WORCESTER – A party hosted by Holy Cross students on Saturday, August 15, has resulted in one confirmed COVID-19 positive case and several reported potential cases.
According to a letter to students from three officials from the college, including VP of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Michele Murray, PhD, Holy Cross students renting an off-campus apartment on College St. hosted the party.
Holy Cross Safety Officers responded to the party and found the state limit of people at a gathering exceeded, masks not being worn and physical distancing not being practiced.
Dr. Murray notes in the letter that the gathering was in violation of state and local guidelines and the Holy Cross Community Commitment, which students agreed to in July. She also said that the students responsible for the party will be held accountable.
Holy Cross announced on Monday, August 10, that it was changing course from its initial plan and shifting to remote learning for the fall semester.
Dr. Murray also outlined the importance of individual responsibility for every student and stated the potential consequences for the Holy Cross community for non-compliance:
“We will not be able to welcome back the entire campus community, or even a larger cohort than we have this fall, if students cannot demonstrate the self-discipline, mutual respect, and care for others by following requirements to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
Image Credit:Taliskerbay, Carlinhall, CC BY-SA 3.0
