LHU announces additional fall semester plans and opening date
LOCK HAVEN, Pa. — Lock Haven University announced Wednesday that the opening date for the fall semester and start of classes will remain Aug. 24, as was originally planned as the first day of the new school year.
The university announced last week that face-to-face instruction will end prior to the Thanksgiving holiday and are now examining two options — condensing the academic schedule or utilizing remote instruction following Thanksgiving to accommodate the earlier end to face to face instruction.
Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) has set a deadline of July 15 for finalization of all campus reopening plans. LHU anticipates their plan will be finalized, shared with the campus community and published on the university’s website in advance of that date.
The university also reported that summer orientations began virtually, Tuesday, June 23, with 100 first-time freshmen and transfer students participating in a general session.
“I was so pleased to welcome and address these new Bald Eagles who are part of our projected increased fall class — the first in seven years,” said Dr. Robert Pignatello, LHU president. “The orientation went very well and we received positive feedback from parents and students.”
A “Haven Resources” session was also offered Wednesday, providing an opportunity for students to connect virtually with a wide variety of student service areas on both the main and Clearfield campuses. One of the important messages stressed during the sessions was the need for personal responsibility to keep everyone safe, including the wearing of masks and social distancing.
In addition, student affairs and admissions staff are working to implement several important programs for new and prospective students at The Haven. The Office of Admissions will resume on-campus visits on July 13. In addition to keeping groups small and implementing a contactless check-in procedure, staff and visitors will be required to wear masks and all state-mandated social distancing guidelines will be in effect.
The university also has extended the SAT/ACT test optional policy for students seeking entry into the spring 2021 or fall 2021 entry terms. Admissions staff will continue to place heavy emphasis on high school curriculum and grades. Certain majors will continue to require test scores. For additional information, visit http://www.lockhaven.edu/admissions/freshman/.
“We will continue to work together through this challenging period to fulfill our vital mission and soar higher toward a brighter future,” Pignatello said.
