February 5 Message from the Division of Student Affairs

Mercy College seal

 

Dear Dobbs Ferry Residential Students, 

Thank you for your patience and adherence to our strict quarantine procedure while we evaluated the COVID-19 positivity rate in the Dobbs Ferry residence halls. We are so proud of your cooperation and attentiveness to this quarantine period!

Over the last three days, the Student Health Office successfully tested 99% of residential students and identified 7 positive cases. Those individuals and their close contacts are now isolated from the rest of the population. All other students are now released from quarantine effective immediately.

Given the rate of infection in the wider community, it is not unlikely that we will continue to see additional cases during the rest of the semester. To keep the positivity rate low, it is imperative that you continue to practice masking, distancing, and sanitization both on and off campus.  Even if you have received a recent negative test result, these safety practices will help to keep you and our community safe. Also, be aware that a test result is valid as of a single point in time: we know of examples where individuals have tested negative one day and positive the next, which goes to show how important it is that you not let your guard down, especially on Super Bowl Sunday.

As an additional safeguard, the College will again conduct mandatory testing of all Dobbs Ferry residential students next week. It is not anticipated that next week’s testing will require students to quarantine.  Residential students should expect that mandatory testing of all or a percentage of the residential community will continue in the weeks ahead.  Residential students who fail to participate may be asked to leave the residence halls for the remainder of the spring term. More information will be communicated soon for scheduling upcoming tests.  

Your health and safety are our priority, and we appreciate your understanding through this process.  We are here to support you and encourage you to keep in open communication with our team. Please do not hesitate to reach out for anything you might need.

Sincerely, 
Kevin Joyce
Vice President of Student Affairs