Catamounts Care
Shared community standards remind us that we each have personal responsibility for
actions that may affect our own health and the health of our friends, colleagues,
and the broader campus community. Our collective acceptance of this shared responsibility
will be the most effective strategy we will have at our disposal in the challenging
months ahead. We know that Catamounts Care and we have developed the following set
of standards to encourage everyone to put the well-being of themselves and others
top of mind.
These standards will apply to ALL members of our campus community, including students,
faculty, staff, and visitors. Everyone must participate for our campus community to
stay healthy.
Fall Semester Guidelines
This fall, Western Carolina University will work to fulfill its academic mission and
protect the well-being of its campus community by making decisions guided by science
and sound data. The COVID-19 pandemic represents an ever-shifting situation, and the
university will be responsive to the latest guidance and information issued by the
NC Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention.
Prevent the Spread and Protect Yourself and Others
- Wash your hands with soap often and use hand sanitizer – this simple activity is the
single best preventative measure you can take.
- Practice social and physical distancing – maintain an awareness of personal space;
stay at least 6’ apart when possible.
- Wear a facial covering - the requirement is that facial coverings will be worn at
all times in classrooms and other public work or instructional environments. You may
be turned away from a classroom, office, and/or event if you fail to meet this requirement.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces with EPA-registered disinfectants.
- Limit in-person programs, events, and social gatherings.
Practice Self-Care and Show Respect and Caring to All
- Before going to class or work, check for symptoms on a daily basis using the CDC’s
Coronavirus Self-Checker.
- If you have COVID-19 symptoms or know you have been exposed to the virus, stay home
and call your provider to seek medical guidance.
- Follow the advice of your health care provider and voluntarily participate in medical
monitoring and contact tracing as necessary or requested.
- Sustain our community standards and help create a sense of belonging where everyone
feels welcomed and respected.
- Practice good self-care principles and care for your physical and mental health.
- Stay connected with your family and friend groups and participate in small group activities
and virtual opportunities.
Expectations of Campus Leaders
As we prioritize health and well-being, we will need your help to return to on-campus
operations. We fully expect everyone on campus will follow these standards. Our first
and preferred approach to assure compliance with these standards will be through public
health education and communication. If necessary, however, the university will institute
applicable enforcement measures to address violations.
