IWU moving to online format for rest of semester, postponing commencement

MT. PLEASANT - Iowa Wesleyan University will be transitioning to an online learning format for the remainder of their spring semester and closing residence and dining halls beginning March 24 in response to the coronavirus outbreak. The university is also planning to reschedule their commencement ceremony.

In an update addressed to students and families on March 19, President Christine Plunkett announced the university would be making additional changes since 'diagnosed cases of COVID-19 [are] now spreading to communities adjacent to Mt. Pleasant.”

The update notified students that they would need to move out of resident halls by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24 and asked students who were planning to return after break to stay home. Buildings will be locked and rekeyed, and items will be secured in place until social distancing guidelines are lifted. Plunkett also informed the community the Chadwick Library as well as the Tiger Spirit Store will close on Tuesday, March 24.

Students with extenuating circumstances may apply for a hardship waiver by Saturday, March 21, which will allow them to stay on campus. The letter states students 'will be reassigned living quarters to enforce the social distancing mandate, and bagged meals will be provided.” The update also states the university has specially prepared housing in the event a student is diagnosed with the coronavirus.

Plunkett also notes commencement and related activities will be reschedules for a later date but that the university remains 'committed to honoring [their] graduating seniors when it is feasible.”

The update also addresses concerns surrounding the financial impact of the closure and refunds for residence halls and dining services. The update notes the university is 'waiting for information” from their insurance companies as well as state and federal agencies on 'possible economic recovery funds.”

'Our lives on campus revolve around your, and we share your disappointment over the disruption this is causing to that familiar and comfortable pattern,” Plunkett wrote, 'Be assured that even as we address the daily challenges now facing us, we continue to look to the future.”