MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — West Virginia University is starting to take steps in regards to having on-campus activities again.
University officials spoke Thursday about resuming several activities around campus as coronavirus case numbers in West Virginia and nationwide continue to improve. During the campus conversation event, officials said it is time to consider what can safely take place.
“As long as everybody is following the guidelines and enforcing our classroom protocols, we truly believe that we can offer our students a high-quality academic experience while keeping everyone safe,” said Maryanne Reed, WVU’s provost and vice president of academic affairs.
Student organizations on Friday can begin having formal meetings and events, although there will be limitations on crowds as well as necessary approval from university officials. Corey Farris, West Virginia University’s dean of students, said attendance will be capped at 25 people or 50% of a respective venue’s maximum capacity depending on the size of the space.
Club sports, Adventure WV and residence hall activities may also resume with limitations related to the pandemic.
This semester’s commencement ceremony is slated to take place in-person on May 15 and 16; students who graduated last year will be able to participate in the activities at Milan Puskar Stadium.
“This information is subject to change based on the COVID situation at the time of the event,” said Robin Yorty, who serves as WVY’s executive director of university events and the vision to President Gordon Gee.
Officials hope to have a normal schedule for the fall semester. Reed noted based on vaccination efforts nationwide, the pre-pandemic campus culture will return by the end of the year.