Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Information

Health & Safety Protocols

We have adopted a multi-layered approach to protecting the health and safety of the Lesley community. Vaccination, restricting access to buildings, testing, and masking have been the cornerstones of our protocols to limit transmission of the virus and the potential for severe illness and hospitalization.

All community members are instructed to refrain from coming to campus if they are feeling COVID-19 symptoms, and students living in residence halls should stay in their rooms if feeling COVID-19 symptoms. Students and employees studying, living, or working on campus must also immediately report COVID-19 symptoms to COVID_Update@lesley.edu.

Please see the section on "Possible COVID-19 Symptoms – Reporting and Response" in the "COVID-19 Testing, Symptomatic, and Response Protocols" on this page.

• Vaccination Policies

  Public health officials advise that being fully vaccinated is the most effective protection against serious illness associated with COVID-19 infection. All students and employees studying, living, and working on campus must be "up to date on vaccinations," as defined by the CDC, subject to approved medical or religious exemptions.

  Students

  Starting in the Fall 2021 semester, all students were required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before coming to campus this year and submit proof of vaccination or have an approved exemption.

  Employees

  In the Fall 2021 semester, over 98% of core faculty and staff affirmed that they had been fully vaccinated on a voluntary basis before returning to campus. In addition, we required all adjunct faculty, faculty, and staff in particular programs who work on campus, to be fully vaccinated.

  Vaccine Booster Requirement

  As of December 23, 2021, we updated our COVID-19 vaccine policy to require all eligible students, faculty, and staff studying and working on campus to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine booster.  Information is available at vaxfinder.mass.gov for Massachusetts locations offering vaccine boosters.  

  Due to the eligibility criteria, there was a rolling deadline for obtaining the vaccine booster. All individuals who were eligible to receive a booster on or before January 15, 2022, were required to comply by February 15, 2022. Individuals who were eligible after January 15, 2022, were allowed 30 days from their date of eligibility to comply with this policy.

  All previously approved medical and religious accommodations specific to COVID-19 vaccination apply to the vaccine booster requirement. Students should contact the Dean of Students and employees should contact the Office of Human Resources with any changes or questions.

  Medical or Religious Exemptions

  We will review each request for a medical or religious exemption from COVID-19 vaccination individually to determine if the request meets the standard for approval. To protect privacy, we will not be sharing information about vaccination status. Please do not ask students or colleagues about their vaccination status.

  Students and employees who have been approved for a medical or religious exemption from COVID-19 vaccination are required to participate twice each week in the on-campus testing program and are encouraged to take additional precautions to protect themselves in the presence of others.

• Face Mask Requirements

  Lesley University follows the guidance of the City of Cambridge for masking. Lesley also requires masks on campus in the following situations:

  • Classrooms – faculty member may decide whether to require masks in the faculty member’s classroom and will communicate that decision directly to the students
  • Administrative departments – staff may decide whether to require students and colleagues to wear masks when visiting their departments

  
  Masks continue to be required in these areas:

  • COVID-19 testing sites
  • Student Health Services offices
  • Student Counseling Center offices
  • All transportation

  
  Masks continue to be required for these persons:

  • Person who has tested positive for COVID-19, for a period of ten days
  • Person who is a close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID-19, for a period of ten days
  • Facilities staff, Public Safety officers, and dining services staff in certain situations

  
  We understand that people may have different comfort levels when it comes to removing their masks, and we urge everyone to respect the decisions of others regarding mask wearing and to protect yourself as you think best. Individual decisions to mask should be informed by the prevalence of cases in the community, your vaccination status, and your age and medical history. We strongly encourage indoor masking for persons with greater health risks or concerns. “Medical-style” masks and KN95 masks are available in each of the Public Safety offices.

  Public health officials advise that face masks can help protect all community members and limit virus spread in areas of substantial or high transmission, at large indoor gatherings, and when other risk factors are present.

• COVID-19 Testing Schedule and Protocols

  Free COVID-19 testing is available on campus on a drop-in and appointment basis seven days a week for all students and employees.

  Please download the CoVerified mobile app and use your Lesley single sign-on email and password to check your PCR test results. A browser-based application is available if you do not have a smartphone. You may make an appointment through CoVerified, but appointments are not required. Your access to campus will be restricted if you test positive or do not comply with our testing requirements.

  Covid-19 Testing Schedule

  Free testing is available on campus for Lesley community members. Testing sites and times are available on our testing schedule webpage.

  Cataldo Ambulance Service conducts COVID-19 testing, and The Broad Institute processes and reports the PCR testing results.

• COVID-19 Reporting and Response Protocols

  Positive Test Results – Reporting and Response

  Reporting Positive Test Results

  The University will have information about COVID-19 positive test results obtained through the University’s testing protocol. The University will contact individuals who test positive.

  Any student or employee who is approved to be on campus and tests positive for COVID-19 outside of the University’s testing protocol must immediately report that to COVID_Update@lesley.edu.

  Those who test positive must share a list of any close contacts with Lesley and local public health officers for contact tracing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines close contacts as those who were within 6 feet of a person who tested positive for a cumulative total of 15 minutes within a 24-hour period.

  Please note that given the current Omicron surge, the University will not be able to conduct contact tracing in every case.  Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 should please immediately notify their close contacts.

  Individuals who test positive for COVID-19

  Residential students and employees who test positive for COVID-19 must:

  • Stay in their rooms until further instruction from Student Health Services or Residential Life.
  • Move to residential space designated for COVID-19-positive cases for isolation
    • for a period of at least five days (if asymptomatic or symptoms resolve after five days) and
    • until at least 24 hours have passed with no fever (without the use of fever-reducing medications) and improvement in other symptoms.
  • While in isolation housing, receive meals delivered from Dining Services with contactless delivery.
  • Consult with Student Health Services (for residential students) or a physician or another healthcare provider (for residential employees).
  • Identify and notify personal contacts and assist the University in contact tracing efforts.
  • Answer the call from the local board of health or tracing collaborative.
  • Notify their advisor (for students) or supervisor (for employees) that they will be unable to come to attend campus activities for a period of time.
  • Only return to campus activity when cleared by Student Health Services (for students) or the COVID-19 team (for employees).
  • For a period of five days after the isolation period, always wear a mask when around others indoors and outdoors.

  
  Commuting students, faculty, and staff who test positive for COVID-19 must:

  • Isolate in their homes
    • for a period of at least five days (if asymptomatic or symptoms resolve after five days) and
    • until at least 24 hours have passed with no fever (without the use of fever-reducing medications) and improvement in other symptoms.
  • Consult their physician or another healthcare provider.
  • Identify and notify personal contacts to assist the University in contact tracing efforts.
  • Answer the call from the local board of health or tracing collaborative.
  • Notify their advisor (for students) or supervisor (for employees) that they will be unable to come to campus for a period of time.
  • Return to campus activity when cleared by Student Health Services (for students) or the COVID-19 team (for employees).
  • For a period of five days after the isolation period, always wear a mask when around others indoors and outdoors.

  
  Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 will not be required to participate in the University’s weekly routine testing program for a period of 90 days.

  Close contacts of individuals who test positive for COVID-19

  To the extent possible, close contacts of COVID-19 positive cases in the Lesley community will be alerted and provided with instructions and information, including requirements for staying off-campus and testing, following our “Close Contact Exposure – Reporting and Response” protocols outlined on this page. Please note that given the current Omicron surge, the University will not be able to conduct contact tracing in every case.  Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 should please immediately notify their close contacts.

  Lesley will endeavor to maintain the confidentiality of the infected person but will identify the infected person as necessary for contact tracing purposes and for implementing these protocols.

  Close Contact Exposure – Reporting and Response

  The CDC defines close contacts as those who were within six feet of a person who tested positive for COVID-19 for a cumulative total of 15 minutes within a 24-hour period.  The time period for contact tracing is defined as contact beginning two days before the onset of symptoms (or the date a positive test was taken, if asymptomatic).

  Close contacts:

  • Do not need to quarantine.
  • Must wear a mask when around others indoors and outdoors for ten days and in accordance with Lesley policy.
  • Must obtain proof of a negative PCR test taken no sooner than the fifth day after exposure to the COVID-19 positive individual and as directed by the University. If you have had COVID-19 within the last 90 days, please obtain a rapid test instead. Lesley's on-campus testing schedule is available here. However, if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, please obtain testing sooner and follow the University's symptoms guidelines.
  • Remain in contact with the Director of the Student Health Services (for students) or the COVID-19 Team (for employees).

  
  Household close contacts (including roommates and caretakers):

  Our close contact protocol has additional steps for community members that have household members that have tested positive for COVID-19. A household member is someone that is sharing the same living space as you, and includes roommates, spouses, children, family members, and others. If a member of the Lesley community has a household member that tests positive for COVID-19:

  • Contact the COVID-19 Team (covid_update@lesley.edu) to inform them that a member of their household has tested positive for COVID-19.
  • Maintain a dialogue with the Director of Student Health Services (for students) and the COVID-19 Team (for employees) to assess the risk of repeated exposure and determine appropriate next steps.
  • Use discretion when participating in campus activities; participate in work, classes, and activities virtually whenever possible.
  • If you are experiencing symptoms, isolate and obtain a PCR test.
  • If the community member is the caretaker for the person who has tested positive, isolate and do not participate in campus activities for a minimum of five days after the exposure (when their household member tested positive, or, if the household member is experiencing symptoms, then when their household member began exhibiting symptoms).
  • Follow our usual close contact protocols of obtaining a PCR test no sooner than the fifth day after exposure and where a well-fitting mask for ten days. If you have had COVID-19 within the last 90 days, please obtain a rapid test instead.

  ---

  Possible COVID-19 Symptoms – Reporting and Response

  Reporting Symptoms

  Any student or employee who is approved to be on campus and has any new or changed symptoms that could be consistent with COVID-19 symptoms must immediately report that to COVID_Update@lesley.edu and must immediately stay off-campus or in their on-campus residence rooms until further instruction. 

  The health of our community relies in part on individual attention and responsibility, including notifying the University of a possible illness. Please note that some symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other illnesses.

  Students will be contacted by Student Health Services or Residential Life. Employees must consult their physician or another healthcare provider.

  Lesley will not inform other students and employees if an individual has symptoms until the University implements the COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 close contact procedures under these protocols.

  Response for Symptoms

  Students and employees who have new or changed symptoms that could be consistent with COVID-19 symptoms must:

  • Isolate.
  • Submit proof of a negative PCR test.
  • Have improvement in symptoms.
  • Have been free of fever for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications (e.g. Tylenol, Motrin, etc.).
  • If symptoms are significant and an evaluation is performed by Student Health Services (for residential students) or their healthcare provider (for commuting students and employees) and an alternative diagnosis is reached (strep, etc.), they may return to the university based on medical guidance.
  • Be cleared to return by the Student Health Services (for students) or the COVID-19 team (for employees).
• Air Flow and Ventilation

  At Lesley, we have changed HVAC settings to allow for the maximum amount of outside air to come in through the systems. These buildings have central HVAC systems with Merv13 filters:

  • 31 Everett: Stebbins offices, classrooms 
  • 34-36 Mellen: East side building offices, classrooms 
  • 1 Wendell (residence hall)
  • 3 Wendell (residence hall)
  • 34 Mellen: Marran Theater
  • 30 Mellen: west side residence hall/fitness/offices
  • 33 Everett: White Hall Dining
  • 1815 Mass Ave
  • 1801 Mass Ave: Lunder
  • Sherrill Library
  • Washburn Hall

  
  For naturally ventilated buildings, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends increasing circulation of outdoor air as much as possible by opening windows and doors, if possible, and using fans. Please do not open windows and doors if doing so poses a safety or health risk for occupants.

  Window air conditioning units are installed in many offices, and filters have been cleaned in all window AC units and wall-mounted AC units (“splits”) over the summer. To support natural air flow in buildings without HVAC systems, some restroom fans will be running continuously.

  Employees who are assigned to an office in a non-HVAC building without a window should please contact their supervisor as Lesley has some spaces that can be reserved for your use while you are on campus.

• Campus Access

  Access to Lesley buildings is strictly limited to current students, faculty, staff, and vendors. A Lesley ID card is needed to enter campus buildings. If you wish to have an appointment with a particular faculty or staff member, you must make an appointment to visit them.

  Any visitors or guests must be approved in advance by the appropriate Cabinet member and must be informed that they

  1. Are not allowed to come to campus if they have any COVID-19 symptoms, have a household close contact with COVID-19, or had COVID-19 within ten days before visiting campus.
  2. May wear a mask if they wish.
  3. Must wear a mask if requested by their Lesley host or if they were exposed to a non-household close contact within ten days before visiting campus.
  4. Must take a rapid test if requested and provided by their Lesley host.
  5. Are recommended to be "up to date" on COVID-19 vaccinations, as defined by the CDC.
  6. Inform COVID_Update@lesley.edu and their close contacts on campus if they develop any COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 within two days after being on campus.

  
  Resident students may visit each other in other residence halls.

  The ground floor retail areas of University Hall are open to the public.

• Stay Home if You Feel Sick

  We ask that anyone who is sick or symptomatic—even just a runny nose or coughing—stay off-campus or in their residence hall and that faculty and supervisors provide remote attendance options to the extent possible so that students and employees may participate.  

  Any student or employee who is approved to be on campus and has any new or changed symptoms that could be consistent with COVID-19 symptoms must immediately report that to COVID_Update@lesley.edu and to the Dean of Student Life  (for students) or Human Resources Human Resources (for employees) and must immediately stay off-campus or in their on-campus residence rooms until further instruction. 

  Employees should avail themselves of the paid sick leave benefits available to them and switch to remote working options to the extent feasible.

  Students who feel sick must be in immediate and regular communication with their advisors and faculty members to discuss alternate plans.

• Events and Gatherings

  Event Policy

  In-person events and gatherings must be approved in advance by the appropriate Cabinet member and the events team (facilityrentals@lesley.edu). The event organizer must keep an attendance list with email addresses.

  The invitation or announcement of an event or gathering must include a statement to the effect of the following [Note: The protocols may change based on the type of event, e.g. a seated event in Marran Theater versus a walk-through art exhibition, and depending on the Lesley host’s request.]:

  People should assess their personal situation and make their own informed decision about visiting Lesley’s campus. All Lesley employees and students on campus must be "up to date" on COVID-19 vaccinations, as defined by the CDC, subject to legally approved exemptions, and must stay off campus if they have any COVID-19 symptoms. Except in certain designated circumstances, COVID-19 testing is generally not required for participation in Lesley events. If Lesley learns of COVID-19 cases on campus, Lesley may notify close contacts. Visitors to Lesley’s campus

  1. Are not allowed to come to campus if they have any COVID-19 symptoms, have a household close contact with COVID-19, or had COVID-19 within ten days before visiting campus.
  2. May wear a mask if they wish.
  3. Must wear a mask if requested by their Lesley host or if they were exposed to a non-household close contact within ten days before visiting campus.
  4. Must take a rapid test if requested and provided by their Lesley host.
  5. Are recommended to be "up to date" on COVID-19 vaccinations, as defined by the CDC.
  6. Inform COVID_Update@lesley.edu and their close contacts on campus if they develop any COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 within two days after the Lesley event.

  
  The event policy is subject to change based on public health conditions.

• Wash Hands Often & Clean Up After Yourself

  Practicing good hand hygiene is advised. Hand sanitizer is available in multiple locations across campus. We ask that everyone be attentive to cleaning up after themselves if they use a common space to work or eat.

  We will follow our standard cleaning routines and schedules for classrooms and other common spaces. Please submit a facility request form if you observe a space that needs additional cleaning.

• Flu Shots

  All residential students and employees are required to get an annual flu shot. Others are strongly encouraged to have get flu shots annually.

• Take Care of Your Mental Health

  We recognize that the uncertainty and effects of the pandemic continue to cause stress and anxiety for many community members, and our Counseling Center offers supportive services for students and resources for the community.

  Wellness events and programs for our community are offered during the traditional academic year.

• Resources for Public Health Guidance on COVID-19

  City of Cambridge

  Commonwealth of Massachusetts

  Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

• CARES Act: Updated April 21, 2022

  Updated April 2022
  
  The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERFIII) has been authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and was signed into law on March 11, 2021. Lesley University received an award of $3.1 million to be disbursed among the approximately 3,500 students that qualify for the grant. On September 27, 2021, all students deemed eligible to receive a disbursement under the HEERF III were notified and asked to complete an application for disbursement of these funds.

  On October 26, 2021 Lesley University disbursed $1,156,800.00 to approximately 1,620 students. On November 19, 2021, a second application was circulated to 3,516 students. The second disbursement of funds was completed on December 24, 2021. This second disbursement resulted in a total of $2,305,575.00 being disbursed to the qualified students during the fall 2021 semester. Lesley University expects to do a final disbursement during the Spring 2022 semester to disburse the remaining funding.

  On February 25, 2022, all remaining funding was disbursed to Lesley University Students.  The HEERF III awarding has been completed.  
   

• Previous CARES Act: Updated January 4, 2022

  Updated January 4, 2022

  The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERFIII) has been authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and was signed into law on March 11, 2021. Lesley University received an award of $3.1 million to be disbursed among the approximately 3,500 students that qualify for the grant. On September 27, 2021, all students deemed eligible to receive a disbursement under the HEERF III were notified and asked to complete an application for disbursement of these funds.

  On October 26, 2021 Lesley University disbursed $1,156,800.00 to approximately 1,620 students. On November 19, 2021, a second application was circulated to 3,516 students. The second disbursement of funds was completed on December 24, 2021. This second disbursement resulted in a total of $2,305,575.00 being disbursed to the qualified students during the fall 2021 semester. Lesley University expects to do a final disbursement during the Spring 2022 semester to disburse the remaining funding.

  Review the Lesley University Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting Form (PDF)

• Previous CARES Act update: September 29, 2021

  Under the CARES Act, Lesley University received $998,930.00 from the Department of Education.  As of March 31, 2021, Lesley University had expended $953,325.00 to over 1,270.00 students.

  In December 2020 the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSA) was passed.  This act included 23 billion for higher education institutions and students using the same Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) model established in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.  Lesley University received $998,930.00 in HEERFII funding for distribution to students.  This act required that any remaining funding from the CARES act be included in the now HEERF II, bringing Lesley’s funding to $1,042.10.00.  Lesley University has expended all of the funds granted under the HEERF II act.

  The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERFIII) has been authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and was signed into law on March 11, 2021.  Lesley University received an award of $3.1 million dollars to be disbursed among the 3,500 students that qualify for the grant. 

  On September 27, 2021, all students deemed eligible to receive a disbursement under the HEERF III were notified and asked to complete an application for disbursement of these funds.

  Lesley University expects to begin disbursement of the HEERF III funds on or around October 22, 2021. 

  Review the Lesley University Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting Form (PDF)

Past Email Communications from Lesley University

Here is an archive of the email communications we have sent to the Lesley community related to updates and operations during the pandemic.

• Spring 2023 communications to the Lesley community

  January 19, 2023: COVID-19 Spring Semester 2023 Protocols

  Read the update on the spring semester protocols

• Fall 2022 communications to the Lesley community

  August 4, 2022: Updated COVID-19 for Fall 2022 (students)

  Read an update on the Fall 2022 COVID-19 protocols for students

  August 4, 2022: Updated COVID-19 Protocols for Fall 2022 (employees)

  Read an update on the Fall 2022 COVID-19 protocols for faculty and staff

• Summer 2022 communications to the Lesley community

  July 11, 2022: COVID-19 Protocols for Fall 2022

  Read an update regarding COVID-19 protocols for the Fall 2022 semester.

• Spring 2022 communications to the Lesley community

  May 26, 2022: COVID-19 Protocols for Summer 2022 

  Read an update regarding COVID-19 protocols for the Summer 2022 semester including new information about the mask advisory and a new testing schedule.

  May 3, 2022: Important Covid-19 Update

  Read a message with information about increasing Covid-19 positivity rates and related recommendations to protect health and safety.

  Note: The positivity rate for the five days ending May 2 was 4.0%, not 3.41%. The corrected rate reflects 16 positive results out of 398 total tests conducted on campus during that five-day period.

  Apr. 21, 2022: Update on Mask Requirements 

  Read a message from the Lesley COVID-19 Safety Team regarding the end of the CDC's mask mandate and current mask requirements at the university.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Apr 11 to Apr 15

  Read an update from the Lesley COVID-19 Safety Team on testing results and an announcement of a new online test reporting dashboard on the Lesley website.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Apr 4 to Apr 8

  Read an update from the Lesley COVID-19 Safety Team on testing results and a message about possible additional precautions you can take to protect yourself and others due to COVID-19 cases increasing.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Mar 28 to Apr 1

  Read an update from the Lesley COVID-19 Safety Team on testing results on campus and an increase of positive COVID-19 cases in Middlesex County.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Mar 21 to Mar 25

  Read a message about changes to COVID-19 testing requirements.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Mar 14 to Mar 17

  Read a reminder about Lesley’s new health and safety protocols and other information from the Lesley University COVID-19 Safety Team, including new policies on testing, visitors, travel, and more.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Mar 7 to Mar 11

  Read an update from the Lesley University COVID-19 Safety Team on the seventh week of the Spring Semester, testing results, the testing schedule over the Spring Break, new mask and testing protocols, and revised visitor, event and travel policies.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Feb 28 to Mar 4

  Read an update from the Lesley University COVID-19 Safety Team on the sixth week of the Spring Semester, mask protocols, testing results, and how to use the CoVerified App.

  Weekly COVID report for the week of Feb 21 to Feb 25

  Read an update from the Lesley University COVID-19 Safety Team on the fifth week of the Spring Semester, testing results, the updated testing schedule and a message about the university's mask requirement.

  Note: The 7-day campus testing positivity rate should read 0.6%, not .006%. And the 14-day rate should read 0.7%, not .007%.

  Weekly COVID-19 report for the week of Feb 14 to Feb 18

  Read an update from the Lesley University COVID-19 Safety Team on the fourth week of the Spring Semester, testing results, and a message about the new CoVerified app.

  Note: The 7-day campus testing positivity rate should read 0.7%, not .007%. And the 14-day rate should read 0.8%, not .008%.

  Feb 15, 2022: Updates to Testing Location and Introducing the CoVerified App

  Read an update from the Lesley COVID-19 Safety Team about the newly offered COVID testing on Porter Campus and the launch of the CoVerified app as a testing hub.

  Feb 4, 2022: Updates on the Spring Semester and Phased Return to Campus

  • Welcome to Spring Semester at Lesley: Read a message from Dean of Students Nathaniel Mays about the next phases of return to campus, testing results, health and wellness resources, and more.
  • Report on Week II of Lesley’s Phased Return: Read a message from Lesley's COVID-19 Safety Team with the update that all remaining students and employees who had planned to live, study, or work on campus in the Spring Semester may return by February 14.
  • Report on Week III of Lesley's Phased Return: Read a message from Lesley's COVID-19 Safety team with the update on COVID positivity rates on campus and confirming that the phased return has now concluded.

  Jan 28, 2022: Report on Week 1 of Lesley's Phased Return

  Read an update from the Lesley University COVID-19 Safety Team on the first week of the phased return, testing results, and a message about the coming snowstorm.

  Jan 21, 2022:  Updates on the Phased Return and Campus Improvements

  • A Jan. 21 update on Lesley’s Phased Return to Campus and FAQs to students and families, from Dean of Students Nathaniel Mays
  • Read a Jan. 21 message about updates on campus improvements to students and families from Chief Operations Officer Joanne Kossuth

  Jan 14, 2022: More information on Phased Return to Campus

  Jan 14, 2022: Testing Protocol and Additional Health and Safety Measures for Phased Return to Spring Semester on Campus.

  • Jan 14 Message to Students and Families
  • Jan 14 Message to Employees

  Jan 12, 2022: Phased Return to Spring Semester on Campus

  Read a message to students from President Steinmayer, Provost Jefferson, and Dean Mays about the phased approach to our return to campus for the Spring 2022 Semester.

  Jan. 10, 2022: Update on Spring Semester Plans

  Dear Lesley Community,

  In response to the increase in COVID-19 cases, the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, and revised recommendations from the CDC, we are writing today to let you know that we are planning for a phased return for residential living and on-campus classes and programs at the start of the Spring Semester and an expanded testing program. The Provost and the Deans are working on how best to do that.  We will inform you with more details on the phased return by end of the day on Wednesday, January 12. Spring classes will still start on January 24, but some may be held remotely for a short period of time. 

  Residential students may be asked to return to the residence halls in phased groups over a period of time. 

  Employees who do not need to work on campus should plan to work remotely in coordination with their supervisors.

  We realize this will impact your plans, and we ask for your cooperation and patience as we adjust our plans in response to the public health conditions.

  As always, please continue to do what you can to reduce the spread and impact of COVID-19, including:

  1. Get your COVID-19 booster as soon as you are eligible.  The CDC now recommends that anyone who is a close contact but who is not up to date on their vaccines and boosters should quarantine for five days.  Given the high transmissibility of the current variant, this CDC recommendation – which we follow – will affect your ability to be engaged on campus.
  2. Please do not come to campus or engage in Lesley's activities if you are not feeling well. Even mild symptoms may indicate that you have COVID-19, so wear a mask and isolate until a test confirms your status.
  3. Wear a mask when in the presence of others.  Masks are available at the Public Safety desks for your use; consider wearing two at a time. 
  4. Gather on campus and off-campus only in small groups and maintain physical distance.
  5. We are working with each group of employees who need to work on campus to coordinate rotating in-person work schedules to the extent possible. 
  6. Our policy limiting outside visitors remains unchanged.
  7. When dining with others, maintain physical distance when eating and immediately mask up when done.

  We thank you for your cooperation and patience as we adapt our Spring Semester planning and policies in response to rapidly evolving public health conditions. As always, we are prioritizing our community’s health and safety and understand that the continued uncertainty we are all experiencing in our daily lives is stressful. Let’s work together and be kind to each other and we will get through this together!

  If you have questions, please contact the team at COVID_Update@lesley.edu, Dean Nathaniel Mays (for students), or the Office of Human Resources (for employees). Please also see our December 23 and earlier updates, which are linked on our COVID-19 webpage along with our current health and safety protocols.

  Lesley University COVID-19 Safety

• Fall 2021 communications to the Lesley community

  Dec. 23, 2021: COVID-19 Protocol Updates, Including Vaccine Booster Requirement

  Dear Lesley Community,

  As the fall semester draws to a close, we are writing to provide information about on-campus plans and protocols for January and the spring semester, particularly with respect to COVID-19 testing requirements.

  Lesley’s COVID-19 protocols are available on our website and updated from time to time to reflect the evolving response to the pandemic.  We are now introducing a vaccine booster requirement for students and employees working on campus.

  We will continue to monitor CDC, Massachusetts, and Cambridge guidance and consult with health experts to adjust our health and safety measures as the pandemic evolves.

  We describe our current plans below and will provide updates with any changes.

  January and Spring Semester – Working on Campus

  As was announced at the University Council meeting last week, we will continue to operate on-campus activities and remote work arrangements as we have been this fall semester until further notice. For faculty and staff who need to make a change to their working arrangements, please talk with your supervisor and the Office of Human Resources.  Otherwise, work arrangements will continue as they have this fall.

  January Residencies and Intensive Courses on Campus – Testing Pre-Arrival and During Program

  Students, faculty, and staff participating in low-residency courses and intensive courses on campus in January must present proof of a negative individual COVID-19 PCR test before coming to campus and a second negative test if on-campus seven or more days after the date of the first test.

  The pre-arrival PCR test must be taken no more than 72 hours before arrival on campus.  Test results must be submitted to covid_update@lesley.edu.  Please allow at least 24 hours for the test result to be received and reviewed by the university before coming to campus to start the program. 

  Pre-arrival PCR tests may be obtained off-campus.  Alternatively, participants may come to campus for the sole purpose of obtaining the pre-arrival PCR test before returning to campus for their programs.  Free on-campus testing will be available on the following dates and times in the Marran Gallery on the Doble Campus (34 Mellen Street, Cambridge):

  Monday, January 3, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

  Tuesday, January 4, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

  Wednesday, January 5, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

  Thursday, January 6, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

  Friday, January 7, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

  Monday, January 10, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

  Tuesday, January 11, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

  Wednesday, January 12, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

  Thursday, January 13, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

  Friday, January 14, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

  Participants who will be on campus seven or more days after the date their pre-arrival test was taken must obtain a second PCR test.

  Participants may register in advance for on-campus testing using their Lesley email addresses.

  We understand that the timeframe for receiving COVID-19 PCR test results off-campus may be longer than anticipated.  Please contact covid_update@lesley.edu if you need assistance arranging for a PCR test.

  Spring Semester - Testing Requirements

  Pre-Arrival or Re-Entry Testing

  We will provide information in January about pre-arrival or re-entry testing requirements, particularly for the following students and employees: residential students, residential employees, current season student-athletes and coaches, students and employees traveling from outside the U.S., and unvaccinated students and employees authorized to be on campus.

  Weekly Testing

  The following students, employees, and additional staff will be required to participate in weekly routine PCR testing on campus: residential students, residential employees, current season student-athletes and coaches, unvaccinated students, and employees authorized to study and work on campus (these individuals must test twice each week), and staff working in the dining halls, Public Safety, and facilities departments. 

  Continued Health and Safety Protocols

  All other students and employees studying and working on campus may voluntarily participate in the university’s weekly PCR testing program.

  The testing requirements are in addition to the university’s other COVID-19 protocols, including wearing a mask at all times when indoors and in the presence of others, maintaining a distance when eating with others, and remaining off-campus (or in separately designated housing for residential students) when experiencing possible COVID-19 symptoms or testing positive for COVID-19.

  COVID-19 Vaccine Booster

  During the fall semester, over 98% of Lesley faculty and staff and over 96% of students authorized to be on campus were fully vaccinated against COVID-19; all others had approved exemptions. 

  We are now updating our COVID-19 vaccine requirement to require all eligible students, faculty, and staff studying and working on campus to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine booster.  Information is available at vaxfinder.mass.gov for Massachusetts locations offering vaccine boosters.  

  Due to the eligibility criteria, there will be a rolling deadline for obtaining the vaccine booster. All individuals who are eligible to receive a booster on or before January 15, 2022, must comply by February 15, 2022. Individuals who are eligible after January 15, 2022, will have 30 days from their date of eligibility to comply with this policy.

  All previously approved medical and religious accommodations specific to COVID-19 vaccination will apply to the vaccine booster requirement. Students should contact the Dean of Students and employees should contact the Office of Human Resources with any changes or questions.

  A new federal law will require Lesley to gather COVID-19 vaccine records; we will provide information about how to provide vaccine and vaccine booster documents next month.

  Importance of Compliance

  Thank you for following the COVID-19 protocols, which are designed to protect our community. 

  Individuals who do not comply with our COVID-19 protocols risk having their campus privileges suspended or revoked.  If you have specific concerns about individuals who may not be following our protocols, please email COVID_Update@lesley.edu immediately.

  Thank you for your attention and care for our community this fall, and we wish you all the best for the end of the semester and a healthy and relaxing winter break with family and friends.

  Lesley University COVID-19 Safety

  Nov. 19, 2021: Important Updates on Health & Safety Protocols

  Dear Members of the Lesley Community,

  As the Thanksgiving break approaches, we would like to share an update on our COVID-19 health and safety protocols and information on flu shots. We are very appreciative of our community’s high rate of vaccination and compliance with the requirements for indoor masking and limits on building access and outside visitors. In combination with weekly pooled testing for students and employees living on campus, these measures have been very effective in protecting the health and safety of our community, and we plan to continue the current protocols until further notice while also expanding testing to a few groups. In addition, we will be piloting a few academic programs with a very limited visitor component.

  Expanded COVID-19 Testing

  Please note the following updates to our COVID-19 testing cadence, as applicable to your status as a student or employee:

  I.                 Students and Employees Living on Campus

   Post-Thanksgiving “Re-entry” Testing: All residential students and residential employees who are returning to campus after the Thanksgiving break must be tested immediately upon return to campus and a second time at the end of the week. Testing will be available on campus on Sunday, November 28 (12 pm to 10 pm), and Monday, November 29 (7 am to 12 pm).  Residential students and employees have received specific information about this return testing. Pooled testing will not take place on Tuesday, November 30, or Wednesday, December 1, but will resume on Thursday, December 2 (10 am to 8 pm) and Friday, December 3 (10 am to 8 pm). These tests are offered on a walk-in basis in Marran Gallery (34 Mellen Street).

  Anyone who develops symptoms over the break must isolate themself off campus, contact Dean Nathaniel Mays (students) or Human Resources (employees), and follow the return-to-campus protocols on our website.

  II.                  Students and Employees with Campus Access Living off Campus

   Voluntary Pooled Testing for Students and On-Campus Employees: Starting the week after Thanksgiving, other students, faculty, and staff who are attending classes and working on campus may participate in our weekly pooled testing on a drop-in, first-come-first-served basis. Testing is not required for these students and employees, but some have asked if we can administer tests as a convenience and for additional peace of mind.  Please register in advance here. You will need to use your Lesley email to create a new account.

  The pooled testing is available from Cataldo Ambulance Service in the Marran Gallery on the Doble Campus at 34 Mellen Street at these times (please note the holiday break closures, which apply to both COVID testing and flu shots during the week of November 22):

   

  COVID-19 Pooled Testing Schedule

  Regular schedule:

  Monday – 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

  Tuesday – 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

  Wednesday – 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

  Thursday – 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

  Friday – 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

   

  Holiday Week Schedule (Week of Nov. 22)

  Monday – 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

  Tuesday – 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

  Wednesday – No testing

  Thursday – No testing

  Friday – No testing

   

  Post-Holiday Break Schedule (Week of Nov. 28)

  Sunday – 12 pm to 10 pm

  Monday – 7 am to 12 pm

  Tuesday – No testing

  Wednesday – No testing

  Thursday -- 10 am to 8 pm

  Friday -- 10 am to 8 pm

  Individual PCR Testing for Symptomatic and Close Contact Employees:

  In addition, individual PCR testing is available by appointment (through the COVID_Update@lesley.edu email) to students, faculty, and staff who are attending classes and working on campus who develop COVID-19 symptoms or are in close contact with individuals who have COVID-19. Please review our protocols for individuals on campus who have COVID-19 symptoms or who have been in close contact with someone who tested positive on our website.

  Please note: Our regular required testing cadence is weekly for all vaccinated residential students and residential employees and twice a week for everyone who is unvaccinated with an approved exemption, whether they are living on campus or commuting to work or study.

  Individuals who do not comply with our COVID-19 protocols risk having their campus privileges suspended or revoked. If you have specific concerns about individuals who are not following our protocols, please email COVID_Update@lesley.edu.

  Free Flu Shot Clinic

  Flu Shot Required for all Living on Campus

  We are requiring a flu shot for all students and employees who are living on campus as another means of protecting our community’s health. An email from Dean Mays to residential students on November 14 announced an on-campus flu shot clinic. The clinic is currently open in Marran Gallery on weekdays through Tuesday, November 23 at the same time as COVID-19 testing (see above). Depending on the level of interest and available supply, the flu clinic may be extended after the Thanksgiving break.

  If you already had a flu shot off-campus, please send an email to lesleyhealthservice@lesley.edu   to update your health record.

  Flu Shots Available to Students and Employees with Campus Access Living off Campus

  We also are offering flu shots at the clinic to employees approved to work on campus and students approved to attend classes on campus, on a first-come, first-served basis, while the supply lasts.

  You may save time by registering in advance here: https://home.color.com/vaccine/register/cataldo?calendar=82264aa1-b597-4192-b289-998de9541f6c .  Please note that the landing page of the website refers to the COVID-19 vaccine.  Proceed to the next page, where you can select "flu vaccine (influenza)" and then proceed with making an appointment and reviewing the consent form. 

  As always, we thank you for taking seriously your individual role in protecting the Lesley community. Please direct all questions about these health and safety protocols to COVID_Update@lesley.edu. 

  Lesley University COVID-19 Safety

  Sep. 9, 2021: Important Updates to Lesley’s COVID-19 Protocols

  Dear Members of the Lesley Community, 

  As the Fall Semester gets underway, we write to bring your attention to some important updates to our COVID-19 health and safety protocols. We ask everyone to read carefully the attached document, which explains our testing requirements, the response to a positive test result, and procedures for reporting and responding to exposure by close contact and/or possible COVID-19 symptoms. The same information is posted on our COVID-19 information page, which we suggest you bookmark as a reference and for future updates. 

  The cornerstones of our health and safety protocols are vaccination, masking, restricting access to buildings, and testing. In addition to the entry and post-arrival testing required for residential students and those coming from outside the U.S., we are adding surveillance testing for all students and staff in residence halls. This pooled PCR testing will be required weekly for vaccinated members of this group and twice a week for any who are unvaccinated due to a medical or religious exemption. Over the course of the semester, we may expand surveillance testing to include additional employees or students coming to campus. 

  The attached document describes how we will respond to positive test results, reports of possible COVID-19 symptoms, and instances of known exposure by close contact. The response differs slightly for residential students and staff and for students and employees living off-campus as well as by vaccination status.  

  In addition, we remind everyone on the campus of these important requirements and guidelines:

  • Wear a mask at all times indoors in the presence of others. 
  • Dine-in small groups (2-4 people), avoid table-hopping, maintain distance while eating. 
  • Keep your mask on in dining spaces except when taking a bite or sip. 
  • Stay off campus and notify us immediately if you test positive or develop possible COVID-19 symptoms. 
  • Notify us immediately if you learn you are in close contact with someone who has tested positive. 
  • Respect each other’s individual preferences and privacy, especially with regard to asking about vaccination status, maintaining distance, and the choice to wear a mask in situations where it is not mandated. 

   

  Supporting the well-being of the community members who are studying, working, and living on campus will require each of us to take steps to protect ourselves and others by following our protocols at all times. We will continue to consult with medical experts and follow the guidance of public health officers, and these requirements are subject to change at any time. 

  Thank you for taking seriously your individual role in protecting the Lesley community. Please direct all questions about these protocols to COVID_Update@lesley.edu. 

  Lesley University COVID Safety

• Spring 2021 communications to the Lesley community

  Mar. 16, 2021: Fall Planning Update

  Read President Steinmayer's updates to the Lesley community on the university's plans to safely reopen the Lesley campuses for the Fall 2021 semester.

  February 25, 2021: Update on the plans for Fall 2021

  Read President Steinmayer's message to Lesley students and their families on the university's plans for the Fall 2021 semester.

  Read President Steinmayer's message to Lesley faculty and staff on the university's plans for the Fall 2021 semester.

  February 11, 2021: Message regarding Spring 2021 Plans

  Read President Steinmayer's message to the Lesley community on the university's plans for Spring 2021.

• Fall 2020 communications to the Lesley community

  October 2, 2020: Lesley University Fall updates and news about the Spring semester

  Read President Steinmayer's October 2, 2020 message to the Lesley community with updates and reflections on the Fall semester and news about the Spring semester.

• Summer 2020 communications to the Lesley community

  August 4, 2020: Lesley University Fall Updates

  Read President Steinmayer's August 4, 2020 message to the Lesley community with updates for the Fall 2020 semester.

  July 28, 2020: July Updates from President Steinmayer

  Read President Steinmayer's July 28, 2020 message to faculty and staff.

  July 15, 2020: Update on the Fall Semester

  Read President Steinmayer's July 15, 2020 message to the Lesley Community.

  July 14, 2020: Update on Our Support for International Students

  Read President Steinmayer's July 14, 2020 message to the Lesley Community.

  July 8, 2020: Supporting Our International Students

  Read President Steinmayer's July 8, 2020 message to the Lesley Community.

  June 12, 2020: A Note on Fall Planning

  Read President Steinmayer's June 12, 2020 message to the Lesley Community.

• Spring 2020 communications to the Lesley community

  April 30, 2020: Message to the Lesley Community from the office of Public Safety

  Read the April 30 message to the Lesley Community from the office of Public Safety.

  April 27, 2020: Message to Lesley Students from the Lesley Commencement Office

  Read the April 27 message to Lesley Students from the Lesley Commencement Office.

  Read the April 27 message to Lesley Faculty & Staff from the Lesley Commencement Office.

  April 22, 2020: Message to Lesley Alumni from President Steinmayer

  Read the April 22 message to Lesley Alumni from President Janet Steinmayer.

  April 21, 2020: Message to Lesley Staff from President Steinmayer

  Read the April 21 message to Lesley Staff from President Janet Steinmayer.

  April 10, 2020: Message to Lesley Students from President Janet Steinmayer

  Read the April 10 message to Lesley Students from President Janet Steinmayer.

  April 10, 2020: Message to Families of Undergraduates from President Janet Steinmayer

  Read the April 10 message to Families of Undergraduates from President Janet Steinmayer.

  April 10, 2020: Message to Lesley Faculty and Staff from President Janet Steinmayer

  Read the April 10 message to Lesley Faculty and Staff from President Janet Steinmayer.

  March 31, 2020: Message to Lesley Alumni from President Janet Steinmayer

  Read the March 31 message to Lesley Alumni from President Steinmayer.

  March 24, 2020: Message to Lesley students from Provost Margaret Everett

  Read the March 24, 2020 message to students from Provost Margaret Everett.

  March 26, 2020: Message to Lesley students from Provost Margaret Everett

  Read the March 26 message from Provost Margaret Everett concerning updates to the grading policy.

  March 27, 2020: Message to Lesley faculty and staff from President Janet Steinmayer

  Read the March 27 message to Lesley staff and faculty from President Steinmayer.

  March 20, 2020: Message to Lesley Faculty & Staff from President Steinmayer

  Read the March 20, 2020 message to faculty & staff from President Janet Steinmayer.

  March 20, 2020: Message to parents from President Steinmayer

  Read the March 20, 2020 message to parents of Lesley students from President Janet Steinmayer.

  March 20, 2020: Message to students from President Steinmayer

  Read the March 20, 2020 message to Lesley University students from President Janet Steinmayer.

  March 19, 2020: Possible Case of COVID-19

  Read the March 19, 2020 email to faculty, staff and students with information about the first known case directly connected to the Lesley community.

  March 18, 2020: Campus office access protocol

  Read the March 18, 2020 email to faculty and staff with information for employees who need to access their offices during the temporary shutdown.

  March 16, 2020: Coronavirus Update, Work from Home Begins Tomorrow.

  Read the March 16, 2020 email to faculty and staff regarding remote work and continuing university work.

  March 13, 2020: Coronavirus Update - Internships And Field Placements

  Read the March 13, 2020 email to students regarding internships, field placements, and practica.

  March 13, 2020: Communication Regarding Alternate Work Arrangements

  Read the email sent to Lesley staff regarding how to request alternate work arrangements.

  March 13, 2020: Coronavirus Update - Events and Campus Information

  Read the March 13, 2020 email to faculty and staff.

  March 12, 2020: Coronavirus Frequently Asked Questions Resource to Parents

  Read the March 12, 2020 email to parents and families 

  March 12, 2020: Coronavirus Frequently Asked Questions Resource

  Read the March 12, 2020 email to the Lesley community regarding the FAQ resource. 

  March 11, 2020: Message from President Steinmayer to the Community

  Read the communication sent on March 11, 2020 from Lesley University President Janet Steinmayer.

  March 10, 2020: Guidance for Meetings, Events, and Business Continuity

  Read the March 10, 2020 email to the Lesley Community regarding guidance for meetings, events, and business continuity.

  March 10, 2020: Update to the Lesley Community on Travel Policies

  Read the March 10, 2020 update to the Lesley Community.

  March 10, 2020: Letter to Faculty from Provost Margaret Everett

  Dear Faculty,

  We are continuing to closely monitor developments around COVID-19 and potential impacts on our community and university operations. You can read university information on the COVID-19 webpage here, which will be updated frequently as our planning continues and we receive new information. I am writing to you now to help us prepare for the possibility that classes may be unable to meet in person. While we do not yet know if this will be necessary, we can develop readiness now by ensuring that all instructors are familiar with core technology tools to facilitate remote teaching. 

  I have asked Kris McElroy and John McCormick in E-Learning and Instructional Support (eLis) to provide a curated list of the most helpful tutorials and resources to assist you. We are fortunate to have a strong team of instructional design and academic technology support in place to assist you. We are sharing a few initial requests and links. You will be receiving more information from eLis and from my office in the next few days.

  1. Every Lesley course, regardless of modality, has a course shell in Blackboard. If you have not already done so, please be sure to add your syllabus to your course shell(s). You can find a tutorial on adding your syllabus to courses here.
  2. Familiarize yourself with the Announcements tool in Blackboard. It will be essential for your students to know where you will be communicating any updates or information about course changes throughout the term, and how they can communicate with you. This tutorial on Announcements will help orient you.
  3. Familiarize yourself with the Discussion board. This will be an essential tool for many courses should you need to move instruction online. See the tutorial on discussion boards.
  4. Review your syllabus now. Begin thinking about your learning outcomes and identifying critical assignments and activities. How might you be able to adapt some of these to an online environment? This tutorial on adding content to your course is also helpful.

  Should a closure become necessary, I recognize it would be a daunting task to quickly adapt all courses to an online environment. We do not expect that faculty should adapt their curriculum with the same level of detail and design of a standard online course.

  We also recognize that it will be challenging to replicate the plans you have for face-to-face classes in an online environment. Some courses, such as labs and studios, may not be adaptable to the online environment. Should we have a closure, we will deal with these on a case-by-case basis. We will provide as much support as possible. I know we are all focused on providing the best academic experience for our students and ensuring that they can complete their semester as planned. I thank you all for your flexibility during this period of uncertainty.

  Best wishes,

  Margaret
  Margaret Everett, PhD
  Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
  Pronouns: she/her/hers
  1.617.349.8587
  margaret.everett@lesley.edu

  March 5, 2020: Coronavirus Update: Letter to Parents

  Read the March 5, 2020 letter to parents.

  February 28, 2020: Coronavirus Update and Travel Information

  Read the February 28, 2020 message to the Lesley Community.

  January 31, 2020: An Update on the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak

  Read the January 31, 2020 message to the Lesley Community from Lesley's Student Health Services Center.

  January 27, 2020: Lesley Community Advisories

  Dear Lesley Community

  As students arrive back on campus and we find ourselves in the midst of the winter cold and flu season, I want to remind you to be vigilant in taking precautions to prevent the spread of illnesses. Practicing good hygiene and ensuring that you have your flu vaccination will help ensure the health and safety of everyone in our community. Also, please know that the University is monitoring the global concern for the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) coming out of Wuhan, China, and will continue to keep the Lesley community informed.  

  Seasonal Flu and Cold:

  Following simple measures can help lower your risk of getting sick.  Measures like, washing your hands often with soap and water (20 seconds of scrubbing) or using alcohol-based hand cleaners, coughing/sneezing into a tissue and disposing of the used tissue immediately into a trash can (if you don’t have a tissue, cough/sneeze into the crook of your elbow, not your hands), avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, which accelerates the spread of infections, avoid close contact with others who are sick, if you are sick, avoid contact with others (including parties, meetings, and events), do not share glasses, eating utensils, water bottles, cigarettes/vapes/JUULs, lipstick/makeup, etc.

  And please get your flu vaccine (it’s not too late to benefit from it).  For all Lesley students who receive their care at Lesley University Student Health Services, flu vaccines are still available at the Health Center. If you have not yet received one, make an appointment by contacting Student Health Services at 617.349.8222, or simply stop by the clinic Monday through Friday between 9:00AM and 3:00PM. For all other members of the community, please contact your Primary Care Provider (PCP) or an Urgent Care to get your flu vaccine.  If you think you may have the flu, please stay home and consult your Primary Care Provider and please notify the University. Students should contact Student Health Services and faculty and staff should contact Human Resources so that we can track the flu virus and the area can be disinfected thoroughly.  Students are encouraged to call first and speak to a nurse about their symptoms by calling Student Health Services at 617.349.8222 before making an appointment or walking into the Health Center.  

  Coronavirus (COVID-19):  

  We are closely monitoring the situation with the novel Coronavirus coming out of China. While we have no indication that Massachusetts or the Lesley campus are affected, we are working diligently to ensure that our clinical staff is prepared if someone presents to Student Health Services with symptoms and a clinical history that may indicate the novel Coronavirus.

  We will continue to update the Lesley community as additional information becomes available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Keep in mind that the prevention measures as described for the flu and other illnesses are also your best protection against Coronavirus. 

  For anyone who recently returned from China (particularly the Wuhan area):  If you feel well, please follow the routine advice listed while you go about your daily activities.  If you develop respiratory symptoms or fever within 14 days of travel, call Student Health Services or your personal healthcare provider for a phone consultation.

  More information on seasonal flu and Coronavirus.