Dear Monarch Community:

Old Dominion University will reschedule the first day of fall classes to Saturday, August 29, in light of current COVID-19 trends in Hampton Roads and Governor Northam's recently adopted restrictions in Executive Order 68.

Old Dominion University President John R. Broderick said: "Although we had hoped to begin the semester early on August 15, several factors persuaded us to reschedule our opening. Current projections suggest that the incidence of COVID-19 will likely pose a higher risk to our region in the coming weeks."

In addition, the delay will allow Old Dominion to better prepare and expand capacity for its own COVID-19 testing center on campus.

The updated schedule, he said, maintains the framework of the University's reopening plan, which sets out parameters for changes based on the unpredictable course of the coronavirus.

The semester will begin, as planned, with a combination of in-person, online and hybrid courses. "We believe it is critical to offer an array of options to encourage student success, particularly for those who face challenges with access to the internet and other technology," President Broderick said.

Students planning to live on campus will receive additional information regarding move-in plans and times, as well as Weeks of Welcome activities.

Under the new schedule for the semester:

• September 7 - Labor Day holiday (no classes held).
• There will be no fall break.
• November 3 - Election Day holiday (no classes held).
• November 25 to 29 - Thanksgiving break (no classes held).
• After Thanksgiving break, all classes will be delivered online through December 11.
• December 12 to 18 - Final exams will be administered online.

Old Dominion will continue to monitor developments daily and provide timely updates. More information is available at www.odu.edu/blueprint. If you have questions, please email ODUCares@odu.edu.