The following is an email that was sent to the Loyola community on Thursday, March 5, 2020.
Subject: Protecting the health of our community
Dear Members of the Loyola Community,
With all the concern around the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, I want to assure you that Loyola is actively—and proactively—taking steps to promote the health of our community. At this point, there are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at Loyola or in the state of Maryland, but we are taking every step to prepare.
We will also continue to keep our COVID-19 information page updated. Students, faculty, staff, and administrators who have been traveling to high-risk areas and/or believe they may have been exposed to the coronavirus should visit that page for instructions on whom to contact before returning to campus.
I am grateful to my colleagues across the University who are engaged in planning, as well as those who are providing individual support to students and other members of our community.
At a time of uncertainty, it can be easy to fall victim to anxiety and fear. I hope, however, that you know that the University will take every step to keep the members of our community safe and healthy. As I look back on troubling times we have experienced as a community, I think of how those were moments when we truly lived out our mission as a Jesuit, Catholic institution where every individual is cared for and valued. Whatever lies ahead, I know we will approach those challenges as a community inspired by faith and with the greatest concern for one another.
Students, if you need additional support, please reach out to the professionals in the Counseling Center, Campus Ministry, or the student life office. If you need assistance outside regular business hours, please call the department of public safety at 410-617-5911, and they will connect you with someone who can help. Employees may contact Loyola’s Employee Assistance (EAP) Program at 1-800-765-0770.
In the days and weeks ahead, I encourage you to turn to one another for support. Know that each of you and your families are in my prayers, as well.
Sincerely,
Rev. Brian F. Linnane, S.J.
President