COVID-19 Guide for Returning to Campus

COVID-19 presents unprecedented challenges worldwide and has gravely impacted the local New Orleans community. Because of the swift decision made in March 2020 to send students home, hold the remainder of the spring classes online, and allow faculty and staff to work from home, Loyola escaped much of the direct impact faced by the larger New Orleans community (although we know that many in the Loyola community have been personally impacted by the loss and sickness of friends and family). 

Until a vaccine is created, health authorities report that COVID-19 presents an ongoing risk. For that reason, Loyola developed the following operational plans and initiatives to mitigate that risk as we plan for an on-campus return in Fall 2020. Loyola’s plans for returning to campus will be aligned with all orders from the City of New Orleans, State of Louisiana, and recommendations from the federal government and Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as well as guidance from Ochsner Health System. The policies are also informed by Loyola’s Jesuit mission and values, not the least of which are Cura Personalis and Cura Apostolica — care for the whole person and care for the entire organization. 

This is a living document, and we will continue to update this guide as we learn more about COVID-19 and government officials release new orders. We are also prepared to take swift action if an outbreak occurs on campus in order to limit the spread and growth of the virus. We appreciate your flexibility and cooperation to make Loyola a safe and informed space.