Fifteen Students Suspended Following Off-Campus Party Wednesday

Marist College suspended 15 students for violating guidelines at an off-campus party on Wednesday evening, President Dennis J. Murray wrote in an email to students. He warned that students may be required to complete the semester online if the trend should continue. 

The college implemented an addendum to the Student Code of Conduct for the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency. Students were required to complete a training module prior to their arrival and indicate their agreement to follow these guidelines, such as wearing face coverings in appropriate areas, participating in daily health screenings and avoiding large group gatherings. 

“Social events, especially parties, violate public health protocols and have been the direct cause of the closure of college campuses, which have inhibited schools from providing the in-person education students and families desire,” Vice President of Student Affairs Deb DiCaprio wrote in an email. 

Other college campuses are already struggling to contain the virus. Notre Dame reported at least 336 coronavirus cases as of Friday and moved classes online for two weeks. University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill transitioned to fully remote learning after one week of classes. 

Murray emphasized the strict enforcement of policies and requisite disciplinary action for violators, including suspension and dismissal from Marist. 

“Please don’t be a knucklehead who disregards the safety of others and puts our ability to remain on campus at risk,” Murray said.

Source: Tara Guaimano