Several universities in Michigan, including the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University, are cancelling in-person classes due to concerns about the Coronavirus with plans to teach them online beginning Monday, March 16th.
WEMU's Lisa Barry spoke with Eastern Michigan University president Dr. Jim Smith about the decision and the impact on the university's students, faculty and staff.
President Smith says they will reassess the situation at the start of April.
“We’re just committed to trying to control the spread, and we have no indication there is a COVID-19 case on our campus, but we know there now two in Michigan, and it’s just logical think it’s going to grow,” Smith says.
Smith says EMU is urging all students to return home if possible, and will work with those who cannot. Dorms and dining halls will remain open on EMU’s campus.
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— Lisa Barry is the host of All Things Considered on WEMU. You can contact Lisa at 734.487.3363, on Twitter @LisaWEMU, or email her at lbarryma@emich.edu