By Evan White

Ever since students stepped foot on campus since last fall, many of them have been doubtful about how the school year would play out. COVID-19 have been the biggest enemy for the students, as well as the faculty and staff at QU.

Every student is still held accountable to attend every class, be active on Zoom calls, and turn in all course work on time. For the freshman, this may go down as the least exciting year out of their college careers. There have not been too many face-to-face gatherings and events on campus this year as the school has been trying to slow down the spread of the virus.

Last semester, there were numerous reports of new cases on campus where many students were forced to quarantine at North Campus for 10-14 days or cleared by Christine Tracy, Ed.D., vice president of student affairs. The start of the fall semester was very troubling for the QU community to say the least.

A disease that can barely affect some people has posed great dangers for others. Many students and staff members have had loved ones ill or even pass away because of COVID-19. During 2020, many jobs were lost and lives of family members were upended.

“As we at QU reflect on 2020, though, I hope we remember to be grateful for those who sacrificed to care for the sick and for those who worked to keep us safe. I am so deeply grateful for all the members of this community – students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and community leaders who all did their part to preserve our educational mission and to live out our Catholic and Franciscan values,” Brian McGee, QU president, said.

As of right now, there are no known COVID-19 infections on campus for QU students. There are no students in quarantine on QU campus.

“Approximately 250 COVID-19 tests were administered on campus for students coming to QU prior to the spring semester, and over 1,200 COVID-19 rapid tests have been administered on the QU campus since the beginning of the spring semester,” McGee added.

The best way to stay safe and reduce the risk of the virus is to continue wearing your mask, practice social distancing, and being sure to keep a good hygiene by washing your hands.

“It’s tough right now due to games being postponed, not knowing when we’re going to be able to play and even trying to make up the games that were canceled. As for myself, I know it is important to stay committed to the gym and keep working out on my own. Although this year did not go as planned and the way we wanted it, I was still grateful for a season and this year did not go against our eligibility. I’m looking forward to finishing this semester off really strong, academically wise, and can’t wait to see what the near future will bring,” Jamaurie Coakley, QU basketball player, said.