Gannon University announced a reformed spring semester schedule Thursday in accordance with the realities of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

Among the changes that have been announced include a delayed start to the semester at both the Erie and Ruskin campuses, the elimination of a spring break and the introduction of a “winter-mester.”

The university, according to the press release, will begin the spring semester Jan. 25 at both the Erie and Ruskin campuses in order to, “minimize our time on campus during typical flu season and to avoid potential increased COVID-19 incidence around the holidays.”

However, the semester will still conclude at its normally scheduled date, May 8. 

Spring break will be eliminated and Easter break will be shortened to prevent mass travel. 

In addition, T.RA.V.E.L., G.I.F.T. and ABST trips have been postponed to the end of the semester. 

Gannon will be introducing a “winter-mester,” a 13-course load of online core classes with the goal of allowing students to take advantage of the longer-than-usual break. The course load will be offered from late November through mid-January. 

Still to be determined is the fate of the athletic season. 

Gannon has said it anticipates many students returning to campus late in December to prepare for contests and seasons beginning in late-January and February. Further updates will be available as more comes from the NCAA and PSAC. 

In the press release, Doug Oathout, Gannon’s chief marketing and communications officer, said he understands that these are difficult decisions that will impact many people, but that it is necessary. 

“Given what we know right now about COVID-19, we believe it is prudent to plan an alternative structure for the spring semester that limits risk and offers the best chance of continuing face-to-face instruction,” Oathout said. “We are confident that with everyone’s continued patience and commitment to protecting each other we will be a stronger and healthier community.”

More information can be found at update.gannon.edu. 

MICHAEL GUIDO

[email protected]