Upper Iowa University announced June 8 that students will return to fall classes August 31. UIU intends to follow the existing 2020-21 academic calendar, as outlined on the University website at uiu.edu. UIU administrators, faculty and staff continue to work on detailed plans for several University operations, including academics, athletics, and Fayette Campus dining services, student housing and events.
To lessen face-to-face interaction between Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks, a time when sickness can be commonly spread, traditional classroom courses at the University’s residential campus in Fayette will be transitioned to online learning from Nov. 30 through the end of final exams Dec. 17. Campus students will have the option to stay in residence, but classes will not meet face-to-face during this holiday period.
UIU President William R. Duffy II said, “Our students and their families can be assured that UIU is working closely with local and state public health officials to create a safe learning environment for students, faculty, and staff while still providing the student-centered education that is a cornerstone of our culture. Although it is our current plan to reopen classrooms on August 31, we realize this is an unusual time in our history and if a change in strategy is required, we will be prepared.”
The Fayette campus orientation, advising and registration day, originally scheduled for June 27, was recently transitioned to two virtual events taking place June 25 and 26. The OAR day previously scheduled for July 17 will now also occur in a virtual format, taking place July 17 and 20. More information about these changes will be communicated to those involved with OAR Days soon. At this time, the Aug. 10 and Aug. 26 OAR dates have not been changed. For additional information, visit uiu.edu.