Message from the Interim President to Students (03/10/20)

Dear BMCC Students,

As we continue to monitor the Coronavirus COVID-19 situation in New York City, throughout the tri-state region, and globally, we understand that the rise in cases has caused concern for students and families, and we are taking measures with guidance from CUNY Central, to address this situation.

BMCC’s Health Services has increased its supply of flu vaccines for students, if needed. We urge students to follow the recommendations for staying healthy and avoiding COVID-19, and students should communicate with their professors regarding absences. I encourage you to visit BMCC’s Coronavirus: Information and Resources website to learn about health and hygiene recommendations and to get updates from CUNY.

BMCC Nurse Penelope Jordan is the college’s Coronavirus Liaison to  CUNY, and is responsible for working with the Department of Health on the preliminary assessment of the needs of individuals who contact her. If you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 or suspect that you have been exposed to COVID-19, contact Nurse Jordan at (212) 220-8257 or pjordan@bmcc.cuny.edu, for assistance.

Staying Healthy 
Symptoms for the COVID-19 are very similar to seasonal flu and include fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath. Because it is cold and flu season, it is important to have any respiratory illness evaluated by a health-care provider.

Be proactive and take precautions in order to keep our campus healthy and safe by:

• Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds several times a day WATCH CDC recommended handwashing techniques video.

• Avoiding hand contact with your face.

• Covering your mouth and nose with the crook of your elbow when you sneeze or cough.

• Taking alternative means of transportation (if possible) by walking or riding a bicycle in order to minimize the chance of community spread.

• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Staying home when you are sick.

Assistance for Students
BMCC is taking proactive measures to prepare students for a possible suspension of in—person classes  and is encouraging students to familiarize themselves with online platforms including Blackboard. Training sessions on Blackboard, Zoom and other platforms will be scheduled shortly.

In addition, students will need to have access to the Internet at home or in public areas in order to maintain communication with professors and the college. BMCC’s goal is to make sure that all coursework continues with minimal disruption. If you have questions regarding accommodations and assistance related to COVID-19, contact the Office of Student Affairs at (212) 220-8130 or studentaffairs@bmcc.cuny.edu.

We understand that students may be experiencing heightened levels of anxiety at  this time. I encourage any BMCC student who needs support to stop by the Counseling Center in Room S-343 at 199 Chambers Street.

Campus Facilities and Increased Cleaning Frequency
BMCC’s Custodial Team has increased measures to keep our campus clean, and has been working extended hours to meet the needs of our community. Additional hand sanitizer dispensers and sanitizing wipes have been ordered and clear signage regarding proper hygiene (washing hands and covering coughs, etc.) have been displayed in restrooms, common areas and offices across CUNY campuses. Click here to learn about other cleaning measures being implemented on the BMCC Campus.

Stay Connected
It is important that we communicate with all students, faculty and staff during this time. We urge all of you to update and complete your contact information in CUNYfirst. Also, the college will send out community notices to the email addresses provided in CUNYfirst and through CUNY Alert text messages if necessary. In addition, updates will be posted on BMCC’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Linkedin.

Study Abroad and Travel
Given the disruption of international travel and uncertainty of the situation, BMCC is cancelling all summer study abroad programs effective immediately. Students who had planned to study abroad this summer will be notified.

Out of concern for the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff, the college has decided to suspend any unnecessary college-related travel, such as trips and conferences.

Caring for our Community
BMCC is committed to ensuring a safe and welcoming community, and maintaining a learning and working environment that is free of all forms of discrimination. As your Interim President, I will continue to keep you informed.