April 8, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Donna Oracion, 575-624-7403

575-317-6151

[email protected]

 

ENMU-ROSWELL ADJUSTS OPERATIONS AND OFFERS COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19

 Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell is making continuing efforts to respond to the challenges caused by the COVID-19 health emergency. Dr. Shawn Powell, President, wants the community to know that all decisions place health and safety concerns as our foremost consideration. The campus is closed to the public until further notice. In accordance with the Governor’s guidance, the college’s faculty, staff, and administrators are working remotely. The Security Department and Physical Plant staff members are continuing to work on campus.

ENMU-Roswell students are eligible to receive dental and medical services through La Casa. The La Casa Dental Office, located in the Health Science Center on campus is open for emergencies. The medical clinic has been relocated off-campus for community services at 1511 S. Grand Ave.

Following an extended spring break, all spring classes were moved to an online format on March 30, with the exception of a few health and technical education classes. Beginning April 6, all spring semester classes were transitioned online. Instructors are working with students for options in fields that require hands on skills-based training. Faculty members are also reviewing assignments for the spring term. The campus is also considering extending the withdrawal date for students. The last day of the semester is May 8.

The campus is also looking at options for spring commencement. “To the greatest extent possible, we will assist students scheduled to graduate next month meet their degree and certificate requirements,” Powell said. A virtual graduation ceremony is being planned for May 8 and Powell said graduates from this term will be offered the opportunity to participate in the December 2020 graduation ceremony.

Summer and Fall class registration is now open. Academic advisors are available to assist with admission and registration for the summer and fall terms via phone and email. Information regarding registration and advising is available on the campus website. Online tutoring is also offered through the Student Success Center. For registration assistance, the Academic Advising department may be reached at 575-624-7294 or [email protected] Academic advisors will promptly respond to student e-mails and calls within 24 hours to answer questions.

Summer classes will be offered online and are scheduled to begin June 1. Fall classes begin August 17 and will be offered on a regular schedule with a combination of online and on campus class instruction.

In addition to assisting students meet their educational goals, the campus is working to support the community. ENMU-Roswell hosted two webinars and a Department of Health meeting on the Coronavirus on March 6, 11, and 12, which provided information on responding to health and safety concerns. The campus transferred $1500 in Personal Protective Equipment to Eastern New Mexico Medical Center for their use in providing direct medical care. Using 3D printers, the campus iCenter Director is making face masks. ENMU-Roswell is also in the process of applying for a Displaced Worker Grant to assist those who are out of work due to the downturn in the oil and gas industry.

Dr. Powell has been hosting a series of live campus update and Q and A sessions on the campus Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/enmuroswell/ to keep students and the public informed. The next session is scheduled for Friday, April 10 at 11 a.m.

 

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