The health of the WPU community is our top priority.

This website is intended to provide our students, faculty, staff and visitors with the latest information about the COVID-19 outbreak, measures implemented to reduce its spread, and the impact on travel and other activities. WPU administrators are actively monitoring the situation and will make every effort, to follow recommendations made by government and public health agencies, including the State Department and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The leadership of Warner Pacific University continues to closely monitor the progression of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We remain committed to the health and wellbeing of our students, faculty, and staff during this time and are making every effort to communicate updates to our community. Please review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for answers to your questions and information on campus operations and resources.

COVID-19 Reporting FormCOVID-19 Dashboard
Knights’ Pledge COVID-19 Vaccine

Communicable Disease Updates

CARES Act Institutional Report December 2022
CARES Act Institutional Report September 2022
Preparedness Plan August 2022
CARES Act Institutional Report June 2022
CARES Act Institutional Report March 2022
Masking Change Effective March 12, 2022
Spring 2022 Preparedness Plan
OSHA COVID-19 ETS Vaccination/Testing Policy – U.S. Supreme Court Update
Final Higher Education Relief Funds Update: December 2021
CARES Act Institutional Report December 2021
Warner Pacific University Covid-19 Update: 21-Day Suspension of In-Person Campus Activities
CARES Act Institutional Report September 2021
Higher Education Relief Funds Update: September 2021
CARES Act Institutional Report June 2021
CARES Act Institutional Report March 2021
Warner Pacific Will Return to In-Person Campus Life for Fall 2021
Higher Education Relief Funds – Final Report (January 10, 2021)
Important updates regarding classes and services – Multnomah County freeze
Higher Education Relief Funds Update (November 17, 2020)
CARES Act Institutional Report October 2020
Higher Education Relief Funds Update (October 7, 2020)
Higher Education Relief Funds Update (August 27, 2020)
Warner Pacific University Update on Fall 2020 Academics
Warner Pacific University Health and Safety Update
Higher Education Relief Funds Update (July 30, 2020)
Warner Pacific University Plans for Fall 2020
Higher Education Relief Funds Update (June 28, 2020)
Higher Education Relief Funds Update (May 29, 2020)
CARES Act Student Emergency Grants (May 4, 2020)
Latest WPU Coronavirus Update (3/23/2020)
WPU Coronavirus Update (3/19/2020)
WPU Coronavirus Update (3/12/2020)

About Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

How is it transmitted?

Most often, spread from person-to-person happens among close contacts (about 6 feet). Person-to-person spread is thought to occur mainly via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other respiratory pathogens spread (source: CDC). Read more about how COVID-19 spreads.

What are the symptoms?

Commonly reported symptoms of COVID-19 infection include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and pneumonia. While the exact incubation period for this coronavirus has not yet been determined, it is believed that most infected people will develop symptoms two to 14 days after they were exposed (source: Maryland Department of Health).

What is novel coronavirus?

2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus (more specifically, a coronavirus) identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China (source: CDC). Read more about 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

What measures can you take to minimize risk of exposure?

There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19 infection. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides recommendations to reduce exposure to and transmission of a range of illnesses. Read WHO advice for the public.

Don’t forget to protect yourself from another common virus, the flu (influenza). Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza. See People at High Risk of Developing Flu-Related Complications for a full list of age and health factors that confer increased risk. To be clear, the influenza virus is a different virus from COVID-19, and getting your flu shot will not protect you from COVID-19. But both viruses are spread in the same fashion and we do have a vaccine to help prevent the spread of the flu. At this time in the United States, your risk of getting the flu is much greater than your risk of contracting COVID-19.

What should you do if you have symptoms?

If you feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical care right away from a healthcare provider. Call ahead to let the healthcare provider know your symptoms and recent travel history. Please avoid contact with other until you have been evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Travel Information

Travel restrictions and advisories may change frequently. Please be aware of travel restrictions to and from China issued by the U.S. government, as well as policies and guidelines affecting WPU students, faculty, and staff.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Warnings

U.S. embassy and consulates in China suspend visa issuance

U.S. Department of State China travel advisory

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention information for travelers to and from China

Prevention

  • Stay home if you are sick
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash, immediately
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces that are often touched
  • Take care of your health overall. Staying current on your vaccinations, including flu vaccine, eating well, getting adequate sleep, and exercising all help your body stay resilient
  • Consult the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel website for any travel advisories and steps to protect yourself if you plan to travel outside the United States

Diversity and Civility

Avoid making assumptions about individuals who you believe may or may not have come into contact with someone who is carrying the virus. In some cases, public reactions to the virus have been sensationalized, and there have been individuals at institutions of higher education who reported encountering discrimination and harassment due to biased assumptions and overreactions. We treasure our international community members, students of color, and everyone who may be affected by this situation. We want to remind all members of our community to embody WPU’s Core Values of diversity and civility by providing understanding and support during this evolving situation.

World Health Organization Mythbusters

The World Health Organization, a division of the United Nations that specializes in international public health, offers these answers to frequently asked questions about the novel coronavirus.

Can pets at home spread the new coronavirus (covid-19)?

At present, there is no evidence that companion animals/pets such as dogs or cats can be infected with the new coronavirus. However, it is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets. This protects you against various common bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.

Does the new coronavirus affect older people, or are younger people also susceptible?

People of all ages can be infected by the new coronavirus (COVID-19). Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus.

WHO advises people of all ages to take steps to protect themselves from the virus, for example by following good hand hygiene and good respiratory hygiene.

How effective are thermal scanners in detecting people infected with the new coronavirus?

Thermal scanners are effective in detecting people who have developed a fever (i.e., have a higher than normal body temperature) because of infection with the new coronavirus.

However, they cannot detect people who are infected but are not yet sick with fever. This is because it takes between 2 and 10 days before people who are infected become sick and develop a fever.

Is it safe to receive a letter or a package from China?

Yes, it is safe. People receiving packages from China are not at risk of contracting the new coronavirus. From previous analysis, we know coronaviruses do not survive long on objects, such as letters or packages.

Are antibiotics effective in preventing and treating the new coronavirus?

No, antibiotics do not work against viruses, only bacteria.

The new coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus and, therefore, antibiotics should not be used as a means of prevention or treatment.

However, if you are hospitalized for the COVID-19, you may receive antibiotics because bacterial co-infection is possible.

Are hand dryers effective in killing the new coronavirus?

No. Hand dryers are not effective in killing COVID-19. To protect yourself against the new coronavirus, you should frequently clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Once your hands are cleaned, you should dry them thoroughly by using paper towels or a warm air dryer.

Are there any specific medicines to prevent or treat the new coronavirus?

To date, there is no specific medicine recommended to prevent or treat the new coronavirus (COVID-19).However, those infected with the virus should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms, and those with severe illness should receive optimized supportive care. Some specific treatments are under investigation, and will be tested through clinical trials. WHO is helping to accelerate research and development efforts with a range or partners.

Can an ultraviolet disinfection lamp kill the new coronavirus?

UV lamps should not be used to sterilize hands or other areas of skin as UV radiation can cause skin irritation.

General Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my books?

Books are provided for each student through Tree of Life. For Traditional students, you can pick up your books at the Student Life center between 8:00am and 5:00pm, Monday through Thursday during the first week of classes. Starting Monday the 31st, any books that have not been picked up yet will be available for pickup in the Mailroom. Our Professional and Graduate Studies (PGS) students will have their textbooks mailed to their home address.

How do I report a concern for myself or others?

Our CARE Team meets regularly to coordinate support and assistance for students. If you have a need personally or know of another student’s need, you may let us know by filling out the form at wpulife.com/report or by contacting Kimberly Love at 503-517-1009 or klove@gitjkdpenjalin.com.

How will I attend Chapel this year?

Traditional Chapels will be conducted virtually in the first semester on Tuesdays from 10:30-11:20am.  Sessions (small groups) will happen on Thursdays from 10:30-11:20am.  Students will be permitted to enter these virtual gatherings for up to ten minutes into the start time (after that the virtual event will be closed).  Attendance will be logged via a link provided by the Campus Ministries team during the gathering.  There are 30 standard opportunities for students to engage in our unique community gatherings.  Students may also attend in-person 4 live meditative-worship events planned  (Uphill & Unplugged) .  Capacity will be determined based on what is allowed at the time of scheduling.  Students may also receive “faith credit” for having a 1-on-1 conference (live or virtual) with the Campus Pastor (or a representative).  All total, there are 35 opportunities to receive faith-credits in the fall semester.

How will I know if there are confirmed COVID-19 cases on campus?

Warner Pacific University will keep the community updated through our COVID-19 dashboard. WPU will maintain this page to inform the community on the number of confirmed positive COVID-19 cases reported from students, faculty, staff and campus visitors (outside vendors, etc.) who have been known to be on campus.

How will service learning work?

Service learning and civic engagement opportunities will be provided throughout the Fall semester in both in-person and virtual modalities. Common Day of Service in September will include both virtual/remote learning options and service projects students may complete from any location. Faith and Service requirements remain the same as previous years for all students, with options to complete all requirements from home. All students must end the semester with 25 faith and service credits. Residential students are expected to attend 15 faith experiences (chapel, sessions, uphill and unplugged, Campus Pastor meeting) and complete 10 service hours. Commuters must have a combination of faith and service hours that equal 25, with at least 5 faith hours and 5 service hours.

How will the dining hall work?

On-campus dining will be adapted to facilitate social distancing and other safety measures. Seating capacity at the dining hall will be reduced for the Fall semester, online ordering will be available, and most meals will be prepared for take-away without self-service options. Extended hours and expanded pick up locations will help reduce density at any given time.

I am planning to take only online classes during the fall semester. Am I required to live on campus?

Residential requirements remain in place, but students who have concerns or questions may file for accommodations through the Disability Resource Center or by petitioning for an exception through the Student Life Policy Review Committee. More information can be found through contacting Vanessa Guerrero, WPU’s housing coordinator. If we move to online only classes during the semester, are students eligible for prorated refunds for housing or meal plans?

Is the Academic Calendar the same?

The first day of academic instruction for Fall 2020 is August 24, 2020 and will conclude on December 15, 2020. The academic calendar for the full academic year (Fall and Spring semesters) can be located online at http://gpheup.gitjkdpenjalin.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Academic-Calendar-2020-2021.pdf. This calendar outlines holidays, the finals schedule, commencement and other planned deadlines.

Is the Rec Center open?

The projected opening date for the Fitness Center and Weight Room is September 1. The area will have new health guidelines and sanitation protocols in place, and only WPU students and staff will be allowed to use the facilities. Updates will be communicated should changes to guidelines be needed. The WPU gymnasium will open in mid-September.

Is there a deadline to request fully online classes?

If a student or someone they live with are in an at-risk category and the student needs to access all coursework online, we ask that you would fill out a Request For Fully Online Courses. Not all courses are available fully online. If the request is not approved, we recommend that the student connect with their academic advisor to adjust their course load or explore how the course requirements can be fulfilled in another manner. The request to be “Fully Online” needs to be submitted by the add/drop date (September 4, 2020).

What are the mailroom hours?

The mailroom is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

What do I do if I feel sick?

Every campus community member is asked to self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19 before coming to campus. If you have any of the symptoms related to COVID-19 or listed on WPU’s Campus Clear app, please contact your medical professional to address your symptoms. Students may also visit knights.care to speak with a doctor.

What is happening with athletics?

All sports will continue this year. Fall sports competitions have been moved to Spring 2021 with practices beginning later in the Fall semester. Winter sports will begin after November 1, 2020. Spring sports will remain as scheduled. Updates for this and all information regarding Knights athletics can be found at wpuknights.com. WPU will continue to follow all NAIA protocols and Federal, state, and local guidance for a safe return to competition.

What is the “Knights’ Pledge”?

The Knights Pledge is our shared commitment to practices that protect the health of ourselves, others, and our campus community as we begin to re-engage in more in-person learning environments. A summary of the pledges’ key points and the entire pledge can be located at gitjkdpenjalin.com/knightspledge

What is the plan for campus housing?

We understand that campus housing is many students’ primary residence during the year. Therefore, we have worked to ensure that housing may remain open and available to students regardless of whether classes are able to meet in person or must adjust to online only at some point during the semester. Students who move into campus housing this Fall are agreeing to remain in the unit for the semester. Any changes made to housing and meal plans prior to September 5th may be eligible for a pro-rated refund. Changes made after September 5th will not be considered for a refund.

What is the plan for cleaning and sanitizing in the residential halls?

Shared spaces including lounges and laundry rooms are sanitized five days a week and cleaned daily. Cleaning materials are also available for residents to perform additional sanitization of areas they are using. Please only use the bathroom on your wing or floor. RAs will also sanitize shared spaces during nightly rounds.

What support services are available?

Support services such as Counseling, Academic Tutoring, Success and Retention Services, Disability Resources, and more are available through both in person and phone/video conferencing meetings. Students may contact the relevant departments to schedule appointments in advance.

What will happen if someone tests positive for COVID-19?

Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 is asked to report this to WPU’s COVID Response Team. They will be asked when they were last on campus and additional questions in order to facilitate contact tracing.

What’s the policy about residential Guests and visitation?

To assist with contact tracing and reduce the spread of COVID-19, only residents of a residence hall are allowed in the building. External visitors are not allowed in campus housing. Apartment residents may invite another student into their unit with the permission of their suitemate if they have one. Residence hall residents may have one resident from their floor or wing in their room at a time.  WPU is creating outdoor spaces where residents may meet other students if desired.

When and how do I obtain a parking pass?

We have moved to an online vehicle registration/parking pass order form for the Fall semester.  Students will pick up their parking pass at the Student Life Center when they arrive on campus.

Will athletes still practice?

Official start to sport practices will be phased in beginning September 14, 2020. Please check wpuknights.com for updates.

Will class sizes change?

Our campus, classrooms, and coursework have all been redesigned to maintain safety protocols according to the best guidelines from our county, state, and higher education officials. Still, we recognize that there may be circumstances that put students, employees or family members at higher risk of serious illness, and we are making every effort to continue to make coursework accessible for all involved. In accordance with county guidelines, in- person classes will have a maximum of 25 students in Phase 1 and a maximum of 50 students in phase 2. All classrooms are set up for students to maintain 6 ft. of physical distance from other students at all times.

Will I be required to be test for COVID-19?

Warner Pacific University students and employees are not required to test for COVID-19 at this time.

Will I be required to wear a mask?

Everyone (faculty, staff, students, and visitors) will wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in University buildings and on the campus grounds when others are present, unless an exception has been approved.

Will I share a room?

Students who choose to live on campus for the Fall will be assigned a single-occupancy room for the semester. WPU has moved to single-occupancy only rooms to ensure that housing can remain open for students no matter what direction the pandemic takes.

Will there be events for the residence halls?

Our top priority is creating an engaging environment within our residential spaces while maintaining appropriate distancing and health measures. Throughout the semester, Residence Life will host a combination of virtual programming and in person outdoor events, virtual resident advisor check ins, and virtual residence life coordinator meet and greets. Students will have access to facilitated discussions about movies, podcasts, and recordings and have the opportunity to access “grab and go” programming materials to help create connection to the residential community. Residence Life will also highlight virtual content and programs from across campus that students may participate in. When possible, events will be held in-person while maintaining safe physical distancing practices.

Are classes going to be in-person or online?

The University currently plans to hold in-person classes with some courses offered in hybrid and online formats for students who are registered for face-to-face instruction, and we will continue to provide instruction to students registered in online cohorts. This approach allows us to bring back as many members of our community as possible for the new academic year, while adhering to public health guidance around social distancing and other measures designed in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19

Are there expectations for campus residents?

Residents are expected to wear a mask at all times when outside of their residence hall room or apartment. When in social settings, physical distancing must be maintained at all times.

Can I still visit the counseling center?

Yes. The Counseling Center staff are available for both virtual and in-person appointments this Fall. The center will schedule clients so that there is minimal interaction, and spaces are being reconfigured for appropriate distancing, ventilation, and sanitizing for in-person counseling.

How to Stay Informed

If you have general questions about COVID-19, you can call the state’s general information number 211, or visit the Oregon Health Authorities (OHA’s) website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/emerging-respiratory-infections.aspx for the latest on the outbreak and investigation, and tips on ways you can protect yourself. You can also visit the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/for the latest on the national and international developments, as well as additional resources for staying healthy. You can find information about vaccinations in Oregon at http://covidvaccine.oregon.gov/

If you have any questions, please contact:

Daniel Robles, the Executive Director of Facilities Management and Campus Safety, at 503.517.1219 or at drobles@gitjkdpenjalin.com.

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