The University of North Georgia and Piedmont College have joined Brenau University in reducing overseas travel in light of the Coronavirus threat.
Piedmont announced this week it has canceled “study away” trips to Italy, Spain, Ireland, Germany, and the Czech Republic that were scheduled for May due to concerns about the Coronavirus.
The decision impacts approximately 75 students and staff. The college has also appointed a task force to monitor the spread of the virus and listen closely to the advice and directives coming from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Georgia Department of Public Health and others.
“While the threat to our community is low, the situation continues to evolve daily,” said Piedmont President James F. Mellichamp. “Our top priority will always be the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff.”
The college has also posted a Coronavirus website that includes links to online resources. The site (piedmont.edu/coronavirus) will be updated with resources and virus-related college news.
Meanwhile, the University of North Georgia has canceled its spring programs to countries designated Level 3 or higher and is evaluating other exchange or study abroad programs on a case-by-case basis. UNG’s Office of Global Engagement is working with faculty and students who are affected by these changes. Countries that have been issued Level 3 warnings include China, South Korea, Italy, and Iran.
More information on UNG's reaction to the issue and recommendations for students and faculty can be found here.
As AccessWDUN reported a couple of weeks ago, Brenau has also cut back on overseas travel.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2020/3/882578/university-of-north-georgia-piedmont-join-brenau-in-reducing-overseas-travel