Posted: October 21, 2020
Good morning everyone,
In September, I let you know that we had created a COVID dashboard to track status updates and that I would tell you when there were any significant changes, considerable campus exposure, or substantial quarantine of students or employees.
This week a cluster of positive COVID-19 cases was identified among a group of epidemiologically linked students living in the residence halls. To mitigate the spread on campus, we have isolated COVID positive students in designated apartments and quarantined in place those individuals in close contact. Our rapid response COVID Connection team is checking in with students frequently to ensure they have ordered meal delivery, have what they need to continue their coursework, and to inquire about the severity of their symptoms.
Watch our COIVD dashboard on our emergency preparedness website so that you can track status updates: https://nwc.edu/emergency-preparedness/#tab1.
We will continue to rigorously follow NWC health and safety protocols to notify relevant parties. If you are notified, please remember to keep all individual health information confidential. As well, we continue working closely with Park County Health officials in taking the necessary precautions to mitigate spread of the virus to the campus and the community. As cases continue to occur in our local area (Powell, Cody, and the Big Horn Basin), the chances of additional cases on campus are likely to occur. As you know, Northwest College takes the health and safety of employees, students, and the community very seriously. We are evaluating each situation under the guidance of public health to respond appropriately.
Overall, I am very pleased with how the COVID Connection process is working and appreciate the rapid response of our Student Success Center and Human Resources team. Thank you for all that you are doing to keep our campus safe. Through your diligent efforts to follow our COVID protocols, we will continue to ensure that the College will stay open through Thanksgiving.
If you have concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to COVID-19@nwc.edu
Remember to wear a mask over your mouth and nose, practice social distancing, wash your hands frequently, and make sure to conduct your daily health screening. If you are not feeling well, stay home.
Stefani Hicswa, Ph.D.