Coronavirus Information

Published on 02/28/2022

Dear SMC Community:

We are approaching the halfway point of the Spring semester, now almost two full years into the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout this time, we have followed the frequently-changing federal, state and local health guidelines in a balanced effort to keep the campuses open and operating as normally as possible while also providing some additional remote learning and service options. 

As guidance changes, members of SMC administration meet and consult with each other to determine the appropriate next steps for the Roadrunner community. At this time, given the current trajectory of the virus in our area, we are able to relax some masking requirements.

Effective Monday, February 28, masks will be recommended, but will no longer be required, for students, faculty, staff, and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, when inside SMC campus buildings. As of Monday, individual campus office areas or classrooms will no longer mandate that masks be worn.

However, all members of the community are welcome to wear a mask at any time to provide additional protection for a family member’s health situation or simply due to personal preference. All individuals must wear a mask during their isolation or quarantine periods to stop further community spread of COVID-19. There will also be some instances where masks are required for our healthcare students while they are learning in certain clinical settings.

My expectation is that all members of the SMC community treat each other with compassion and respect with regard to mask use. Surgical masks will remain available at building entrances, and KN95 masks, which afford a higher level of protection, are available for free at the Information Desk in the David C. Briegel Building.

I also ask that everyone continue to physically distance when possible, and to check in each day and report any symptoms via the #CampusClear app before arriving on either campus.  

Students, we urge you to please continue to exercise compassion for each other and to be engaged in your courses as we (hopefully!) emerge from this latest wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. SMC is committed to helping you be successful in this and all future semesters.

Dr. Joe

Published on 01/03/2022

Dear SMC Community:

Welcome back and Happy 2022 - I hope your holiday season was relaxing and refreshing.

As we enter a new year and approach the beginning of the Spring semester, and now almost two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus remains a stubborn threat. Throughout this time, we have followed the frequently-changing federal, state and local health guidelines in a balanced effort to keep the campuses open and operating as normally as possible while also providing some additional remote learning and service options. 

Unfortunately, the Omicron variant has proven to be much more transmissible than earlier strains, which makes following known and effective health protocols even more important.

Therefore, to reduce potential viral transmission in our community, masks will be required for all students, faculty, staff and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, when inside any SMC campus buildings. This will take full effect on Monday, January 10, but we encourage you to start wearing a mask now, if you are not already doing so. This requirement includes all areas of the Student Activity Center and the Fitness Center. Exceptions may be made while eating or while alone in distinct individual offices. We also ask that everyone continue to physically distance when possible and to check in each day via the #CampusClear app before arriving on either campus.  

Per federal regulations, all SMC employees are required to be fully vaccinated or to submit weekly negative COVID-19 tests to work on campus. Human Resources provided specific details and deadlines to all SMC employees on December 22. We continue to encourage everyone to get vaccinated and to receive a booster shot to reduce the likelihood and severity of any infection.

As President, I believe my most important role is to consider the conditions and then to put us in the best position to be safe and successful. This decision to reinstate a mask requirement is also in line with the best practices of other colleges throughout the country.

Students, we urge you to please continue to exercise compassion for each other by following all safety measures, and to be engaged in your courses as we begin the semester. SMC is doing everything we can to help you be successful during and beyond this difficult time.

Let’s go!

Dr. Joe

Published on 08/27/2021 

Dear SMC Community:

We have come far together in our struggle against the coronavirus and I’m proud of the resilience and fortitude shown by our students, faculty and staff over the last 18 months. Though we are all tired of the virus, it still remains a threat as we begin the Fall 2021 semester. As you know, the Delta variant has caused a rise in cases throughout many areas of the country.

Unfortunately, Cass County remains one of the least vaccinated counties in Michigan, which makes safeguarding our campus community a bit more challenging. We continue to strongly encourage vaccinations for all, especially now that the Pfizer formula has full FDA authorization. Masks remain recommended for all students, employees and visitors while in shared spaces inside campus buildings, regardless of vaccination status.

In addition, after much consideration, effective Tuesday, September 7, we are requiring masks for everyone in the classroom during all scheduled face-to-face academic sessions, regardless of vaccination status. We believe this is a prudent step as the classroom environment involves longer stretches of time in confined spaces for students and faculty, creating a risk greater than in non-instructional parts of the College. Signage around campus and the College website will be updated soon to reflect this change.

Other campus offices may request that visitors wear a mask during face-to-face appointments. In most cases, a virtual appointment alternative should be available. 

Some additional reminders: 

• Students and employees must self-screen on a daily basis using the CampusClear mobile app. (Residence Life students must also report on the weekends.) You can find more details here.
• Students and employees must use the Coronavirus Reporting form to report if they or someone they know is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, has tested positive, or has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. That form is available here.
• Students are asked to disinfect shared classroom spaces such as their desk and chair before and after use with the cleaning supplies provided in each room.
• Remember to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and to use the hand sanitizer provided around campus.

We continue to encourage everyone to educate themselves about the benefits of vaccination against COVID-19 and to strongly consider getting vaccinated if you haven’t already done so. We are planning another on-campus vaccine clinic on September 10 and will provide additional details soon.

As we have through this whole crisis, we will continue to monitor local conditions and follow public health guidance to prioritize the safety of our community while keeping the in-person instruction and interaction we value so much.

Let’s all remain courteous to each other and work together towards a healthy fall semester.

Dr. Joe

Published on 07/29/2021

Dear SMC Community:

 We have come far together in our struggle against the coronavirus and I’m proud of the resilience and fortitude shown by our students, faculty and staff over the last 17 months. Unfortunately, though we are all tired of the virus, it still remains a threat as we approach the Fall 2021 semester. The delta variant, which is more transmissible than the strain that first emerged last year, has caused a rise in cases throughout many areas of the country.

Based on new guidelines recently issued by the CDC and the county health department, effective Monday, August 2, masks are recommended for all students, employees and visitors while in shared areas within campus buildings, regardless of vaccination status.

Signage around campus and the College website will be updated over the next few days to reflect this change. Please continue to report symptoms via the CampusClear app each day before arriving on campus.

We continue to encourage everyone to educate themselves about the benefits of vaccination against COVID-19 and to strongly consider getting vaccinated if you haven’t already done so. There will be a free vaccination clinic on the Dowagiac campus from noon - 3pm on August 24 to make vaccination even more convenient for our students and employees. You can reserve an appointment here: Schedule Appointment with VanBuren-Cass District Health Dept.

As we have through this whole crisis, we will continue to monitor local conditions and follow public health guidance to prioritize the safety of our community. Enjoy the rest of your summer and let’s keep working towards a healthy fall semester.

Dr. Joe

Published on 07/01/2021 

Dear SMC Community:

Based on new guidelines recently issued by the State of Michigan and MIOSHA, and the wide availability of multiple forms of the COVID-19 vaccine, I am happy to announce that SMC will be dropping most mask and social distancing requirements after the Independence Day holiday. 

Effective Tuesday, July 6, students, employees and visitors are no longer required to wear a mask nor social distance while on most parts of the campuses. This action officially moves us into Phase 3.6 of the SMC Campus Reopening Plan. 

A few specifics:

• Of course, anyone is welcome to wear a mask or to socially distance at any time to feel comfortable or to protect themselves. 
• Classrooms may continue with social distancing as deemed necessary by the faculty member, though masks will not be required. 
• Contact tracing protocols will remain in effect. Students and employees will still be expected to monitor their symptoms and check in using the Campus Clear app prior to arriving on campus each day. 
• Common area furniture will be returned in the coming months, but some plexiglass barriers may remain in place as we move into the fall semester. 
• Use of The Fitness Center will no longer require an appointment and adjacent exercise machines may be used. 
• On-campus residents will need to provide either proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test prior to move-in this fall. 
• In addition to the Zollar Cafe remaining open this summer, we anticipate debuting the new and improved Birdfeeder dining location on August 20.  

Signage around campus and the College website will be updated over the next few days to reflect these changes. 

We continue to encourage everyone to educate themselves about the benefits of vaccination against COVID-19 and to strongly consider getting vaccinated if you haven’t already done so. SMC is coordinating with the Van Buren Cass District Health Department to run on-campus vaccine clinics in July and August to make vaccination even more convenient for our students and employees. 

Should conditions or guidance change, we may revert back to a previous phase. Enjoy the rest of your summer and let’s keep working towards a healthy fall semester. 

Dr. Joe

Published on 05/27/2021 

Dear SMC Community:

Based on new guidelines recently issued by the Center for Disease Control and the State of Michigan, and the wide availability of multiple forms of the COVID-19 vaccine, I am happy to announce that SMC will be easing some masking restrictions. 

Effective Tuesday, June 1, students, employees and visitors who are fully vaccinated - defined as two weeks after having the full dosage of the chosen vaccine form - are no longer required to wear a mask nor social distance while inside campus buildings. If you have not been fully vaccinated, then you are required to continue to wear a mask and maintain six feet of distance at all times while inside campus buildings. This action officially moves us into Phase 3.5 of the SMC Campus Reopening Plan. 

A few specifics:

• Masks are not required while outside.
• Of course, anyone may continue to wear a mask at any time and/or socially distance to feel comfortable or to protect themselves.  
• Contact tracing protocols will remain in effect. Students and employees will still be expected to monitor their symptoms and check in using the Campus Clear app prior to arriving on campus. The QR-code sign-in system at frequently-used campus offices will remain in place for now, as will the plexiglass barriers and other distancing measures.
• Unvaccinated persons must remain at least six feet apart while eating with others. 
• The Fitness Center will still use the appointment reservation system and extra spacing between machines. Unvaccinated persons must still wear a mask while exercising as will be required in any campus building. 
• For summer semester, in-person classroom setups will retain their current spacing configuration.  
• Summer residents new to the residence halls will need to either provide proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test prior to move in.  

Signage around campus will be updated over the next few days to reflect this change. As a reminder, SMC will be returning to full on-campus work as of Monday, June 7. 

We expect that on or around July 1, pending guidance from the State of Michigan, we will be able to further ease masking restrictions and hope to be even closer to normal activity by the start of the fall semester. We will alert you as the situation changes, and encourage everyone to strongly consider getting vaccinated if you haven’t already done so. 

We have come a long way together through trying times, and though the virus remains a present concern, this is a very welcome development. 

Dr. Joe

Published on 03/16/2021 

Dear SMC Community:

It’s hard to believe, but we are approaching the halfway point of the Spring 2021 semester. The weather is turning somewhat nicer, and happily for me, baseball season starts soon. 

The campus leadership team is always looking ahead to prepare for what comes next. With registration for summer and fall semesters opening next week, I want to give you some updates in a couple of areas.

• Our intention for summer and fall semesters is to be as open, in-person and on-campus as government guidelines will allow while maintaining basic safety precautions, such as masks and social distancing, until the pandemic fully recedes. 
• We expect residence halls to be open for summer and fall at a higher occupancy level than the past few semesters, though there may be some capacity restrictions depending on the course of the virus.
• As I told the Board of Trustees last Wednesday, about two-thirds of class sections for fall will be conducted in person with the balance offered in hybrid or online formats for students who prefer that learning style. Summer semester is a little different every year, but at this time, we expect a higher percentage of hybrid and online courses than in major semesters. Of course, we will do our best to be flexible, opening or converting sections to balance demand while retaining the highest possible academic quality.  
• We are consulting with our food service provider Canteen to possibly re-open the Birdfeeder eatery (in the Breigel Commons on the Dowagiac campus) with a menu that would include not just a variety of student favorites but also a rotating menu of daily specials. Our goal is to have the Birdfeeder open in late August.
• We are constantly evaluating the safest way to expand student activities such as intramurals, club sports, and The Canyon climbing wall. With the weather warming up, we encourage everyone to get outside and enjoy walking, running or biking on the Roadrunner trails.   
• For those of you anticipating graduation, details have been finalized for SMC’s 54th Commencement on Friday, May 14, at 4 p.m. for the School of Arts and Sciences and on Saturday, May 15, at 10 a.m. for the Schools of Business, Advanced Technology, and Nursing and Health Services. Both ceremonies will be in Alumni Plaza, and additional information will be provided to graduates and published on the college website soon.
• Finally, the new federal stimulus package does include some funds for certain college students. Our Financial Aid and Business Office teams are diligently working through the details, and we will be reaching out directly to eligible students as soon as we are able. 

Some of you have noticed the vaccine clinics being held in the SMC gymnasium. These are being run completely by the Van Buren and Cass County Health Department, and we are happy to help them in this critical work by offering facilities with good parking, accessible restrooms and the space to social distance. We realize the clinics temporarily restrict use of the gym for students, but we believe helping the community in this way is the right course of action. 

We strongly encourage each of you to receive whichever COVID-19 vaccine becomes available to you. Vaccination is a very important step in allowing our college to eventually return to more normal operations: group activities, meal gatherings, in-person clubs and performances...all of the personal growth opportunities we want to enjoy. As vaccine distribution expands in Southwest Michigan, we will provide education and information on vaccination sites, including on-campus clinics. 

Please continue to watch out for each other this semester. We’re all looking forward to the day we can remove our masks, take down the plexiglass and operate more normally, but we’re not there quite yet. 

Let’s keep going! 

Dr. Joe

Published on 01/25/2021 

Dear SMC Community:

Spring semester begins today, and with it brings the hope of all that is possible in 2021. To those students returning after Winter Break - welcome back. To our new students, we are thrilled you have decided to join us at SMC. The faculty and staff are so happy to have all of you learning with us. 

I want to share some exciting campus updates as we get going:

• The Zollar Cafe in the Student Activity Center is now open for carryout from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Due to current state restrictions, on-site seating is not yet available. Stop by and enjoy Starbucks beverages, pastries, sandwiches, and other items to fuel your day.  
• We are hopeful that we can return to an in-person commencement to celebrate the classes of 2020 and 2021, likely outdoors on Alumni Plaza. We will pass along further details as plans firm up. 
• Our mascot, Ronnie Roadrunner, has a new look for 2021 and will be appearing on campus soon. You can pick up a complimentary SMC Roadrunners sticker at the Information Desk in the Briegel Building, the Library Information Hub, the Student Activity Center main desk, or the Niles Student Service Center to show your pride - one per student, please!
• Many new campus activities - including the Track and Field Club and pop-up intramural tournaments - are being organized. Please watch the Toilet Paper, the Roadrunner Weekly email, and social media channels for details.  

Of course, the coronavirus pandemic remains an issue for all of us, so please continue in your commitment to the behaviors that protect the health and safety of the SMC community.

• Always wear a mask around others, both indoors and outside.
• Limit close contacts and keep your friend groups small.
• Avoid all gatherings of 10 or more.
• Maintain at least six feet of distance between you and others at all times.
• Report your symptoms using the  every day if you are coming to campus.
• Stay home if you're feeling sick.
• We have a few more SMC logo masks available at the Information Desk in the Briegel Building (while supplies last). Please, one per person!

As we have seen throughout this pandemic, official guidance from national, state, and local health departments can change at any time given the prevailing conditions in our area. SMC administrators will continue to do our best to balance safety and student success while we monitor developments in a continuing unpredictable situation. 

We strongly encourage each of you to receive a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. Vaccination will be a very important step in allowing our community to eventually return to more normal operations: group activities, meal gatherings, in-person clubs, and performances...all of the personal growth opportunities we want to enjoy as a college. As the plans around vaccine prioritization and distribution in Southwest Michigan become more clear, we will provide education and information on vaccination sites, including on-campus clinics if that becomes feasible. Please watch for more information on this topic in the coming weeks. 

Take care of yourselves and watch out for each other this semester - it’s a great time to be a Roadrunner.  

Start Spring Strong! 

Dr. Joe

Published on 01/07/2021

Dear SMC Community:

Happy New Year to all - it’s finally 2021. Hopefully each of you had a restful holiday break and is ready to turn your attention to the upcoming spring semester. 

As we informed you in December, the college has shifted more class sections to an online format to meet student demand. Many members of our dedicated faculty have completed advanced training to ensure these classes are of the highest possible quality.

• Face-to-face sections will still be offered in many courses for those who prefer them, but the shift to more online sections did affect some registered students. Though a few more sections may be converted in the coming weeks if the demand warrants it, the majority of the schedule has been finalized in the system. Advisors have been reaching out to affected students, and if at any time you have questions, the AARC and FYE staff are ready to help on-site or via a virtual appointment. 
• Residence halls will remain open for spring. SMC has ordered a supply of COVID-19 antigen rapid test kits to allow residents to be tested upon returning to campus later this month, which should simplify the overall move-in process. Additional information and specific directions have been sent to spring residents.  
• The Fred L. Mathews Library and Student Activity Center will continue to operate for the spring semester much as they did last fall, with access to the fitness center by appointment only. The Zollar Cafe is scheduled to reopen on January 20. Note that starting this weekend, floor reconditioning will be taking place in the SAC, so the entrance to the fitness center, gymnasium, and locker rooms will be temporarily moved to the west side of the building for about 10 days. 

SMC adjusted the start of spring semester two weeks later to January 25 to avoid the possibility of increased cases after the holiday season and to reduce the potential impact of winter weather on face-to-face class meetings.  As we have seen throughout this pandemic, official guidance from national, state, and local health departments can change at any time given the prevailing conditions in our area. SMC administrators will continue to do our best to balance safety and student success while we monitor developments in a continuing unpredictable situation. 

We strongly encourage each of you to receive a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. Vaccination will be a very important step in allowing our community to eventually return to more normal operations: group activities, meal gatherings, in-person clubs and performances...all of the personal growth opportunities we want to enjoy as a college. As the plans around vaccine prioritization and distribution in Southwest Michigan become more clear, we will provide education and information on vaccination sites, including on-campus clinics if that becomes feasible. Please watch for more information on this topic in the coming weeks. 

A few additional reminders:

• Spring 2021 classes start January 25. Students, please remember to register and double-check your schedule before then. If you would like to consult with an advisor, just stop by the AARC or FYE, or email askanadvisor@swmich.edu.
• After registering, be sure to set up a payment plan or pay your bill in full immediately, or you will be dropped from your classes.
• If you haven’t already, get a flu shot from your healthcare provider or a local pharmacy. 
• Please continue in your commitment to the behaviors that have protected the health and safety of the SMC community.
  • Always wear a mask around others, both indoors and outside.
  • Limit close contacts and keep your friend groups small.
  • Avoid all gatherings of 10 or more.
  • Maintain at least six feet of distance between you and others at all times.
  • Report your symptoms using the #CampusClear app every day if you are coming to campus.
  • Stay home if you're feeling sick.
• We have some extra SMC logo masks available at the Information Desk in the Breigel Building (while supplies last). Please, one per person!

We can see the light at the end of the tunnel, and if we continue to follow behaviors we know help reduce the spread of the virus and all get vaccinated as soon as possible, we will be able to put this pandemic behind us.   

Start Spring Strong! 

Dr. Joe

Published on 12/10/2020 

Dear SMC Community:

As you know, we are approaching finals week for Fall 2020, a semester that none of us will soon forget. We have all persevered, and a well-earned holiday break awaits.

In light of pandemic orders extended this week by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, we want to provide an update regarding our plans for the Spring 2021 semester. As always, we are doing our best to balance safety and student success in a constantly changing environment.

• Though there has been no evidence of viral spread in any classroom situation, we are planning to shift more class sections to an online format to meet student demand. Many members of our dedicated faculty have completed advanced training to ensure these classes are of the highest possible quality.
• Face-to-face sections will still be offered in many courses for those who prefer them, but the shift to more online sections will affect some registered students. Please be patient as we finalize the overall mix and know that advisors will be reaching out to help affected students with any schedule changes.
• We believe that most nursing, health services, and vocational trades courses may still meet at least partially in person. We are seeking clarification from MDHHS and faculty is considering the best balance for their curriculum.
• At this time, we expect the residence halls to be open again for Spring.SMC has ordered a supply of rapid antigen kits to allow residents to be tested upon returning to campus in January, which should simplify the overall move-in process. Additional information will be sent to Spring residents in the coming days.
• At this time, we also anticipate that the Fred L. Mathews Library and Student Activity Center will operate for Spring semester much as they are now, with access to the Fitness Center by appointment only. The Zollar Cafe is still scheduled to reopen on January 20.
• Both the Dowagiac and Niles campuses will close for the holidays starting on December 24 and will reopen on January 4 to serve students and the public during regular business hours.

In early January, we will provide another update based on the prevailing conditions. We continue to monitor the course of the virus and guidance from national, state and local health departments, and we will advise you should anything change.

A few additional reminders:

• Remember to register for Spring 2021 classes. If you would like to consult with an advisor, just stop by the AARC or FYE, or email askanadvisor@swmich.edu

• After registering, be sure to set up a payment plan or pay your bill in full before the December 15 deadline, or you will be dropped from your classes after that date.
• Take advantage of online tutoring from the Carole A. Tate Teaching and Learning Center. Appointments can be scheduled at https://swmich.accudemia.net
• If you haven’t already, get a flu shot from your healthcare provider or a local pharmacy.
• Look after your mental health. You can connect with a therapist using the Wellness Therapy Request Form under the Student Resources tab in Wired.

• If you are travelling over the holidays, be sure to review the CDC's travel guidance and check any state travel advisories that may impact your plans.

• Please continue in your commitment to the behaviors that have protected the health and safety of the SMC community.
• Always wear a mask around others, both indoors and outside.
• Limit close contacts and keep your friend groups small.
• Avoid all gatherings of 10 or more.
• Maintain at least 6 feet of distance between you and others at all times.
• Report your symptoms using the #CampusClear app every day if you are coming to campus.
• Stay home if you're feeling sick.

Students, please study hard and put forth your best effort during finals. The entire faculty and staff of the College are rooting for you and stand ready to help however we can in this “home stretch."

Let’s finish strong,

Dr. Joe

Published on 11/16/2020 

Dear SMC Community:

Since the beginning of fall semester, students and employees have been largely diligent in following safety protocols to reduce the spread of COVID-19. By working together, we have been able to live on campus and meet for in-person classes successfully for over ten weeks. 

Yesterday, Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced that face-to-face instruction for the majority of college courses will be suspended, beginning on Wednesday, November 18. As you recall, SMC’s plan (announced on Thursday, October 15) was to shift almost all of our learning to a remote format after November 20 and for the remainder of the fall term. We will now make this shift effective Wednesday, November 18 through the end of the term on Friday, December 18.

• Nursing and health services courses may still meet in person. Faculty in those sections will communicate their expectations directly with students.
• Residence halls will remain open, both during the break and beyond for students who need to remain on campus. 
• Both the Dowagiac and Niles campuses will remain open during regular business hours to serve students and the public. 
• The Fred L. Mathews Library and Student Activity Center will also remain open during regular operating hours. The Fitness Center will be accessible by appointment only. Reserve a time here.
• Student worker positions will continue as needed. 
• When on campus, all members of the SMC community should continue to report symptoms via the #CampusClear app and to follow all current safety protocols. 
• SMC employees should work with their department supervisors to ensure the ability to continue to operate both in person and via remote access, but with a shift towards a more remote stance. 

At this time, we are still considering options for the spring 2021 semester, which begins January 25. We are continuing to monitor the course of the virus and guidance from national, state, and local health departments, and we will advise you on those decisions as we are able. 

November is always a busy time, so here are a few reminders:

• Remember to register for spring 2021 classes. If you would like to consult with an advisor, just stop by the AARC or FYE or email askanadvisor@swmich.edu
• After registering, be sure to set up a payment plan or pay your bill in full before the December 15 deadline, or you will be dropped from your classes after that date.
• Take advantage of online tutoring from the Carole A. Tate Teaching and Learning Center. Appointments can be scheduled at https://swmich.accudemia.net
• If you haven’t already, get a flu shot from your healthcare provider or a local pharmacy. 
• Look after your mental health. You can connect with a therapist using the Wellness Therapy Request Form under the Student Resources tab in Wired.
• If you are traveling over the holidays, be sure to review the CDC's travel guidance and check any state travel advisories that may impact your plans.
• Please continue in your commitment to the behaviors that have protected the health and safety of the SMC community.
  • Always wear a mask around others, both indoors and outside.
  • Limit close contacts and keep your friend groups small.
  • Avoid all gatherings of 10 or more.
  • Maintain at least 6 feet of distance between you and others at all times.
  • Report your symptoms using the #CampusClear app every day before arriving on campus.
  • Stay home if you're feeling sick.

It is appropriate that the capsule successfully launched yesterday to the International Space Station is named “Resilience”. All of us have been required to develop new skills, adapt and move forward through these difficult times, and I’m confident that we have “the right stuff” to succeed through December and into 2021.  

Let’s finish strong, 

Dr. Joe 

Published on 10/15/2020

Dear SMC Community:

Since the beginning of fall semester, students and employees have been largely diligent in following safety protocols to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This is truly appreciated, as by working together, we have been able to live on campus and meet for in-person classes successfully. 

However, health authorities have noted a recent uptick in cases and hospitalizations in our local area and throughout the State of Michigan. In addition, the onset of colder weather conditions has health professionals predicting further spread as people conduct more activities indoors. For example, the CDC reported this week that “household gatherings” are contributing to the surges.

To that point, with many members of the campus community likely traveling to gatherings during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, we are concerned that a return to campus by everyone could contribute to additional cases in early December, a situation we want to avoid. Therefore, we have made the decision to shift most SMC classes to remote learning from Monday, November 23 through the end of fall semester on Friday, December 18. 

• Courses with laboratory or in-person skills components may still meet in person. Faculty in those sections will communicate their expectations directly with students in the coming weeks. 
• Residence halls will remain open, both during the break and beyond for students who need to remain on campus. Further information will be sent to residents in the coming days. 
• Both the Dowagiac and Niles campuses will remain open during regular business hours to serve students and the public. 
• The Fred L. Mathews Library and Student Activity Center will also remain open during regular operating hours.
• Student worker positions will continue as needed. 
• When on campus, all members of the SMC community should continue to report symptoms via the #CampusClear app and to follow all current safety protocols. 
• SMC employees should work with their department supervisors to ensure the ability to operate both in person and via remote access. 

We are providing as much advance notice as possible so everyone can plan ahead and make necessary arrangements. We also know that with this advance notice, faculty will have the ability to work with willing students to make sure they can complete their courses successfully. At this time, we expect to resume in-person classes while offering expanded online options for the spring semester, which begins on January 25, 2021. 

As President, I believe my most important role is to consider the conditions, and then to put us in the best position to be safe and successful. This decision to pivot temporarily to remote learning is also in line with the best practices and schedules of other colleges throughout the country. 

Students, we urge you to please continue to exercise compassion for each other by following all safety measures, to remain engaged in your courses over the next few weeks as we approach Thanksgiving, to study hard during the push to final exams, to take advantage of tutoring appointments, and to once again finish strong this semester. Your resilience has inspired us this fall, and we want you to know that SMC is doing everything we can to help you be successful during and beyond this difficult time. 

Let’s finish strong, 

Dr. Joe 

Published on 09/11/2020

Dear SMC Family:

As we wrap up our first week of classes, I feel very encouraged by the willingness of everyone to comply with all of the health precautions now in place. We are all adapting to this “new normal,” and while not absolutely perfect, we certainly have started strong this semester.

To ensure that we can stay together throughout the semester, it is imperative that we all continue to:

• Wear a mask in the proper way at all times when inside a campus building—which means completely over your mouth and nose.
• Maintain six feet of distance from others as much as possible.
• Disinfect your workspaces before and after use.
• Wash and sanitize your hands regularly.
• Monitor and report your symptoms every day using the #CampusClear app.

Remember our Safety Means Compassion framework—if you see a friend or colleague who may have forgotten a mask or is standing too close, it is your responsibility to politely remind them. It also asks that you graciously accept a reminder from someone else if needed.

I know that being together is exciting, and that when wearing masks we may feel we are safe to engage in conversations less than six feet apart. It is not, and as a person who has spent much of the week bouncing from building to building and campus to campus, I have experienced firsthand the effort it requires to keep my distance while remaining friendly and helpful. Ultimately, I have to balance my desire for you to see me about campus while keeping myself and you all safe.

By now, you have heard the good news that several areas of the Student Activity Center will be reopening on Monday, September 14. We are doing this because we trust students, employees and community patrons to continue observing protocols so all can remain healthy. Please make use of the online reservation forms to ensure that everyone has a chance to participate in their favorite activities.

Unfortunately, we have also confirmed the first case of COVID-19 on campus. While this is somewhat distressing for all of us, it is not unexpected. The case was identified because the student followed proper procedure: monitored and reported their symptoms via the app, then stayed home and obtained a test under the care of a doctor while remaining in communication with our team members. We are living with the virus every day, so we continue to evolve our response to best balance learning objectives with safety. We may sometimes tire of taking these extra steps, but remaining vigilant and committed to helping each other along is the best way to stay together and ultimately succeed this fall and beyond.

Thank you for your patience and for a great start to fall. I’m proud of you—let’s keep it up.

Onward together,

Dr. Joe 

Published on 08/27/2020

Southwestern Michigan College moves to Phase 3 of its Campus Reopening Plan this weekend in preparation for fall semester.

Offices on both campuses in Dowagiac and Niles will be open to students, employees and the public during regular business hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m. starting Monday, Aug. 31. Business will also continue remotely for those who prefer that option to complete fall registration. Classes begin Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Masks are required on campus. COVID-19 protocols such as distancing and sanitizing remain in effect. All students, faculty and staff will check in daily with a symptom-screening app.

Residential students begin moving into Jerdon, White and McKenzie halls in phases between Sunday, Aug. 30, and Friday, Sept, 4, during Welcome Week.

Fred L. Mathews Library reopens Aug. 31 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. after being closed since mid-March. Normal hours effective Sept. 8 are 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Fridays.

Bookstore hours will be 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Fridays.

The lobby and game room of the Student Activity Center (SAC) will be available to those with a valid college ID. Zollar Café will be open for limited service starting the first day of classes.

The fitness center, pools, gymnasium, fitness studio and locker rooms remain closed until further notice, per current restrictions for this region in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s MI Safe Start Plan.

Most Welcome Week events take place virtually to help Roadrunners meet other students and staff, engage in campus life and locate available resources while keeping everyone safe and healthy.

Student services departments — First Year Experience (FYE), Residence Life, the Testing Center, Financial Aid, the Bookstore, Records, Academic Advising and Resource Center (AARC), SAC, Help Desk, Library/Carole A. Tate Teaching and Learning Center and Business and English/Communications faculty —participate in Passport, a three-day virtual campus adventure. Checking in with each department could win one of two $500 scholarships for Spring 2021.

There will be a Mental Health Virtual Townhall to meet campus counselor Candyce Buysse, an online eSports tournament, an online New Student Convocation, an online workout and a Virtual Townhall with President Dr. Joe Odenwald.

Sept. 2 and 3 feature the first-ever Roadrunner Run, a digital one-mile fun run. Take a selfie while completing a mile on or off campus. All participants receive medals.

Capping Welcome Week activities Sept. 4 will be a burger/hot dog take away from the SAC patio before an outdoor movie projected on a large screen in the intramural field, with lawn games and other activities available. “Pitch Perfect” won a summer bracket tournament as the students’ choice, edging out “Good Will Hunting” in the championship round.

Campus Life staff developed a series of videos to view any time, including a guided tour of the trails for running or mountain biking, low-cost tips to spice up such college staples as ramen and frozen pizza with Zollar Café’s Jocelyne Tuszynski, Branden Pompey’s stroll around downtown Dowagiac and Professor Dr. Mary Young-Marcks’ voter registration primer. Videos can be seen at swmich.edu/welcomeweek.

Published on 08/12/2020

Fall Semester Update

Dear SMC Family,

We find ourselves about four weeks away from the beginning of the fall semester. This has been a short summer, given all of the planning involved in preparing for a safe return to campus in September. Many thanks to all of our faculty and staff who have prepared for the fall in various ways, whether by serving on a task force or thinking through their classroom activities.

In late June, we committed to prioritizing face-to-face instruction this fall because we believe it to be the overwhelming preference of our current students and because it is what we at SMC currently do best. But we must understand that this commitment requires an “SMC” or “Safety Means Compassion” approach. To that end:

• Daily self-screening will be a critical habit for all of us to employ. Great deference will be given to students and employees who believe they are exhibiting any symptoms. When in doubt about your health, please do not come to the campuses.
• Masks or face coverings will be required for faculty, staff, and students when in buildings, including classrooms.
• Social distancing will be practiced, whether we are indoors or outdoors.
• Cleaning will be a community activity. Everyone will be expected to clean any workspaces or desks they use, even in a classroom, both when they arrive at the space and when they leave it.

At this time, we are proceeding with our face-to-face instruction plan, presuming that MERC Region 3 (Kalamazoo Region) remains in at least Phase 4 of the economic engagement portion of the MI Safe Start Plan. With the physical changes made to classrooms and smaller class sizes throughout the schedule, we believe that with everyone working together, we can be safe and successful.

Because of a few faculty completing the applicable online training, we are putting a handful of online-only courses on the fall schedule. These will be limited in terms of options available and total amount of seats. They are meant as a pilot set of courses for the fall. Advisors are aware and will try to use those online sections to support student interest in those classes.

As we have seen, the course of the pandemic is unpredictable. To best ensure the continuity of student learning, SMC faculty have been asked to prepare for a switch to remote learning should conditions warrant doing so at some point in the future. In making the determination whether a switch to remote learning is necessary, administration will be monitoring criteria such as:

• Governor Whitmer’s Safe Start MI phases
• Local cases and test positivity rates
• The collective decision trends of our K-12 education partners

I shared in my messages last spring that we needed to “finish strong.” This fall, we’ll need to “start strong” to ensure our community can remain healthy and “finish strong” in December. I have no doubt that we will all again rise to the occasion.

Onward together,

Dr. Joe

Published on 07/01/2020

SMC Fall 2020 Semester Details

At Southwestern Michigan College, one of our core values is “Excellence with a Personal Touch.” During the Spring and Summer 2020 semesters, the pandemic crisis challenged our ability to work closely with students in a physical classroom and campus-life setting. The success of our students is our driving mission; we know that while online coursework provides valuable learning, the personal interaction between students, faculty and staff—and a total college-life experience—is important to students’ personal growth and academic achievement.

It is our intention to operate as normally as is reasonably possible for the Fall 2020 semester, heeding the guidance of government and public health officials and presuming that MERC Region 3 (Kalamazoo Region) remains in at least Phase 4 in the MI Safe Start Plan. We will have in-person and online-hybrid courses, a variety of events and a residential experience for those needing and wanting to live on campus. However, please understand that this will require all of us to rethink our interactions and adopt additional safety measures. Of course, we cannot predict with certainty the course of the pandemic during the semester. If updated government or health department guidance recommends additional safety protocols, we may need to step back to a more restrictive stance.

Listed below are the specific details about which we are confident at this time but are subject to change as conditions require. Our Pandemic Preparedness Task Force continues to research and discuss other areas of college operations and will communicate decisions—such as a future move to SMC Reopening Plan Phase 3 or 4—when appropriate and with sufficient notice. Rest assured that we will approach fall as thoughtfully as we can, with safety and student success as our top priorities. We plan to operate within a “Safety Means Compassion” framework as a way to encourage all of the SMC community to come together for the common goal of student learning.

Overall Campus

• All SMC employees will follow guidance detailed in the COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan relevant to the operational phase active at the time.
• All persons will self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms prior to building entry.
• Face coverings are required of all employees, students and visitors when entering or exiting buildings and in all indoor spaces where six-foot distancing protocols cannot be consistently maintained.
• Students and employees will be provided with one SMC-logo reusable mask before the start of fall semester, but may bring and use their own masks if preferred. If needed, visitors will be provided with disposable masks for their time on campus to the extent such supplies are available.
• Common areas and workspaces will be cleaned and disinfected daily by custodial staff.
• Water fountain spouts will be sealed off, but bottle filler stations will remain available.
• Starting September 8, the Birdfeeder and Zollar Cafe will be open during regular hours, but with more limited menu options. They will abide by the necessary serving protocols required by the State and Van Buren Cass District Health Department.
• All vending machines (including on the Niles Campus) will be stocked and operating as usual, with signage encouraging hand washing after use.
• Seating in common areas will be restricted to facilitate proper distancing while eating.
• Students will need to complete mandatory safety training before the start of classes.
• Students and staff will be instructed to disinfect shared items (keyboards, desks, tables, etc.) prior to and immediately following every usage. Materials shall be placed near these items for them to do so.
• The Fred L. Mathews Library and the Carole A. Tate Teaching and Learning Center will resume normal hours, abiding by recommended capacity limits and marked for proper social distancing. Tutoring and library services will continue to be offered virtually as well.
• The bookstore will resume normal hours, abiding by recommended capacity limits and marked for proper social distancing. Face coverings will be required while in the store.
• To date, there have been no confirmed COVID-19 cases on either campus of Southwestern Michigan College. In the event a case is suspected, College personnel will work with the student or employee to access virtual screening by a local health care provider and, if requested, assist them in finding local testing options.

Published on 06/10/2020

As part of our phased reopening plan, campuses will be open for visitors by appointment only during limited hours starting Monday, June 15.

All services are still available remotely, but if someone prefers to visit campus to take placement tests, register for classes, enjoy a campus tour or conduct other business, they can do so by making an appointment. The Fred L. Mathews Library, Zollar Cafe, Birdfeeder Cafe and Student Activity Center on the Dowagiac campus remain closed until further notice.

The college has reconfigured some service areas to maximize safety. Visitors will need to maintain distancing and to wear a mask when in buildings to minimize risk to vulnerable populations. Masks will be provided for those who might need one while on campus.

A list of contacts is available at swmich.edu/about-smc/departmental-contacts, or call the main number at 269-782-1000.

Published on 05/01/2020

Dear SMC Community,

First, I hope you are safe and well.

Congratulations and a job well done to all students, faculty and staff for achieving what perhaps seemed impossible just six weeks ago: completing the Spring 2020 semester. Indeed you have finished strong!

Graduates, please check your email accounts (both your SMC and personal addresses) next week for details regarding our virtual commencement exercises. The pre-recorded event will be available for viewing beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 13. In addition to the opportunity to celebrate in this way, we also welcome you to participate in a more traditional ceremony sometime in 2021.

While everyone needs a break from learning, students please note that the Summer semester (largely online) begins June 1. If you need to take one or more courses, please contact Advising with questions and register as soon as you can. The due date for tuition and fees has been extended to May 15, and payment plans are available without a setup fee.

While the Fall semester format is impossible to exactly predict at this time, it is our intention to operate as normally as is reasonably possible, heeding the guidance of government and public health officials. This means we hope to have in-seat courses, a variety of events and a residential experience for those needing and wanting to live on campus. However, please understand that even this best-case scenario will require us to rethink our interactions and adopt additional safety measures. We are convening a task force with professionals across multiple departments to discuss and recommend best practices. Rest assured that we will approach the fall as thoughtfully as we can, with safety and student success as our guiding principles. Our plan is to communicate more specific details about the Fall semester by July 1.

Again, congratulations on “finishing strong!” through these past six weeks, and I look forward to seeing what you all accomplish in the future.

Onward Together,

Dr. Joe

Published on 04/13/2020

Dear SMC Community,

I hope you enjoyed a restful holiday weekend. Now that Spring Break is behind us, we can forge ahead toward the end of the Spring 2020 semester. I trust that each of you is staying safe, carefully following the guidelines from State and Federal authorities.

As this semester winds down, we want to provide as much certainty as possible with regard to the Summer term. It is unclear whether large scale face-to-face courses will be possible by early June. I am not sure we will know until early May.

For two reasons, we are moving most Summer 2020 courses to a remote/online format. The first reason is safety. Even if current restrictions are loosened by summer, the virus threat won’t be completely behind us until late summer. The second reason is student success. Our faculty who teach in the summer term need time to prepare for their courses. We also want to provide more resources to help students taking courses this summer to better adjust to learning remotely. (There is a course evaluation component in Moodle for each of your courses, and I urge you to give us feedback to help us better accommodate your learning this summer.) A select number of courses that absolutely require a face-to-face component will remain tentatively scheduled. Our hope is that conditions will permit small groups to complete the lab work.

Students, I know a number of you were planning to live on campus during the summer. Unfortunately, we will not be able to have a residence hall open this summer. With courses moving online, it is unlikely that we can adequately staff and secure the building. Again, safety is our number one priority. I am most disappointed in the necessity of this decision. We have significantly grown our summer housing community in each of the past two summers, with many of you assisting with orientations. There will still be opportunities for Orientation Leaders to aid with our New Student Orientations, and Dean Katie Hannah will provide you the details.

Students, please also note that registration for both Summer and Fall semesters is ongoing, and our advisors are available to assist through email, phone, and Google Chat. It is imperative for you to stay on the path toward graduation.

As I have said in previous communications, this challenging situation will make us stronger. As a College, our course delivery will be more adaptable. As teachers and learners, we will all be better equipped for a world requiring us to virtually collaborate.

Onward Together,

Dr. Joe

Published on 03/30/2020

Dear SMC Community,

We are beginning our third week of online learning, and I continue to be impressed by the commitment of our faculty and staff in serving our students. We are all developing new skills and tapping abilities in ourselves which, perhaps, we weren’t aware of before this month.

As we adapt to remote work and push through to Spring Break, we have been monitoring general developments and government guidance to anticipate how to best move forward.

• We have made the decision to extend teaching and learning online through the end of Spring Semester on May 1. We are doing so to align with other colleges in the area and to provide a bit more certainty for students and families who are planning ahead. During Spring Break (April 4-12) we are encouraging a break from teaching and learning as much as possible.
• Student workers will continue to be paid through the end of the semester, as long as they remain enrolled and engaged in their courses. We are doing this because we are sensitive to the fact that many student workers were counting on earning this money.
• SMC’s campuses will continue to be closed physically but operate virtually through at least April 13. Of course, we will communicate further should any changes to this timeline prove necessary.
• The residence halls will remain open to residents only. Final checkouts will be available when government restrictions have been lifted and campus has been reopened to visitors.
• Commencement ceremonies have been postponed until late summer. Our intention is to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates in some manner once gatherings are again permitted.

Students, please remember my original challenge for you to stay engaged in your courses, to use the virtual tutoring and advising resources that remain available, and to finish strong. Make us proud of your persistence in the face of uncertain times so your future self can look back at this period in our collective history and be reminded of your own ability to navigate difficult circumstances.

As I have said in previous messages, I believe the College will emerge stronger as a result of this crisis. Similarly, I believe each of us will exit this phase better equipped for engagement with a dynamic world.

Onward Together,

Dr. Joe

Published on 03/23/2020

Dear SMC Community,

For our faculty and students, I hope your second virtual learning Monday is going well. I know this was such a fast change, and I cannot say enough about the flexibility of our faculty, staff, and students.

As many of you are aware, Governor Whitmer has issued a “stay-at-home” order for Michigan residents through Monday, April 13. This anticipated action aligns the rest of the state in large part with how SMC is operating already, but there are a few changes we need to implement to comply with the order and curb the spread of COVID-19. To that end:

• The campuses will continue to be closed physically but operate virtually through April 13. (HR will follow up with additional guidance for employees.) The residence halls will remain open to residents only.
• All teaching and learning will continue online through April 13, with the exception of Spring Break (April 4-12), when we are encouraging a break from teaching and learning.

This semester will not be remembered as a perfect one, as essentially nothing has gone according to plan. But here is what the Spring 2020 semester will be remembered for:

• Unparalleled flexibility from our students
• Unmatched creativity from our faculty
• Unwavering commitment from our staff

At some point we will gather in all the places that we prefer: the classrooms and labs, the SAC, the commons, the library, the lawn between the residence halls, the theatre in Lyons, the softball field, and so on. Until then, we must do our best through the Google Suite, Moodle, and Zoom. And during these trying times, we must learn that the buildings aren’t what make us a College. Rather, it’s the relationships and the commitment to knowledge for all that binds us together, no matter the medium.

Onward Together,

Dr. Joe

Published on 03/19/2020

Dear SMC Community,

As we continue this journey with COVID-19, we have seen many examples of everyday heroism from our faculty and staff. In just ten days, we have witnessed a “scale up” effort to shift courses and student support online. While this isn’t the preferred method for migrating courses and services to a distance format, necessity required us to make this bold move. My message to those beyond the campus is that these herculean efforts are the result of your commitment to seeing students complete the Spring Semester. They are great examples of our core values as a “learner-centered college” with “21st century services.”

We have taken appropriate steps as the number of cases in the state has increased, including limiting the public from frequenting our campuses, as well as closing the Fred L. Mathews Library and the Zollar Building. On Wednesday, the majority of our staff began working from home, leaving a single employee in most service units to help with immediate student needs.

We must further guard against the spread of the virus by closing the physical campuses effective Monday, March 23 until April 6. We are announcing this move now to provide additional time for everyone to prepare. During this physical closure, Southwestern Michigan College will operate virtually and abide by the following directives:

1. Teaching and learning will continue primarily via the Moodle platform. There may be exceptions, which will be communicated from the instructor of record to the students in the course(s). However, the exceptions can no longer require students to complete work in our various lab environments. We are striving to avoid face-to-face interactions with students.
2. All testing and assessment will be administered remotely. Faculty will continue to give students specifics about their exams and other assignments.
3. Student support, including registration advising for Summer and Fall Semesters, will be delivered via email, Google Meet, and in some cases, by phone.
4. Faculty will be able to access campus for course preparation, but we ask that this be limited as much as possible.
5. Staff who can telecommute will continue doing so.
6. The residence halls will remain open at this time, although the population living on campus is sharply reduced. (Last week, we limited visitors to protect the community. We have asked students not to go back and forth between home and the residence halls after hearing this was happening in a few cases.)
7. Designated staff will continue to report to campus. Note that this definition has changed; please see the new guidance from Human Resources.

Please await specific directions from your Chair, Dean, Director or VP.

Finally, to comply with government guidance prohibiting groups of 50 or more participants for approximately the next eight weeks, we have made the difficult decision to delay commencement ceremonies until later in the year. We fully intend to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates and will communicate new information as plans are finalized.

Onward together,

Dr. Joe

Published on 03/17/2020

As the status of COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to change, I am heartened to see how we have come together as a community to support student success while balancing safety. Here are but a few examples:

• Jim Benak has spent countless hours supporting other faculty members as they transition to an on-line format.
• The Residential Student Food Task Force team was able to distribute 136 care packages to students in Residence Life.
• The Testing Center staff and faculty have worked closely to find alternative assessment methods to reduce the physical traffic in the Testing Center.

I realize that you are overwhelmed by the constantly changing information and anxious about what might occur in the coming days. Many of you are balancing the responsibilities of home and work. Thank you.

State and federal guidelines in combating this virus emphasize social distancing. We are now encouraging temporary telecommuting arrangements for employees whose job duties are conducive to working from home but who do not regularly telecommute.

Essential personnel are expected to report to work as scheduled unless otherwise notified. Human Resources has sent specific guidance to managers. We are trying to balance the need to continue to serve students with the safety of faculty and staff.

Temporary work-from-home arrangements are expected to be short-term, and we will continue to monitor guidance from health officials and the need for remote work arrangements. Our current plan is to permit temporary work-from-home arrangements to continue until April 13, 2020.

As I have iterated many times during this crisis, I believe (because of your commitment) our College will emerge stronger as a result of this unprecedented situation.

Onward together,

Dr. Joe

Published on 03/16/2020

Effective immediately, all buildings on both campuses of Southwestern Michigan College are open only to students, faculty and staff. The Fred L. Mathews Library, Zollar Café and Student Activity Center are now closed until further notice. We appreciate the understanding of the broader community as we look to preserve safety and student success during this unprecedented challenge.

Classes will continue via the Moodle online platform. All students, including dual-enrolled high school students, will be responsible for monitoring their online courses, submitting coursework on time and adhering to any directions or deadlines from professors.

All three residence halls and college offices on both campuses will remain open during typical business hours. At this time, The Birdfeeder will be open during usual hours offering "to-go" meals only.

The College is working to provide additional remote tutoring options. In addition, campus internet bandwidth has been boosted to handle the expected increase in usage.

Our student counselor will be moving appointments to online and telephone options only. Several different platforms (Gmail, Google Hangouts, Skype, Zoom, FaceTime, Duo or voice call) will be available. Students who are struggling with anxiety and fear during this difficult time are encouraged to keep their existing appointments through one of these methods.Those wishing to make new appointments or to refer others may do so through swmich.edu/counseling.

Published on 03/12/2020

Dear SMC Community:

As an institution, we value safety and student academic success above all else. At this time, concern for safety requires that we change the delivery of courses to an online format for the next few weeks.

• Beginning on Monday, March 16, face-to-face class meetings on the SMC Dowagiac and Niles campuses will be suspended. Class content will be delivered primarily via the Moodle online learning environment.
• Students should expect to hear shortly from their professors or academic deans regarding individual course specifics. Please be aware that courses run by Michigan State University and Ferris State University on an SMC campus may have different requirements or schedules.
• At this time, we expect face-to-face classes to resume on Monday, April 13 (after Spring Break), but this may change as circumstances require.
• During this time, SMC residence halls will remain open. However, visitors to the residence halls will not be permitted starting on Friday, March 13, until face-to-face classes resume. The Birdfeeder and Zollar Café will remain open during regular hours.
• Student Activity Center facilities (other than the Zollar Café) will be closed effective Friday, March 13, until further notice.
• Both the Dowagiac and Niles campuses will otherwise remain open for business, and all employees are to report as usual. Individual requests for telecommuting will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Additional information for employees will be forthcoming from Human Resources.
• As referenced last evening, on-campus gatherings with expected attendance of 100 people or more will be cancelled through the end of Spring semester. A decision on Commencement ceremonies will be made in the next few weeks.
• We will continue our surface disinfection efforts around our two campuses and will be limiting temporarily the scope of any group meals.

I have the utmost confidence that by all working together, we can ensure safety and student success. I challenge our students to persevere in their studies, to utilize our extensive campus resources, to stay in contact with their professors and to “finish strong.” I know our dedicated faculty and staff will give their very best effort to serve our students at this time.

In spite of the unprecedented nature of this situation, I believe we will look back and see this period as one of great success for our College.

Onward together,

Dr. Joe, President

Published on 03/11/2020

Dear SMC Community:

As you know, the coronavirus outbreak is a rapidly-changing event. The safety of our students, faculty and staff is our top priority, and we are working to consider all factors in a balanced and measured approach to this crisis. We appreciate your patience as we communicate these difficult decisions.

As of this writing, there are still no confirmed nor suspected cases of COVID-19 on either campus of SMC or the immediate surrounding area. Several members of the SMC administration and Board of Trustees participated in a conference call this afternoon with Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, during which she provided guidelines for colleges and universities to consider in the context of their local situations. In fact, SMC has already been following many of these guidelines.

New Information

To further align with State guidance, SMC will be taking the following steps, effective immediately:

• All non-essential business travel by SMC employees will be suspended through the end of Spring semester. Waivers will be available, and each situation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by each dean or department manager.
• Employees and students should consult CDC guidelines and make informed choices regarding personal travel (for example, during Spring Break week). Employees who display symptoms common to COVID-19 upon their return may be asked to stay off campus and/or work from home for up to 14 days.
• On-campus gatherings with expected attendance of 100 people or more will be cancelled through the end of Spring semester. This includes the Outstanding Graduate Reception scheduled for April 15.
• A decision on performances of the musical “Grease” (March 26-29) will be made in the next few days.
• A decision on Commencement ceremonies (May 2) will be made in the next few weeks.

At this point, all other College activities will be conducted as usual. Classes will meet as scheduled in the typical location and modality, and both campuses remain open and operational with regular hours.

Reminders

We ask that students or employees who have recently traveled to the countries designated with a Level 3 Travel Health Notice (currently China, Iran, Italy and South Korea, see updates here) or have had close contact with anyone who has recently traveled to those countries or who has a confirmed case of COVID-19 to please notify SMC administration.

• Employees should notify Human Resources at 269-782-1365.
• On-campus residents should notify Jeff Hooks at jhooks@swmich.edu or 269-783-2159.
• All other students should notify Katie Hannah at khannah@swmich.edu or 269-783-2185.

As always, if you are feeling sick and unable to participate normal activities, please stay home to rest and avoid infecting others. The generally-accepted guideline is to remain home until fever-free for at least 24 hours. All students will be expected to monitor their online course sites on Moodle and adhere to any deadlines set by their instructors.

In the meantime, you can reduce your risk of illness by washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer frequently, covering a cough or sneeze with your arm, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands, minimizing air travel and not sharing food or drink items with others. Remember that wall-mounted hand sanitizer stations are present in all academic buildings on campus. Our custodial staff will continue to disinfect common areas on a regular basis, and disinfecting wipes will be distributed to each residence hall suite.

We will continue to take guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Van Buren Cass Health Department as to other actions they recommend regarding the coronavirus, flu or other illnesses, and we will advise the SMC community immediately should we need to further change our procedures.

For more information on COVID-19 symptoms and prevention, please visit cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Thanks for your help in keeping our community healthy.

Published on 03/10/2020

In our continuing efforts to keep you informed, and with the safety of our students, faculty and staff our top priority, here is an update regarding seasonal influenza and the coronavirus outbreak.

As of today, there are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Michigan, and only several in Indiana, though this is expected to change in the coming weeks. Members of the SMC administration have met and have begun reviewing policies to prepare as best we can for any impact to our operations. We will continue to take guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Van Buren Cass Health Department as to other actions they recommend regarding the coronavirus, flu or other illnesses, and we will keep the SMC community advised should we need to change procedures.

We ask that students and employees who have recently traveled to the countries designated with a Level 3 Travel Health Notice (currently China, Iran, Italy and South Korea, see updates at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html) or have had close contact with anyone who has recently traveled to those countries or has a confirmed case of COVID-19 to please notify SMC administrators immediately. On-campus residents should notify Jeff Hooks at jhooks@swmich.edu or 269-783-2159; all other students should notify Katie Hannah at khannah@swmich.edu or 269-783-2185. Employees should contact Human Resources at 269-782-1365.

In the meantime, you can reduce your risk of illness by washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer frequently, covering a cough or sneeze with your arm, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands, minimizing air travel and not sharing food or drink items with others. Remember that wall-mounted hand sanitizer stations are present in all academic buildings on campus. Our custodial staff will continue to disinfect common areas on a regular basis.

For more information on COVID-19 symptoms and prevention, please visit cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Thanks for your help in keeping our community healthy.

Additional Notes For Students

As always, if you are feeling sick and unable to participate in class, please stay home to rest and avoid infecting others. The generally-accepted guideline is to remain home until fever-free for at least 24 hours. All students will be expected to monitor their online course sites on Moodle and adhere to any deadlines set by their instructors.

Additional Notes For Employees

Employees should use their own discretion whether or not to travel for college business such as professional meetings or conferences. If you choose to cancel pre-arranged travel reservations, we ask that you request a refund (or voucher) from the hotel, airline or conference to the fullest extent possible.

As always, if you are feeling sick and unable to work, please stay home to rest and avoid infecting others. The generally-accepted guideline is to remain home until fever-free for at least 24 hours. Please review our current sick policies as detailed below – note that Aetna has waived some fees for those employees covered by their insurance policies.

Published on 03/02/2020

As you may know, a respiratory disease caused by coronavirus (COVID-19) is now present in multiple countries, including the United States. Although no cases have been confirmed in Michigan or Indiana at this time, it is reasonable to expect that may change at some point in the future.

The SMC administration is monitoring the developing situation. Our custodial team has already increased surface disinfection protocols for influenza season, and these precautions will continue daily through the end of the spring semester across both campuses. We will take guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Van Buren Cass Health Department as to other actions they recommend regarding the coronavirus, flu or other illnesses, and we will keep the SMC community advised should we need to change procedures.

In the meantime, you can reduce your risk of illness by washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer frequently, covering a cough or sneeze with your arm, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands, minimizing air travel and not sharing food or drink items with others.
For more information on COVID-19 symptoms and prevention, please visit cdc.gov/coronavirus.
Thanks for your help in keeping our community healthy.