EAC cancels spring commencement, enhances social distancing guidelines

Photo By Todd Haynie: Eastern Arizona College’s annual commencement ceremony has been canceled due to the COVID-19 epidemic. Pictured are EAC Early Childhood professor, JoAnn Morales, center, her daughter, Santana, left, and her daughter-in-law, Erika, at 2017’s commencement ceremony.

By Kris McBride

THATCHER — After much reflection and in consultation with public health officials, EAC announces that all spring commencement exercises will be canceled. In addition, to help slow the spread of COVID-19, EAC is implementing even more stringent social distancing policies.

“We regret that the Class of 2020 will not enjoy a traditional celebration with their classmates,” said EAC President Todd Haynie. “We know how disappointing this decision will be to so many, but feel it is the responsible thing to do at this time. Our team is looking at alternate ways to celebrate our graduates’ achievements.”

EAC courses are still scheduled to move to remote learning when classes begin on Monday, March 30. Because each class is different, instructors will directly contact students to discuss how to make this successful for everyone.

Out of an abundance of concern, EAC encourages students, faculty, and staff to follow these guidelines:

· If students are home for spring break, they are encouraged to stay home. They should be prepared to start online learning from their permanent residences on March 30.

· If students live on-campus, but are not on campus at this point, they are encouraged to not return to campus to collect their belongings until April 2. Their belongings are secure.

· If students must remain on EAC’s campus in on-campus housing, they are to contact the Housing Office at (928) 428-8605.

· If any student, faculty, or staff member has experienced any COVID-19 symptoms, they are encouraged to not come to campus and contact their healthcare provider.

· If any student, faculty, or staff member has traveled to another country or state during spring break, self-quarantine is recommended for at least 14-days when they return.

In addition, out of an abundance of concern, EAC announces the following:

· Supervisors will coordinate flexible schedules when employees begin work on March 23.

· EAC Student Services Building will be closed to the public, but the staff will still be available to help. The public is encouraged to use the following contact information: