Mississippi colleges and universities are responding to the threat of COVID-19 by moving classes online, and canceling sporting events, commencements and other social gatherings.
Hinds Community College administrators met on Thursday and determined to shift to an online learning environment for the foreseeable, effective Monday, March 23.
Hinds residence hall students should not return to campus until further notice, and further instructions will be released to students and employees on Friday, March 20.
Similar announcements have been made for Holmes Community College and other campuses in the Mississippi community college system.
The University of Mississippi is moving its classes online or by other remote technologies for the remainder of the semester, and it has postponed commencement ceremonies.
“Commencement in the Grove and other beautiful venues on our campus represents one of our most beloved traditions,” said Chancellor Glenn Boyce in a letter to students, faculty and staff, “and this is a sad but necessary decision for our university community.
“The call on whether to hold Commencement ceremonies will be deferred in the hope that we can set a date for sometime later in the summer. A final decision will be driven by public health considerations, depending on how the virus spreads. One way or another, we will find a way to recognize and celebrate the significant achievements of the members of the Class of 2020.”
Alcorn State University made a similar announcement on Wednesday, postponing both its 2020 commencement ceremony and Alumni Reunion Weekend.
The University of Southern Mississippi will be mailing diplomas and transcripts to students but plans to hold commencement ceremonies at a later date. Classes are being held remotely.
Two students at Jackson State University have tested positive for COVID-19.
“The university is continuing to work closely with MSDH officials for their expertise and guidance during this time,” said Thomas K. Hudson, JSU’s acting president. “Our administration takes this disease very seriously.”
JSU’s measures have included extending spring break, canceling in-person classes, moving to online instruction, and implementing telecommuting for non-essential university personnel.
For updated information on other colleges and universities in Mississippi, or for more complete information on a school listed above, please visit the school’s webpage.
For information on COVID-19, please visit the MSDH website.