Past Updates Archive of Previous Correspondence from Point Park University Officials Regarding the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

Dear University Community:

Throughout the pandemic, Point Park has worked closely with the Allegheny County Department of Health and our medical partners at UPMC to ensure the University follows the most up to date guidance on masking and other health and safety issues related to COVID-19. 

Following are some important updates:

On Masking

In keeping with guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, at Point Park University, masks will not be required for those individuals who have been fully vaccinated.  However, those not vaccinated should wear a mask. This policy also applies to Summer Camps currently on campus.

On Vaccinations for Students

Earlier today  the University informed students of the COVID-19 vaccination policy for the 2021-2022 academic year. 

Based on the success of the COVID-19 vaccinations now widely available, and to protect the University community from the spread of COVID-19, Point Park will require COVID-19 vaccinations for all students participating in face-to-face classes or campus activities for the 2021-2022 academic year.  Point Park University currently requires students to be immunized for a number of other viruses mandated by the federal government including measles, mumps and rubella and meningitis.   You can see the full COVID-19 vaccination plan pertaining to students here:  Student COVID-19 Vaccine Information for 2021-2022 Academic Year

On Vaccinations for Faculty and Staff

Regarding vaccinations for faculty and staff, Point Park University strongly encourages all faculty and staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19.  COVID-19 vaccines have shown to be safe and highly effective at reducing illness and the spread of the virus. 

On the University's COVID Operations Manual

The University COVID Operations Manual is currently being updated.  Please look for a future communication that will let you know when it is available.  You can check the University’s COVID -19 page on the University website for the latest information on operations.

The University looks forward to on-campus operations for Fall 2021 and a safe return to the vibrancy and activities of campus life at Point Park University.

Dear University Community,

The Wolf administration announced late yesterday that Pennsylvania will lift COVID mitigation orders at 12:01 a.m. on Memorial Day, May 31, 2021. You can read the news release here.  

What does this mean for Pennsylvania?

According to the announcement, effective May 31, all businesses will be able to operate at 100% capacity and crowd-size limits will be lifted on indoor and outdoor gatherings.

Masking will remain in place and will only be lifted when 70% of Pennsylvanians age 18 and older are fully vaccinated. Pennsylvania’s vaccination rate is currently around 50%.

What does this mean for Point Park University operations?

There is no immediate change to how each of us has been working.

In the coming weeks, the University will announce details on a return to campus plan that will fulfill our previously announced goal of returning to full on-campus operations for the Fall semester. 

Keep an eye on your Point Park University email and the COVID page on the University website for more details.

Thank you.
Paul Hennigan

March 18, 2021

Dear University Community:

With the first day of Spring just days away, there are signs of hope all around us.

Given these promising developments, Point Park University expects to resume traditional, in-person classes and on campus operations for Fall 2021. As we have seen over the last year, plans can and do change based on the pandemic. While it is our intention to be fully on campus for the Fall, we also must be ready to adapt if circumstances change related to COVID.

The University remains committed to a safe, clean and healthy campus environment for all. We will continue to follow all guidelines in place and will continue to work closely with the Allegheny County Health Department and our medical partners at UPMC to understand and follow the federal, state and local guidelines in place.

Please remember that all guidelines currently in place on campus regarding masking, social distancing and gathering caps remain in effect.

In the coming weeks we will be releasing more information on health, safety and operation protocols for Fall 2021.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President

January 27, 2021

Dear University Community,

Welcome to Spring Semester at Point Park University. Today, I want to address two topics:  COVID testing on campus and Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act I and II money.

As a part of our semester return protocol last week, free COVID testing was available to all students, faculty and staff. I am happy to report that 1,204 people took advantage of the testing with the results showing a less than 1 percent positivity rate. 

This is no time to let our guard down when it comes to COVID. I encourage everyone to continue following all COVID guidelines we have in place while you are on campus, including masking, social distancing and following appropriate hygiene steps to prevent the spread of the COVID virus. 

Because of the low positivity rate, at this time there are no plans to repeat broad based testing on campus. The University will follow the protocols already in place from last semester to test only symptomatic students. We will continue to evaluate the situation and adjust testing protocols as necessary.

CARES Act I and II are emergency relief funds passed by Congress and signed into law to provide economic relief from the COVID 19 pandemic. One section of the CARES Act established the Higher Education Emergency Relief fund, which provides money for colleges and universities, including Point Park and its students. 

In the University’s last fiscal year, which ended August 31, 2020, Point Park received $1.8 million and an additional $1.6 million for emergency aid to students. To date in this fiscal year, Point Park has been awarded $4.2 million with an additional $1.6 million for emergency aid to students. Students with COVID-related financial needs should look for more information in the near future. 

These funds were designated by the federal government and can only be used to offset the University’s costs related to the pandemic and to assist students with grants to be used for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the pandemic. There is specific guidance from the federal government how this money can be used and the University is following all guidelines.

I will continue to update you on any further changes related to testing as well as CARES Act money. Thank you for all that you are doing this Spring Semester.

Paul Hennigan
President

January 7, 2021

Dear University Community:

I hope that everyone had a restful holiday break and followed the important guidelines for staying safe during these COVID times.

Our focus continues to be providing a campus environment that is healthy and safe for our students, faculty, staff and visitors. Using all of the tools, knowledge and partnerships that assisted us in a safe Fall, we are ready for the Spring semester.

Thanks to a partnership between Point Park University, the Allegheny County Health Department, our medical partners at UPMC and the COVID test company Curative, free COVID tests will be available to Point Park University students, faculty and staff the week of January 19, 2021, at an on-campus location.

In the next few days, you will receive an email in your Point Park account inbox from Keith Paylo, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students, with more details on the testing process and steps you must follow to pre-register.

Testing is required for all students living in on-campus housing. We strongly advise students living off campus, commuter students, faculty and staff to take advantage of this free testing.

The goal of the testing is to help detect potentially infected University community members, even those not experiencing symptoms, and to prevent them from infecting others.

Thanks to the extensive mitigation efforts the University put in place for the Fall, we experienced a low number of cases. That is a trend we are working to replicate for the Spring semester.

As you continue to make preparations to return to campus, please keep in mind the following guidelines:

We are all in this together. I want to thank each of you in advance for doing your part to keep yourself, others and your campus safe.

Paul Hennigan
President

Tuesday November 17, 2020

Dear Point Park students,

November has arrived and, with it, preparations for the conclusion of our fall 2020 semester. I want to take a moment to commend each of you for staying on track with your educational and career goals during this unprecedented time, and for your good work to keep yourself and those around you safe and well.

As we look forward to Thanksgiving break, please keep the following in mind:

We are grateful to you, and the entire campus community, for your efforts to maintain health and safety while pursuing your educational and career goals. As we continue to work together and support each other during this extraordinary time, we will meet and surpass each and every challenge. 

Sincerely,

Paul Hennigan

August 25, 2020

Dear University Community:

I had the pleasure of taking part in first-year move-in this week, and the positive energy was palpable. The students and their families are excited to be here, and the Student Affairs staff and students have been excellent. I hope you’ll take a few minutes and enjoy this video by Chase Barron, multimedia specialist in the Online Division. It does a nice job of capturing the vibe of the move-in process.

Thanks to the Student Affairs staff and students working so hard to make this week special for our new and returning students.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan

August 19, 2020

Dear University Community:

As we near the beginning of Fall classes, some students already are on campus and many more will be returning soon from summer break.

For months, faculty and staff have been working with University leadership to prepare for the start of the Fall Semester and provide you with two extensive documents detailing efforts to make our campus as safe as possible. It has been a monumental effort, and I want to personally thank everyone who had a hand in the creation of these documents.

Now, with the start of school imminent, we are presenting a definitive Operations Manual, for which you will find a link here. This manual will provide everything you need to know about campus policies, as well as the safety measures and protocols we have implemented over the course of the summer. It was designed based on the most updated guidance from the CDC, local and state health departments, and our expert medical partners at UPMC.

As we have said each time we’ve issued updated guidance and information, if you don’t see an answer to your question, reach out and ask us. Those can be directed to questions@pointpark.edu, and someone will respond to you.

Our campus is cleaned, sanitized and ready for the start of the semester. Now, it’s up to every member of our campus community to follow all public health guidance to keep ourselves and others as safe as possible.

The overwhelming majority of our students want to be on campus this fall, and we will provide the kind of high quality education they expect from Point Park. We can do this, and it will take all of us working together. Our personal behavior is critically important – especially when we are off campus. I urge every member of the campus community to take all safety precautions, and would remind students that off-campus behavior is subject to the Student Code of Conduct.

I am proud of the work we’ve done as a campus community and, as always, we are ready to serve and support our students.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan

Student Town Hall (August 6, 2020)

Dear University Community,

Our top priority at Point Park University has always been to provide a healthy and safe space for students to learn and grow. Particularly during this pandemic, we want to help our students stay on track to achieve their educational goals, and make sure a top-quality education is provided.

I sent a letter on May 19 stating that national and local data regarding COVID-19 cases suggested we would be able to resume on-campus learning for the Fall 2020 semester. In that letter, I also talked about the uncertainty of the pandemic and the collective need to be flexible in our planning.

Since then, we have prepared and implemented a detailed plan for how to provide on-campus learning in the safest possible way. We did this by working closely with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Allegheny County Health Department, and entered into a partnership with our expert medical providers from UPMC. We conducted numerous independent health and safety reviews on our campus.

We listened to student feedback taken after our transition to online learning in the spring, and our faculty and student support staff have been hard at work this summer using everything gleaned from that information to design courses to be delivered in multiple learning modalities based on the various circumstances we could encounter.

On July 6, we published our first edition of the Guide for On-Campus Learning and Operations, and have received a lot of questions from students, faculty and staff. And now on July 10, just a few days later, we are continuing to see an increasing number of confirmed COVID-19 cases each day in Allegheny County and throughout the country.

This week, as we have done every week during our planning, we have been in discussions with our expert medical providers from UPMC and the Allegheny County Health Department. As a result of those discussions, and with a top priority being the safety of our students, faculty and staff, we want to take some additional time to update our plans so that we safely reopen. This is a constantly evolving situation that requires us to continually revise our plans as needed.

By the end of next week, I will update the University community on our plans for on campus learning for the Fall term. I encourage you to watch the video we have posted on our website above and listen to Dr. Mike Parkinson, Senior Medical Director for UPMC, as he offers his assessment of the public health data and his work with Point Park University.

We look forward to answering all of your questions. Stay safe, and you’ll hear from me soon.

Paul Hennigan
President

June 30, 2020

Dear University Community,

As I have written in earlier communications, many faculty, staff, and students have been working on a number of University task forces to help prepare the University for on campus learning and operations for the 2020-21 academic year. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this planning must follow guidance from the CDC, as well as the state and local health departments.

The University Guide for On Campus Learning and Operations will be available on the University Website on July 6, 2020. This Guide will contain information as of July 6, 2020 and will change regularly as public health guidance changes.

The University will post a prerecorded video presentation on the University Website on Friday, July 10, 2020. In this presentation we will address your questions regarding the campus learning and operations plan for 2020-21. If you have questions related to the plan, please email them to questions@pointpark.edu prior to Tuesday, July 7 at 5:00pm. We will also take questions after this deadline for a direct response or for a follow-up presentation to be scheduled at a later date.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President
Point Park University

This fall semester will present a number of challenges to our Point Park community. Through the efforts above and others, the University is providing in-person, on-campus education focused on student learning and informed by our expert health partners at UPMC. During the week of July 6, 2020, the University will publish our Guide to On-Campus Learning and Operations 2020-21. During that week, I will host a video presentation for all students and their families. We will ask you to provide your questions in advance and follow-up with any questions after the video presentation.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President

May 19, 2020

Dear Point Park Students and Families:

In light of the enormous uncertainty that we all have experienced over the past two months, I am writing to confirm for you that we expect the Point Park University campus in Downtown Pittsburgh to be open and fully operational for the start of the Fall 2020 semester. Saturday and Online only classes begin August 29, 2020.  All other classes begin the week of August 31, 2020. All classes will begin as scheduled. 

The University has closely monitored all Federal, State, and local government agencies and have followed directions accordingly.  The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has moved our county, Allegheny, from Red to Yellow status. Given the public health data in the Commonwealth, Point Park University will be fully prepared to open when Allegheny County transitions to Green status.  This means that Universities can be fully operational on campus while following the appropriate public health guidelines of social distancing, wearing face masks when required, enhanced hygiene efforts, contact tracing and COVID-19 mitigation strategies. 

Point Park is developing all necessary plans and guidelines for students, faculty, and staff to follow so that we can come back together safely.   All University facilities have been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected with state-of-the-art materials and equipment.  This enhanced cleaning will continue throughout the new academic year.  We will make sure that the University campus is as clean and safe as possible.  All students, faculty, and staff will be required to follow all public health measures that are directed at the time. 

In the event that the virus re-emerges in Allegheny County or Pennsylvania, we will be prepared to take action as directed by government and public health agencies to help mitigate the spread.  Given our collective experience halfway through the Spring term, we have learned a lot as a University and as a community.  All students had the opportunity to complete their courses and earn their credits.  This is our commitment to you.

The safety of our students and University community remains one of our top priorities.  We have established various COVID-19 Task Forces to make sure that the University campus is and will be a safe place to learn and grow.  All of these plans will be available on the University Website well before the Fall term begins.  Some of these Task Forces are developing innovative approaches to some of the challenges we may face during the 2020-21 academic year.  We will be prepared to modify our learning community in ways that protect public health and also allow students to complete their courses and earn their credits.

Point Park is a thriving, diverse, and inclusive University community.  We have a strong commitment to student success through distinctive innovative and experiential learning.  We focus on the learning that all students need to be career ready upon graduation or to enhance an existing career.  We are prepared to welcome you to campus this fall and ask that you bring your energy, passion, and enthusiasm.  You motivate us.  I am looking forward to seeing the work that you will be doing in the classroom, in the studio, on the field, and in our community. 

At Point Park, you will have the opportunity to be career ready when you graduate, regardless of what circumstances may come our way.  Learning how to deal with difficult and unusual circumstances while staying focused on your goals will be the hallmark of your generation.  Let’s nurture this strength together.

Thank you.

Paul Hennigan

Thursday, May 14, 2020

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students:

Across the University, teams are working on plans for the Fall semester. As we have discussed in several forums over the last weeks, our expectation is to return to full on-campus learning and operations if deemed possible by the CDC and government mandates. Because of the fluid nature of COVID-19 we also are planning for several scenarios. That planning includes the Pittsburgh Playhouse season for 2020-2021.

The team at the Pittsburgh Playhouse has been busy working with faculty, staff and students on the upcoming season at Point Park University’s Pittsburgh Playhouse, Downtown’s newest center for arts and entertainment. Since its opening, the Playhouse has become a campus-wide resource used by all areas of the University. 

You will be receiving a save the date on Friday with information on how to join an announcement on the new season we hope to all enjoy in the coming year. The 2020-2021 season will be announced via video on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube at 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 19 by Steven Breese, Pittsburgh Playhouse artistic director, and Drew Martorella, Pittsburgh Playhouse managing director.

CARES ACT STUDENT GRANT APPLICATION

Point Park University recently received federal stimulus funding through the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act to distribute directly to students as emergency financial aid for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the pandemic. Undergraduate and Graduate/Doctoral students who meet basic eligibility criteria for federal financial aid will be considered for these funds. Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Education does not allow these funds to be used for international students, undocumented students, non-degree students or students enrolled in fully online programs. Also, any student who withdrew prior to March 13 will not be eligible. To fill out an application, please login to Pointweb here. If eligible, a grant award will be sent to you within 14 days and credited to your account.

Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your CARES Act grant. If you have not already signed up to receive student account refunds via direct deposit, it is recommended you do that now. For more information, please visit our direct deposit webpage. Students who do not elect direct deposit will have a paper check mailed to their home address.

Please check your Point Park email and COVID-19 page of the University website often for important updates and useful information.

Thank you,
Paul Hennigan

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students: 

ALLEGHENY COUNTY MOVING TO YELLOW

On Friday, May 15, 2020, Allegheny County moves to the Yellow Phase of the State’s Process to Reopen Pennsylvania Plan put in place because of COVID-19. According to Gov. Tom Wolf, the purpose of the Yellow Phase is to allow for some reopening of business operations while still keeping an eye on public health data to ensure the spread of disease remains contained to the greatest extent possible. 

So what does this mean for Point Park University’s operations? In this phase, staff approved to telework will continue to do so. Please contact your direct supervisor for any questions regarding your specific position.

Our goal continues to be ensuring the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff while continuing to provide a fully operational University. 

POINT PARK PERSPECTIVES CONTINGENCY PLANNING FEEDBACK

Please take the survey mentioned at last week’s Point Park Perspectives meeting. This survey has been designed to solicit your ideas that will provide important information to Point Park University and the fall semester contingency planning teams. In order for the information to be timely and useful, we ask that you complete the survey by end of day on Wednesday, May 13.  Please click here to get started.

CONTINGENCY PLANNING DATES TO REMEMBER

Planning is now underway on contingency planning for the Fall.  Some dates to keep in mind:

May & June: Steering Committee meet weekly. Planning groups will meet and develop plans and recommendations

June 30, 2020: Comprehensive plan presented to the Board of Trustees. A Point Park Perspectives town hall will be scheduled around this time to discuss the comprehensive plan and provide an update on the fall semester.

CARES ACT STUDENT GRANT APPLICATION

Point Park University recently received federal stimulus funding through the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act to distribute directly to students as emergency financial aid for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the pandemic. Undergraduate and Graduate/Doctoral students who meet basic eligibility criteria for federal financial aid will be considered for these funds. Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Education does not allow these funds to be used for international students, undocumented students, non-degree students or students enrolled in fully online programs. Also, any student who withdrew prior to March 13 will not be eligible. To fill out an application, please login to Pointweb here. If eligible, a grant award will be sent to you within 14 days and credited to your account.

Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your CARES Act grant. If you have not already signed up to receive student account refunds via direct deposit, it is recommended you do that now. For more information, please visit our direct deposit webpage. Students who do not elect direct deposit will have a paper check mailed to their home address.

Please check your Point Park email and COVID-19 page of the University website often for important updates and useful information.

Thank you.

Paul Hennigan

Monday, May 11, 2020

CARES Act Student Grant Application

Point Park University recently received federal stimulus funding through the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act to distribute directly to students as emergency financial aid for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the pandemic. Undergraduate and Graduate/Doctoral students who meet basic eligibility criteria for federal financial aid will be considered for these funds. Unfortunately, the U.S. Department of Education does not allow these funds to be used for international students, undocumented students, non-degree students or students enrolled in fully online programs. Also, any student who withdrew prior to March 13 will not be eligible. To fill out an application, please login to Pointweb here. If eligible, a grant award will be sent to you within 14 days and credited to your account.

Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your CARES Act grant. If you have not already signed up to receive student account refunds via direct deposit, it is recommended you do that now. For more information, please visit our direct deposit webpage. Students who do not elect direct deposit will have a paper check mailed to their home address.

May 5, 2020

Dear Faculty and Mission Support Staff,

By now you have received a calendar invitation to participate in a Point Park Perspective Zoom meeting at 3 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, 2020. Your participation is very important as we begin to plan for the next academic year.  Next year will be like no other we have planned for as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

While our expectation is to return to normal operations with an on-ground fall semester, this planning will ensure that we are able to continue to provide the highest quality education our students expect. The number of potential scenarios we need to plan for is daunting, and lies on a continuum from normal operations to fully online fall and spring semesters. 

Following are some other important announcements:

SUMMER PROGRAMS

Point Park University has made the difficult decision to cancel all residential and in-person summer camps. This was a hard choice but the right one for our community given the potential spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) within the United States and abroad. For those who may have registered for programming already, please check the webpage specific to Summer Education within the coming days for further details regarding credits and refunds.

The mission of Community and Summer Education is to provide educational and enrichment opportunities for energetic students from all over the region, country and globe. We are proud to offer authentic, participant-centered programming that generates personal development and future adventures through higher education.

Although we are disheartened that students and instructors cannot be together in person this summer, we are excited to share that a variety of the summer programs will be offered through selective virtual classes and sessions. 

The best part? New summer camp initiatives will be available FREE of charge to the public.

Community and Summer Education is currently working with instructors to craft a schedule of events. Further details regarding these pre-professional classes will become available over the next few weeks. Please check the webpage specific to Community and Summer Education for more information.

OUTREACH TO FACULTY AND MISSION SUPPORT STAFF

To ensure effective communications please remember that John Pearson, Provost, will send twice-weekly updates to all Faculty and Mission Support Staff to ensure that everyone has access to information and assist in building a cooperative environment . 

Finally, I urge everyone to check their Point Park email and the University Website daily for important information that will continue to be communicated as needed. 

Thank you for all of your important work.

Paul Hennigan
President

Friday, April 24, 2020

Dear University Community:

It is a bittersweet day for all of us at Point Park University. Today marks the end of finals week for the spring term and tomorrow would have been Commencement for the Class of 2020 if not for the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Those undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral program students eligible for graduation let us know in overwhelming numbers through a survey that their desire is to experience the pomp and circumstance of their great accomplishment at an in-person commencement and graduate hooding ceremony. We will do this at a time when it is safe to have large gatherings and when we can rebook the PPG Paints Arena.

While we wait for that day to arrive, I hope that you will take a moment to view a special video prepared to recognize the accomplishments of the Class of 2020. It will be available beginning at noon Saturday on the University’s special COVID-19 information page.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Dear University Community:

Federal Government Cares Act Relief for Students

As I have reported to you over the last few weeks, the University has been waiting for guidance from the U.S. Department of Education on the distribution of emergency aid for students.

Yesterday, the Department issued more guidance. We have a team of people at Point Park working on a student distribution formula based on the Federal law and this guidance. 

All students should check their Point Park email and University website daily to look for direction from the University regarding the distribution of the CARES Act emergency aid to students.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Dear University Community:

On Monday, April 20, 2020, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf extended the stay at home order for Pennsylvania to Friday, May 8, 2020, at which time the Governor hopes to begin a “measured approach” to reopening the Commonwealth for business.  We expect to hear more details from the Governor in the coming weeks.

What does this mean to operations at Point Park University?

It means that for now and until at least May 8, if not beyond, we continue to operate remotely and follow the directives set forth by the local, state and federal governments. By doing so, we are ensuring the safety of our University community and being responsible members of the Pittsburgh community at large. 

I know this is frustrating, as we are all eager to reestablish the daily operations of the University on ground and in person. 

As the Governor and the State Secretary of Health continue to remind everyone, we are still at a point with the COVID-19 pandemic in Pennsylvania that requires us to be patient and continue to follow the measurers in place to flatten the curve of the virus in a way that will lead to the ability to safely reopen Pennsylvania for business.

As new information becomes available and as the University develops plans to resume on campus operations, I will share those details with you through these communications and on the University website.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan
President

Monday, April, 20 2020

Dear University Community:

As we wrap up the Spring 2020 term this week, I want to thank the entire University community for everything you have done to overcome obstacles none of us could have imagined just a few weeks ago as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition to remote learning when we did made it possible for all of us to be where we are today. Thank you!

This week, we also will make a transition in our daily communications. Over the last five weeks, we have covered a lot of ground and provided answers to important questions of the moment.  Moving forward, I urge all students, faculty and mission support staff to check their Point Park email and the University Website daily for important information that will continue to be communicated as needed.

There are still questions to be answered and decisions to be made regarding a return to full, on-ground operations when deemed safe.  I look forward to sharing this information with you as it becomes available.

Have a great week.

Paul Hennigan
President

Friday, April 17, 2020

Dear University Community:

To our students and faculty – You Did it!

Today, we wrap up the last week of classes for the Spring term.

To our mission support staff, thank you for playing such a critical role in helping our students and faculty move quickly to remote education and to sustain their learning objectives. 

Next week is final exams and the spring term will be finished. 

Please stay very focused this weekend and best wishes with final exams next week.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Dear University Community:

SUMMER CAMPS 

Thank you to everyone that has an interest and asked questions about our summer camps and programs. We continue to take each day with optimism that we'll be able to offer summer camps. We expect to make a decision concerning the operational status of programming in early May. Please check the webpage specific to Community and Summer Education for an official decision.

Please understand that if we need to cancel noncredit programming, registered families will be notified directly through email. Families will receive a refund of all tuition and/or add-on costs currently paid minus any third-party fees we are unable to collect. Scholarships and acceptances will be deferred until 2021 (applicable for International Summer Dance and Summer Theatre Intensive students).

If you have an immediate questions or concerns, please reach out to summercamps@pointpark.edu for assistance. We hope we are able to deliver a memorable summer experience for our all of our participants. 

Thank you

Paul Hennigan
President

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Dear University Community:

UNIVERSITY TO HOST WEBINAR ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2020

The University will host a special webinar for students Wednesday, April 15, 2020. The University recently sent a survey to all students who transitioned their on-ground classes to fully online instruction under these extremely difficult circumstances. We have received a lot of good information and questions. Thank you to those who have participated.  I, along with other University officials, will address these issues during the webinar. A link to that webinar will be available Wednesday in the daily communication from the President’s office.

SUMMER TWO SESSION ONLINE

We recently announced that Summer One courses would be offered online. The University has determined that Summer Two courses also will be offered online. Making this decision now will allow for time needed so students and faculty can make decision best for their individual circumstances.

For students, the Center for Student Success is ready to assist you. For faculty, Nelson Chipman and the Online Support Staff, along with Jonas Prida, Assistant Provost, are available to help get you ready for online summer offerings.

While Summer sessions proceed remotely, I look forward to welcoming everyone back to campus in the Fall. 

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2020

Dear University Community:

STUDENT ACTIVITY FEE REFUNDS

All Students who paid the $185 student activity fee for the Spring term will receive a $70 pro-rata student activity fee refund. These students will receive an email today, Monday, April 13, 2020, from the Student Accounts Department containing additional information.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CARES ACT RELIEF FOR STUDENTS

On Thursday, April 9, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education started to issue guidance to all colleges and universities throughout the country regarding the funds to be used for “emergency aid to students.” Based on that guidance, the money will be used by Point Park for all undergraduate students based on financial need. Each undergraduate student is eligible to have an individualized Financial Aid package through the University based on need, merit and/or talent. These Financial Aid packages were determined prior to the start of the Spring or Fall term based on the student’s completion of the confidential Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is based on confidential Federal Tax Returns. We will use these need based calculations to determine distribution of Federal emergency student aid money. Details regarding the distribution of this money will be made available as soon as we have more direction from the U.S. Department of Education.

COMMENCEMENT AND GRADUATE HOODING CEREMONIES

Based on the results of a survey sent to the 900 students in the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs eligible to graduate this Spring, the University will not hold a virtual event and will wait to schedule an in-person commencement and graduate hooding ceremony at a time when it is safe to have large gatherings and we are able to rebook the PPG Paints Arena. We thank all who have offered their thoughts on this important milestone moment for the Class of 2020. The University looks forward to honoring the accomplishments of these students.

UNIVERSITY TO HOST WEBINAR WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2020

The University recently sent a survey to all students who transitioned their on-ground classes to fully online instruction under these extremely difficult circumstances. We have received a lot of good information and questions. Thank you to those who have participated. I, along with other University officials, will host a Webinar, which will be available Wednesday, April 15, 2020, to address these issues. A link to that webinar will be available on Wednesday in the daily communication from the President’s Office.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan
President

Friday, April 10, 2020

Dear University Community:

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CARES ACT RELIEF FOR STUDENTS

On Thursday, April 9, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education started to issue guidance to all colleges and universities throughout the country regarding the funds to be used for “emergency aid to students.” Based on this guidance, this money will be used by Point Park for all undergraduate students based on financial need. Each undergraduate student is eligible to have an individualized Financial Aid package through the University based on need, merit and/or talent. These Financial Aid packages were determined prior to the start of the Spring or Fall term based on the student’s completion of the confidential Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is based on confidential Federal Tax Returns. We will use these need based calculations to determine distribution of Federal emergency student aid money. Details regarding the distribution of this money will be made available as soon as we have more direction from the U.S. Department of Education and could be as early as next week.

UNIVERSITY TO HOST WEBINAR NEXT WEEK

The University recently sent a survey to all students who transitioned their on-ground classes to fully online instruction under these extremely difficult circumstances. We have received a lot of good information and questions. Thank you to those who have participated. I, along with other University officials, will host a webinar, which will be available next week, to address these questions and others that you may have. If you have a question, please email it to questions@pointpark.edu by noon Monday.

COMMENCEMENT AND GRADUATE HOODING CEREMONIES

On Monday, April 13, 2020, we will announce the results of the survey sent to the 900 students in the Class of 2020 in the undergraduate, master’s or doctoral programs eligible to graduate this Spring. The results of the survey will guide the University in understanding the best way to honor the accomplishments of these students.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan

Thursday, April 9, 2020

Dear University Community:

SUMMER TWO SESSION ONLINE

We recently announced that Summer One courses would be offered on line.  After much consideration and taking into account the current situation with COVID-19, the University has determined that Summer Two courses also will be offered online. Making this decision now will allow students and faculty to have the time they need to make decisions best for their individual circumstances.

For students, the Center for Student Success is ready to assist you.

For faculty, Nelson Chipman and the Online Support Staff, along with Jonas Prida, Assistant Provost, are available to work with you to help prepare for online summer offerings.

As Summer sessions proceed remotely, I look forward to welcoming everyone back to campus in the Fall. 

COMMENCEMENT SURVEY ALERT

If you are one of the 900 students in the Class of 2020 eligible to graduate in the undergraduate, master’s or doctoral programs, please check your inbox for an important survey sent by Keith Paylo, Vice President for Student Affairs. Responses are due by Friday, April 10, 2020. As the University works to honor your accomplishments, we want to make sure we know what your thoughts are regarding when and how a ceremony should take place. As stated earlier, the in-person Commencement ceremonies scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2020, are postponed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

We will make an announcement Monday on a future commencement ceremony.

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO LEARN ABOUT UNIVERSITY PASS/NO CREDIT OPTION

If you missed the Webinar featuring The Center for Student Success and Dr. Jonas Prida you can catch it again here. Also, as a reminder, students can view a YouTube video that describes the process in more detail. That video can be found here. Please take advantage of these opportunities to become more informed about this grading option.

VIRTUAL STARS DAY

I would like all of us to be sure to thank the mission support staff at Point Park for maintaining the remote operations of the University. Monday, April 13, 2020, is the Staff STARS (Striving to Achieve Remarkable Service) Day. This year, STARS day will be a virtual celebration. I encourage all staff to wear your STARS shirt and share your new work environment with stars@pointpark.edu.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Dear University Community,

Please see the following important items:

COMMENCEMENT SURVEY ALERT

If you are one of the 900 students in the Class of 2020 eligible to graduate in the undergraduate, master’s or doctoral programs, please check your inbox for an important survey sent by Keith Paylo, Vice President for Student Affairs. Responses are due by Friday, April 10, 2020. As the University works to honor your accomplishments, we want to make sure we know what your thoughts are regarding when and how a ceremony should take place. As stated earlier, the in-person Commencement ceremonies scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2020, are postponed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

SUMMER SESSION ONE ONLINE

All first-term summer classes that begin in May, which include our 6-week, 8-week and 12-week terms, will be delivered solely in an online format. You can find all the information regarding Summer One here. Please consult with your CSS advisor and check course schedules regularly to get the most up-to-date information. We will have a decision later this week on Summer Two classes that begin in June. 

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO LEARN ABOUT UNIVERSITY PASS/NO CREDIT OPTION

If you missed the Webinar featuring The Center for Student Success and Dr. Jonas Prida you can catch it again here. Also, as a reminder, students can view a YouTube video that describes the process in more detail. That video can be found here. Please take advantage of these opportunities to become more informed about this grading option.

Thank You,

Paul Hennigan

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Dear University Community:

As our academic coursework and operations are currently in a remote format, and with just a few weeks remaining in the Spring term, it is time for students and faculty to begin thinking about Summer and Fall classes.

SUMMER SESSION ONE ONLINE

All first-term summer classes that begin in May, which include our 6-week, 8-week and 12-week terms, will be delivered solely in an online format. You can find all the information regarding Summer One here.  Please consult with your CSS advisor and check course schedules regularly to get the most up-to-date information. We will have a decision later this week on Summer Two classes that begin in June.

FALL SEMESTER

Point Park University is planning for Fall semester to be on-ground and in-person with normal University operations. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to campus!

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO LEARN ABOUT UNIVERSITY PASS/NO CREDIT OPTION

If you missed the Webinar featuring The Center for Student Success and Dr. Jonas Prida you can catch it again here. Also, as a reminder, students can view a YouTube video that describes the process in more detail. That video can be found here. Please take advantage of these opportunities to become more informed about this grading option.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan

Monday, April 6, 2020

Dear University Community:

There are two weeks of classes and one week of finals remaining in the spring term. Let’s all hang together and finish as best we can under this incredible set of circumstances.

POINT PARK NETWORK OF SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS

Student Affairs has an excellent network of support services for students.  They can be especially helpful as we head into the final weeks of the semester. Click here to see the complete rundown of services available to help you.

We will continue to provide these daily updates with information that can assist our students, faculty and staff.

Stay safe. Stay home.

Paul Hennigan

Friday, April 3, 2020

Dear University Community: 

It's been another intense week.

I hope this weekend you can recharge, regroup, take care of yourself and loved ones.

Stay Safe.  Stay Home.

Until next week,

Paul Hennigan

APRIL 2, 2020 

Dear University Community:

On Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf expanded the stay at home order to cover all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. The Governor’s stay at home order is in effect until April 30, 2020. 

We will keep you informed on directives from federal, state and local governments, and their impact on the University community.  

Here are important announcements for today:

SCAM ALERT

Unfortunately, online scams and phishing (the fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information on line) don't diminish during a crisis. Point Park works with a network of federal agencies to stay abreast of scamming activity. There are indications of an increase in fraudulent activity online. Please be vigilant of emails you receive that ask for sensitive information, especially emails saying they are related to the federal stimulus CARES Act. Use caution and, when in doubt, reach out to the University IT Help Desk for assistance. 

SCHOOLOGY, LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Some of you may have experienced issues with our learning management system, Schoology, this week. Please note that the issues experienced are not unique to Point Park but are occurring nationally. Schoology usage has increased more than 400 percent in the past couple of weeks with schools moving to remote delivery. We have assurances from Schoology that they are working 24/7 to make adjustments to handle capacity. If you are interested in learning more, kindly see the blog post from Schoology that explains the steps they are taking.

COMMENCEMENT

As stated earlier, the in-person Commencement ceremonies scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2020, are postponed. The University will continue to work toward an appropriate, in-person commencement ceremony for the class of 2020 when it is safe. However, the University does want to honor the graduates this spring with appropriate, virtual ceremonies. Keith Paylo, Vice President for Student Affairs, is reaching out to the 888 students who have registered to graduate, as well as academic leaders, to solicit suggestions for a virtual ceremony.  

UNIVERSITY PASS/NO CREDIT OPTION INFORMATION

The Center for Student Success and Dr. Jonas Prida are hosting a webinar to answer questions about the University’s Pass/No Credit option. The webinar will be from 11 a.m. to noon Monday, April 6, 2020. Students can register for the webinar here.

Also, as a reminder, students can view a YouTube video that describes the process in more detail. That video can be found here.

Please take advantage of these opportunities to become more informed about this grading option.

SUMMER SESSION ONE ONLINE

All first-term summer classes that begin in May, which include our 6-week, 8-week and 12-week terms, will be delivered solely in an online format. The University will not run any on-ground courses that begin in May. 

We have not made any decision on summer classes that begin in June. Our goal is to make a decision as soon as possible in order to provide as much time for amendments to course schedules as needed.

Please consult with your CSS advisor and check course schedules regularly to get the most up-to-date information.

POINT PARK CONNECTING WITH NEW STUDENTS

Admissions counselors are working remotely and connecting virtually with ALL prospective students to ensure, for now, a virtual connection.

We’ve launched Admitted Students Day 2.0 to empower prospective undergraduate students and families to connect with us at their convenience. We’ve taken the essential elements of the on-campus Admitted Students Day program and delivered them remotely to visitors. This unique program helps academically admitted students and their families understand why Point Park University is the right school for them.

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

Check out what’s going on at #PointParkTogetherApart on Instagram and Facebook. It’s a great place to stay in touch, get inspiration and see how the University community is doing while we all work and study virtually.

Stay safe. Stay home.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan

APRIL 1, 2020

Dear University Community:

Following are some important announcements for today:

UNIVERSITY PASS/NO CREDIT OPTION INFORMATION

The Center for Student Success and Dr. Jonas Prida are hosting a webinar to answer questions about the University’s Pass/No Credit option. The webinar will be from 11 a.m. to noon Monday, April 6, 2020. Students can register for the webinar here.

Also, as a reminder, students can view a YouTube video that describes the process in more detail. That video can be found here.

Please take advantage of these opportunities to become more informed about this grading option.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELIEF ACT

On Friday, March 27, 2020, the Federal government approved the CARES Act, providing $14 billion for Higher Education in an Emergency Stabilization Fund. At this time, there are no clear guidelines on when the money will arrive at schools and exactly how it can be spent. Point Park, along with many schools, are working hard to get clear guidance on exactly how this money can be used and how it may assist students. We will keep you posted as information becomes available. 

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

It’s always a great time to share how you are doing while we are all away from campus. If you wish to share how you are adapting or want to see how others are taking on the challenge of working remotely, check out #PointParkTogetherApart on Instagram and Facebook.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan

MARCH 31, 2020

Dear University Community:

On Monday, Governor Tom Wolf extended the stay at home order for Pennsylvania counties to April 30, 2020. There are now 26 of the Commonwealth’s 67 counties under this order. As virus cases continue to increase in Pennsylvania, the stay at home order is in place to help curb the spread of the virus in areas where the virus has been reported.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELIEF ACT

On Friday, March 27, 2020, the Federal government approved the CARES Act, providing $14 billion for Higher Education in an Emergency Stabilization Fund. At this time, there are no clear guidelines on when the money will arrive at schools and exactly how it can be spent. Point Park, along with many schools, are working hard to get clear guidance on exactly how this money can be used and how it may assist students. We will keep you posted as information becomes available. 

STUDENT WORKERS ON CAMPUS

Student workers (including apprentices, federal work study workers and honors assistants) will continue to be paid according to the average weekly wage from their Spring semester earnings times the number of weeks remaining in the semester as of March 18, 2020, based on their total award and hours already worked. Additional information about the method and timing of this payment will be sent to student employees this week. Once you receive this information, please contact Jessica Ureste at jureste@pointpark.edu with any questions about your individual payment.

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

We are going to be at this social distancing, stay-at-home way of life for a while. If you wish to share how you are adapting or want to see how others are taking on the challenge, check out #PointParkTogetherApart on Instagram and Facebook.

Stay Strong. Stay home!

Thank you

Paul Hennigan

MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020

Dear University Community:

Welcome to our second full week of remote learning and university operations. Thank you very much for continuing to work through an incredibly difficult situation for all of us. 

The pandemic is not permanent.  We will come out of this stronger. 

Here are today’s announcements:

STUDENT WORKERS ON CAMPUS

Student workers (including apprentices, federal work study workers, and honors assistants) will continue to be paid according to the average weekly wage from their Spring semester earnings times the number of weeks remaining in the semester as of March 18, 2020, based on their total award and hours already worked. Additional information about the method and timing of this payment will be sent to student employees this week. Once you receive this information, please contact Jessica Ureste at jureste@pointpark.edu with any questions about your individual payment.

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

We’re all in this together -- check out what the Point Park University community has been up to by searching #PointParkTogetherApart on Instagram and Facebook, and continue to share your day-to-day experiences with us online.

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan

FINAL TUESDAY MARCH 31, 2020

Dear University Community:

On Monday, Governor Tom Wolf extended the stay at home order for Pennsylvania counties to April 30, 2020. There are now 26 of the Commonwealth’s 67 counties under this order. As virus cases continue to increase in Pennsylvania, the stay at home order is in place to help curb the spread of the virus in areas where the virus has been reported.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELIEF ACT

On Friday, March 27, 2020, the Federal government approved the CARES Act, providing $14 billion for Higher Education in an Emergency Stabilization Fund. At this time, there are no clear guidelines on when the money will arrive at schools and exactly how it can be spent. Point Park, along with many schools, are working hard to get clear guidance on exactly how this money can be used and how it may assist students. We will keep you posted as information becomes available. 

STUDENT WORKERS ON CAMPUS

Student workers (including apprentices, federal work study workers and honors assistants) will continue to be paid according to the average weekly wage from their Spring semester earnings times the number of weeks remaining in the semester as of March 18, 2020, based on their total award and hours already worked. Additional information about the method and timing of this payment will be sent to student employees this week. Once you receive this information, please contact Jessica Ureste at jureste@pointpark.edu with any questions about your individual payment.

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

We are going to be at this social distancing, stay-at-home way of life for a while. If you wish to share how you are adapting or want to see how others are taking on the challenge, check out #PointParkTogetherApart on Instagram and Facebook.

Stay Strong. Stay home!

Thank you

Paul Hennigan

March 27, 2020

Dear University Community:

SUMMER SESSION ONE ONLINE

All first-term summer classes that begin in May, which include our 6-week, 8-week and 12-week terms, will be delivered solely in an online format.  The University will not run any on ground courses that begin in May. 

We have not made any decision on summer classes that begin in June. Our goal will be to make a decision on this as soon as possible in order to provide as much time for amendments to course schedules as needed.

Please consult with your CSS advisor and check course schedules regularly to get the most up-to-date information.

RESIDENCE HALLS

We appreciate the organized approach residence hall students and their families have used over the last week as move out continues.  We strongly encourage any student remaining in the residence halls to move out as soon as possible.  All students, except for those with University approved waivers, must leave the University residence halls no later than today, Friday, March 27, 2020. More information can be found here. Look under Prior Correspondence.

CENTER FOR MEDIA INNOVATION ASSISTS OUR REGION

Thanks to support from the Center for Media Innovation at Point Park University, “Our Region’s Business,” returns to WPXI-TV at 11 a.m. Sunday. The show, produced by the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, was off the air last week because it could not film in the WPXI studios due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to CMI team, the show will now be produced virtually with the CMI’s support. On this Sunday’s show, I will discuss the transition to online learning and how the crisis is impacting Point Park University.

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

As we support one another and adjust to the changes, Point Park University has created a virtual home for sharing student, faculty and staff experiences and virtual engagements at the hashtag  #PointParkTogetherApart

Videos, photos and online messages are welcome from students, faculty and staff as we adjust to this new, temporary norm.

Let us see what your work-at-home environment looks like and the pets helping you adjust; pass along some tips on how to stay efficient and focused, and seek advice from the Point Park community. 

Thank you,

Paul Hennigan

Thursday, March 26, 2020 

Dear University Community:

Here are today’s announcements.

ON RESIDENCE HALLS

We appreciate the organized approach residence hall students and their families have used over the last week as move out continues.  We strongly encourage any student remaining in the residence halls to move out as soon as possible.  All students, with the exception of those with University approved waivers, must leave the University residence halls no later than Friday, March 27, 2020. More information can be found here.

ON RENTAL TEXTBOOK RETURNS

If you have rented textbooks and are wondering how to return them, not to worry. Click here for information. 

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

As we support one another and adjust to the changes, Point Park University has created a virtual home for sharing student, faculty and staff experiences and virtual engagements at the hashtag  #PointParkTogetherApart

Videos, photos and online messages are welcome from students, faculty and staff as we adjust to this new, temporary norm.

Let us see what your work-at-home environment looks like and the pets helping you adjust; pass along some tips on how to stay efficient and focused, and seek advice from the Point Park community. 

Stay calm.  Stay home.  Stay safe.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2020

Dear University Community:

Thank you for completing the University’s first week of total remote education. 

We will continue to answer questions and share information that is important to you.  You are all doing remarkable work. Keep it up!

Here are today’s announcements:

ON AMENDED GRADE POLICY PASS/NO CREDIT OPTION FOR SPRING 2020

The Center for Student Success and Dr. Jonas Prida are hosting a webinar to answer questions about the University’s Pass/No Credit option. The webinar will be from 11 a.m. to noon Monday, April 6, 2020. Look for more information on the webinar and how to register in an email coming soon from the Center for Student Success. Please take advantage of this opportunity.

ON RENTAL TEXTBOOK RETURNS

If you have rented textbooks and are wondering how to return them, not to worry. Click here for information.

ON RESIDENCE HALLS

We appreciate the organized approach residence hall students and their families have used over the last week as move out continues.  We strongly encourage any student remaining in the residence halls to move out as soon as possible.  All students, with the exception of those with University approved waivers, must leave the University residence halls no later than Friday, March 27, 2020. More information can be found here. 

ON STUDENT WORKERS

We know students with work arrangements including Federal Work Study, Apprentices, and General Student Workers have questions about their awards. Currently, there has been no disruption. The University is working on information for you and will have something in the coming days. Thank you for your patience as we work to get you accurate information. 

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

As we support one another and adjust to the changes, Point Park University has created a virtual home for sharing student, faculty and staff experiences and virtual engagements at the hashtag  #PointParkTogetherApart

Videos, photos and online messages are welcome from students, faculty and staff as we adjust to this new, temporary norm.

Let us see what your work-at-home environment looks like and the pets helping you adjust; pass along some tips on how to stay efficient and focused, and seek advice from the Point Park community. 

Stay calm.  Stay home.  Stay safe.

Thank you
Paul Hennigan

March 24, 2020

Dear University Community:

On Monday, March 23, 2020, Governor Wolf issued a stay-at-home order for seven counties in Pennsylvania:  Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Monroe, Montgomery and Philadelphia.

What does that mean to the Point Park University community? The short answer is, carry on as   we have with online education and remote operation of the University. Only essential personnel should be on campus. The University continues to follow the directives set forth by the CDC, federal, state and local governments, and is fully complying with all government regulations and guidance.

The Governor’s announcement yesterday was clear: To stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, we must all redouble our efforts to limit interactions with others, which will assist in slowing or stopping the spread of the virus.

Here are today’s announcements:

STUDENT WORKERS

Currently, the University is reviewing changes to student work arrangements, including those who have been awarded Federal Work Study, Apprentices, and General Student Workers.  An announcement will be forthcoming shortly with additional guidance for student workers.

ON RESIDENCE HALLS

We strongly encourage any student remaining in the residence halls to move out as soon as possible.  All students with the exception of those with University approved waivers must leave the University residence halls no later than Friday, March 27, 2020. More information can be found here.

KEY CARD ACCESS TO UNIVERSITY

As of 4:30 P.M. Monday, March 23, 2020, card access to the campus is closed unless approved by your immediate supervisor and Human Resources. The HR department is providing approved access lists to physical plant and public safety. If you are planning to come to the campus and have not requested access, please contact your supervisor and Human Resources. Requests for staff should be directed to Natalie Rice, and requests for faculty should be directed to Jordan Nofziger. Approvals for access are limited to those necessary to ensure the safety and health of the campus. Employees listed as essential to the safety and health of campus, and communicated last week, are authorized to continue to report to campus. 

#POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

As we support one another and adjust to the changes, Point Park University has created a virtual home for sharing student, faculty and staff experiences and virtual engagements at the hashtag   #PointParkTogetherApart

Videos, photos and online messages are welcome from students, faculty and staff as we adjust to this new, temporary norm. Let us see what your work-at-home environment looks like and the pets helping you adjust, pass along some tips on how to stay efficient and focused, and seek advice from the Point Park community.

Stay calm. Stay home. Stay safe.

Thank you
Paul Hennigan

March 23, 2020 

Dear University Community:

We are into week two of Point Park University remote educational delivery and University operations -- THANK YOU!

I know it has not always been easy and we will continue to face challenges. We have made some difficult decisions to mitigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic risks.  With each decision, the University continues to follow the directives set forth by the CDC, federal, state and local Governments and is fully complying with all government regulations and guidance.

Here are today’s important reminders and updates:

ON AMENDED GRADE POLICY: PASS/NO CREDIT OPTION FOR SPRING 2020

As a temporary measure that reflects the extraordinary circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic on our lives, work and education, Point Park University will offer all students the option of converting letter grades earned in current spring 2020 courses to Pass/No Credit at the conclusion of the semester. Once faculty post letter grades for the spring 2020 courses, students may choose to convert grades of A, B, C, or D to Pass; students may choose to convert a grade of F to N, which means No Credit (see the Student Handbook, page 60, for the University grading policy). Neither the Pass nor the No Credit grade will affect overall grade point average. Students should consider this option carefully by consulting the guide located here.

To be clear, the process will work like this:

ON RESIDENCE HALLS

Students must leave the University residence halls no later than Friday, March 27, 2020. More information can be found here.

ON CHANGES TO DAILY OPERATION OF THE UNIVERSITY

Only those positions essential to the health and safety of the University will be permitted on campus. This move ensures the safety of the workforce and complies with government mandates.  The University continues our uninterrupted business operations remotely. Please review the details of the plan and what you should do to comply with this important change. This plan goes into full effect no later than Monday, March 23, 2020. Click here to review the plan.

ON GRADUATE HOODING AND COMMENCEMENT

The University announced on Thursday, March 19, 2020, the postponement of Spring Graduate Hooding and Commencement ceremonies scheduled for April 25, 2020. Graduating students will be contacted soon by their schools and respective programs regarding ideas and suggestions for a virtual commencement for each school or program. The University will also continue to explore options for a University-wide, in-person, Commencement ceremony for the entire class of 2020 when conditions allow. 

IF YOU PURCHASED REGALIA FOR COMMENCEMENT

If you purchased regalia for commencement on line via Oak Hall website or in person from the Campus Barnes & Nobel Bookstore, click here for information on returns.

ON #POINTPARKTOGETHERAPART

As we support one another and adjust to the changes, Point Park University has created a virtual home for sharing student, faculty and staff experiences and virtual engagements at the hashtag #PointParkTogetherApart

Videos, photos and online messages are welcome from students, faculty and staff as we adjust to this new, temporary norm.

Let us see what your work-at-home environment looks like and the pets helping you adjust; pass along some tips on how to stay efficient and focused, and seek advice from the Point Park community.

Point Park will continue to follow our plan to keep the University functioning for our students. Please continue reading these official communications, which will be sent via email and posted to the University website – that is the official source for anything related to the University.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan
President

March 20, 2020

Dear University Community,

As we continue to see new governmental directives during this COVID-19 pandemic, I want to assure you that Point Park University is fully complying with all government regulations and guidance.

We have successfully transferred to remote education delivery and University operations are being done remotely as much as possible. For the students who live in our residence halls, I want to thank you and your families for the way you are handling the move-out procedure in what I know is a very stressful time.

For anyone who is approved to be physically on campus in any form, I would ask that you continue to be careful and practice social distancing measures at all times. Hand sanitizers are full and located at all key entry points to our campus.

UNIVERSITY GRADING POLICY

The University's academic leaders have been in discussion about amending the academic grading policy temporarily to address concerns and issues provoked by the pandemic and the resulting move to remote delivery of Point Park courses.  A decision will be made over the weekend and announced Monday morning. The current academic grading policy can be found on page 60 of the Student Handbook, here.

Point Park will continue to follow through on our plan to keep the University functioning for our students. Please continue reading our official communication, which will be sent via email and posted on our website – that is the official source for anything related to the University.

Paul Hennigan
President

March 20, 2020

Dear University Community:

Thank you for your continued commitment to doing all that you can to protect yourself and the University community from exposure to Coronavirus (COVID-19). As we continue to keep you up to date on important changes we are making in this effort, please remember the credible source for information on University operations continues to be found on the University website.

Here are today’s important reminders and updates:

ON CHANGES TO THE DAILY OPERATION OF THE UNIVERSITY

Following guidance of the Allegheny County Department of Health, the University on Thursday, March 19, 2020, announced an immediate move of staff to a virtual, remote work environment. Only those positions essential to the health and safety of the University will be permitted on campus.  This move ensures the safety of the workforce as well as providing uninterrupted business operations of the University.  Please review the details of the plan and what you should do to comply with this important change. This plan goes into full effect no later than Monday, March 23, 2020. Click here to review the plan.

ON COMPUTER AND OTHER LABS AND FACILITIES CLOSED EFFECTIVE MONDAY

As the University transitions to only essential personnel on campus, the computer labs will be closing according to the schedule below. We remind those who use the lab to practice social distancing in an effort to contain spread of the virus.

ON LIBRARY OPERATIONS

The following are additional changes to Library operations.  Until further notice there is a discontinuation of scanning reserve materials and pulling books and DVDs for physical pick up.

Online resources continue to be available.  Any questions or concerns, please email the library team at library@pointpark.edu   Librarians are monitoring online requests Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - Midnight, Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

ON THE POINT PARK UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE

The bookstore has closed until further notice.  You can visit the store online here for all your bookstore needs.

ON POINT PERK CAFÉ

Point Perk located in the Village Park is closed until further notice.

ON MAIL CENTER OPERATIONS

Beginning on Monday, March 23, the Mail Center will be open Mondays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

The window will remain closed but mail can be deposited in the slot. Please only drop off mail during the hours of operation listed above.  If you have bulk mailings or need other services, please ring the doorbell or call x3820. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Mail Center at x3820 or the Physical Plant at x3495.

ON RESIDENCE HALLS

Students must leave the University residence halls no later than Friday, March 27, 2020. More information can be found here.

ON SAFETY ON CAMPUS DURING REMOTE OPERATIONS

Campus police are essential personnel and will continue to work to keep the campus safe and secure.  As always, it is recommended that you lock your office and secure any valuables during this period of remote operations.

ON GRADUATE HOODING AND COMMENCEMENT

The University announced on Thursday, March 19, 2020, the postponement of Spring Graduate Hooding and Commencement ceremonies scheduled for April 25, 2020. Graduating students will be contacted soon by their schools and respective programs regarding ideas and suggestions for a virtual commencement for each school or program. The University will also continue to explore options for a University-wide, in-person, Commencement ceremony for the entire class of 2020 when conditions allow. 

ON #POINTPARKTOGHETHERAPART

As we support one another and adjust to the changes, Point Park University hopes to create a home for sharing student, faculty and staff experiences and virtual engagements at the hashtag

#PointParkTogetherApart

Videos, photos and online messages are welcome from students, faculty and staff as we adjust to this new, temporary norm.

Let us see what your work-at-home environment looks like and the pets helping you adjust; pass along some tips on how to stay efficient and focused, and seek advice from the Point Park community.

Thank you

Paul Hennigan
President

March 19, 2020

Dear University Community,

Graduate Hooding and Commencement ceremonies are a tremendous, joyous celebration and rite of passage for graduate and undergraduate students as they complete one crucial part of their academic journey. Every year, we look forward to the Spring Commencement ceremonies, when hundreds of Point Park students and thousands of their friends and family members join together to acknowledge our graduating students’ hard work, commitment and achievement as we welcome them into the community of Point Park alumnae. 

With great sadness, I must postpone this Spring’s Graduate Hooding and Commencement ceremonies scheduled for April 25, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has become a local, state and national emergency.   

I understand this news will disappoint many people, and I wish circumstances were different, but we must make the responsible decision to postpone the ceremonies. 

Graduating students will be contacted soon by their schools and respective programs regarding ideas and suggestions for a virtual commencement for each school or program. The University will continue to explore options for a University-wide, in-person, Commencement ceremony for the entire class of 2020 when conditions allow. Please look for more news on this in the future. Thank you for your patience and understanding as Point Park University meets the challenges of the pandemic while remaining true to our mission and commitment to provide an excellent education.

Paul Hennigan
President

March 18, 2020

Dear University Community,

As we enter the next phase of University operations today by delivering the academic mission to our students using all available remote and social distancing opportunities, I want to thank everyone for working together to find the paths forward in this unprecedented time.

Thank you students for your patience while we work to make the best decisions  for your safety and continued education.  Thank you faculty as we pivot from classroom learning to on-line delivery. Thank you to our mission support staff throughout all aspects of our University for working remotely from home and continuing to come to campus, using social distancing as a guide, to ensure the delivery of our educational mission.

ON STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Students seeking assistance with tutoring services, disability services, Summer and Fall registration and contacting your Success Coordinator, click here.

ON LIBRARY OPERATIONS

Given the very recent updates about the public health crisis nationally and in the city, all requests for Library items must be submitted online. If you need a book, play, etc. please log into your Library account and place a hold on the needed item. Email notifications will be sent when items can be picked up from the Library. All reference transactions will be conducted online. 

Research databases are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week through the Library webpage.

ON RESIDENCE HALLS

Students must leave the University residence halls no later than Friday, March 27, 2020. More information can be found here.

MORE INFORMATION

It is critical that you rely on credible sources for information regarding the virus. The following link is a short informative video that explains why and how the virus spreads

https://youtu.be/fgBla7RepXU

Your credible source for information on University operations continues to be found on the University website. www.pointpark.edu

Paul Hennigan
President

March 17, 2020

Dear Campus Community:

Following are today’s important announcements pertaining to the operation of Point Park University and precautions we should all be taking as we face the challenges of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

As the University community continues to manage its way through the circumstances related to COVID-19, I want to make clear that all University policy changes, information on academics, housing and other information will be communicated through these briefings and will be posted on the University website. 

ON WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL

At Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf’s COVID-19 briefing on Monday, March 16, 2020, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine offered these simple instructions to those trying to determine what to do if they feel worried, sick or ill. 

Stay calm. Stay safe. Stay at home.

To all at the Point Park community, if you test positive for COVID-19 please contact:

For students,                    Keith Paylo      kpaylo@pointpark.edu

For faculty and staff        Lisa Stefanko  lstefanko@pointpark.edu

ON RESIDENCE HALLS

The following is an update to yesterday’s Residence Hall announcement. 

To address the health crisis, Point Park University is asking all residential students to leave the residence halls no later than Friday, March 27, 2020. Very few exceptions will be granted. Additional information will be sent to students today from Keith Paylo, Dean of Students. 

ON STUDENT CENTER OPERATION

The Student Center is closed. All student meeting spaces, gymnasiums and workout areas in the facility are closed until further notice. Student ID cards will no longer work for access to this facility until further notice.

ON COUNSELING CENTER SERVICES

The University Counseling Center will adjust its operations for the remainder of the spring term. Further changes may be required as public health directives warrant. At present, the Center is not open to walk-in service requests. The Center will remain open for scheduled consultations and ongoing therapy appointments. Starting therapy now will not be an option, but we are able to provide consultation and referral support. If you would like to schedule a consultation, please call or email us at counseling@pointpark.edu or by phone at 412-392-3977.

If you or a loved one is feeling distress related to the COVID-19 pandemic, these resources might be of use:

ON SUMMER CLASSES

Point Park University will continue to offer its full schedule of in-person and online courses for Summer terms I and II. Students can register for these courses using the usual methods already in place for registration.

STUDENT SERVICES FOR PROSPECTIVE AND CURRENT STUDENTS

Beginning Wednesday, March 18, 2020, all Student Services offices will offer services to current and prospective students by phone or online only. Those services include: Admissions, Financial Aid, Student Accounts, Graduate Admissions, International Student Services and Enrollment, COPA recruiting services, Registrar, Athletics, and Center for Student Success until further notice. For a complete list of contact information for these areas, click here.

ID CENTER OPERATIONS

The ID Center will be closed for in-person service until further notice. If your ID needs to be replaced, please click here and follow the instructions to submit your photo. Your ID will be printed and sent to you. For all other issues, please call the ID Center at (412)392-8066.  

THE CENTER FOR MEDIA INNOVATION (CMI)

The CMI is closed until further notice. For those seeking services for podcasts and other issues, please contact CMI Director Andy Conte at aconte@pointpark.edu

ON COMMENCEMENT

We continue to monitor guidance from the CDC, federal, state and local governments on guidelines related to large gatherings. We understand commencement is a special time for students and families.  We ask for your patience while we continue to assess the viability of holding a Commencement ceremony.

Thank you again for your understanding and your strength as we move through these challenging times together as a community.

Paul Hennigan
President

March 16, 2020

Dear University Community,

I want to take this opportunity to thank every member of the Point Park University community --students, faculty and staff -- for your teamwork, patience and understanding during these challenging times.

The COVID-19 virus is unlike anything we have ever experienced in our lifetimes. The situation is changing rapidly and we are following guidance and direction from Federal, State, and local governments. The University continues to make changes with one goal – continued delivery of the University mission in a safe and secure campus community.     

Effective today, March 16, 2020, the following policies are in place:

RESIDENCE HALLS

COMMENCEMENT

The University will provide online and alternative instruction as scheduled beginning Wednesday, March 18, 2020. 

We will continue to keep you up to date as necessary and ask everyone to continue to follow hand sanitization and social distancing practices.

Staff should adhere to the guidelines from the CDC on social distancing measures as well as hygiene steps to limit or prevent exposure and transmission of the virus.  Further information will be provided to staff soon by Lisa Stefanko, Vice President Human Resources.

Thank you.

Paul Hennigan

March 13, 2020

Dear University Community:

Thank you very much for all of your cooperation and support of each other as we continue to move through an unprecedented set of circumstances with the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).

Below is an update on several policy changes the University has put in place effective today, Friday, March 13, 2020, due to the ongoing global nature of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).

DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

Point Park will cancel all University-affiliated international and domestic travel until further notice. 

GUIDANCE REGARDING ON-CAMPUS MEETINGS

The University remains open and operational at this time.  Until further notice, large gatherings have been cancelled.

If you need to convene a face-to-face meeting, limit the number of participants to 25 or less and ensure the meeting is in a space large enough to practice social distancing.  All such meetings should be approved in advance by:

(The CDC defines social distancing as avoiding crowds and mass public gatherings, and when possible, maintaining a distance of approximately six feet from others.  Social distancing also means staying at home when ill, avoiding contact with people who have symptoms of illness, and not shaking hands).

COMMENCEMENT

No decision has been made at this time regarding commencement.

We will continue to provide updates as necessary.

Thank you.

Paul Hennigan
President

March 12, 2020

To the University Community:

From the onset of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), Point Park University has followed the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to protect the safety and well-being of the Point Park University community, which remains the University’s highest priority.

At this time, there are no confirmed cases on the Point Park University campus or in Allegheny County; however, the virus continues to spread globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared it a pandemic, a term the WHO warns not to take lightly or carelessly because, “if misused, can cause unreasonable fear, or unjustified acceptance that the fight is over."

Because of the uncertainty surrounding the virus and its transmission, the University will take further action to protect our campus community. 

To continue to respond to this unprecedented, rapidly changing situation and provide a safe campus environment, while ensuring uninterrupted delivery of educational instruction, effective March 12, 2020, Point Park will institute the following measures:

We instruct our campus community to continue to follow the CDC guidelines on best hygiene steps to prevent exposure and transmission of the virus.

We will continue to provide enhanced cleaning services in high impact areas of the campus with the greatest degree of foot traffic as well as provide increased hand sanitization stations in these areas with instructions for proper hand sanitization techniques.

We instruct all faculty and staff continue to alert the University Human Resources Office if you have recently returned from travel to affected areas and to take necessary precautions defined by the CDC. 

While the course of events surrounding the virus and its transmission remains uncertain, I am confident that the Point Park community will work together during this period of uncertainty to support the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

All members of the Point Park University community should check the University website homepage and Point Park University email accounts regularly for updated information and instructions.

Thank you.

Paul Hennigan

Point Park University continues to closely monitor the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). No cases have been reported at Point Park University, or in Allegheny County.

At the direction of President Paul Hennigan, a task force of senior level leadership meets daily to review the latest information on the disease spread and make decisions to protect the safety and well-being of the Point Park University community.

Our approach is three-pronged:

Education

The University has communicated with, and will continue to communicate with, students, faculty and staff on Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines on best hygiene steps to prevent exposure and transmission of the disease.

Additionally, we have been in touch with all students studying abroad and at sea with recommendations on return to campus for those countries listed by the CDC at Level 3* or higher. Fortunately, the University has only one student currently impacted and that student has returned to the United States, has no symptoms and is following the CDC guidelines of self-isolation.  We will continue to follow the ever-changing status both in the US and abroad and make the necessary adjustments.

Our outreach and education on travel outside of the area extends to faculty and staff and we have communicated similar information to those community members to alert the University if they have recently returned from travel to affected areas and take the necessary precautions defined by the CDC.

Prevention

The University has increased cleaning services in high impact areas of the campus that see the greatest degree of foot traffic. The University is providing additional hand sanitization stations in these areas along with instructions for proper hand sanitization techniques. 

We have communicated with students, faculty and staff the importance of self-isolation and seeking medical care if they believe they have come in contact with an infected individual.  

Mitigation

While there have been no confirmed cases in the immediate area and no indications of a need to close schools in the region, the University is working to ensure that in the event of a closure, instruction will continue uninterrupted remotely using technology already in place at the University.

Out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors, we will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate actions.