Today’s message includes important updates regarding remote instruction, commencement ceremonies, and an FAU-related coronavirus positive test.

The State University System of Florida Board of Governors (BOG) today directed state universities to extend temporary remote instruction until the end of the spring semester. The BOG also stated that all students who can return home should return home.

Further, the BOG directed state universities to cancel the traditional on-campus commencement ceremonies scheduled to take place in May. Instead, each university will develop alternate schedules or methods of delivery for these commencement ceremonies.

FAU considers commencement a fundamental component of the educational experience. I want to assure all students who were scheduled to graduate in May that every effort will be made to ensure you and your families are given the opportunity to participate in a future commencement ceremony.

These steps by the BOG were taken, in part, as positive cases of the coronavirus are reported on university campuses in Florida.

We learned today that a non-residential FAU student tested positive for COVID-19. I understand this may sound alarming. However, Student Health Services received confirmation from the Florida Department of Health that this student did not interact with other FAU students, faculty or staff.

I sincerely wish this student, and all those affected, a full and rapid recovery. This is the first time the university has been informed that anyone associated with FAU has tested positive for this coronavirus.

Remember, if you are feeling unwell, and especially if you are experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, please seek medical attention as soon as you can. Anyone who tests positive must follow the requirements of self-quarantine.

Any students who receive a positive test result must notify Student Health Services as soon as possible. The number is strong>561-297-3512 (after hours, please select option 3).

All faculty and staff who receive a positive test result must notify Human Resources. The department can be reached by calling 561-297-3076 or by emailing gzaidman@fau.edu. Your supervisor also should be notified.

These are challenging times. Our professionals at Counseling and Psychological Services stand ready to provide confidential help to any student who needs assistance. Therapists are available 24 hours a day. The number for these services is 561-297-3540. Faculty and staff may seek help through the Employee Assistance Program. The number is 1-800-865-3200.

As a reminder, the university will transition to temporary remote work for most personnel no later than the close of regular business hours on Wednesday, March 18. Preparations for this transition are already underway. Where possible, implementation may begin before Wednesday. Yesterday’s message contained details about this transition.

The university is implementing these steps, in part, to promote social distancing. Please take the time to learn more about this practice. The CDC and other experts believe social distancing is vital to prevent the spread of the virus.

This message and all our other communication specific to this coronavirus and social distancing, as well as a host of other resources, are available on the university’s dedicated COVID-19 website.