Midwestern University Official Statement for Spring Quarter on Our Campuses

March 02, 2021 | Midwestern University

Midwestern University is pleased to report that our protocols to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus on our campuses and at our clinics are proving to be very effective. During the Winter Quarter, both campuses reported a steady decrease in the number of positive COVID-19 cases and a low infection rate overall.

Therefore, Midwestern University’s campuses in Downers Grove, IL, and Glendale, AZ will continue the hybrid learning model for the Spring 2020-2021 academic quarter. This model combines virtual and in-person labs, lectures, and other educational experiences. Due in large part to careful planning by the Midwestern University Response Team and the efforts of everyone at Midwestern University, this model has proven to be successful. As COVID-19 cases continue to decrease and vaccines become more available, Midwestern University looks forward to opening our classrooms, clinics, and facilities to more students, faculty, staff, and patients.

“Due to all of us following the CDC’s recommended guidelines, we have been able to keep our positive cases of COVID-19 to remarkably low numbers,” said Kathleen H. Goeppinger, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer.  “While this is indeed cause to celebrate, we must continue to be diligent in caring for our health and the well-being of our family, friends, and colleagues.”

The University will continue to require everyone on our campuses and in our clinics to wear a face covering in all public spaces and in all campus facilities. In addition to maintaining enhanced cleaning protocols, providing additional hand sanitizing stations, installing plexiglass shields in high-traffic areas, and increasing the air exchange in campus and clinic facilities, the University also has taken the following steps to ensure the health and safety of our community:

• Daily Health Screenings – students, faculty, staff, and visitors are required to complete a daily health screening and record their temperature prior to coming to campus. Protocols are in place to immediately address any health concerns and limit the potential exposure to the virus.
• Occupancy Limits – the University has implemented reductions in occupancy levels in classrooms, laboratories, and lecture halls, and will continue to schedule smaller student groups for in-person learning.
• Enhanced Educational Technology– new hardware and software are being used to provide better learning experiences for students taking their coursework both online and in-person. Our enhanced technology includes improved audio-visual tools to facilitate the recording of all lectures, presentation materials, and documents.
• Increased Cleaning and Sanitation Procedures – all campus and clinic facilities are cleaned and sanitized daily, as well as using outside airflow and HEPA filtration systems. Computer labs are being cleaned three times a day; campus cafeterias are open with additional health and safety protocols being followed; campus libraries are open with enhanced cleaning and social distancing guidelines in place, and library books and materials are being sanitized on a frequent basis. Signage throughout our campuses and clinics serve as important reminders to wear a mask, keep appropriate social distance, and wash your hands.
• Continued Student Support and Mentorship–interaction, guidance, and support of the Midwestern University faculty and staff is an important component to our students’ success and the University will continue to provide student support and mentorship with virtual meetings and office hours via teleconference. 

Midwestern University will continue to monitor the latest developments and recommendations from Federal, State, and Local authorities regarding COVID-19, and will update its plans accordingly.