TUCSON, Ariz. — In-person classes will resume at the University of Arizona this fall.
UArizona's President Robert Robbins made the announcement Thursday morning immediately after having his blood drawn for antibody testing.
The president issued the following statement:
"I am pleased to publicly announce today our intention to return to in-person classes at the University of Arizona for the fall semester. We will honor all local, state and federal protective measures that apply, and, of course, there are many factors that remain beyond our control. However, we are tackling what is within our control to ensure our students have the opportunity for a full on-campus experience.
We have launched antibody testing for the county and will soon begin antibody testing 250,000 health care workers and first responders for the state of Arizona in partnership with the Governor’s Office. Next, we will test our own students, faculty and staff. We are expanding our diagnostic testing capability for COVID-19 infection. In short, we are working with local and national experts to create best-in-class strategies to reopen the campus.
Classes are set to resume Aug. 24, the university said in an email.
Among plans discussed, Robbins said classes will spread people out to minimize potential health risks.
Students and more likely professors with underlying health issues will go virtual.
The university provided a more detailed info-graphic that details its "Test, Trace, Treat" plan of action.
After having his blood drawn for antibody testing today, @UArizonaPres announced a plan for bringing students, faculty and staff back to campus in the fall. https://t.co/njnOeuAitX pic.twitter.com/dPjVbJiD9e
— Univ. of Arizona 🐻⬇ (@uarizona) April 30, 2020
The university moved to online classes in March amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
Watch the full press conference below:
