Drury University students were recently informed that changes are taking place in order to "stem the tide and stop the spread of COVID-19," following Governor Mike Paron's new social-distancing order which took effect Monday, March 23. 

The actions the university is taking are as follows, effective immediately:

• Classes will remain online through the end of the semester,

• Adjustments to spring commencement ceremonies, to be determined in the coming weeks,

• Campus housing will close until further notice. Those currently living on campus must pack all of their belongings, return their keys and leave the campus as soon as possible. In-person check-out appointments will not take place. Students who have not left the campus must visit https://www.drury.edu/housing/express-checkout-form to sign up for a move-out date and time. Students should choose different timeframes than their roommates to limit exposure. Cleaning fees will be waived to expedite the move-out process. Key returns are located on campus. All residents must be checked out of housing with keys turned in by Friday, March 27. Students who hope to stay beyond the deadline due to extenuating circumstances must email dos@drury.edu.

"We understand this is a difficult moment for us all.  We are a university built on personalized education; an institution where we build relationships that last a lifetime," Drury University President Dr. Timothy Cloyd said in a letter sent to the students on Monday. "At the same time, your safety is and always has been our number one priority."

Cloyd noted the difficulty for seniors who had hoped to finish the year out with their friends and campus community and encouraged them to remember that those connections will remain without the previously anticipated congratulations and camaraderie that happens on campus. He suggested the students treasure and nourish their Drury connections even if only virtually for the time being.

"I would like to thank each of you for contributing to the ‘Drury Difference.’  You are what makes this university great," Cloyd said. "I know we are in for challenging times in the weeks and months ahead.  However, I also know that we are a resilient community that has persevered through many challenges since our founding in 1873.  We will persevere again."