UArizona president outlines strategy for fall return to campus

PHOENIX — The president of the University of Arizona confirmed Thursday the fall semester will resume as scheduled Aug. 24 with classes conforming to input from staff, students and their families.

Faculty members have worked with their department heads to determine which courses will be conducted in-person, remotely (live), remotely (pre-recorded) or through a hybrid option, UArizona President Dr. Robert C. Robbins said during a press conference.

“Our aim with this work has been to ensure that we are able to continue to serve our students and the state when the academic year begins,” he said.

“A key consideration is that our enrollment, to date, indicates that Wildcats and their parents believe in the value of returning to campus to pursue their education.”

Students can access their online UArizona portals for information about the chosen formats of their upcoming courses.

Robbins also encouraged those with medical conditions to engage in online instruction.

“Each of us needs to make the best decision for ourselves and for those around us,” he added.

Diagnostic PCR and antibody coronavirus testing will also be available for all students and employees.

The university’s face mask mandate — which was first implemented June 18 — will also remain in effect except in areas where continuous physical distancing of at least 6 feet is possible, according to the university president.

“There are no risk-free options in return to our campus,” Robbins said.

“Our faculty and staff remain our greatest asset, in addition to our students, and I am confident that our broad capabilities, contributions and resilience will enable us to weather this period and emerge even stronger than we are today.”

Robbins added that the campus’ strategy will continue to be adjusted as needed in accordance with the needs of public health and the assessments of university leadership.

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