for avoiding exposure to the COVID-19 virus and slowing its spread. All Dominican community members on campus must follow these social distancing practices:

  • Always maintaining at least 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from other people at all times
  • Wear a mask at all times when in group settings, traversing hallways, and in close proximity of others

Cleaning Practices and Safety Measures: Dominican will conduct a continuous deep cleaning process of all buildings in accordance with Illinois Department of Health and Center for Disease Control Standards.

Hand Sanitizers: Hand sanitizer stations throughout campus are available and more than 100 additional stations will be accessible to students. Sanitizing wipes stations are mounted in key areas, particularly near elevators. Additionally, large sanitizing gel containers are available at all main student service points.

Gloves: Gloves are not required, except for food handlers, janitorial workers and staff in the Wellness Center.

Community Hallway Flow Management: When navigating hallways, faculty, staff and students are expected to walk on the right side. Blue arrow floor decals will serve as reminders.

What do I do if I have been exposed to COVID-19?

If you have been in close proximity (six feet or less for 15 minutes while not wearing a mask) with someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19, you must stay away from campus for a minimum of 10 days after the date of exposure, including being symptom-free without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours. After you have reported this exposure with #CampusClear, you will be provided information about contact tracing and possible testing.

Resident students who live within 60 miles of campus are required to quarantine at home. Resident students who live farther than 60 miles from campus should contact the Residence Advisor on duty to receive instructions for being placed in one of the university’s quarantine rooms.

Students who are in quarantine will be supported by the Division of Student Success and Engagement if their quarantine impacts their ability to stay fully engaged in their coursework.

What do I do if I have tested positive to COVID-19?

If you have a positive COVID-19 test, report your condition through #CampusClear. You must stay away from campus for a minimum of 10 days after the onset of symptoms, including being symptom-free without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours.

Resident students who live within 60 miles from campus are required to go home to isolate. Students who live farther than 60 miles from campus should contact the Residence Advisor on duty to receive instructions for being placed in an isolation room. The university has reserved a number of isolation rooms.

Students who are in isolation will be supported by the Division of Student Success and Engagement in their effort to remain engaged in their coursework as much as possible. You may return to campus activities after a minimum of 10 days and have remained symptom-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.

Will students in quarantine and isolation rooms be provided meals?

Yes. Students will receive meals delivered to their room by staff with appropriate personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of the virus.

Will students who need to miss time from class be given extensions if impacted by COVID-19?

Yes. Students will be allowed excused absences from class if impacted by COVID.

Will students be expected to self-monitor their symptoms?

Yes. Students are expected to self-monitor daily and report their symptoms in #CampusClear. You may come to campus or leave your residence hall room only if you are free of any of the symptoms related to COVID-19 as determined by the CDC and included in #CampusClear:

  • Dry cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Runny nose or new sinus congestion
  • Muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • New loss of taste or smell
Will the dining hall be open? 

Yes. The Dining Hall will be open in a modified schedule with safe social distancing and food service precautions taken to prevent exposure and spreading of COVID-19.

Are all events/activities canceled? 

No. We are working with student organization leaders to develop virtual engagement opportunities where possible to further the mission of their organization and create community among students. Gatherings on campus will follow state guidelines (Restore Illinois phased approach).

Will the Wellness Center open this fall? 

Yes. The Wellness Center will be open to support students. Please visit Wellness Center Online or call (708) 524-6229 to schedule an appointment. 

What departments and resources will be  available this fall?   

The University is currently open and resources will be available in person and online to support student academic success. Our Student Success and Engagement team tracks and analyzes huge amounts of data in real time to identify students who may need additional support and takes action—fast. During the Coronavirus closure, student support continued uninterrupted and will continue to be accessible both on ground and online. This includes:

  • NowPow: An electronic tool which allows Student Success and Engagement to pool resources for students and families in the communities they reside.
  • Student Self-Reporting: Students may self-report any academic or socially related challenge they may be experiencing through our Star Tracker system.  
  • Tutoring: Students can schedule an appointment in person or online with the Writing Lab or Math Clinic for extra support or work with a student tutor for guidance on nearly any discipline.  
  • Advising: Your advising team is here to help you craft a college roadmap that maximizes your success. Meet with an advisor via Zoom or an in-person, pre-scheduled appointment during orientation.
  • Multicultural Center: Join us for community building, online dialogues about important issues, and more.
  • Library: The Rebecca Crown Library will be open to current students and equipped with appropriate social distancing protocols to ensure safe studying.  
What about other high-impact opportunities?

Yes. Dominican is committed to offering opportunities beyond the classroom for hands-on learning. Ensuring state guidelines, we will continue to offer these opportunities in both online and on-campus formats, including undergraduate research opportunities, civic engagement, and career development supports.

What happens if the state reverts back to a prior phase of Restore Illinois?

Should the university need to move to remote education due to Illinois reverting back to earlier Restore Illinois phases, select class and lab fees, room and board, and parking fees will be revisited for impacted students.

Will your NCAA division III teams be competing this fall?

The Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) has announced that all conference games scheduled for this fall will be moved to the spring 2021 semester. The decision, made with the safety and welfare of student-athletes in mind, effectively postpones any league competition and championships through December 31, 2020. The league will release conference schedules for the spring semester in the coming weeks.

The Department of Athletics will now reimagine a fall offering for its student-athletes, including individual and team skill development. Student-athletes will focus on their academics and staying on track towards their degrees while continuing to improve athletically as individuals and teams. We look forward to a busy, exciting spring season of athletics competition.

What safety precautions are in place for student-athletes?

Dominican University’s student-athletes will receive education on the COVID-19 virus, and related mental health issues, in an attempt to control its spread. Student-athletes will be asked to sign a pledge, committing to personal hygiene and other measures to limit spread and exposure of the virus.

Will fans be permitted at home competitions?

For now, our home events will not include spectators, but please check back regularly for updates. In the meantime, all home contests are being live streamed on the athletics website, DUstars.com. We look forward to welcoming our fans back just as soon as we can.

Updated: April 23, 2020

Dominican University, like schools across the country, is operating under extraordinary conditions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout this challenging time, we continue to focus on embracing our mission and supporting our community. Since the outbreak of the virus, the safety of Dominican students has been our greatest priority.

To combat the spread of the virus, campus was closed abruptly following spring break, resulting in disrupted classes, operations and employment to an extent and duration that we have never experienced. Spring Break trips—international and domestic—were cancelled, as were all Spring Semester events, academic programs, athletic competitions, and end-of-year ceremonies. Students were required to vacate residence halls and faculty and staff began working remotely.

None of this has been easy, but it is important to recognize that Dominican more than survived these first critical weeks because we were as prepared as possible, given the unprecedented circumstance.

Of the 881 classes offered during spring semester, over 200 were already taught remotely or offered in a hybrid format. Between March 12-23, faculty, with the help of IT, moved the other 658 face-to-face classes online. This transition was supported by a robust menu of online teaching resources and ramped up efforts to reach out to, and meet, the needs of faculty, staff and students without the technological equipment demanded for studying and working off campus. In addition, our Division of Student Success and Engagement stepped up to provide online resources for students struggling academically and personally with the change in their circumstances, including a case management tool giving students the opportunity to self-report their own concerns and needs—and those of their families.

The university has now moved from crisis management to sustainability, looking to academic year 2020–2021 and doing all that we can to assure that students and faculty return with confidence and readiness to a safe campus with healthy plans in place to stay safe and healthy. We are confident that, through lessons learned throughout this pandemic, Dominican will build upon our accelerated advances in technology and online learning and support services for students—and renew our call to mission.

Updated: April 22, 2020

Update on Quest Food Management Systems

Quest Food Management Systems has notified Dominican that the company has received its federal Paycheck Protection Program loan and has brought back on its payroll all of its employees for eight weeks, starting Monday, April 20. The company also is continuing to pay its portion of benefits premiums and will allow employees to continue to accrue paid leave during this time.

Updated: April 7, 2020

University Statement in Response to Furlough of Quest Employees

The abrupt closure of campus required to combat the spread of COVID-19 has disrupted classes, operations, and employment to an extent and for a duration that we have never before experienced. Unfortunately, there are many cascading implications of the shutdown — including Quest Food Management Services’ decision to furlough many of its staff who work on our campus.

The Quest staff members are familiar faces on Dominican’s campus and highly regarded by students, faculty and staff. We empathize deeply with their situation. We also understand the financial constraints faced by Quest, because the university, too, is facing financial challenges.

The pandemic is nobody’s fault. There are no perpetrators here, which is why the relief promised from the federal stimulus fund (CARES Act) is so important to us all. Higher education as a sector and service providers like Quest have actively lobbied Congress for this relief.

In the meantime, we appreciate Quest’s efforts to stay connected with and to support temporarily furloughed employees. We recognize the passion of students and faculty advocating on behalf of these employees. While the university is not in the financial position to be able to absorb salaries of Quest’s furloughed staff, we are making a donation to the Quest Care Fund GoFundMe campaign for furloughed workers, and we invite and challenge others to join us.

Updated: April 2, 2020

Coronavirus Case

Dominican University was notified on March 20 that a student tested positive for COVID-19. The student was last on campus on March 5 by the time of notification. The Centers for Disease Control and Illinois Department of Public Health recommendation of a 14-day self-isolation period had passed. Students who might have come into contact with the affected student were notified.

For information on how to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, visit https://www.dom.edu/campus-life/wellness-center/covid-19. We should all operate under the assumption that we are at risk of exposure to the virus and continue to practice shelter in place and physical distancing through April 30, the date recommended by the federal and state governments.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 (fever over 100.4 degrees, coughing, and difficulty breathing), please contact your healthcare provider for an assessment of your symptoms and guidance. Students concerned that they or a family member may have symptoms are urged to call the Wellness Center at (708) 524-6229, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.) or Campus Safety at (708) 524-5999 after hours. They may also self-report on the Coronavirus Reporting tool on myDU. Thank you for your help in keeping our community healthy!

Dominican Answers the Call

Dominican University is donating a substantial amount of personal protective equipment (PPE) to several area medical facilities and first responders, including the St. Dominic Villa at the Mound, Mount Sinai Hospital, Alivio Medical Center, Loyola University Medical Center and the River Forest Police Department. Thanks to those campus departments who contributed equipment—the Borra College of Health Sciences (nursing, physician assistant studies, post-baccalaureate pre-med studies, and simulation lab), chemistry, art, biology, and theater arts. We are reserving a supply of PPE for our own needs.

Implementing Remote Work

Because of the continued spread of the coronavirus, Dominican is now strengthening its remote-work policy. Faculty and staff may come to campus only after advance permission from their managers and coordination with Campus Safety. We should all operate under the assumption that we are at risk of exposure to the virus and continue to practice shelter in place and physical distancing through April 30, the date recommended by the federal and state governments. Please contact the Support Center if you need resources for working remotely.

Commencement Update

Plans are being made for a rescheduled commencement, including Candle and Rose, on campus, an option that has student support. The commencement committee is discussing several possible dates, including the Labor Day weekend, September 5–7, and the Long Weekend, October 23–25. Several ceremonies will be held over the weekend to accommodate students and their guests. More information will be shared with the community as soon as it is available.

Updated: March 19, 2020  Translate: Español

Dear Dominican Community:

In an effort to adhere with public health guidelines regarding the Coronavirus‎ and to comply with area shelter-in-place orders, Dominican University is significantly reducing on-campus operations and discouraging foot traffic, beginning Friday, March 20 through Friday, April 3. The campus will be closed to the public and access to buildings will be available by door card only. Campus Safety is fully staffed and available to respond to your needs.

In addition to Campus Safety, departments required for the continuation of basic campus operations include Student Life and Residential Life, Office Services (8:30-4:30), dining services (for residential students and essential staff only) and janitorial services -- Personnel in all other departments will be working remotely and online.

While the library is closed, electronic resources are available via the website and reference assistants are working over phone, email, and chat.

IT has equipment for check-out and information will continue to be shared on the Support Center site, which is where you can submit a work order for any support needed.

Academic and personal support‎ services can be accessed through Canvas, and the new Stars Connect team is online.

The university is continually reassessing this fluid situation and will make‎ necessary adjustments after April 3rd. Regular status updates will be provided to the Dominican community.

March 19, 2020

Dear Dominican Parents:

Let me begin by thanking you for your patience. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the safety of Dominican students has been our first priority, followed by a single-minded focus on the transition to online course delivery and academic support. We have been communicating extensively with students about this transition, but I know that you, too, have questions, which is why I am writing. 

Please know that this is a fluid situation, with the university having to make rapid changes at the directives of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) ‎and state and local governing bodies. Today, for instance, Dominican further moved to a skeletal staffing plan and reduced campus access to comply with local “shelter in place” ordinances.

‎To give you a sense of the magnitude of our challenge, this past week, the Dominican faculty has moved over 650 classes to an online format. There are glitches, of course, but, overall, I am confident that the quality of the coursework remains strong --- and that faculty members are continuing to provide students with the relationship-centered experience that is so distinguishing of a Dominican education. It will take a few weeks for all of us to adjust, but, if we work together, the possibilities for online learning are exciting.

During this time, I encourage you to encourage students to take full advantage of all the academic and personal support‎ services, also available online. A student self-report form can be found on MyDU. Technology questions should be directed to the Support Center. Academic coaching is available for those struggling with the online format, as well as counseling support in a tele-health format through the campus Wellness Center. Our advising office will be using Zoom conferencing to meet with students about summer/fall 2020 registration. Online classes will not affect students’ financial aid awards.

‎

As you know, most Dominican resident students were asked to move out of the residence halls and return home. It was a startling request, on the heels of spring break, but we had no alternative given the threat of a rapidly spreading virus. Remaining resident students are now required to “shelter in place” --- for their own safety. And, yes, the university will partially reimburse families for spring housing. Again, I ask your patience, as we sort through these costs --- by mid-April, at the latest.

It was heart wrenching for our student athletes, especially our seniors, to arrive back from spring break tournaments to hear that our Northern Athletic Collegiate Conference (NACC) had cancelled all remaining athletic competition for the spring semester. There was no alternative here, either. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has provided spring athletes with an additional season of eligibility, which is some solace.

I know graduating students are concerned about Commencement. As directed by the Governor of Illinois, all Dominican University events of more than 50 people have been cancelled for the next eight weeks. We are currently in discussion about rescheduling our two May 10th Commencement Ceremonies until later in the summer. A final plan will be communicated in April.

All of this is disruptive and stressful for students‎ and families, alike. It is beyond what anyone could have imagined; at the same time, the Dominican community is resilient --- and hopeful. Faculty and staff are focused on students’ wellbeing and success. Campus Safety is fully staffed and available to respond to any and all community needs.

Thank you for your confidence and patience. We will get through this together.

Sincerely,

Donna M. Carroll

President

March 12, 2020

Colleagues and Students:

While there are currently no active cases of COVID-19 within our Dominican community, in recent days public health officials have made it clear that universities must take active steps to mitigate the risk of transmission --- most immediately, as a precaution, to reduce campus density. Therefore, I write to update you on Dominican’s plans for the remainder of spring semester.

Classes

Beginning the week of March 16, most, if not all, in-person, face-to-face classes will be suspended. Current online classes will continue as planned, with remaining classes moving to online instruction as soon as possible, but not later than Monday, March 23.

There may be a few courses that continue to meet in person, if online instruction is not appropriate. Academic Affairs, in consultation with the deans, will generate the list of such courses. Accommodations for out of state students will be provided, as possible in these courses, and strategies for social distancing will be considered.

Faculty will contact students directly with information about individual classes. If you do not have access to appropriate computing resources, pleases notify your faculty member, for possible accommodations.

Student Clinicals

Dominican University's campus is not closed. However, instruction is transitioning from in-person, face to face classes to online delivery beginning Monday, March 16, 2020 with all classes moving online by March 23, 2020. Clinical rotations in some programs and some lab courses may not be a part of this change. Each program is evaluating the need and accessibility of meeting face to face and offering clinical rotations and updating as the situation progresses. 

Residence Halls

Students who live in the residence halls should prepare not to return to campus for the week of March 16-20. The university will work to accommodate students with exceptional circumstances, including international students, athletes, some student employees, and others, as approved on a case-by-case basis.

Click here for more information regarding Residence Life. 

University Operations

The Dominican University campus will remain open to the faculty and staff. Operations other than in-class instruction will continue. Most large events will be rescheduled or cancelled.

Study Abroad

All students studying abroad are being brought home. Current semester-long and spring break experiences have been suspended.

Click here for more information regarding Study Abroad. 

As I share this series of extraordinary decisions, I recognize that the disruption is monumental and that you have a thousand questions, which I promise will be answered over the course of the next week. In particular, I share the distress of our seniors, who are being robbed of their final weeks at Dominican. Please know that the safety of our students, faculty and staff is our primary concern.

For further information to visit the Wellness Center's Covid-19 FAQ page. In addition, the Illinois Department of Public Health has launched a statewide hotline at (800) 889-3931 to answer any questions about the coronavirus or to report a suspected case.

Donna M. Carroll

President

Dominican University

 

Updated March 12, 2020

Español

FAQs

How is the university responding to COVID-19?

Beginning the week of March 16, all in-person, face-to-face classes will be suspended. Whenever possible, classes will be delivered online for the remainder of the spring semester. Accommodations associated with social distancing will be implemented in these courses.

Can students still utilize campus resources?

Students will still have access to university resources including the Rebecca Crown Library, computer labs, science and sim labs, tutoring, and other essential learning resources.

Can students live in the Residence Halls?

Students who live in residence halls should prepare not to return for the week of March 16-20. The university will work to accommodate students with exceptional circumstances.

Students may contact Residence Life (link sends email) for additional information regarding access to housing. 

Click here for more information regarding Residence/Student Life. 

What about international travel? 

Dominican University has suspended all university sponsored international travel and other domestic travel that was deemed high risk.

Click here for more information regarding Study Abroad. 

Are students being asked to self-quarantine?

Students have been directed to the CDC website and encouraged to reach out to their health care  providers or Dominican's  Wellness  Center for over-the-phone screening. Should students feel symptoms related to the Coronavirus, we have asked that they take the initiative to reach out to providers for access to testing. Students are not required to self-quarantine if they are not experiencing any symptoms,  unless directed to by the CDC or returning home from a  Level 3 location. 

Is the shuttle still running?

The university shuttle is discontinued until further notice. 

Updated March 6, 2020

Spring Break Travel Guidance

If you are planning personal travel to an international destination, be aware you may face unpredictable circumstances, travel restrictions, challenges returning home or accessing healthcare while abroad. We urge you to consult guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and U.S. Department of State prior to and during your trip, and exercise caution when traveling to countries with Level 2 travel advisories and reconsider travel to or through countries with Level 3 travel advisories.

The uncertainties surrounding the coronavirus have made travel to countries with extensive interactions with locations severely affected by COVID-19 more risky. As of March 6, 2020 the CDC has elevated Level 3 travel advisories for Italy, Iran, South Korea and China and Level 2 travel advisory for Japan. We urge students to stay informed and abide by U.S. government guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and U.S. Department of State.

Dominican is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as appropriate.  U.S. citizens who must travel are encouraged to register travel through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and receive important information from the embassy about safety conditions in your destination country. Registration allows you to be easily located by embassy personnel in the event of an emergency.

For additional information, read our FAQs below, visit the Wellness Center's web page on Covid-19 or contact the Wellness Center at 708-524-6229.

We wish you a healthy and restful spring break.

March 6, 2020: Message to Parents and Families of Dominican University Students regarding COVID-19/the coronavirus

In the last few days communication was sent to the campus community regarding a possible COVID-19 case.

Please know that the safety of our students, faculty, and staff is of utmost importance. Knowing that our students come from all over the country and across the globe, we acknowledge our students’ growing concerns for themselves and their families living domestically and overseas.

While we understand receiving information second hand may have caused concern to families, our primary focus was on addressing the campus safety and relaying information directly to students.

Here is a summary:

March 2, 2020 – Dominican University learned that a nonresidential student was exposed last week to a patient who is being treated for the coronavirus at a suburban hospital. Although the student showed no symptoms, they were quarantined at home and tested.

The university consulted with the Cook County Department of Public Health’s communicable diseases unit for guidance on managing care for our community and campus remained open.

Out of an abundance of caution, the university sanitized specific classrooms and campus spaces which may have been visited by the student.

An increase in relaying information on healthy habits and how to address concerns was sent out to the campus community and posted on our website.

March 3, 2020 – Administration was notified that the Dominican University student exposed to the coronavirus (COVID-19) at a local suburban hospital did not test positive for the virus. The test approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health confirms the student did not contract coronavirus (COVID-19).

For further information, you are encouraged to read our FAQs and visit the Wellness Center's web page on Covid-19. We will continue working closely with public health officials at the local, state and national levels to monitor the spread of the virus.

If your student is feeling ill, please contact by phone your health care provider or Dominican’s Wellness Center at 708-524-6229, where free screening measures are available. In addition, the Illinois Department of Public Health has launched a statewide hotline at 1 (800) 889-3931 to answer any questions about the coronavirus or to report a suspected case.

Updated March 4, 2020

The Dominican University student exposed to the coronavirus (COVID-19) at a local suburban hospital did not test positive for the virus. The test approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health confirms the student did not contract coronavirus (COVID-19). The institution will continue to walk alongside the student and is thankful to the campus community for the collective response and outpouring of care.  

  

Please know that the safety of our students, faculty, and staff is of utmost importance. Knowing that our students come from all over the country and across the globe, we acknowledge our students’ growing concerns for themselves and their families living domestically and overseas.

 

For further information, you are encouraged to read our FAQs below and visit the Wellness Center's web page on Covid-19. We are working closely with public health officials at the local, state and national levels to monitor the spread of the virus.

 

If you are feeling ill, please call your health care provider or Dominican’s Wellness Center at 708-524-6229, where free screening measures are available. In addition, the Illinois Department of Public Health has launched a statewide hotline at 1 (800) 889-3931 to answer any questions about the coronavirus or to report a suspected case. 

Created March 2, 2020

Dominican University has learned that one of our nonresidential student was exposed last week to a patient who is being treated for the coronavirus at a suburban hospital. While the student has shown no symptoms, they are being quarantined at home and will remain quarantined for another week, pending further testing.

The university has consulted with the Cook County Department of Public Health’s communicable diseases unit for guidance on managing care for our community. At this point, the department does not recommend further restrictions for our campus community. Campus is currently operating as usual and classes are meeting.  

Out of an abundance of caution, the university is sanitizing specific classrooms and campus spaces which may have been visited by the student.  

If you are feeling ill, please contact by phone your health care provider or Dominican’s Wellness Center at 708-524-6299, where free screening measures are available. Do not visit any medical facility without calling first.

Please know that the safety of our students, faculty and staff is of utmost importance. For further information, you are encouraged to read the Coronavirus FAQs below. In addition, the Illinois Department of Public Health has launched a statewide hotline at 1(800) 889-3931 to answer any questions about the coronavirus or to report a suspected case.

The university’s Incident Management Assessment Team is carefully monitoring this situation and will provide updates.