COVID-19 Update, March 5, 2020

Dear Students, Staff, and Faculty,

Bay Path University has been closely monitoring the coronavirus and its potential impact on University-sponsored travel. Due to recent developments and under the guidance of federal and state health organizations, we have decided to cancel the Capitals of the World Trip (COTW) to Lisbon, Portugal scheduled from March 8 – 16.

The decision to cancel this trip was not made lightly. The status of the coronavirus is constantly being revised and we need to keep the safety of our students, guests and employees as our number one priority. We are following recommendations to cancel international student travel from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Governor Charlie Baker of Massachusetts has also asked schools, colleges, and universities to cancel upcoming trips abroad in order to limit exposure to the virus. Although Portugal is currently a low risk country, the pace at which things change daily was an important factor that was taken into consideration.

We have reached out to each of the trip participants. They have been apprised of the situation, and we are working out the financial reimbursements and details. Anne Chapdelaine, dean of students, is assisting COTW students who will require housing over spring break.

I know this may be a great disappointment, but during these challenging times the safety and well-being of trip participants and the Bay Path community must take precedence.

For the most up-to-date information, University guidance and resources about coronavirus, please visit our website.

Yours,
Carol Leary
President