Dear UD Students,

We need you to help Protect The Flock. And based on the large number of students on campus and in Newark wearing face coverings, physical distancing, etc., it’s great to see the University of Delaware community come together so enthusiastically to take care of themselves and each other.

No matter where you are, your health and safety is our top priority. We want everyone to be healthy so they can enjoy the rich and fulfilling UD experience. Check out the Student Life Virtual Hub for a list of events and activities available to all students this weekend and throughout the fall semester.

We are concerned, though, about a few large off-campus parties recently that have far exceeded the limits on gathering size set by the City of Newark. Students responsible for those gatherings face disciplinary action. More importantly, these parties created a significant risk to the health of attendees and the entire community.

Many colleges around the country tried to reopen but later sent students home due to a spike in COVID-19 cases, when students didn’t take the necessary steps to keep each other safe. We know you do not want that to happen at UD. It’s every Blue Hen’s responsibility to Protect The Flock so all students can return to campus as soon as possible.

So please, step up and do your part to keep the UD experience vibrant and healthy. Do not host or attend large parties (those with more than 12 people inside or more than 20 outside). If a gathering grows larger than anticipated, hosts or attendees can report it through the LiveSafe app. The University will carefully consider the circumstances in determining whether or how to hold students accountable. Students who support contact tracing and other initiatives that promote the health and safety of our community may be eligible for amnesty from punitive sanctions. Wherever you go, be sure to observe physical distancing with those who do not live with you, and, of course, wear a cloth face covering when you’re with others outside your household.

Most of all, please help keep each other safe by reporting incidents of concern. UD’s strong culture of positive bystander intervention is a powerful tool for taking care of our community. Use the LiveSafe app to anonymously report upcoming large parties or any instance where someone’s behavior is putting our community’s safety at risk, such as not wearing a face covering in public. We have no interest in disciplining anyone for minor issues; instead, we will use that information to encourage healthier decisions and behaviors.

What’s more, the impact of your actions extends far beyond the University. Every day, you may come in contact with family members, friends, neighbors and community members who could become infected with the virus. The more you do to protect yourselves and others, the sooner our society can conquer this pandemic.

We want our entire community to be safe and healthy, so thank you for the sacrifices you’ve made so far. With your continued help, we can look forward to all being together on campus again soon.

Best,

José-Luis Riera, Vice President of Student Life