Coronavirus Updates to Students
May 14, 2021- 9:43 a.m.
Dear Campus Community:
As you may already know, yesterday the CDC has updated its guidance regarding face masks for those individuals who have been vaccinated. Effective immediately, the University System of Georgia has now asked all campuses to resume classes and other activities without the requirement to wear a mask or remain physically distant. The CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health have affirmed the safety and effectiveness of available vaccines. Anyone who has not yet been vaccinated is strongly encouraged to get a vaccine as soon as possible. Georgia College employees and students are encouraged to contact Student Health Services to secure an appointment for vaccination.
Unvaccinated individuals are being asked to continue to wear a face covering and socially distance from others whenever possible in order to protect themselves and others around them.
Adherence to this updated guidance is based on personal responsibility.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the entire campus community for being so vigilant against the spread of COVID-19 by wearing face masks, remaining socially distant, and regularly washing hands and sanitizing work areas. I am delighted that we are moving closer toward normalcy as we prepare campus for the fall semester.
Sincerely,
Steve M. Dorman
President
_____________________________________________________________
March 10, 2021- 4:31 p.m.
Dear Campus Community:
Earlier today, Governor Kemp announced further expansions to the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility criteria beginning Monday, March 15th. Currently, Georgia College does not yet have access to any vaccines. While we wait for the limited quantities we expect to receive, I highly encourage anyone who falls into these three new categories to get an appointment as soon as possible with the DPH or any other site that is accepting vaccine registrations.
Specifically, the following categories can register for the vaccine as of March 15:
• individuals 55 or over,
• individuals with disabilities, and
• those 16 and older with certain high-risk definitions.
With respect to the high-risk criteria noted in the third bullet, please refer to the list below:
• Asthma (moderate-to-severe)
• Cancer
• Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain)
• Chronic kidney disease
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Cystic fibrosis
• Down Syndrome
• Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
• Hypertension or high blood pressure
• Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicines and Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant
• Liver disease
• Neurologic conditions, such as dementia
• Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or higher but < 40 kg/m2)
• Overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2, but < 30 kg/m2)
• Pulmonary fibrosis (having damaged or scarred lung tissues)
• Severe Obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2)
• Sickle cell disease
• Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder)
• Type 1 diabetes mellitus
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
If you currently fall into one of the groups eligible to receive the vaccine, we strongly encourage you to utilize resources with vaccine doses available now.
DPH has several options on their website where you can register to receive the vaccine, including links to local health departments as well as CVS, Walgreens, Kroger, Walmart and Ingles locations.
Mass vaccination sites have been opened across the state with one in Macon. One will also open later this month in Sandersville. You can pre-register for the vaccine at those sites here.
Kind Regards,
Angie Childre, MN, NP-C
Director, Student Health Services
_____________________________________________________________
January 5, 2021- 4:46 p.m.
Dear Georgia College Students,
Happy New Year! I hope that this message finds you well. We are very much looking forward to your return to campus for the spring 2021 semester on January 19. Let me start by saying that I understand how challenging the last ten months have been. Your fall semester was anything but typical, but as a community we have persevered through extreme difficulties and learned about our resilience as individuals and as an institution.
The health and safety of our community has been and will continue to be our top consideration as we address issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the things that we have learned is that change can occur rapidly, and these updates for Spring 2021 are based on the information we have at this moment.
COVID-19 Safety Measures
Our COVID-19 mitigation measures on campus were effective at preventing the spread of infection in campus facilities. We will continue to implement classroom distancing, mask requirements, and additional health and safety strategies based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. Details of our mitigation strategies can be viewed online.
Student Experience
We recognize that social isolation was a top concern among students and their families. Our registered student organizations and Student Life units provided many innovative and well-attended programs in the fall. Traditions like Midnight Breakfast and Potato Drop carried on with a few modifications, and new favorites like Resident Student Association’s (RSOs) Drive-In Movie and First-Year Experience Pumpkin Painting were big hits among students. Below are a few of the ways we will continue offering avenues for student involvement:
- Winter Break virtual programming continues through the month of January. Click here to view the calendar of events online.
- Georgia College hosts 145 registered student organizations. All RSOs may register in-person events that have fewer than 50 attendees and meet standards for safe social distancing and use of Personal Protective Equipment through GC Connect.
- Fraternities and sororities will be able to propose programs using the same event registration protocol in GC Connect.
- Study rooms in the residence halls will be reservable for small, distanced, masked gatherings.
- A Homecoming committee has convened to reimagine Homecoming under our current circumstances.
- Intramural sports held an impressive 1,932 games in the fall. Intramurals will resume in the spring. Join a team and see the schedules on the GC Wellness & Recreation app.
- The outdoor tables on front campus will remain in place for impromptu, small gatherings. Masks are encouraged.
- Perhaps most importantly, additional classroom and meeting space will be made available to RSOs and Student Activities and Organizations for evening and weekend programming. We hope that this will assist in addressing issues related to isolation and involvement.
Athletics
Something that always brings our campus together is Athletics. Many of our fall sports were deferred to the spring by their respective conferences, so we are excited to have a packed schedule of games from baseball, basketball, cross country, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. Game schedules can be found at gcbobcats.com. While spectators will be limited for indoor sports, we encourage every Bobcat to come out to West Campus for a soccer, softball, or baseball game, or walk by Centennial Center during a tennis match. You can also support our Bobcats by viewing live-streamed games. The link to games can be found at gcbobcats.com.
COVID Testing
Just before Thanksgiving, we encouraged you to “Go Home Healthy” by taking a free COVID test on campus in the days before returning home. Likewise, we want you to come back well and know your status. To that end, we urge you to plan to limit exposure in the two weeks leading up to your return to campus. If you think that you may have been exposed or if you feel unwell, please get tested before your return. For those who feel fine but want to know your status, we will be providing free COVID tests again on central campus on January 19th and 20th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in Terrell Hall room 310. These will be drop-in clinics, so no appointment is necessary.
Student Health Services resumed normal operations this week. Students can receive COVID tests, flu shots, and other services by appointment by calling 478-445-5288.
We will be working closely with the University System of Georgia and Georgia Department of Health as the COVID-19 vaccine becomes more readily available to determine whether there will be an opportunity to offer the vaccine on campus or direct students to a local provider to be immunized.
Quarantine Protocol
Our quarantine protocol will remain in place for the spring. Please refer to the Decision Path for Students if you are exposed or become ill. Our COVID Care Response Team will continue to assist students in quarantine with notifying faculty of excused absences and staying connected to campus resources.
Campus Operations
Our health and safety protocols will remain in place for the spring. As a reminder, here are some of the ways we have modified our operations to serve students safely:
- Campus offices are open with safety measures in place. Regular business hours are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Campus dining services at The MAX will continue offering grab-and-go meals, and limited indoor seating is available. Meal exchanges at our retail dining locations are back to help students maximize their dining options.
- Student Health Services will use tele-health for initial appointments, but students who need a physical exam or treatment will be directed to come to the clinic for an in-person visit.
- Counseling Services will utilize tele-counseling. Students who need a private space may request the tele-health room in the Counseling Center when making an appointment.
- Shuttles will continue running frequent circuits with limited capacity to avoid overcrowding.
We saw in the fall what Bobcats are capable of when we practice Reason, Respect, and Responsibility. We expect spring will have its own challenges, but we look forward to a safe, successful semester. Again, Happy New Year! We can’t wait for your return to campus. If there is anything that I or my staff can do for you, please let me know.
Warmest regards,
Shawn Brooks, PhD
Vice President for Student Life
GEORGIA COLLEGE
_____________________________________________________________
October 8, 2020- 12:59 p.m.
Dear Students,
We want to once again thank you all for your persistent vigilance and flexibility in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has created many challenges which we expect to continue. However, we can stand together in the face of these challenges to ensure that we meet the needs of our students while continuing to provide support for our faculty and staff.
As always, the health and safety of our campus community remains a top priority. Keeping with that, here are some updates for the spring 2021 semester.
- We have amended the academic calendar as we continue with our modified face-to-face instruction for the spring semester. Spring classes will begin Tuesday, Jan. 19, instead of the originally scheduled date of Wednesday, Jan. 6. March 8 will be observed as a Reading Day with no classes, and Spring Break, which was originally set for March 15-19, has been removed from the calendar. The last day of classes will be May 4. The final exam period will be shortened from four days to three, and will be held online between May 5-7. The full revised academic calendar for in-person instruction is available here and the final exam schedule here. This decision aligns with national trends in higher education. The goal of these changes is to ensure learning continues while limiting the potential spread of COVID-19 by reducing travel to and from campus.
- Our current mitigation measures across campus will remain in place. Those include social distancing, limiting group gatherings and the face mask requirement in all university facilities. The institution will also continue utilizing Plexiglas barriers, alternative workspace or alternate schedules to ensure social distancing measures are met. More details on our mitigation measures can be found here.
Please note that as we move forward we will continue to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, the Georgia Department of Public Health and the University System of Georgia. Please remain vigilant against the spread of COVID-19. Be sure to maintain social distancing, wash your hands often and wear a face mask especially where six feet of social distancing is not possible – both on and off campus. We are encouraged by the lower COVID case counts, among both students and employees, and we hope to see this downward trend continue.
Thank you,
Dr. Costas Spirou
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
_____________________________________________________________
June 10, 2020- 7:52 a.m.
Dear Bobcats,
The health and safety of Georgia College students, faculty, and staff is of the utmost concern for the university. Out of an abundance of caution, and due to continued concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic, Georgia College will amend the fall semester academic calendar.
Fall classes will begin Wednesday, August 12, instead of the originally scheduled date of Monday, August 17. Fall break, originally set for October 12-13, has been removed from the calendar. The last day of classes will be Tuesday, November 24. Final exams will begin Tuesday, December 1, after the Thanksgiving break and will take place online. The full revised academic calendar is available here, and the final exam schedule here.
The goal of these changes is to ensure learning continues while limiting the potential spread of COVID-19 by reducing travel to and from campus.
This new calendar has been reviewed and approved by the University System of Georgia and is supported and endorsed by the Georgia College academic administration.
More details on the university housing plan and move-in date procedures will be shared as soon as possible. I truly appreciate your continued support as we continue to prepare for a face-to-face, in-person fall semester.
Sincerely,
Steve M. Dorman
President
Georgia College & State University
_____________________________________________________________
April 13, 2020- 4:17 p.m.
Recognizing the unique situation we are facing with COVID-19 and the shift to fully online classes, Georgia College has decided to extend the last day to drop with a W grade through Friday, April 24. If you would like to pursue this option, you may use your Unify/PAWS account to make this change to your schedule.
I strongly encourage you to speak with your academic advisor and your instructor before making a decision to drop a class. You will want to consider the impact of dropping a course not only in terms of your gpa, but also its potential effect on completing degree requirements, finishing prerequisites, and completing requirements for admission to certain major programs. Your instructor can provide valuable feedback for you on ways you can improve your performance in class, give you an objective evaluation of your current status, and guide you toward additional resources. Both can provide assistance and tips on managing the shift to online courses.
Dropping a class may also have implications on your financial aid eligibility (including HOPE). You should contact the Financial Aid Office if you have any questions or concerns about your aid eligibility. Their contact information is 478-445-5149 or financialaid@gcsu.edu.
I am also available and would be glad to review your options with you. Please take advantage of all of your resources at this time. All of the Georgia College faculty and staff are committed to helping you succeed, especially during these unusual times.
A. Kay Anderson
Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management
and University Registrar
_____________________________________________________________
April 9, 2020- 10:25 a.m.
Students,
As we prepare to issue the pro-rated refunds for Housing, Meal Plans, Mandatory and Course Fees, it is imperative that your information is current. If you are due a refund, there are two options for delivery: Direct Deposit or Paper Check. We strongly encourage you to sign up for Direct Deposit, if you are not already signed up.
To access your funds faster, please enroll in Direct Deposit using the following instructions:
1. Log into Unify
2. Click the PAWS icon
3. Select the Student Account Center tab and proceed to the Student Account Center
4. Select the Electronic Refunds link on the right side of the page
5. Click the Set Up Account button and follow the on screen instructions
Please note, refunds will no longer be available for pick-up at the Business Office. If you do not sign up for Direct Deposit, your refund check will be mailed to the current address on file. Please follow the instructions below to ensure your account has the most up-to-date address listed.
1. Log into Unify
2. Click the PAWS icon
3. Select the Personal Information tab
4. Select View Addresses and Phones to view current address on file
5. Select Update Addresses and Phones to update with current address
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Business Office at 478-445-5254, or by email at businessoffice@gcsu.edu.
Sincerely,
GC Business Office
_____________________________________________________________
April 2, 2020- 1:35 p.m.
Georgia College and the University System of Georgia’s 26 institutions will continue to deliver instruction remotely during May and summer semesters, with only limited exceptions.
We are tentatively planning to return to normal on-campus operations for the fall semester should guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Georgia Department of Public Health allow it.
In the interim, we have been asked to continue their current telework and flexible work strategies for faculty and staff. Georgia College, overall has remained open, with only minimal staff physically on-site to ensure continuity of certain services.
We continue to prioritize the safety of our students, faculty and staff as we do our part to help stem the spread of the coronavirus in Georgia and fulfill our mission to graduate our students in these challenging times.
Sincerely,
Steve M. Dorman
President
Georgia College & State University
_____________________________________________________________
March 31, 2020 - 11:03 a.m.
Greetings Bobcats!
As we have transitioned to online instruction, I wanted to let you know that all of the offices within Student Life are here to assist you throughout the remainder of the semester. Here is some important information about programs and services that you can continue to access even though you are not on campus:
The Career Center-The Career Center will be providing students with the following career services in a virtual environment:
- Workshops: Resume Writing 101 and 102; Networking 101, and Internship Search
- Resume, Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae Review
- Job and Internship Search Assistance
- Graduate and Pre-Professional School Assistance
- Career and Major Exploration
- Mock Interviews
To register for a workshop or make an appointment, students can call the Career Center.
Phone: 478-445-5384
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/career
Counseling Services- Counseling Services staff are meeting with students via telephone and video conferencing for counseling and psychiatric appointments. To schedule services, students may email their counselor or call 478-445-5331. Students are also invited to access self-help resources through our free online library of engaging, interactive programs for support with anxiety, depression, insomnia, communication and more by logging in with their Bobcats email.
Contact information:
Phone: 478-445-5331
Email: counseling.services@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/counseling
The Cultural Center- The Cultural Center will have office hours on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:00-2:00pm via Webexas a means for students to drop in if they have questions and to offer support. To access office hours, search for meeting number 614 089 469andenter the password: CCofficehour2020. This should allow you to enter the personal meeting room once granted access, or you will be sent to a waiting room.
Each week, we will also host various virtual programs for students to connect with us (and each other), such as Ted Talk Tuesday’s, Wellness Wednesdays and a series of events called Keep Calm and _____ on. Through the remainder of the semester, we also hope to host a movie viewing event and a virtual poetry slam. I will also be virtually meeting with our student groups to continue communication with them. At the end of the semester, the Cultural center will join in with the rest of the Programs team to honor the seniors that have been involved with the Cultural Center via Recognition Week. We hope to have a special portion of our website dedicated to them.
Phone: 478-445-8155
Email: CulturalCenter@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/culturalcenter
Georgia College Athletics- Georgia College Athletics continues to engage with our student-athletes Although we have no games or practices, our coaches and student-athletes communicate in a variety of ways on a regular basis. Our website and our social media sites provide content showcasing out student-athletes.
GC Athletics Website
https://gcbobcats.com/landing/index
GC Athletics Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/gcbobcats/
GC Athletics Twitter
https://twitter.com/GCBobcats
GC Athletics Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/GCBobcats
GIVE Center- The GIVE Center is providing virtual programs and events to our students, student volunteers and service leaders. We are also providing multiple online trainings for our volunteers, service leaders, and student staff members. April is Volunteer Appreciation Month and we will be doing lots of recognition throughout the month to recognize how are student volunteers are making an impact in our community. Lastly, The GIVE Center staff is continuing to offer support to our student volunteers, service leaders and community partners on a regular basis. For more information about GIVE Center programs, please check GC Connect.
Phone: 478-445-5700
Email: kendall.stiles@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/give-center
Office of the Dean of Students - The Office of the Dean of Students serves as a clearinghouse for student concerns. Student concerns range from behavioral and physical health issues to student conduct concerns. The Office of the Dean of Students works with the CARE Team, Student Conduct, Counseling Services, and Student Health Services. All operations are fully online and ready to serve students. Please call or email using the information below to request an online appointment.
Contact information:
Phone: 478-445-2090
Email: dos@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/studentaffairs/dean-students
Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life- The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life is currently hosting virtual recognition week in honor of Greek Weekend and graduating seniors. Please feel free to follow us on social media to join in on the fun.
Facebook: Georgia College Fraternity & Sorority Life @GCOFSL(https://www.facebook.com/GCOFSL/) and on Instagram: Georgia College FSL (https://www.instagram.com/gc_fsl/)
Phone: 478-445-2960
Email: ofsl@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/fsl
The Outdoor Center- The Outdoor Center will be sending out a daily dose of information through https://instagram.com/outdoor_gc and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorGC/). There will be a day dedicated to each of the following topics: our amazing student staff (and graduating seniors!), previous and future trip photos and videos, cool gear and how to maintain it, and submissions from our students about their adventures. We are looking forward to hearing about unique ways that our students have been and still are adventuring!
Phone: 478-445-5786
Email: outdoor@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/outdoor
Parent and Family Programs- The Office of Parent and Family Programs continues to engage families of GC students through social media and e-mail newsletters. Families will receive information on supporting the transition to e-learning, developing routines, identifying anxiety and depression, fighting boredom, and promoting total wellness for students through this crisis. Interactive social media posts and events will encourage families to network and build community together. Families can continue to reach out via phone or e-mail with questions.
Phone: 478-445-8566
Email: emily.jarvis@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/parent
Student Activities and Organizations- The office of Student Activities and Org will send out the Virtual Programming Digest every Monday that will outline the various online programs that students can engage in. This digest will be sent via GC Connect and will hit the inbox of every student. We will also continue to work with all of the registered student organizations to prepare for the SABCprocess.
Student Disability Resource Center- The Student Disability Resource Center will continue to assist students with accommodations for courses. Our website provides links and resources that may be helpful, along with the steps to take to become registered with our office. Meetings are conducted with students via WebEx or phone calls. Student can continue to make appointments through Unify (same as Academic Advising and Career center) or they can just call at 478-445-5931 and disability@gcsu.edu.
Phone: 478-445-5931
Email: disability@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/disability
Student Health Services- Student Health is continuing to offer appointments via telehealth, utilizing our remote electronic medical record access and WebEx or phone call advice. Students needing an appointment can call 478-445-5288. We are also engaging in social media to offer “Tips of the Day” for healthy habits associated with nutrition, sun care, sexual health, and healthy hygiene. For more information, visit: https://www.gcsu.edu/studenthealth
Phone: 478-445-5288
Email: student_health_services@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/studenthealth
Wellness and Recreation Center- The Wellness and Recreation is currently offering various online Fitness and Intramural esportsprograms. Go to https://www.instagram.com/gcwellnessrec each week to access the weekly virtual fitness schedule. Go to www.imleagues.com/gcsu to see what gaming leagues are currently being offered.
Phone: 478-445-7777
Email: wellness.recreation@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/wellnessrec
The Women’s Center and LGBTQ+ Programs- The Women's Center and LGBTQ+ Programs is offering a range of programs, community building opportunities, and training this week. Each week we will have a updated newsletter that includes all our offerings for the week. This is the link to this week's -newsletter: https://www.smore.com/9y80z. All of our programs and events have also been added to GC Connect.
Phone: 478-445-8519
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/womenscenter
Please stay safe!
Shawn Brooks, PhD
Vice President for Student Life
_____________________________________________________________
March 28, 2020 - 10:10 a.m.
Dear Students
Welcome back to the Spring 2020 semester!
Classes will resume on Monday, March 30th and will be delivered online/remotely until the end of the semester. Please know that the Georgia College faculty and staff are prepared and stand ready to support your education so that you can successfully complete the remainder of the academic term.
You are probably already familiar with GeorgiaView/D2L, the GC Learning Management System. Please check the following Navigation Guide Video Library, which provides instructions for its use. In addition, a dedicated webpage, GC Keeps Learning, has been designed to serve as a central location with resources, links, and information. We believe this portal will be useful and allow you to quickly access relevant information as we embrace this online learning environment.
To assist you with your online learning experience, here are some useful tips:
- Online courses provide flexibility. However, your work must be completed within the timeline provided by your instructor.
- Time management is critical when it comes to online courses. You may find this video on Time Management for Online Students helpful. Remember to keep track of major assignments, factor in prior commitments, allot yourself a certain amount of time for each task, and create a weekly schedule that you will follow. Be sure to identify a dedicated study space. This will help you remain organized. Completing your work consistently in a designated location, will encourage you to establish a routine.
- Be sure to actively participate in online activities. It is important that you check your course announcements and updates frequently. For example, some course requirements may involve commenting on a discussion board or posting a question. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these expectations. Remember that online courses are developed around the concept of collaboration and interaction. Faculty will encourage you to engage in the online experience. I encourage you to check often and communicate with your professors.
- Like you, your fellow students may have inquiries about assignments or projects. Reach out to them as you prepare for an exam, email your professor and be proactive in asking for help. Consider employing Student WebEx to collaborate with others. Utilize the network of classroom peers and university resources (University Library, Learning Center, Writing Center, Advising Center, etc..) to maximize your success. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you have any questions, please use the following:
· GeorgiaViewSupport: Center for Teaching and Learning- 8:00am-5:00pm(478-445-2520) (ctl@gcsu.edu)
· Password Issues: SERVE HelpDesk (478-445-7378 or via email: serve@gcsu.edu)
· 24/7/365 Assistance through Knowledge Base: GeorgiaView Knowledge Center or Help Center Agent (1-855-772-0423)
If for any reason a student has difficulty with the online technology or has challenges with internet service availability in a specific area of the state, please be sure to reach out to our Serve Help Desk.
We want you to be successful and stand ready to support your academic journey. For additional resources and information, please be sure to visit GC Keeps Learning (also on Instagram). New material and information will be posted there frequently.
I wish you a productive remainder of the Spring 2020 semester. Please remember that Georgia College is here to assist you during these unprecedented times!
Go Bobcats!
CostasSpirou, PhD
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
_____________________________________________________________
March 22, 2020 - 6:05 p.m.
Dear Students:
Thank you for your patience as we develop a refund plan to prorate relevant fee charges that will not be utilized for the remainder of the academic year. We sincerely regret our inability to fully meet your on-campus service needs due to the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The reimbursement plan will utilize March 16 as the last day of service for the services funded by all related fees. Using this date, there are seven weeks remaining in GC’s 17-week semester. The approved plan allows for reimbursements that provide for prorated fee refunds for housing, dining, athletics, student activity, health/wellness, parking/transportation, and certain course-related fees.
We hope to start the refunds as soon as logistically possible and our goal is to have all relevant refunds completed by April 16. We ask that you make every effort to set up direct deposits. If you haven’t already done so, please login to Unify, select PAWS then select the Student Account Center tab to enroll for direct deposit. For questions, please contact GC Business Office at 478-445-5254 or email businessoffice@gcsu.edu. Remember, direct deposit is the most efficient way to receive your refund. If your direct deposit profile is not established, GC will mail your refund check to the address on file in your student account.
Additional details on relevant refunds:
- Housing refunds will be based on the type of housing contract agreement utilized this semester. We have contracts ending in May, June and July and each contract will be reimbursed accordingly. The housing programming fee will be refunded for the remainder of the semester.
- Dining contract reimbursements will be prorated according to individual meal plan service agreements, using the effective date of March 16 for calculating unused meals. All balances remaining on 100 and 25 block-meal plans will be reimbursed as well.
- Course related fees are uniquely different and will be refunded based on an unused portion of the fee.
- GC’s mandatory fee structure is tiered based on the number of credit hours taken and the type of fee. All prorated refunds will be based on the relevant applicable tier associated with each student and the related fees that apply. The refunding prorations are based on a factor of 41%, using 7 weeks for proposed refunds out of a 17 week semester. Additionally, each mandatory fee has been analyzed to determine if a certain percentage needs to be netted out due to continuing online or telephonic service delivery, on-going operational obligations, and/or building debt-service obligations. Refunds of this nature have not yet been experienced in the student account enterprise system platform; we are working diligently with the system office to ensure that all refunds can be viewed in an itemized format within your personal student account. Should this not be possible, our GC Business Office staff will always be available to explain your bill.
- Athletic Fee, $181 full fee: 34% of the mandatory athletic fee supports student scholarships that are still being utilized, so this amount will be netted out of the refund.
- Health Fee, $95 full fee: 63% of this fee supports running the Student Health Clinic and 37% supports Wellness programming. Staff continue to work in the Clinic answering phones and assisting anyone that may need help, so this amount will be netted out of the refund.
- Parking & Transportation, $75 full fee: $10.50 of the Parking and Transportation Fee supports a PPV parking lot debt-service obligation, so this amount will be netted out of the refund.
- Access/ID Card, $9 full fee: The cards are still being used, and will be used over the summer and again in the fall.
- Student Activity Fee, $133 full fee: $42 of the fee supports a building debt-service obligation, so this amount will be netted out of the refund.
- Wellness Center Fee, $175 full fee: This is a fee that entirely supports the debt-service obligation of the Center and will not be refunded.
- Technology Fee, $68 full fee: This fee will be used through the remainder of the semester to support the transition to digital and online instructional delivery and thus will not been refunded.
Thank you again for your patience and understanding as we continue to serve you. Respecting protocols for social distancing during this health crisis, GC continues to work with skeletal crews and teleworking. Please know that we remain committed to supporting student success. If you have additional questions regarding your fees, the best way to contact us is:
GC Business Office
Phone: 478-445-5254
Email: businessoffice@gcsu.edu
Sincerely,
Steve M. Dorman
President
Susan C. Allen
Vice President for Finance & Administration
_____________________________________________________________
March 22, 2020 - 4:25 p.m.
Dear Georgia College Students:
This afternoon, the Baldwin County Board of Commissioners declared a state of emergency in Baldwin County due to confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus. The declaration includes provisions that prevent social gatherings of 10 or more people. It also includes a curfew that will be imposed on non-essential travel from the hours of 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Work-related and emergency travel situations are exempted from this declaration.
As we begin the transition to online academics, we also need to make sure we are practicing the art of “Social Distancing.” Social distancing is a term applied to actions that can be taken to stop or slow downs the spread of COVID-19. This virus is a highly contagious illness that is spread by close contact with others. It is of the utmost importance to do everything we can to help bring the pandemic to a quick conclusion.
There are a number of things you should be avoiding including: group gatherings both indoors and outdoors (including pool areas), concerts, theaters, athletic events, retail stores, workouts at gyms, visitors in your house, and mass-transit systems to name a few. Do not change your behavior to avoid contracting COVID-19, rather, act as if you have the virus and change your behavior to avoid infecting others.
The safety and well-being of all members of our campus community is our top priority. Tackling this situation will require each of us to do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Please take care of yourself and others by practicing social distancing.
Warmest regards,
Shawn Brooks, PhD
Vice President for Student Life
_____________________________________________________________
March 19, 2020 - 2:54 p.m.
Dear Graduating Students:
I know that many of you are deeply disappointed upon hearing the news that Commencement will be cancelled in May. I, too, am disappointed as I always look forward to talking about the collective accomplishments of our students, seeing your smiling facings as you celebrate with each other and shaking your hand as you cross the stage.
The directive from the University System to cancel Commencement affects our Georgia College community as well as all other institutions within the University System of Georgia. Please understand that I know this was a very difficult decision that was taken with the best interests of our students and their families. We want to protect your health and safety and the health and safety of your family members who might gather for commencement. As you know, this decision is in keeping with the guidance issued by the CDC and the DPH regarding the assembly of large crowds.
These are difficult times, and there is much uncertainty and disruption happening all around us. However, Georgia College is committed to making sure we honor the achievements of our graduating students. We will not allow these unfortunate circumstances to take this precious moment away from you. If at all possible…..you will get your ceremony!
To all graduating students, please know that we will do all that we can to deliver the graduation experience that you deserve. We want to celebrate your accomplishments! To those ends, we can announce the following:
- We are exploring multiple options to provide graduating students with a virtual ceremony for the May 1st and 2nd ceremonies. More information about this will be coming soon.
- In addition, we are committed to providing a postponed traditional ceremony in the near future as soon as the CDC and DPH indicate that it is safe to do so in a large event environment.
- It has always been our policy to allow graduating students who are unable to march at their own ceremony to attend a commencement ceremony at a later time. We will continue to honor that option for all graduating students.
On behalf of the entire Georgia College community, let me express my deep appreciation for your understanding and your patience during these unprecedented times. I am proud of what you have accomplished and look forward to the many ways in which we will celebrate your success with you and your loved ones.
With Bobcat Pride,
Steve M. Dorman
President
Georgia College & State University
_____________________________________________________________
March 17, 2020 - 11:00 a.m.
Dear Students:
In the interest of all students, the University System of Georgia (USG) announced a decision to move all instruction to an online format for the remainder of the semester. Georgia College will be closing all on-campus housing facilities, including West Campus Apartments, with minimal exceptions for students unable to return home, or who cannot find housing elsewhere.
Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding social distancing and in an effort to prevent large crowds, the move out process will occur in a staggered manner in multiple batches. Therefore, students are not allowed to return to campus until they receive permission from Georgia College. You will receive specific instructions regarding when you will be allowed to return to campus to retrieve your belongings from residence halls. Students must follow those instructions. We will make every effort to accommodate those students who are unable to depart campus.
On Wednesday, March 18, University Housing will release information regarding move-out procedures via email to all on-campus students. Students will be assigned a specific time for move out over the next week. To maintain student safety, it will be critical that students do not arrive on campus before their scheduled time. University Housing will provide instructions for rescheduling for those students who are unable to meet the move-out appointment.
In addition to the closure of on-campus housing, please note the following:
- Classes will resume via online instruction on Monday, March 30.
- The USG will be providing guidance to campuses regarding refunds for housing, dining, and other services. Students should wait for Georgia College to contact them.
- The Georgia College campus remains open with minimal staffing to ensure business and learning continuity.
Thank you for your patience and understanding during this unprecedented time. With your help, we will ensure the collective safety of our entire campus community.
Kind Regards,
Steve M. Dorman
President
Georgia College & State University
_____________________________________________________________
March 16, 2020 - 8:00 p.m.
Message for Faculty, Staff and Students:
**********************************************
Dear Colleagues and Students :
We just received guidance from the University System of Georgia that Georgia College, along with other institutions in the system, will move to online instruction for all courses for the remainder of the semester. This situation is very fluid and evolving rapidly. More information will be released with additional details as soon as possible. The full message from the University System of Georgia is below:
Georgia College Moves to Online Instruction for Remainder of Semester
For Immediate Release
March 16, 2020
Contact: Aaron Diamant, aaron.diamant@usg.edu
The University System of Georgia (USG) has decided that Georgia College, along with all 26 institutions, will move to online instruction for all courses for the remainder of the semester with extremely limited exceptions. This action comes following last week’s decision to suspend instruction for two weeks to ensure business and instructional continuity, and to allow further state assessment of COVID-19.
Students are not allowed to return to campus until they receive permission from their institution, which will be forthcoming soon.
Additionally, residence halls will be closed, with minimal exceptions for students unable to return home, or who cannot find housing elsewhere. Students will receive specific instructions from campus leaders regarding when they will be allowed to return to campus to retrieve their belongings from residence halls. Students must follow those instructions. For those students who are unable to depart campus, we will make every effort to accommodate these students.
The University System of Georgia will be providing guidance to campuses on refunds for housing, dining, and other services. Students should wait for Georgia College to contact them.
Georgia College will remain open, with minimal staff physically on-site, to ensure continuity of certain services.
In the end, we want to ensure that our faculty, staff and students are safe; that we do our part to help stem the spread of the coronavirus in Georgia; and that we fulfill our mission to graduate our students even in the face of these challenging times.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we go through this unprecendented time. Please continue following the guidance from the CDC to protect your health and the health of your family.
Sincerely,
Steve M. Dorman
President
Georgia College & State University
_____________________________________________________________
March 13, 2020 - 10:00 a.m.
Greetings Students!
As you prepare for an extended Spring Break, I am reaching out with good wishes for a safe, healthy and restful time away. Please stay safe and pay close attention to CDC guidance about measures to take care of yourself and your loved ones.
In addition, as you head out, I strongly encourage you to take your books and learning materials with you. Please continue to check the Georgia College web site for important updates.
Have a good time and take good care.
Kind regards,
Shawn Brooks, PhD
Vice President for Student Life
Georgia College & State University
_____________________________________________________________
March 12, 2020 - 7:45 p.m.
Message for Students:
**********************************************
Subject: Temporary Suspension of Instruction
**********************************************
Dear Students,
The safety of our students is a top priority for Georgia College. Therefore, we are asking all students to depart campus by the end of the day on Friday, March 13, 2020 and to remain away from campus until March 29, 2020. At this time, students are not being asked to move out of their residence halls for the remainder of the semester. Georgia College will accommodate students who are unable to leave campus.
While students are away from campus, Georgia College faculty and staff will be finalizing online instruction modules and business continuity plans. State officials will continue to assess the current situation regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) in Georgia.
Please check our website for the latest information as well as the USG’s website. Additional information will be posted as this situation continues to unfold.
Sincerely,
Steve Dorman
President
Georgia College
_____________________________________________________________
March 12, 2020 - 11:40 a.m
Wellness and Recreation Center Update
Dear Campus Community,
Late yesterday afternoon, we came to understand that a community member who stated they had recently traveled to Italy had used the Wellness and Recreation Center. Although the individual is asymptomatic, out of an abundance of caution, the Center was closed immediately and we contacted the Department of Public Health. We were advised to conduct a routine cleaning of the facility and to reopen. The individual has been contacted and informed they may not use the WRC until further notice.
Please know the health and safety of our students is always our top priority.
Britt McRae, MN, NP-C
Director, Student Health Services
_____________________________________________________________
March 10, 2020 - 4:46 p.m.
Campus community update from President Dorman on coronavirus and springbreak travel.
Dear Campus Community:
With Spring Break approaching, many of us will be taking a well-deserved break from campus. We continue to monitor the Coronavirus outbreak very carefully and want everyone to be safe and healthy upon their return to campus.
Please keep in mind the following if you are planning to travel during Spring Break or anytime thereafter:
- Check the travel information on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and State Department websites and talk with your family and travel companions to make a wise decision about travel plans.
- The CDC has urged everyone to avoid traveling to or through any of the locations with a Level 3 or Level 4 travel health notice.
- Consistent with guidelines from the CDC and the Georgia Department of Health, anyone traveling to, from or through a Level 3 or higher travel designation cannot return to campus until they have been asymptomatic for a period of 14 days from the date of entering or reentering the United States. These self-quarantined travelers must follow CDC and local health authority guidelines prior to returning to campus in an effort to keep everyone safe.
Guidelines for self-quarantine from the CDC include:
- Washing dishes, clothing, and bedding regularly.
- Limiting the sharing of household items like drinking glasses, plates, utensils, bedding, towels, and clothing.
- Regular cleaning of all high-touch surfaces including tables, countertops, doorknobs, keyboards, tablets, bathroom fixtures, television remotes, and phones.
- Frequent hand washing.
- Limiting contact with others in the home, including pets.
- Restricting activities outside the home except for appointments with a medical professional for evaluation.
- Please note that the status of countries or regions identified by the CDC as having an elevated health risk may change while you are traveling and thus could affect airport or other travel procedures. Please pay attention to ongoing guidance and information from the CDC and the State Department websites for the latest updates.
- The State Department has recently alerted travelers of an increased risk of infection of COVID-19 in a cruise ship environment.
- At this point in time we are not transitioning to an online format for current instruction. We do encourage all faculty members to prepare for online instructional delivery should unfolding circumstances require this approach to accommodate our students. Similarly, we encourage all students to prepare for the possibility of an online learning environment by accessing their GeorgiaView/D2L accounts.
- For all students, faculty and staff: if you are traveling in any capacity (international or domestic), whether for university business or personal travel, we have created an online travel registry. We encourage everyone to register their travel through our online Travel Registry Form. You may be required to use your Unify credentials.
- If anyone experiences symptoms consistent with the coronavirus, please take all necessary precautions by self-isolating and seeking medical attention from your primary care provider or other appropriate health care facility.
The safety of our entire campus is our highest priority. For more information on the coronavirus, including guidance, resources and campus-specific announcements, please refer to our website. We will be updating the site regularly.
Thank you for staying informed on this rapidly evolving situation.
Steve M. Dorman
President
Costas Spirou
Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs
Britt McRae
Director, Student Health Services
_____________________________________________________________
March 5, 2020
Message from President Dorman to the campus community on Coronavirus
Dear Campus Community,
I know that as a campus community we are all concerned about the coronavirus and its impact. Please know that Georgia College places the highest priority on the safety of everyone on campus, and we are closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds. We are coordinating efforts closely with the University System of Georgia and are reviewing guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as well as the Georgia Department of Public Health.
We have created a website (https://www.gcsu.edu/coronavirus) that provides the latest updates on the coronavirus as it relates to our campus. It includes additional information and resources on how to prevent the spread of coronavirus. This webpage will be updated as additional information becomes available.
We are committed to doing all we can to keep our students, staff and faculty safe.
Sincerely,
Steve Dorman
President
Georgia College