Otterbein University announces that it intends to open campus for fall semester 2020 and safely and responsibly resume campus life, dependent upon state guidance, including in-person teaching, classes and residence life. Officials at the university will take all safety precautions and follow government orders and protocols.  

“The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff remain our utmost concern. We know that campus life may not look the same, but we strongly believe that personal attention and experiential learning opportunities are cornerstones of a quality Otterbein education,” said President John Comerford.  

A core group of Otterbein officials are working on the details of reopening campus to student life, including classrooms, labs, residence halls, and dining facilities. This group will analyze scenarios and make recommendations which may include educational prevention campaigns, special cleaning, social distancing and protective mask protocols. The same group is looking at how common gathering spaces, student life, special events, athletics and more will be impacted. It will also consider special circumstances and precautions to protect vulnerable populations and individuals. 

“We will provide campus with more details as they become available, but rest assured, we are working diligently to address the many challenges we face in protecting our campus community while welcoming them back to campus,” Comerford said. “I look forward to navigating the ‘new normal’ of university life with everyone this fall.”