Dear Drew Community,
Drew University’s International Travel Oversight Committee made the decision today to cancel our spring break shortTRECs to France and Switzerland. This decision was made after careful analysis of the rapidly evolving health situation in Europe, and after consultation with education abroad professionals in the region.
The reason for the cancellation has to do with the uncertainty posed by the quickly changing circumstances related to the spread of COVID-19, known as the coronavirus. Only one week ago, there were very few cases in Italy. The pattern there now seems to be mirroring that of China, with significant spread, impact, disruption, and travel restrictions. Given the rapidly changing situation in Europe and the overall risk associated with international travel at this time—coupled with the uncertainty of what is to come in the weeks ahead—Drew and the Center for Global Education are not confident that we can provide the quality academic and cultural experience that we want for our students studying on a shortTREC, as well as assure our students’ and faculty leaders’ health and safety.
The ShortTREC trip to Belize remains as planned, as no infections or warnings have been identified in Central America.
Because the risk of the virus outbreak is still not fully understood, we strongly recommend you do not travel abroad to countries where cases have been reported (you can find a list of those at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website). If you pursue personal international, non-Drew trip over Spring Break, we request that you complete the Drew travel registry and also register with the U.S. Department of State through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. You should continually monitor ongoing guidance from the U.S. Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Please note that those traveling internationally may experience disruption to their travel plans within countries, resulting in the alteration of their plans for re-entry to the United States due to U.S. or other nations’ quarantine decisions. If traveling to an impacted area, you may need to self-isolate and/or be quarantined for at least 14 days.
If you are now in need of housing within your Residence Hall for Spring Break, you should complete the Break Housing Form found in your housing portal or email reslife@drew.edu.
We anticipate sending additional guidance next week as we prepare to fully re-open the Drew campus post–Spring Break.
Sincerely,
Debra Liebowitz, Ph.,D.
Provost
Dean of the Arts and Sciences
Frank Merckx, D.M.H.
Vice President of Campus Life and Student Affairs
Dean of Students