Campus Updates by Date

• Feb. 23, 2021: Moving Back to Red Tier

  Dear Simpson University community:

  GREAT NEWS!! Shasta County has moved into the less-restrictive red tier as our weekly case rate and other metrics have continued to decline. This means the following changes can occur on campus:

  • Classes: In-person classroom instruction is permitted but must be limited to 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer, with modifications. We will begin limited in-person instruction on Monday, March 1. Students should watch for communication from their professors and instructors regarding individual class plans.
  • Exceptions to the classroom limits are made by the Office of the Provost for labs and clinicals that have state-approved exceptions.
  • PLEASE NOTE: All students were required to submit a negative test result to gain access to campus initially this semester. If you are an off-campus student who has not yet been on campus this year but will return to campus under the red tier, you will need to first provide a negative COVID test. (See info below about a testing day offered Friday on campus.) Test results should be emailed to covid@simpsonu.edu.
  • Dining: Indoor dining operations are permitted but must be limited to 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer, with modifications.
  • Activities: Gatherings are permitted but must be limited to 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer, with modifications. It is recommended that activities continue virtually when possible.
  • Athletics: No indoor spectators are allowed in the red tier, but outdoor spectators are permitted with physical distancing and masks.

  
  

  On-Campus Testing
  STUDENTS! Our next on-campus COVID-19 testing date will be this Friday, Feb. 26, 12-3 p.m., outside by the rock wall near the Grant Center. This will be a self-administered test, limited to the first 150 students. If you have tested positive within the past 90 days, you don’t need to get tested again.

  Students can register in advance for Friday's test at this link.

  Please stay vigilant!
  Even as we rejoice at this encouraging news, it remains as important as ever to continue to wear a mask, physically distance, wash your hands, stay home if you are experiencing any symptoms, and continue regular testing. (Click here for more information on “What to Do If You Have Symptoms”)

  Vaccinations
  Shasta County Public Health is working hard on its vaccination rollout and contacted Simpson University again this week about getting faculty and staff who are working directly with students signed up soon. We will continue to keep you informed as we learn more.

  We rejoice with our community at what this shift means to our local businesses. At the same time, we remain committed to following the guidelines that are helping keep our numbers down. Thank you for your flexibility and adaptability as we continue to navigate this year’s uncharted territory!

• Feb. 4, 2021: Possible Tier Change Update

  Dear Simpson University community:

  We are encouraged to learn this week that there is a chance Shasta County could move back to red tier restrictions as soon as mid-February. While this has not happened yet, we want to inform you as soon as possible so that you can be preparing for what that would mean.

  From Shasta County Public Health: “If our positive rate and equity metric both remain in the orange tier for two more weeks and our case rate continues to decline, we could move into the red tier two weeks from now, even if the case rate is not yet down to the red tier.” (Click and scroll down to see Shasta County’s rates.)

  You will recall California has a four-tiered system for COVID-19 restrictions: yellow (minimal), orange (moderate), red (substantial), purple (widespread). Shasta County moved into the red tier last October and into purple in early November. We know this has been a difficult modification, and we appreciate everyone’s adjustments and flexibility.

  If there is a return to the red tier, the following changes would occur:

  • Classes and indoor spaces could return to in-person occupancy of 25%.
  • Exceptions to the classroom limits are made by the Office of the Provost for labs and clinicals that have state-approved exceptions.
  • Gatherings would be permitted up to 100 people.

  For now, we remain in the purple tier and continue to watch closely how Shasta County is doing. You can do your part by continuing to wear a mask, physically distance, wash your hands, and consider regular testing (even if asymptomatic) -- the more negative test results received, the more it helps the county’s overall rates. If you have any symptoms of illness, stay home. (Click here for more information on “What to Do If You Have Symptoms”)

  Vaccinations
  Shasta County Public Health continues working hard to vaccinate 14,000-plus healthcare workers and those over 75, as well as emergency workers. They are moving toward vaccinating those over 65, and have indicated they are in the planning stages for educational workers. (Click here for an overview of their plan) We will keep you updated if we learn of vaccination opportunities for SU employees and/or students. In the meantime, you can fill out this online form to register with Public Health, who will notify you when you are eligible for an appointment.

  Thank you for continuing to do your part to help keep our SU and Redding communities safe and healthy. We will keep you updated as we learn more.

• Feb. 2, 2021: Results of Jan. 22 mass testing

  Dear Simpson University community:

  Welcome to spring semester! We have much to celebrate and look forward to in the coming months. Our athletic teams have begun competition; our county is reaching out to us about vaccinations; and our recent testing day on Jan. 22 resulted in zero positive cases (out of 142 students and employees)! We are in great shape with our COVID-19 case rate and remain one of the few California colleges that is fully open to students living on campus. Our best days lie ahead!

  As we walk with purpose and positivity, here are some reminders and updates:

  We will continue to hold regular testing days on campus. As you will recall, all students were required to submit a negative test result taken prior to their arrival in January. They were asked to test again the first week of classes to “bookend” their safe transition from home to campus. This worked well for fall semester, and we are pleased with the results thus far this spring.

  Thank you to all the staff and faculty who participated in last month’s testing. Getting tested regularly can help Shasta County’s case rate, one of the two measurements used to determine our “tier” status.

  You have heard it repeated often, but the most important things you can do right now are to stay home if you are experiencing any symptoms of illness; wear a mask on campus; maintain physical distance from others whenever possible; and wash your hands frequently.

  What to Do If You Have Symptoms
  For more information on what to do if you have symptoms, test positive, or come into contact with someone who tests positive, click here for a document from the SU COVID Task Force titled “What to Do If You Have Symptoms.”

  Tier Status
  Shasta County has been in the purple tier -- along with most of California -- since early November. This is the most restrictive of the state’s four tiers; and for higher education, it means restrictions on in-person classes, dining and gatherings. In order to advance to the red tier, which allows for reduced-occupancy in-person instruction, dining and gatherings, the county must meet “red tier” criteria in both its case and test-positivity rates for two consecutive weeks. You can follow Shasta County’s statistics here. Though our test-positivity rate is currently in the red tier, our case rate is still in purple.

  Vaccination Rollout
  Shasta County Public Health continues its vaccination rollout, and we appreciate all their hard work. Click here for an overview of their plan. They have reached out to Simpson University as an educational institution to get an idea of how many of our “essential” employees would be interested in receiving the vaccine. We will keep you updated as we learn more.

  Thank you for all you are doing to help us stay safe and healthy as a community. We are excited for what this semester holds!

• Jan. 22, 2021: Spring Reminders & Updated Symptoms Flier

  Dear SU community:

  As we start the semester, please review the attached guidelines for what to do if you start feeling ill (stay home and get tested!), and what to do if you test positive for COVID-19 or come into close contact with someone who tests positive.

  There are updated quarantine guidelines for close contacts. The 14-day restriction has been lowered to 10 days, as long as the contact remains symptom-free. Contacts are advised to monitor themselves closely for the full 14 days and continue to wear masks and maintain physical distance.

  Thank you in advance for continuing to adhere to all our COVID protocols on campus, including staying home if you have any symptoms, wearing masks indoors and outside when needed, washing hands frequently, maintaining 6 feet of distance from others when possible, and avoiding unnecessary travel.

  Students who have COVID-related questions should email covid@simpsonu.edu. Employees should contact the Human Resources office.

• Jan. 6, 2021: Updated Spring Semester Return Information

  Dear SU Students:

  We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year and are looking forward to returning to campus to finish out the 2020-21 school year! The really good news is that we will be open again this semester and we expect NAIA athletics to start in February. We are excited to welcome you back.

  As you prepare to return, please review the information below, some of which was provided in an update you received before Christmas. If you have any questions regarding COVID-related issues, please email covid@simpsonu.edu.

  Campus Remains Open
  Shasta County remains under the state’s purple tier restrictions. Our Northern California Region is not under a Stay-at-Home Order. While this means continued limitations on in-person classes, dining, and some gatherings at this time, we are so thankful we can still be fully open, offering student support services, residential life, as well as athletics as we head toward competition. We plan to expand as guidance allows and look forward to getting back to normal as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and flexibility -- we know many of you appreciate that you are able to be on campus during this extraordinary academic year, as so many other college campuses are closed. .

  Classes
  A reminder that all lecture-based classes are remote only in the purple tier. Classes that are lab-based, clinical-based, or that are not possible to hold remotely will continue to meet in person on campus, with COVID protocols in place. Connect with your professor if you have questions about specific classes.

  Time to Get Tested!
  All students (traditional undergraduate, adult degree-completion and all graduate students) must submit in advance or arrive with a negative COVID-19 test result. The test must be taken within 10 days prior to your arrival on campus. You can submit test results via email to covid@simpsonu.edu.

  Exceptions (for COVID Tests)
  

  • Online-only programs: If your courses or program are 100 percent online (e.g., some degree-completion and graduate programs), there is no need to get tested unless you are planning to be on campus for any reason.
  • Past positive: If you tested positive for COVID after Oct. 18, you don't need to get tested again. Please bring a copy of your past positive test result with you. This should include your name, date of birth, and the date you tested positive. Remember, you do not need to get tested again if you were already positive recently...
  • Students that remained on campus: If you remain on campus over the break, you do not need to get a test unless you leave Shasta County.

  Arrival Without a Test Result
  If a student arrives without a test result, they will need to find accommodations in a local hotel (at the student’s expense) until they can get tested and receive a negative result. Campus Safety will not allow students on the campus who have not provided a negative test result. This helps ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff and our continuity of operation. After the university has received a negative test result from the student, the student will be allowed to come on campus. It is better to stay home until your test results are available.

  Check-in Dates and Times
  In order to facilitate COVID check-ins, below are the scheduled times for traditional undergraduates to arrive and check in:

  • Some athletics teams: Jan. 13 (for those that have been cleared by Residence Life and the COVID Task Force in advance)
  • Returning students: Sat, Jan. 16, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in your residence hall & Sun, Jan. 17, 1 to 4 p.m. in your residence hall

  COVID Testing After Arrival
  In addition to providing a negative test prior to (or upon) your arrival on campus, all students will also be required to be tested again during the week of Jan. 18-22 (with the above-noted exceptions).

  Simpson University will host another testing day on campus Friday, January 22, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Click Here to Schedule Testing **Please schedule early**

  As with prior tests, there is no cost to you, but you will need to provide insurance information or a copy of your driver’s license if you don’t have insurance.

  If you are not able to participate in the campus testing, here is a list of other places that provide testing in Shasta County: https://www.co.shasta.ca.us/ready/covid-19/get-tested.

  Regular Testing
  As we did in the fall, students will be required to provide regular negative test results in order to retain access to campus. Please check your student email often for COVID updates and other important information.

  **NOTE: Students should always send their test results to covid@simpsonu.edu.

• Jan. 4, 2021: Purple Tier Virtual Learning Reminder

  At this time, Simpson University remains under Shasta County's purple tier restrictions. This means we will continue to utilize our HyFlex virtual/remote option for lecture-based classes. Classes that are lab-based, clinical-based, or that are not possible to hold remotely will continue to meet in person on campus. Connect with your professor if you have questions about specific classes.

• Dec. 22, 2020: Spring Semester Testing & Check-In Times

  Dear SU Students:

  What a blessing it has been to be open this past semester, one of the few universities on the West Coast to be able to do so! We thank you for your part in helping us stay open and applaud you for surviving a truly historic semester. The good news is we fully expect to continue to open up and plan to begin our competitive sporting events in January and February.

  Here are some reminders and things to know about returning to campus in January:

  Life on Campus
  We are planning to have active campus life next semester, virtually if necessary, but in-person as much as possible. Plans are being finalized to include an athletic schedule of competition, and we look forward to supporting our teams.

  Registration and Financial Aid
  If you have not yet registered for your spring classes, please do so as soon as possible -- classes are filling up! Please also make sure you have completed any financial aid requirements and talked with student accounts if needed.

  COVID Testing Prior to Arrival
  All students (traditional undergraduate, adult degree-completion and all graduate students) must arrive with a negative COVID test result. The test must be taken within 10 days prior to your arrival on campus. (Please note this is different from fall, when you had a 30-day test window.)

  Exceptions (for COVID testing):
  

  • Online-only programs: If your courses or program are 100 percent online (e.g., some degree-completion and graduate programs), there is no need to get tested unless you are planning to be on campus for any reason.
  • Past positive: If you tested positive for COVID after Oct. 18, please bring a copy of your positive test result with you. This should include your name, date of birth, and the date you tested positive. You do not need to get tested again.
  • Students remaining on campus: If you are remaining on campus over break, you do not need to get a test unless you leave Shasta County.

  Check-in Dates and Times:
  In order to facilitate COVID check-ins, below are the scheduled times for traditional undergraduates to arrive and check in:

  • Student-athletes: Jan. 13 (unless otherwise cleared by Residence Life and the COVID Task Force)
  • Other returning students: Sat, Jan. 16, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in your residence hall & Sun, Jan. 17, 1 to 4 p.m. in your residence hall

  Arrival Without a Test Result
  If a student arrives without a test result, they will need to find accommodations in a local hotel (at the student’s expense) until they can get tested and receive a negative result. Campus Safety will not allow students on the campus who have not provided a negative test result. This helps ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff and our continuity of operation. After the university has received a negative test result from the student, the student will be allowed to come on campus.

  • The university plans to host a testing day on campus during the first week of classes.
  • Here’s a list of other places that provide testing in Shasta County: https://www.co.shasta.ca.us/ready/covid-19/get-tested

  Purple Tier: Campus Remains Open
  At this time, Shasta County remains in the state’s “purple tier.” While this puts some in-person restrictions on classes and dining, we are thankful we can still be fully open. The state’s regional stay-at-home order does not apply to our area at this time, and if it does begin for Northern California, it is good to know that Simpson will be able to continue to function at our current level.

• Dec. 18, 2020: Video from Dr. Hall and Study Body Vice President
• Dec. 9, 2020: Campus COVID Update & Reminders

  Dear Simpson University Community:

  As we head into the final stretch of this fall semester, we continue to be grateful for the opportunity to provide instruction and community to students living on campus, as well as to those who are participating in classes remotely. Thank you for continuing to help us stay as healthy as possible through your diligence in wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, and staying home when you don’t feel well.

  SU Case Rate
  Our vigilance as a community is helping us keep our active cases low. As of Dec 9, we have only 2 active cases, less than 1 percent of our population.
  
  Shasta County Public Health has let us know that Simpson University will not face further restrictions even if the Northern California region drops below 15 percent ICU hospital capacity, which would trigger a “stay-at-home” order. This is encouraging news as we continue to navigate the limitations of the “purple tier” and do our part to mitigate transmission spread in Shasta County.

  Athletics
  The Athletics Department has worked hard to develop and follow guidelines and protocols that align with local, state and conference standards for safe practices and game play. One of those has been a requirement that athletes practice with masks on. Another is that all team members must be tested within 48 hours prior to a game. Several games have been cancelled due to delays in testing results, and the women’s basketball team announced Dec. 2 it will postpone competition for fall semester. We know this has been challenging for our teams and appreciate their attention to health and safety as we wait for competition to resume.

  Travel
  Students were notified prior to Thanksgiving that if they decided to return home (out of county) for the holiday, they would need to stay home for the remaining weeks of the semester and finish coursework remotely. Security staff at the front gate have an access list of those who signed up to remain on campus over the holiday and are working hard to ensure the safety of our community. Of our 302 residential students, approximately half remained on campus. A special thank-you to Residence Life staff for their work to ensure that our community remained safe during the break and for their help in enforcing the travel policy.
  
  A continued reminder that non-essential travel outside Shasta County is not advised at this time. Employees who travel out of the county should notify HR Director Melissa Turley (mturley@simpsonu.edu). You may be asked to quarantine for up to 14 days, per Public Health guidelines, and to get a COVID test if any symptoms develop.

  If you feel ill
  We believe a key reason for our low case numbers is your care in monitoring symptoms and staying home when you have new or unexplained symptoms, such as a fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Please refer to our guide, What to Do If You Have Symptoms, for additional information and guidance.

  Virtual commencement
  Our commencement committee is hard at work on preparing a special virtual graduation ceremony for the Class of 2020, complete with photos of graduates, to air “live” at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 19. We hope this provides an opportunity for graduates to watch and celebrate at home with their families over Christmas break. We would like to invite and encourage our entire SU community to join and “cheer” for these women and men. Watch for more details.

  If you have COVID-related questions, please email covid@simpsonu.edu.

  Thank you all!

  Norman D. Hall, Ed.D.
  President

• Nov. 11, 2020: What to Do If You Have Symptoms

  As we move further into the cold and flu season, it is very important that we all continue to monitor our symptoms each day and respond quickly when we have any. Staying away from others ("sheltering in place") when you have new or unexplained symptoms is key in helping slow the spread of COVID in our community. Click here for a document from the SU COVID Task Force titled "What to Do If You Have Symptoms" to help answer questions and give guidance. If you have additional questions, please email covid@simpsonu.edu.

• Nov. 9, 2020: Next On-Campus Testing

  As we continue to require monthly COVID-19 testing of students, our next on-campus testing day will be this Friday, Nov. 13, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Grant Center.

  Staff and faculty are also strongly encouraged to get regular testing as we seek to keep each other and our families and neighbors safe during this time of widespread transmission in Shasta County.

  You can schedule an appointment for Friday at this link. Walk-in appointments are also available. As a reminder, please bring your insurance card with you. Those without insurance can still get tested free of charge.

  Students must submit a negative COVID test result by Nov. 30 to covid@simpsonu.edu in order to retain access to campus.*

  *Those who have tested positive previously will be cleared by following the protocols of public health, not by submitting the results of an additional test. Online students do not need to submit test results but will remain on the no-access list with Campus Safety.

  If you are unable to get tested during our on-campus testing days, you will need to utilize a local testing option. The link to schedule testing at Shasta College is lhi.care/covidtesting.

  Thank you for your cooperation as we work to ensure our community remains safe and healthy. If you have any questions, please contact covid@simpsonu.edu.

• Nov. 5, 202: Move to Purple Tier & Thanksgiving Reminder

  Dear Simpson University Community:

  We are thankful to report zero active COVID positive cases in our Simpson community at this time! Your vigilance in wearing masks, maintaining distancing, washing your hands, and especially in staying home or away from others when you experience any new or unexplained symptom is making a difference in keeping each other safe. Thank you.

  PURPLE TIER STATUS & RESPONSE

  While our own case rate is very low, our broader community of Shasta County is experiencing widespread transmission that moved us into the state’s most restrictive purple tier on Wednesday. We are working with public health officials on how we might best finish the semester. As you may know, the city has already proven successful with appealing the purple tier in the past. Hence, based upon our demonstrated compliance and low incidents on campus, we will continue to make appeals for special exceptions to move back out of the purple tier as soon as possible. In the meantime, our best course for getting back out of the purple tier is for you to be super vigilant with mask wearing, hand washing and social distancing. At the end of the day we are still very blessed to be on campus and delivering courses in our hyflex model.

  While we are in the purple tier, Simpson University remains fully open and continues to function at the highest level possible. We are well set up to utilize the remote option of our HyFlex course delivery system to maintain strong academic continuity during these final weeks of fall semester.

  The following changes will be in effect by first thing Monday, Nov. 9:

  CHAPEL: Classes will utilize the HyFlex remote option for lecture-based classes. Classes that are lab-based, clinical-based, or that are not possible to hold remotely will continue to meet in person on campus. Connect with your professor if you have questions about specific classes.

  STUDENT ACTIVITIES: We have had some fun and creative student activities this fall and will encourage more of that innovation as we hold virtual events only. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we encourage outdoor activity and other ways to stay active that do not involve indoor gatherings.

  MEALS: We continue to offer, on a carry-out basis, the good food service you’ve come to expect, and we encourage you to take advantage of good weather days to dine outside.

  CHAPEL: We’ve had great success with our chapels this semester and will continue with our HyFlex remote-only option in small groups.

  THANKSGIVING BREAK TRAVEL

  Students: You will recall that on Sept. 30, you received initial email notification regarding our Thanksgiving break policy: If a student chooses to travel home for Thanksgiving (out of Shasta County), they will need to stay home and finish the remaining fall semester coursework remotely. For those who live on campus, be sure to communicate your plans with your RA if you have not already done so. We would encourage students to remain on campus through the holiday. The dining center and residence halls will remain open, and Student Development will be working to make the holiday as meaningful as possible for students on campus.

  We are pleased that we can still offer our HyFlex format, allowing you to take courses in real time and/or fully online in our convenient HyFlex spaces such as the library and new student union. There are exceptions related to courses that would not be able to be completed remotely. Those professors will notify their students in advance that they will need to be on campus for our standard face-to-face instruction.

  Employees: We continue to ask that faculty and staff limit as much as possible unnecessary travel both locally and beyond our county. Those who do travel out of Shasta County should let HR Director Melissa Turley know and she will provide the protocol to return to work safely.

  If you have questions, please write covid@simpsonu.edu.

• Oct. 24, 2020: Red Tier Restored

  From a Shasta County Health and Human Services press release dated Oct. 24: “Shasta County health officials have convinced the state health department to keep the county in the red (“substantial”) tier of the state COVID-19 tier system, allowing restaurants, places of worship, movie theaters, fitness centers and museums to remain open indoors with modifications.”

  Simpson University is now able to function as we were during the RED Tier. The changes communicated last week are no longer in effect, as of Saturday, Oct. 24.

  AS OF SATURDAY

  CLASSES: Classes return to face to face, with adjustments. Connect with your professor if you have questions about specific classes. Stay in touch with your professors and look for more communication since they may need time to switch back to Red if they had to make changes for Purple status.

  STUDENT ACTIVITIES: We will allow SU-approved gatherings that follow previously established guidelines. We do encourage outdoor activity and other ways to stay active that do not involve traditional indoor gatherings.

  MEALS: Dining Center meals will now be offered as take-out and dine-in (with previous adjustments). We will be able to return to indoor dining effective immediately. Chartwells was notified on Saturday.

  CHAPEL: Small groups will return to in-person on Wednesday, Oct. 28. We have enjoyed worshipping as a community on the lawn by the cross and outside the Science and Nursing Center and will continue to provide those opportunities.

  The State’s decision is a testament to the good work that all of you and the community of Shasta County are doing to stay healthy. Remember to wear your masks, maintain social distance and keep self monitoring for any signs of illness.

• Oct. 14, 2020: COVID Update - Preparing for Purple Tier

  Dear Simpson University Community:

  TIER STATUS AND SIMPSON RESPONSE
  Simpson has been very fortunate to have avoided the most recent surge of cases from our local community. We ask that you pray for our city and those affected. We also ask that you are careful when out and about in our community.

  Late last week, Shasta County was moved to the state’s red tier as its number of COVID cases has increased substantially. If the trend continues, Shasta County Public Health anticipates that we may move to the purple tier, which indicates that COVID cases are widespread in our county, as soon as Oct. 20 (with restrictions in place Oct. 23). (See the overview of all tier restrictions)

  In order to stay ahead, we need to stay vigilant, and we must continue to remain flexible and adapt to the changing situation. As a learning community, we are making plans for the purple tier. If Shasta County moves to the purple tier, we expect to make the changes listed below. These changes will be required for two weeks, from Oct. 23 to Nov. 6. An update will be provided prior to Nov. 3 about the remainder of the semester.

  CLASSES: Classes will move to a fully remote format for lecture-based classes. Classes that are lab-based, clinical-based, or that are not possible to hold remotely will continue to meet in person on campus. Connect with your professor if you have questions about specific classes.

  STUDENT ACTIVITIES: Student activities will be held as virtual events only. Gatherings are not allowed. Outdoor activity is encouraged, and creative ways to stay active will be promoted.

  MEALS: The dining center will be open for take-out only. Outdoor and take-out service will be provided with adjustments.

  CHAPEL: Chapel will be limited to online small groups only. We will also be able to provide some outdoor worship and chapel opportunities.

  COVID PROTOCOLS
  It is important to remain home or in your room, if you do not feel well, as this has played an important part in keeping our community safe and healthy during these situations. In order to provide clarity to our COVID protocol, we are making a change to our assessment tool. If a worker or student has new or unexplained symptoms of COVID-19 as described by the CDC, such as a fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, they must shelter in place (self-quarantine). If these symptoms are new or unexplained, then you should shelter in place, communicate to our COVID point person, and either wait 10 days or get tested for COVID, submitting results to COVID@simpsonu.edu.

  This change in protocol will keep the community safer when a positive case does not show significant symptoms. By being extra careful when experiencing any new or unexplained COVID symptoms, we will be keeping each other safer and have a better chance to limit the spread of COVID.

  MONTHLY TESTING
  As a reminder, all students are required to submit negative test results to COVID@simpsonu.edu on a monthly basis in order to retain access to campus. Another on-campus testing event will be held in Collord-Humphries this Saturday, Oct. 17, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., to help with October required testing. Please bring your insurance card (if you don’t have insurance, there will not be a cost to you). You can walk-in or schedule an appointment here. If you are not able to get tested Saturday, you will need to utilize a local testing option. The link to schedule testing at Shasta College is lhi.care/covidtesting.

  Those who have tested positive previously will be cleared by following the protocols of public health, not by submitting the results of an additional test. Online-only students do not need to submit rest results but will remain on the “no-access” list with Campus Safety.

  Thank you for doing your part to help keep our community as safe as possible. If you have questions or concerns, please contact our COVID committee, at COVID@simpsonu.edu, or Mark Endraske, Dean of Students, at mendraske@simpsonu.edu.

  Pursue Shalom,
  Dr. Norman Hall

• Oct. 8, 2020: SU COVID Testing Update

  Dear Simpson University Community:

  Per our SU COVID-19 Response Protocol, periodic testing will be done based on a schedule (e.g. 50% of the population bi-weekly). We successfully completed our first round of COVID testing on campus in September, and we are making plans for the remainder of the semester.

  Moving forward we will have all students submit test results on a monthly basis. For October and November we will have two rounds of on-campus testing available for all students. Simpson University faculty and staff are welcome to utilize these testing options as well. The testing dates for this month are Saturday, October 10 and October 17.

  Testing will be held in Collord-Humphries between the hours of 8am and 4pm. Students will need to bring their insurance card with them. As a reminder, those without insurance can still get tested with no out-of-pocket cost. You may schedule your test time here: Click Here to Schedule COVID Testing. Walk-in appointments are also available.

  If you are unable to get tested during our on-campus testing days, you will need to utilize a local testing option. The link to schedule testing at Shasta College is lhi.care/covidtesting.

  Be sure to submit your COVID test results to COVID@simpsonu.edu. Access to campus will be based on submitting negative test results each month. Those who have tested positive previously will be cleared by following the protocols of public health, not by submitting the results of an additional test. Online students do not need to submit test results but will remain on the no-access list with Campus Safety.

  Contact the COVID-19 Committee if you have any questions.

  Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to ensure our community remains safe and healthy.

  SU COVID Task Force

• Oct. 5, 2020: "Red Tier" Restrictions

  Dear Simpson University community:

  RED TIER STATUS AND RESPONSE

  Shasta County is on the verge of moving from the state’s “orange tier” to the “red tier” as the number of COVID cases increases locally. Simpson’s COVID Task Force has been working to respond to this as well as our own increase in cases. Some of these changes include our travel policy and our enforcement protocols released last week.

  In addition to these, the task force has recommended additional adjustments that I have approved and will be asking our community to implement this week. First, our gatherings will be limited to less than 100. This will require all activities and events to limit capacity accordingly. Second, our classes and indoor spaces will limit in-person occupancy to 25% of the normal pre-pandemic room capacity. Faculty will receive further details from the office of the provost. Exceptions to the classroom limits will be made for labs and clinicals that have state-approved exceptions. This may require faculty and students to make further adjustments utilizing remote learning via the HyFlex model.

  Independent of the governor’s guidelines, like at many other schools, athletics has been asked to wear masks during all practices (and meetings) with increased routine health checks and hand-sanitizing breaks.

  COVID REMINDERS

  Please remember that adherence to our physical distancing and face-covering protocols is essential as we continue to move forward. It is also important to remain home if you do not feel well, as this has played an important part in keeping our community safe and healthy during these situations. Our vigilance in these efforts, as well as in sanitizing between classes, enables us to avoid larger numbers of quarantine. It is important that we keep each other safe by enforcing our COVID policies. Following the basics of distance, cleaning, and face coverings will go a long way to keeping us safe during this new normal.

  We want to make sure our community is informed while we maintain confidentiality for those impacted by COVID. We will keep the Simpson community notified of any positive cases on campus. We will also notify any close contacts within 48 hours. We would ask that you help us protect the privacy of individuals by keeping these kinds of updates within our Simpson University community. The COVID primary point of contact will communicate with public health, and our media relations specialist will handle any media inquiries that arise.

  Thank you for doing your part to help keep our community as safe as possible. If you have questions or concerns, please contact COVID@simpsonu.edu.

• Sept. 30, 2020: Thanksgiving Break Update

  Dear SU community:

  Our local Shasta County community is experiencing a moderate increase in cases, so we must daily recommit to being vigilant when it comes to COVID prevention. In addition to wearing face coverings, maintaining physical distance, and staying home if you feel sick, please also note the following regarding travel and Thanksgiving break:

  • We ask that you limit as much as possible unnecessary travel both locally and beyond our county.
  • In order to limit, as much as possible, infections coming to our community from outside the area, the COVID Taskforce has recommended -- and President Hall has endorsed -- the following directive: If you go home for Thanksgiving, you will need to stay home and finish your fall semester coursework online.

  
  

  Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. If you have questions or concerns, please contact COVID@simpsonu.edu.

• Sept. 23, 2020: Safety Protocols Video & Case Notification

  Dear SU community:

  Please watch the video below as a reminder that adherence to our physical distancing and face-covering protocols is essential as we continue to move forward this semester. It is also important to remain home if you do not feel well. Following the basics of distance, cleaning, and face coverings, as well as sanitizing classrooms between use, will go a long way to keeping us safe during this new normal.

  COVID Protocols Reminder from Simpson University on Vimeo.

  We want to make sure our community is informed while we maintain confidentiality for anyone impacted by COVID. We will keep the Simpson community notified of any positive cases on campus and will notify any close contacts within 48 hours. We would ask that you help us protect the privacy of individuals by keeping these kinds of updates within our SU community. We will work closely with Shasta County Public Health and Capsid Consulting on any cases that develop.

  Thank you for doing your part to help keep our community as safe as possible. If you have questions or concerns, please contact COVID@simpsonu.edu.

• Sept. 8, 2020: Simpson University Reopens for In-Person Instruction

  REDDING, Calif.—Simpson University welcomed new and returning students to campus over Labor Day weekend, marking the start of an unprecedented school year inside and outside the classroom.

  “It’s a new normal,” President Norm Hall told news reporters who covered the university’s reopening. “Everyone has been very patient, and our students are saying they are thrilled to be here.”

  New Student Orientation on Sept. 4-6 included staggered arrival and move-in times for residential students, who were limited to two guests each, as well as outdoor dining and events to allow for physical distancing. Hand-sanitizing stations and plexiglass shields are found throughout campus. Red signs on lawns and walkways remind students to wear face coverings and maintain distance.

  Click link to continue reading

• Sept. 3, 2020: Response Protocol

  Simpson University's Response Protocol was created to provide direction to our community as we respond to COVID-19 concerns and active cases.

  This document contains a Symptomatic Risk Assessment Tool (S-RAT) that all employees and students should use daily to help monitor and "score" any symptoms and determine how to proceed.

  A reminder that the university also has created a Reopening Plan with general guidelines for all sectors. Please note that both documents continue to be updated as new information becomes available.

  Questions can be directed to the university's COVID primary point of contact(COVID@simpsonu.edu.

  For now, COVID-19 test results from faculty and staff can be sent to HR Director Melissa Turley (mturley@simpsonu.edu).

  Thank you to everyone for your hard work in preparing the campus for the start of the school year!

• August 28, 2020: COVID Testing on Sept. 7

  Dear Simpson University Red Hawks:

  You are receiving lots of emails from us as we get close to the start of school! Thank you for paying attention to these, as they contain important information about the “new normal” on campus -- and we need your help in keeping our community safe and healthy.

  COVID-19 Testing Before Arrival

  You have already been told to provide a negative COVD-19 test result, taken within 30 days prior to your arrival at Simpson, in order to start the year on campus -- thank you to the many of you who have already emailed those results to COVID@simpsonu.edu.

  If you have not taken care of that yet, please do! If you arrive for orientation next weekend and have NOT provided a negative test result, you will be charged $300 and will need to stay off campus until you can take a test and receive results.

  COVID-19 Testing After Arrival

  You have also been notified that we would be testing all students again within the first 10 days of the semester. Simpson University will offer on-site testing in the Grant Center on Monday, Sept. 7, between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

  • You will need to schedule an appointment online for your test -- we encourage you to do that in advance. Click Here to Schedule COVID Testing. Please note that Sept. 7 is your first day of classes, so be sure to work around your class schedule.
  • There is no cost to you, but you will be asked to complete forms in advance including information about insurance, so please bring that information with you to campus.
  • New students will have testing documents available in their NSO packets.
  • Returning students should complete the attached forms in advance.
  • Antibody testing will be available at the same time as your scheduled COVID test. While not required we strongly encourage all students to get the antibody testing.

  Students unable to get their second test on Sept. 7 should schedule a test with lhi.care/covidtesting at Shasta College as soon as possible between Sept. 7 and Sept. 17. Please forward your second test results to COVID@simpsonu.edu.

  Items to Bring to Campus

  We encourage all students to bring at least five face masks and a personal thermometer with you to campus. Daily monitoring of your temperature and any symptoms will be an important part of your personal safety protocol. Having multiple masks allows you to have a clean option each day and to accessorize appropriately with all of your outfits 😊

  We will have additional face masks available, and you can also expect temperature-screening stations at various venues and events.

  We look forward to seeing you soon!

• August 26, 2020: What to Expect this Fall (5 videos)

  Hello, SU Red Hawks!

  We are so excited that you will be joining us for the Fall 2020 semester in just a few days!

  Our Student Development staff has created a series of five videos to help explain what life on campus will be like during our “new normal” as we open as safely as possible with COVID-19 protocols in place.

  Watch the videos below to learn more about our "heightened safety protocol" and other steps we're taking to be as safe as possible. We thank you in advance for our help and cooperation as we all adjust to a "new normal" on campus this fall.

  If you have any questions about COVID requirements, please contact the Office of Student Development at 530-226-4177 or email dmsmith@simpsonu.edu.

  See you soon!

  The Simpson Experience w. Mark Endraske from Simpson University on Vimeo.

  The Cafeteria and Residence Halls w. Julie and Brian from Simpson University on Vimeo.

  Programs and Events w. Sarah Jobson from Simpson University on Vimeo.

  Classroom Changes w. Louis Burkwhat from Simpson University on Vimeo.

  Chapel Program Changes w. Jose Palos from Simpson University on Vimeo.

• August 14, 2020: Reopening Update & Video

  Important Video Announcement from President

  Dear Simpson University Red Hawks:

  We are so very excited that we are in a position to reopen for in-person classes and residential life. We have missed being in community and can't wait to welcome our new students! You should know that we are expecting 50 more students this fall than last year, so there will be lots of Red Hawk energy on campus in a few weeks!

  As we get closer to September 7, we are ramping up our communication to make sure you know what to expect when you get here and what you should be doing now to prepare for our NEW NORMAL. My strong desire is for all of us to exemplify the highest regard for the health and safety of not only each other, but also our surrounding Redding/Shasta County community, as we follow new guidelines and procedures.

  You recently received an email listing some of the guidelines, and you can find them all in our SU Reopening Plan (updated regularly) at simpsonu.edu/reopening. We are continuing to adjust our reopening and response plans as we work with public health officials and Capsid Consulting, so thank you for being nimble, flexible and adaptable as we strive for the best standard of safety. Your professors and staff members -- and your president -- are learning right along with you!

  Here are some important updates and reminders:

  Bring your insurance card
  

  • In addition to negative COVID test results from all students prior to your arrival, we will also be testing all students again within 10 days of your arrival on campus. While this test is free to you, you will need to provide your insurance information, so please bring that with you.

  Masks and distance:
  

  • Face coverings and physical distsancing will be "givens" on campus under our new normal, for everyone. (If health reasons make a face covering difficult, please contact the Academic Success Center at asc@simpsonu.edu for information on accommodations and alternative options.)

  No campus visitors
  

  • For your health and safety, the campus will remain closed to the public, except for essential vendors and visitors by appointment.
  • For residential move-in on Sept. 4-5, we are limiting each student to two guests (properly masked, of course).

  New Student Orientation
  

  • If you are a new Red Hawk, wow, what a historic time to be joining us! When you graduate from Simpson University in 2024, you will have quite the story to tell about your time here.
  • You have been receiving emails about orientation and the activities planned. We will be providing Zoom links to all major events so that everyone can participate if we hit overflow status, as determined by distance limitations and state guidelines.

  Registration
  

  • A huge thank-you to the many students who have already registered for classes and completed all their required paperwork! We are running ahead this year on the number of you who have completed this.
  • If you have not yet registered, please make that a priority. We need to limit the number of in-person office visits during orientation, so getting paperwork done ahead of time is vital. Visit simpsonu.edu/orientation for helpful information about the pre-orientation process.
  • If you have questions related to your financial aid, contact Shondra Dickson or Curley Wilson (Student Financial Services) at financialaid@simpsonu.edu.
  • If you have questions about your student account, contact Holly Reddy (Student Accounts) at studentaccounts@simpsonu.edu.

  Here are some changes you can expect in our NEW NORMAL:

  • Two weeks of "heightened safety protocol" that will limit off-campus travel to essential errands and places
  • Face masks are required on campus
  • HyFlex instruction: limited seats in classrooms; livestream viewing and recorded lectures also available
  • Athletic practices but no competition until spring
  • Temperature-check stations
  • An emphasis on hand-washing and use of hand-sanitizer
  • Regular reminders to monitor your health -- if you feel sick, don't come to class!
  • Outdoor patio dining and takeout meals
  • Plexiglass shields in offices and traffic flow indicators
  • Chapel in small group "watch parties" for about half of the chapels, facilitated by staff and faculty
  • Some in-person (less than 100 people), physically distanced chapels on a regular basis to keep our community together as much as possible
  • No singing in chapel, but we will create outdoor worship opportunities for chapel credit
  • Quick wipe-down of classroom desks and equipment at the end of each class period

  Simpson University will be one of the few four-year liberal arts colleges open for in-person instruction this fall in California. We consider this a privilege and are thankful for the opportunity to continue our Christ-centered mission to educate and train women to make a difference in the world. We cannot wait to greet you in person very soon!

  Norman D. Hall, Ed.D.
  President

• July 17, 2020: Update to New and Returning Students

  Dear Simpson Red Hawks,

  On May 5, I announced that Simpson University will reopen for on-the-ground classroom instruction.

  Recently our local school districts announced their opening plans for on-the-ground education five days a week.

  On July 17, the governor of California announced that K-12 schools would be able to open for face-to-face learning in counties that are not included on the watch list for elevated COVID risk. This news gives us increased confidence that we have a clear runway for take-off. Shasta County is not included on the watch list for CA counties that have increased risk related to COVID. Additionally, we live in an area with low population density, and your university certainly benefits from small class sizes.

  Simpson staff and faculty are in the process of completing training and site-specific protection plans for each department so that we might serve you better. We have also completed a number of COVID preparations that have positioned us well to ensure our opening and the health and safety of our community.

  Our plans continue, 100 percent focused on reopening Sept 7, with orientation starting on the 4th and 5th of September and with athletes scheduled to begin arriving on Aug. 7.

  The list below highlights some of the many treatments already in place and in motion aimed at assuring safety, security and a productive 2020-21 at Simpson University:

  • Established a COVID-19 Taskforce including members of the faculty, staff, President’s Cabinet, and Board of Trustees
  • Added counseling support to assist students with anticipated stress
  • Established detailed guidelines that parallel the four stages on California’s “Resilience Roadmap”
  • Collaboration with Shasta County Public Health to deliver our reopening plan
  • Setting up HyFlex course delivery to ensure safe spaces for curriculum delivery
  • Policy for increased cleaning of all public spaces
  • Planning for staggered and outdoor dining
  • Planning for staggered New Student Orientation and check-in
  • Closely monitoring the risk to our community, currently one of the lowest impacted counties in the state
  • Added “Simpson Care” live online video consultation with doctors and counselors 24-7 for all students
  • Hired family nurse practitioner/counselor to support our continued COVID response and provide additional face-to-face care for our students
  • Working closely with our athletic NAIA representative
  • Consulted the Mayor of Redding and received the green light to move forward
  • Aligning ourselves with Shasta County’s Star program that includes training for all faculty and staff and delivery of site-specific protection plans
  • Utilized government stimulus funds to enhance our technology across campus, including new computers for faculty and staff as well as 360 video cameras and projectors in every classroom
  • Replaced all sneeze guards and flooring in the Emeriti Dining Center
  • Adding robust fall faculty training to assist with a new Learning Management System to maximize the flexible learning environment
  • Remodeled the first floor of the Owen Student Services Center to serve as a student union and flexible learning space for those participating in HyFlex classroom format
  • Purchased thermometers for temperature-checking stations
  • Adjusted athletic schedules to reduce travel, focusing on a more regional plan
  • Ordered thousands of masks for students to wear

  The list above is not exhaustive; new treatments are added every day in order to deliver on our priorities:

  1. Keep students, faculty, and staff safe.
  2. Stay vigilant to the changing scenario with a focus on reliable data to guide decision-making.
  3. Deliver high-quality academic engagement.
  4. Prepare, train and deliver essential workers for our community.

  The Simpson University COVID taskforce has updated the Reopening Plan [click link to see the updates]. If you have any questions, please contact Mark Endraske, Dean of Students and Chair of the COVID Task Force.

  Finally, we don't want to get on the state’s watch list, so please continue to do your part and encourage those in your community to do their part:

  • Maintain physical distance with anyone not from your immediate household.
  • Wear a mask whenever you are in public.
  • Limit travel outside of the area to only necessary travel.
  • Wash your hands.
  • Get tested!

  Best
  Norman D. Hall, Ed.D.
  President

• June 25, 2020: SU Reopening Plan

  Greetings, Simpson University Faculty, Staff, Students, Parents, Alumni and Friends.

  In spring 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the closure of Simpson University’s campus and a move to remote instruction for the remainder of the semester. Subsequently, I appointed a COVID-19 taskforce composed of administrators, faculty, staff, and a retired physician/board member. The taskforce has been making plans toward the full, safe reopening of campus and return to on-campus instruction and residential living in Fall 2020. The taskforce has worked closely with our local advisory group and health officials to develop a plan that aligns with state and federal guidelines for a safe return to campus life, academically, residentially, and co-curricularly.

  A number of community leaders have made significant contributions to this work, and we are very grateful for their support and leadership. Adam McElvain, Mayor of Redding, helped review our work and provided guidance to our administration. Judy Flores, Shasta County Superintendent of Schools, helped review our plan and represents us on the advisory committee for Shasta County. Alexandra Gee, Shasta County Public Health, helped to write our guidelines and met with the taskforce to help develop the reopening plan. Special thanks to the taskforce, with extra thanks for the leadership provided by our capable Dean of Students, Mark Endraske.

  The taskforce developed two guiding documents that will serve as resources for our reopening. The first is based on the four stages from the CA Resilience Roadmap and represents our thinking as it relates to operating during various stages of reopening. The second document is the SU Reopening Plan. This document will serve as our guide for reopening preparation and will be the basis of our planning for the fall start.

  I am reminded again of the story in Mark 4 where the disciples called out to the resting Jesus to calm the storm. We too have the opportunity to call out for Jesus to lead, teach and refine us in this new narrative. I pray that He will calm this storm and that He will be glorified. Right now I am reminded to do my best to serve those near me, pray with them and encourage them as we work for a brighter future where Simpson University sends more students to the front lines of Christian service, faith-infused, critically competent and enthusiastic to serve where planted. I believe that we are called for such a time as this to set the example of Christian service and that Simpson University’s best days are ahead. I can’t wait to get the new year started “with” you!

  Best
  Norman D. Hall, Ed.D.
  President

• June 4, 2020: Warning to Students Regarding COVID Financial Aid-Related Scams

  Simpson University students:

  Please be aware of this notice posted by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.

  Consumer Protection Groups Say Financial Aid-Related Scams Using COVID to Target Students
  By Owen Daugherty, NASFAA Staff Reporter

  Scammers are taking advantage of the ongoing pandemic in attempts to obtain students’ financial and personal information, in some instances posing as financial aid offices.

  The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a warning last week notifying students that suspicious emails claiming to be from the “Financial Department” at their respective institutions are advertising how to receive the economic stimulus check.

  The phishing email contains a link to a message about the check and asks students to enter their login information for the school, potentially exposing sensitive material to scammers.

  Subject lines on the deceptive emails read something like “Memo from The Financial Aid (COVID-19 Relief Fund).” Additionally, FTC said clicking the link could lead the student to unknowingly download harmful malware onto their device.

  The agency recommended being vigilant about verifying sender information and looking closely at the sender details. If it does not come from an individual with an email account from within the student’s institution, the agency recommends not clicking and reporting the message.

  While there are some sophisticated emails, there are others that contain typos or grammatical errors, which FTC says can be an obvious sign of a scam. The agency said that if an individual is unsure, they should think twice before clicking any link in the email.

  The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has also identified a scam targeting students in which callers are reaching out to student loan borrowers claiming to represent a loan servicer, in this case Navient. The scam is telling borrowers that as part of a lawsuit settlement, their student loan debt is either partially or completely forgiven, but first they must provide their personal information and pay a fee to transfer the debt from the loan provider to the “the Department of Education” or another official-sounding organization.

  The BBB said these scams can fool people because in some instances, they can be based on actual procedures an individual may qualify for, but “this unsolicited caller is not working in an official capacity or related to any of the organizations cited in the call.”

  BBB made clear that borrowers will not receive a call from Navient offering to transfer their loan.

  The bureau urged borrowers to keep an eye out for companies offering to reduce debt by lowering payments through enrollment in student loan forgiveness or other programs. Additionally, scammers may also falsely promise to apply monthly payments to consumers’ student loans and to improve credit scores, with the caveat that a small fee be paid so they can negotiate with the lender on your behalf.

  Consumer advocates were already on high alert for student loan-targeted scams amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, previously telling NASFAA that the pandemic creates economic uncertainty for consumers and could serve as an opportunity for bad actors to take advantage of borrowers.

  Federal Student Aid (FSA) has a resource list available for students to help them avoid financial aid and loan-related scams. Phishing scams can be reported to the FTC or the BBB scam tracker.

• May 5, 2020: Update about Fall Reopening

  Dear SU community:

  It gives me great joy to announce that Simpson University is planning to resume all on-campus instruction when it opens for the fall semester on Sept. 7, with measures in place to deliver our century-old academic quality, fortified by our Christ-centered community, while mitigating risks and promoting safety. This includes our traditional undergraduate, degree-completion, seminary, and graduate programs.

  We know that our students thrive in our uniquely community-based, personalized and experiential learning environment, and we are pleased to be ramping up to bring our students back for what we believe will be an amazing fall 2020.

  In mid-March, our extraordinary faculty quickly moved our whole curriculum delivery to an online and remote format. Simultaneously, I appointed a COVID-19 taskforce made up of faculty, staff, medical personnel, and communication specialists to help guide our response and reduce our campus footprint in concert with state and regional guidelines.

  The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority as we navigate this new landscape for safely reopening our campus. For this reason, last week I appointed an expanded “reopening” committee to meet daily, study, and provide a multi-phased framework for reopening this fall. You can be confident that we will continue to work with state and regional government to ensure we meet or exceed all distancing, cleaning, and safety protocols related to residential housing, dining, classroom instruction and methodology, athletics, chapel gatherings, campus safety, and more.

  If you are a student, faculty, or staff member, I want you to know that the Cabinet, reopening committee, and I are working hard to reopen with your safety and needs in mind. You can be sure that we will put the necessary precautions in place to ensure our students can join us on campus under conditions safe for learning, living, and participating in co-curricular activities. At the same time, we will remain flexible as needed, with alternative strategies outlined well in advance.

  The university offers free telemedicine health and wellness service to students and employees through our partnership with HealthiestYou and maintains close relationships with local public health officials and area healthcare facilities. Faculty and staff at Simpson University’s Betty M. Dean School of Nursing, ranked No. 7 among California nursing schools, is also a guiding resource.

  We are thankful and exceedingly fortunate to live in one of the lowest COVID-19-incident regions in California. We are also fortunate to be surrounded by gifted faculty and staff, who have pivoted creatively and with determination during this unprecedented time. I am grateful for their hard work and adaptability and look forward to starting the 2020-21 school year with their energy, prayers, and enthusiasm.

  Simpson University has outpaced a nationwide trend, growing our undergraduate program two years in a row while launching programs in kinesiology, engineering, digital media, and computer information systems. We also launched new sports including track and field, women’s wrestling, men’s volleyball, swimming and diving, and bass fishing.

  The COVID-19 event certainly took us by surprise but did not take the wind out of our sails, as our data tells us to expect growth again this year. Yes, it has been challenging. And yes, we are better and more refined to open this fall with increased know-how, academic flexibility, and renewed missional commitment to being the gateway to world service.

  Students, keep an eye open for updates and start making plans to be in Redding, California, this fall. We can’t wait to see you. Go, Red Hawks!

  Updated August 25: President's Announcement Video

  Norman D. Hall, Ed.D.
  President

• May 1, 2020: Update regarding CARES Act Funding

  SU Students:

  The coronavirus has impacted each and every one of us one way or another. This semester has been difficult for everyone, whether you are a student, parent, or a university employee. The leadership team at Simpson University has been working diligently on a financial assistance plan for our traditional students.

  Through careful efforts in fundraising and application for federal grants, we have been fortunate to receive significant funding (approximately $450,000) that we will be able to share with our traditional undergraduates. These funds will be distributed as emergency grants, designed to provide financial assistance to students negatively impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and help with the interruption they experienced this semester. The timeline for distribution will follow Simpson University's receipt of federal stimulus funds -- we thank you for your patience as we await those.

  How it works: Each student's emergency grant will be calculated by reviewing various criteria, including housing, food and financial need (using information from the student's FAFSA). In keeping with evolving federal guidelines, we have revised our process to send checks directly to students. Our aim is to get significant dollars to students so they may continue their Simpson University education.

  Deacon's Fund: In addition to the emergency grants, we have established a "Deacon's Fund" for those who have experienced a severe financial hardship due to the coronavirus. Examples of hardship would include COVID-related purchase of health insurance, technology, child care, housing or food expenses. These grants are limited and will be reviewed by a stewardship committee. To apply for assistance from the Deacon's Fund, please email deaconsfund@simpsonu.edu with detailed information about your circumstances and specific need.

  Additional resources: If you or someone in your immediate household has experienced loss of income, extremely high medical bills, or a death of a parent or spouse listed on your FAFSA, please email the Financial Aid Office at financialaid@simpsonu.edu. There may be additional resources available.

  Counseling and telemedicine services: Counseling services continue to be provided remotely by Simpson University Counseling Services, led by Bev Klaiber (bgklaiber@simpsonu.edu). In addition, HealthiestYou, the university's telemedicine provider, offers free health and counseling services online. Download the HealthiestYou app to get started. Contact SU's Human Resources office at hr@simpsonu.edu if you have questions.

  Registration: This is a critical time for you to get registered for classes next year. We have made some important changes that reduce the number of credits required to graduate, so I encourage you to reach out to your academic advisor or the registrar's office to complete this important task. Returning students who complete registration by May 15 will receive a $100 credit toward their account. A late registration fee will be imposed after Aug. 15.

  We are encouraged that new student deposits are still running strong, and we are making plans to open on time this fall. It will be great to have you back on campus!

  Go, Red Hawks!

  Norman D. Hall, Ed.D.
  President

• April 30, 2020: Message to Parents

  Dear Simpson University Parents:

  We hope this email finds your families safe and healthy as you face the particular challenges of this pandemic. As this unprecedented semester ends, we are very much missing your students and all the excitement that comes with graduation and other special events.

  While we look forward to celebrating with many graduates at a commencement ceremony scheduled for Dec. 19, our Academic Office staff and faculty also looked for creative ways to honor students remotely during the week originally slated for graduation. On April 24, we held a virtual "open house," where students met professors and classmates in department Zoom meetings.

  This week we presented our traditional end-of-the-year awards chapel in a Facebook "live" video premiere that allowed us to watch together and offer congratulations in "real time" to the students, faculty, and staff honored for their academic achievements and overall contributions to the Simpson community.

  You can view the video and comments on Facebook at this link. You can also click on individual awards in this visual presentation of the ceremony.

  Our faculty and students did a tremendous job shifting to a remote course format, and we are grateful for their hard work. Our Student Development staff also pivoted creatively to finish out the year with Instagram Live chapel services, a NiteLife Online student talent show, student testimonials, masterclasses, and much more.

  As we move forward, know that we pray daily for our students and their families. We are making plans to open on time for fall semester with on-campus classes, even as we monitor the situation daily and prepare to make adjustments. We hope to see all of our returning students, many of whom have already registered! As a special incentive, students who complete their fall registration by May 15 will receive a $100 credit to their account.

  Your student receives regular emails from us, and we continue to post updates on our COVID-19 webpage, which also includes a link for submitting questions.

  Looking to the One who sustains us all,

  Norman D. Hall, Ed.D.
  President

• April 27, 2020: Awards Chapel Information

  Dear SU Community,

  The final chapel of each year is an awards chapel, where we recognize students for academic and student life achievements. This year, we will present these awards virtually, thanks to the creative work of the Academic Office and the faculty and staff who put together video presentations.

  If you are able, please join us for a Facebook "live" premiere to announce all the awards. This will be held at 10:20 am on Wednesday, April 29th on facebook.com/simpsonu. We'd love for you to leave comments as you hear the winners announced.

  Following the watch party, you'll receive an email with a link to an easy-to-navigate presentation of all the awards and individual videos.

  Blessings,
  The Academic Office

• April 20, 2020: Invitation to Spring 2020 Graduates

  Dear Simpson University 2020 Graduates,

  First, and on behalf of your professors and the entire Simpson community, welcome to your last finals week at Simpson University! You have invested so much to get here. Know that we are proud of you and praying for and with you as you move into this final step of completing your degree at Simpson.

  As you all know, your formal graduation ceremony will take place on December 19th, 2020, for which we are looking forward to welcoming you back to campus to celebrate. And...recognizing that this is a ways off, your professors and the Simpson community would like to invite you to a time of connection and blessing this Friday, April 24, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm. This time signifies the time that Baccalaureate graduation has typically been held, thus we would like to hold this space for you to be able to join your major, as well as other departments, to connect and celebrate with your Simpson community. If you are able, please plan to join your major at 7:00 pm for some introductory remarks and time just for your graduating class from 7:00-7:30 pm. If you'd like, feel free to invite your family and significant others to join, as well; maybe even plan a special dinner together beforehand, virtually and/or with your household! You will be receiving a list of departmental Zoom links via email and will also notice them on this Graduation Moodle site for which you have been enrolled.

  In addition to this time on Friday, we are also preparing short send-off videos of blessing, which will be posted throughout this week on this Graduation Moodle site. Feel free to look for these videos throughout the week, which will be posted up until this Friday.

  Know that you are dearly loved as you continue to walk through this week and as we all continue to navigate these times together. We recognize that your graduation is not what any of us expected and we hope that these opportunities will provide some meaningful ways of connection as you attempt to mark these important years of study and growth, complete this chapter, and begin writing the next. It has truly been a privilege to walk alongside of you during this part of your journey, and we look forward to seeing what is next.

  Grace, peace, and strength in the One who made all, is all, and holds all,
  Your Faculty & The Simpson Community

• April 14, 2020: Dec. 19 Commencement Details

  Dear Graduates,

  By now you may have seen that if you have completed all graduation requirements by April 24, 2020, and were set to graduate in SPRING 2020, you will be able to walk in our December 19th commencement ceremony!

  There will be two ceremonies:
  10am: Traditional Undergraduates
  2pm: Degree Completion (ASPIRE) and Master's Programs

  Ceremonies will be held in the James M. Grant Student Life Center at Simpson University, 2211 College View Drive, Redding, CA 96003. Graduates must arrive one hour prior to their ceremony to robe. Ceremonies are approximately one-and-a-half to two hours long.

  **Spring 2020 Graduates should have received a "Graduation Form" via their Simpson emails from the Registrar's Office. Please complete this form as soon as possible for planning purposes and check your email for more information in the upcoming weeks.

  For more details about caps and gowns, tickets, accommodations, photos and announcements, please visit simpsonu.edu.graduation. If you have additional questions, please email sbartley@simpsonu.edu.

• April 9, 2020

  Your safety is important to us and we would like to give you an update on some recommended safety measures and information on resources available, to help us work together to ensure the safety of you, your family and coworkers.

  Social Distancing
  We would like to remind everyone of the importance of social distancing, keeping space between you and other people both in and outside the workplace. The CDC recommends practicing a distance of at least 6 feet away from others, not gathering in groups, and staying out of crowded places.

  Cloth Face Coverings/Face Masks
  Cloth face coverings are now recommended by the CDC to be worn in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. These face coverings are not surgical masks or N-95s. Please see link below for further information and instructions on how to make your own face covering.

  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

  Office Cleaning/Products Available
  A reminder for those employees who are still working on campus that there are cleaning products and equipment available should you require them to clean your workspace. Regular cleaning of your workspace, as well as your mobile phone, is advised. If you are not aware of where to source these items, please contact Paul Davis.

  Easter Campus Closure
  We also would like to remind everyone that the campus will be closed over Easter, effective Friday, April 10, through Sunday, April 12, with employees returning to work on Monday, April 13. Food service for students remaining on campus will be provided over the weekend.

  Travel
  We understand there may be employees planning travel over this time; however, we would like to remind everyone of the state's stay-at-home orders unless you have to travel for essential reasons. If you do need to travel, please take precautions to protect yourself and others and kindly advise your supervisor and the Director of Human Resources of your travel details and if your health situation changes, so we can mitigate potential risks to others on campus before your return.

• April 8, 2020: Graduation Update

  The President's Office announced via email and video that the spring commencement ceremony is being rescheduled for Saturday, Dec. 19, on campus. There will be two commencement ceremonies that day to honor graduates from spring, summer and fall 2020. More details will be sent to upcoming graduates via email.

  Watch the announcement video (starring President Hall and COO/professor Wally Quirk) at https://vimeo.com/404788346.

• March 21, 2020

  Dear SU Community:

  What an extraordinary week we have just gone through. When we announced in chapel last Friday that we would move to online-only instruction through the remainder of the semester and urged students to go home, we had no idea how quickly and dramatically the situation would change in California. Thank you for your adaptability and understanding as we have had to make daily changes and updates.

  The coronavirus task force met again today to discuss and approve the following items:

  Campus closed to the public: With the statewide shelter-in-place mandate in place, the campus is closed to all members of the public.

  Campus safety checkpoint: As part of our commitment to the safety and security of students and workers who must still be on campus, Campus Safety will establish a checkpoint station starting tonight (3/20). Access to campus will be through the Shasta View entrance. The station will be staffed from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. Employees and remaining students should show SU ID cards to indicate their approved status.

  Telework forms: Staff members (not faculty) who are working from home will be given two forms from Human Resources to fill out: an Emergency Temporary Telework Arrangement form and a Telework Work Plan form. The forms will help track equipment that is being used at home, as well as outlining work plans in conjunction with your supervisor. As the president noted in last night’s communication, it is vital that we are all as productive as possible during this critical time. If your supervisor is not able to assign work according to your normal duties, they may assign tasks such as making phone/video calls to help in the areas of student recruitment, student retention, and fundraising.

  Library: The library will be closed during Spring Break. This is the normal operating procedure, but we wanted to add a note about this so that we are all reminded.

  Bookstore: The bookstore is closed. All returns should be completed online. As a reminder: “If students have rental books checked out, they can mail them to the bookstore for free. To print a free shipping label, students log in to their rental account at SimpsonUshop.com. Students need to mail them by April 24 to avoid late fees.”

• March 19, 2020: What the 'shelter-in-place' order means for Simpson

  Simpson University Community:

  As most of you will be aware by now, California Gov. Newsom this evening ordered all Californians to stay at home and limit non-essential movements in order to help control the spread of the coronavirus. No end date has been given for the order.

  The shelter-in-place mandate, effective immediately, means “non-essential” businesses across the state will be required to close. Residents must remain at home except for essential activities, essential business, and essential government functions, including:

  • Tasks essential to maintain health and safety, such as obtaining medicine or seeing a doctor.
  • Getting necessary services or supplies for themselves or their family or household members, such as getting food and supplies, pet food and supplies necessary for staying at home.
  • Engaging in outdoor activity, such as walking, hiking or running provided that they maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing.
  • Caring for a family member in another household.
  • Caring for elderly, minors, dependents, people with disabilities or other vulnerable persons.

  The shelter-in-place order does not apply to those going to work in an essential business or essential government function. That includes:

  • Health care operations, including home health workers
  • Essential infrastructure, including construction of housing and operation of public transportation and utilities
  • Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores
  • Businesses that provide necessities of life for economically disadvantaged individuals and shelter facilities
  • Pharmacies, health care supply stores and health care facilities
  • Gas stations and auto repair facilities
  • Banks
  • Garbage collection
  • Hardware stores, plumbers, electricians and other service providers necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operation of residences and other essential businesses
  • Educational institutions, for the purposes of facilitating distance learning or performing essential functions
  • Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers
  • Businesses that ship or deliver groceries, food and goods directly to residences
  • Child care facilities providing services that enable essential employees to go to work
  • Roles required for any essential business to "maintain basic operations," which include security, payroll and similar activities.

  What does this mean for Simpson University?

  
  

  Who should report to work Friday morning?
  The shelter-in-place mandate does not apply to educational institutions, for the purposes of facilitating distance learning or performing essential functions. All persons will initially exist on the essential employee list between 8 and 10 a.m. tomorrow, March 20, as we transition to a remote campus status. You are asked to drop in at work to pick up resources such as computers and files, though we are expecting all but essential employees to only visit the office briefly and get back home. If necessary, persons on the essential employee list may deliver critical supplies to those who are uncomfortable coming in to work. Work with your supervisor or area administrator if you have questions about remote work.

  Human Resources will be sending a “Telework work plan” and “Temporary Telework Arrangement” form for use in tracking duties completed from remote work sites.

  What if I have health concerns about coming to work?

  If you feel that you have been identified as an essential employee in error, please see your supervisor, who may appeal to his/her supervisor for clarity of duties or change in status.

  We understand that some may have pre-existing healthcare concerns and therefore ask that you talk to your supervisor to clearly understand what duties you will be expected to complete from home.

  What does this mean for students?

  Like most other schools we are still urging students to go home. Those few who cannot make it home will be allowed to stay.

  Chartwells is continuing to provide food for those who cannot go home.

  Will I still work if my role is not “essential”?

  Yes. All personnel will be expected to check in with supervisors to establish priorities, projects and measures for work. Simpson University cannot afford to shut down at this critical time. If your supervisor is not able to assign work according to your normal duties, he/she may assign duties such as making phone/video calls to future students or potential donors. Supervisors will be expected to set clear and measurable guidelines for duties that will be reported as updates to supervisors at the end of each day.

  How can I best prepare to be most effective in a remote office?

  Be sure to share your remote office phone number with those who may need to contact you.

  Watch a youtube video on utilizing “zoom conferencing”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2pq4I1urXA

  To access the network remotely contact IT about VPN access.

  How can I best prepare to be successful as I telework? (author unknown)

  Get “ready” for work

  Although it may be tempting to stay in your pajamas, experts highly recommend getting “ready” for work, and performing your normal morning routine as if you were heading to a workplace.

  Keep up work routine and schedule

  Try to replicate your work routine at home, including organizing your schedule and allocating blocks of time to projects, meetings, and even breaks. If you normally have an in-person check-in at a particular time, schedule a call at that same time. Or, if you usually take lunch at noon or a break at 2 p.m., do the same at home.

  Stay connected

  When you are in the office, you have the opportunity to collaborate face to face. However, working remotely does not mean you have to miss out on your team camaraderie. Being creative with available communication tools can help keep you connected.

  Enjoy the great outdoors

  Whether you head outside on a break for a walk or to just sit on your porch, get some sunlight and, more importantly, fresh air.

  Create boundaries

  Ensure you separate your work from your home life by designating a space that you only use during work hours. This may be a spare room in your home, a corner for your desk, or even a specific chair at your kitchen table.

  What if I want to use my vacation hours?

  If you have vacation hours, you may certainly utilize them. Please be certain, as always, to seek approval from your supervisor to ensure that critical services are attended.

  Are there health services available?

  As a Simpson employee, you have free access to telemedicine. Through “HealthiestYou,” you and your family can schedule an appointment with a doctor online 24/7 for conditions such as the flu, bronchitis, allergies, sore throats, skin conditions, and more. They can also perform risk assessments for COVID-19.

  Before you can use these services, you will need to enter your details to register. Click here for more information on how to register. If you have any questions or difficulties, email the HR director at mturley@simpsonu.edu.

  As details come to light and future plans become clearer, we will be certain to communicate updates via email.

  In closing, I would like to reflect on the faculty meeting wherein we announced the move to finishing the year via online courses. It was a special blessing to observe the faculty move quickly from decision to discussion and actions aimed at ensuring exceptional academic continuity for our Simpson students. Their enthusiasm and commitment was and continues to be infectious and encouraging. We don’t know yet how long this pandemic interruption will occur, but we do know that we have a community dedicated to high quality education and a big God who is worthy of our work and praise.

  Let us continue to communicate, pray, and find some rest, while we look for reasons to be grateful and serve with a glad heart.

  Pursue Shalom,

  Norman D. Hall
  President
  Simpson University

• March 17, 2020: Residential housing closure and graduation update

  SU Community:

  The situation with Coronavirus changes on a daily basis. The SU task force meets on a daily basis to determine the best course of action. We have been regularly monitoring the information provided by our local government and health authorities, the Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization.

  Right now, the best information suggests that SU and Redding are still at a relatively low risk for infection or spread of the coronavirus. That being said, we recognize that SU’s spring break is only one week away and that our students, faculty and staff have plans to travel widely. This travel could increase the risk of someone in the SU community becoming infected and bringing the virus back to campus and to Redding. We also recognize it would be difficult to control the spread of the virus on a residential campus, so we concluded that taking additional action is the most responsible and caring thing to do.

  The following actions were recommended by the task force and approved by Dr. Hall on 3/17/20:

  University Housing: SU will close all student housing. Students will need to move out of university residence halls by the end of Monday, March 23. We have made this decision because the CDC suggests limiting indoor spaces in which large groups can gather, such as residential facilities and dining halls, as these areas present a greater risk of transmission.

  We encourage residential students to move out as soon as possible, though we realize this will take longer for some students. As long as the current relatively low-risk situation remains the same, SU housing and dining facilities will remain open until 6 p.m. Monday, March 23, to provide flexibility.

  We recognize that some students may experience particular hardships due to the closing of SU housing at that time, including those students who may be from countries with travel restrictions or other extenuating circumstances. If you are in this situation, please contact Residence Life in Student Development or via email (reslife@simpsonu.edu) to discuss potential accommodation options. Residence Life will provide additional information to students.

  Nursing students need additional information related to housing. A special meeting has been scheduled with Dean Misty Smith and Dean Mark Endraske to discuss your specific needs on Thursday, at 6pm (location tbd).

  University Dining Services: Dining service on the Simpson campuses will end at 6 p.m. Monday, March 23. The last meal served will be dinner that day. To comply with state and county guidelines, dining service will be available as take-out only between now and March 23.

  April 25, 2020, Commencement: We have made the difficult decision to cancel our spring commencement, scheduled for April 25, and related graduation activities. In keeping with many other colleges and universities, the prospect of significant restrictions to travel and large-group gatherings means we cannot guarantee our ability to deliver in-person commencement activities during this period. We will be looking for creative ways to honor our graduates. Please note that degrees will still be conferred at the end of the semester.

  Refund question: We’ve received a number of questions regarding whether Simpson University is giving refunds for students who are leaving campus. To a great degree, this is a question about service costs. So you are asked to consider some of the following:

  • To ensure safety and maintain academic continuity we have moved all courses online.
  • While we urge students to go home, we have many who cannot go home.
  • For the above reasons the whole university continues to operate with little or no savings as contracts with vendors such as food service and utilities require continued payment. To accommodate just this sort of instance, usually, in the category of “act of God” events, we have a policy that states “after Friday of the eighth week” we are unable to reimburse.
  • To review the student handbook policy please reference: Removal of Institutional Charges.
  • We understand that some universities are giving prorated rebates. If Simpson University were to ignore its posted policy as above, the scenario is actually more complex. The federal regulation governing financial aid cost of attendance requires universities (when refunding or rebating) to prorate both room and board coupled with institutional policies to also prorate scholarships (if ever we prorated room and board – like before the eighth week). In most cases, because our discount is very high, most students, after proration, would have an outstanding balance.

  SU’s campus will remain open and fully operational as feasible during this time. We will continue to educate and care for our students. We expect that faculty and staff will have full access to their offices and will continue to work as normal while following the recommended health and hygiene protocols outlined by the CDC. We recognize that some faculty and staff may be vulnerable because of underlying health conditions, and we would ask that you speak to HR about the best and safest way for you to continue working.

  Sincerely,

  Dr. Norman D. Hall
  President

• March 16, 2020

  SU Community,

  A prayer I heard today focused on maintaining a spiritual connection in the midst of social distancing. That will be our challenge and our opportunity over the next few weeks as we continue to be pressed into more distance and more isolation. I hope that we will be able to encourage, speak life, and connect with each other, even if that connection is over Zoom!

  With that said, the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve and we must change along with it to ensure the health and safety of our community. In response to the POTUS announcement today, Guidelines for America: 15 Days to Slow the Spread, the university's Coronavirus taskforce has recommended, and Dr. Hall has approved, the following changes, effective Tuesday morning:

  • 1. Food Service.

  As the need for social distancing has increased, it has become necessary to limit access to our food service venues, including our dining center. Meals are still available, but food will be served as a take-out option only. Meals will be available to pick up during the following times:

  • 9 - 11 AM for breakfast
  • 12 AM - 2 PM for lunch
  • 4 - 6 PM for dinner
  • 2. Bean Scene.

  Starting tomorrow, the Bean Scene will be closed until further notice. Coffee will be served in the library.

  • 3. Gymnasium.

  It has become necessary to limit where groups of people congregate, and gyms are included in venues suggested to be closed. The weight room and gym are temporarily closed until further notice.

  • 4. Library

  The library remains open for service. Please abide by the social distancing guidelines offered by the POTUS.

  • 5. Testing (Prometric)

  Most student services remain open, including testing services through Prometric. Service will be offered in a manner that allows for "social distancing" when possible.

  • 6. Work and Meetings.

  As we seek to avoid non-essential meetings, we urge SU staff and faculty to use Zoom or hold meetings in a space that allows proper social distancing.

  Mark Endraske, MA
  Dean of Students

• March 13, 2020: Moving to online courses

  Please read President Hall's letter about the decision to move classes to an online format for the remainder of the semester.

  Watch a video of Dr. Hall offering encouragement to students.