In response to Notre Dame’s announcement to restart in-person classes, interim vice president of student affairs Gloria Roldán Jenkins gave the Saint Mary’s student body updated information on how the decision affects the College.

Though students are now allowed to go to Notre Dame’s campus, Jenkins asked that they only attend essential gatherings.

“Even though ND’s campus will open on Sept. 2, we ask that students only go to the ND campus only for necessary activities like class, band practice and student organization meetings,” Jenkins said.

The Sweep and Blinkie will resume service to accommodate students traveling across campuses.

“Beginning Sept. 2, the Sweep will resume its normal schedule,” Jenkins said. “Blinkie will begin the ND loop on Sept. 4. The last run to the Grotto at ND is at 9 p.m.”

In addition, students can eat meals at Notre Dame. Holy Cross will stay closed to visitors for the time being.

“Because SMC students may be in ND classes, they may also begin taking meals at ND on September 2,“ Jenkins said.

Jenkins advised students to stay on campus this weekend and not gather in groups of more than 15.

“The College continues to require that informal social gatherings on campus be limited to 15 individuals,“ Jenkins said. “We also ask that you continue to refrain from going off campus and from attending parties. Please leave campus only for essential functions, and limit your time to what is necessary.“

Jenkins also asked students to continue following health and safety protocols.

“While ND’s decision is an encouraging sign, this is no time to relax our commitment to health and safety,“ Jenkins said. “We will continue to work with our tri-campus community to ensure that we maintain the rigorous standards we’ve established for our students, faculty, and staff.“

Tags: COVID-19, Gloria Jenkins, in-person classes, Saint Mary's College, University of Notre Dame