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Greetings: 

Yesterday you received an email from me outlining some of the details of our reopening of the College, including the start date to the fall 2020 semester, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 28, 2020. The fall semester will be 12 weeks in length.

I indicated that the three weeks would be made up by extending the length of a typical 3-credit class from 2 hours, 50 minutes, to a full 3 hours. It was brought to my attention that I had made an error, and that in fact the duration of a 3-credit class will be 3 hours, 10 minutes. In addition, faculty will be encouraged to augment a regular, in-person class with additional course content through Canvas. Please accept my apologies for this error and any confusion it may have caused.

It is important to note that the College’s leadership did consider running a 15-week semester, with the delayed start of September 28. 

Were we to operate the fall semester for 15 weeks, with class times unchanged, and start the semester as planned for September 28, the balance of the semester would have to be finished after the new year. Students would have a one-week winter break, and return from break to complete the remaining three weeks of the fall semester. Fall classes would end on a Friday, and the 15-week spring semester would start the next Monday. 

We proposed this arrangement to the leaders of VASA and to all the Student Senators. Your student representatives voted for the 12-week fall semester option, with longer class times. Moreover, the faculty chairs also voted in favor of this arrangement.

In the end, you will be made whole for the fall 2020 semester. This arrangement is the safest way to ensure we begin and end the fall semester with in-person classes.

Tuition and fees for the fall 2020 semester will remain the same. All students will receive the same amount of in-class instruction in 12 weeks that they would in 15 weeks. 

As I stated in my original letter to you, I will be hosting a series of town hall meetings in the coming weeks, during which time you will have plenty of opportunities to ask my colleagues and me questions about the fall semester.

Please stay safe and healthy.

Wishing you all the best,

Christopher J. Cyphers, Ph.D.

Provost

Note: this notification was edited on May 9, 2020.

Greetings:

I hope this letter finds you and your families well. To say you are missed by the faculty, staff, and administration would be an understatement. Life is just not the same without you.

In my 30-year career in higher education, this spring semester has been by far the most challenging—personally and professionally. The toll the coronavirus has taken on our friends, families, and communities is difficult to articulate or comprehend. Nearly every aspect of our lives has changed, and we all desperately want things to return to some version of normal; we want to move forward with our lives. And move forward we shall.

A special task force consisting of faculty leaders, administrators, and executive management has been carefully monitoring federal, state, and local guidance on the Covid-19 virus, and working daily since the College closed its buildings and transitioned classes online, to develop a plan for reopening SVA and resuming in-person classes as soon as conditions permit.

To that end, we ­­­­­­plan to begin the process of reopening SVA, in phases, beginning this summer. The fall semester is now scheduled to begin on Monday, September 28, 2020, and will end on Tuesday, December 22, 2020; the semester will be 12 weeks in length. To ensure students receive the full benefits of instruction and to meet the required number of class hours for a regular 15-week semester, the typical 3-credit course will be conducted for 3 hours and 10 minutes, as opposed to the usual 2 hours, 50-minute class period. The time between classes will be reduced from 20 to 15 minutes. In addition, faculty will be encouraged to augment a regular, in-person class with additional course content through Canvas. The College-wide attendance policy will be suspended for the fall semester.

The spring semester will start on the previously scheduled date of Monday, January 11, 2021, and will run for the full 15 weeks.

The reason for the delayed start to the semester is quite simple: we want to give ourselves and all our students the best odds for beginning the new school year without major disruption. We are hopeful that by late September, moreover, international travel restrictions will have been eased or lifted, thereby improving the likelihood our international students will be able to travel successfully from their home countries to New York.

Upon reopening, SVA will follow government guidelines and best practices in higher education for social distancing, which could include some or all of the following measures: limiting class size, wearing masks while inside campus buildings, and limiting the size of campus functions and activities in accordance with state and local requirements. To create additional space to accommodate smaller studio classes, some introductory-level Humanities & Sciences and Art History classes will be offered online. Academic buildings will likely close at 12:00 midnight, and reopen at 7am, to allow cleaning crews to sanitize our facilities and equipment. Each of these measures are intended to keep every member of the SVA community safe and healthy.

As you have no doubt discovered, what we knew to be “normal” back in February no longer exists. While the coronavirus will likely ease this summer and fall, it is equally likely to return this winter. That is just simply a possibility with which we would need to contend. But good planning and taking all necessary precautions should prevent the next wave of this pandemic from being as disruptive to our lives.

What I have described here is by no means unique to the School of Visual Arts. Thousands of colleges and universities in the US and abroad are taking all the same steps to keep their communities safe, and to minimize the effects of possible future disruptions to students’ educational experience.

I’m sure you have many questions about the fall semester. To help answer your questions, I will be hosting a series of virtual town hall meetings, where I will share the latest information about the fall semester, and you will be able to ask questions. The dates and times of these meetings will be announced soon.

In the meantime, please direct your specific questions to the appropriate offices listed below.

As I noted at the start of this letter, everyone at SVA misses you very much; we cannot wait for your return; and we are excited about the possibilities that lay ahead. This is, to be sure, a time of change—and challenges—but as a community we will persevere, and we will make things better than they were before this virus interrupted our lives.

I look forward to connecting with you soon.

Wishing you all the very best,

Christopher J. Cyphers, Ph.D.

Provost

BFA Academic Advisement: acadadvis@sva.edu 

Financial Aid: fa@sva.edu

Student Health and Counseling Services: health@sva.edu

Student Accounts: studentaccounts@sva.edu

Student Affairs: studentaffairs@sva.edu

International Student Office: iso@sva.edu

Registrar: registrar@sva.edu 

Residence Life: reslife@sva.edu

For the latest information on SVA's Academics and Programs, click here.

I am a new international student planning to attend SVA in the spring 2021 semester. Can I study online and still obtain a visa?

Based on the latest SEVP Guidance (July 24, 2020) and SVA's Spring 2021 plans to continue online instruction, new students will not be able to apply for the F-1 visa to enter the U.S this spring to start a new program entirely online. Please see “Spring 2021 Updates” in the International Student section above for more information.

ISO will be preparing I-20s for students who will be attending in-person classes at SVA in Fall 2021. You will need this new I-20 indicating your Fall 2021 in-person start date for your F-1 visa interview appointment. Please expect to receive further instructions by email after the Spring 2021 semester begins. 

I am planning to travel to the U.S to take classes entirely online from inside the U.S for spring 2021? What kind of travel documents do I need to enter the U.S? (Only applies to current, returning students.)

For returning students, you must carry the following documents when returning to the United States*:

• Printed I-20 with valid travel signature
• Passport valid for at least 6 months into the future
• Valid F-1 visa
• Copy of Spring 2021 class schedule (recommended but not required)
• Copy of the updated SEVP Guidance COVID-19 FAQs (recommended but not required)

*Please note that any affecting travel restrictions must be lifted before your entry to the U.S. 

How do I get a travel signature on my I-20? 

For returning students, travel signatures are valid for one year for current students and six months for students on optional practical training (OPT). Please check the travel endorsement section on page 2 of your I-20 for your travel signature.

To request a travel signature on your I-20, submit the Replacement I-20 & Travel Signature Request online. If your travel and re-entry to the U.S. is urgent, please contact ISO for an expedited request.

I am a new student that started studying online in Fall 2020 from outside the U.S. When will I receive my I-20 for the Fall 2021 semester?

New students who are starting their studies at SVA in Fall 2020 or Spring 2021 may continue to take courses from your home countries. You will not be able to apply for the F-1 visa to enter the U.S. to study entirely online. Your I-20 will be deferred to the following semester, Fall 2021.

ISO will prepare updated I-20s for students who will be attending in-person classes at SVA in Fall 2021. You will need this new I-20 indicating your Fall 2021 in-person start date for your F-1 visa interview appointment. Please expect to receive further instructions by email after the Spring 2021 semester begins. 

If you have an F-1 visa already (or have an upcoming visa appointment) and plan to travel to the U.S for the spring 2021 semester, please email iso@sva.edu for additional guidance.

What are the quarantine requirements for international travelers arriving in NYC?

Nationally, all international travelers are asked by the CDC to quarantine upon arrival for 14 days. New York State has quarantine requirements for travelers from non-contiguous states and CDC Level 2 and 3 Travel Health Notice country - the information can be found here.

For students who will be living in SVA’s Residence Halls, click here for housing policies and restrictions related to COVID-19. For students living in off-campus housing, please follow the CDC and New York State guidelines to make arrangements for quarantining upon arrival. For SVA’s policies for testing, tracing and quarantining, please see the SVA’s reopening plan here.

Will taking classes fully online for Spring 2021 affect my eligibility for work authorization (CPT, OPT)? (Only applies to current, returning students.)

According to the latest SEVP Guidance (July 24, 2020), international students will be considered to be maintaining a valid F-1 or J-1 legal status as long as they are attending classes full-time online, regardless of where they are for the fall 2020 and spring 2021 semester. As a result, F-1 students should be able to accrue eligibility for practical training whether they are inside or outside of the United States during the COVID-19 emergency as long as the student is in Active status in SEVIS. For eligibility requirements for practical training, click here. 

Can I meet with an SVA International Student Office (ISO) advisor while the office is closed? 

In-person advising is currently suspended and ISO staff are available by email and Zoom. For questions, please email ISO at iso@sva.edu. To request a virtual appointment, contact an ISO staff member.

I’m in a country with limited Internet access. Can I get a virtual private network (VPN) account?

Yes. SVA Information Technology is providing SVA students in countries with limited Internet access with VPN accounts. Email helpdesk@sva.edu with your name and SVA ID.

If I travel abroad, will my I-20 and F-1 visa still be valid? 

Yes. As long as you have maintained full-time registration for the fall 2020 and spring 2021 semester by attending and completing all of your required courses online, your I-20 and F-1 visa status will remain active. For information about re-entering the U.S. for the spring 2021 semester, see the "Spring 2021 Updates" section of the "International Students" tab above. (Reference: Frequently Asked Questions for SEVP Stakeholders about COVID-19.)

What if I want to take a leave (gap-year)?

If you maintain your full-time student status by continuing your classes online, whether from abroad or anywhere in the U.S., you do not need to request a leave of absence. If you plan to stop studying full-time and take a gap year, please email your academic advisor. If you take a leave, your I-20 will be terminated and your F-1 status will end.

Will the "five-month rule" apply to my visa if I leave the U.S. and stay abroad until the fall 2020 semester? 

If you have a valid F-1 student visa when returning to the U.S., and a valid I-20 with a travel signature, you do not need to apply for a new F-1 visa even if you have been outside of the U.S. for more than five months. (Reference: Department of Homeland Security as of 2017.) 

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has clarified that the "five-month rule" is not applicable while coronavirus (COVID-19) measures are in place. (Reference: Clarifying Questions for Fall 2020 Based On March 9 Spring Guidance Broadcast.)

I am a current, returning student and my visa is expiring soon. What should I do to renew my visa?

If you are a current international student, you are allowed to stay in the U.S. on an expired visa as long as you maintain your immigration status with a valid I-20. Therefore, if you are currently in the U.S and your visa is expiring, you do not need to leave the U.S immediately to renew your visa.

If you leave the U.S. and your visa expires by the date you plan to re-enter the U.S., then you will need to obtain a new visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country before you can re-enter the U.S. 

Please review the “Visa Applications and Renewal” section under the International Students tab for more information about visa services at U.S embassies and consulates. 

I am a new student and need to apply for an F-1 visa. What should I do? 

Based on the latest SEVP guidance, new students starting their studies at SVA in the 2020-2021 academic year (Fall 2020 or Spring 2021) will not be able to apply for the F-1 visa to enter the U.S. to study entirely online. Your I-20 will be deferred to the following semester, Fall 2021.

ISO will prepare updated I-20s for students who will be attending in-person classes at SVA in Fall 2021. You will need this new I-20 indicating your Fall 2021 in-person start date for your F-1 visa interview appointment. Please expect to receive further instructions by email after the Spring 2021 semester begins. 

Please review the “Visa Applications and Renewal” section under the International Students tab for more information about visa services at U.S embassies and consulates.

I left the U.S. during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Will I be able to return? 

The U.S. government has issued coronavirus-related travel bans to limit travel to the U.S. (Reference: COVID-19 Restrictions on U.S. Visas and Entry.) If your travel plans are affected by current travel restrictions, please contact the ISO so we can advise you individually.

It is not known when these restrictions will be lifted. SVA's International Student Office (ISO) is closely monitoring information related to travel and visas and will inform international SVA students of any updates. You can also refer to this frequently updated summary of worldwide entry information here.

I am graduating in Spring 2021 and planning to apply for optional practical training (OPT). Can I apply for OPT from outside the U.S.? 

ISO will be sending out OPT Application guidelines for Spring 2021 graduates in January 2021. Please note that OPT and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) applications cannot be sent to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) from outside of the U.S. You must physically be in the U.S. to mail in your OPT/STEM application documents.

NAFSA: Association of International Educators has formally requested the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to temporarily change this rule, but it has not been approved yet. (Reference: NAFSA Letter to DHS on Regulatory Issues and COVID-19.) If you are planning to apply for OPT, please keep this in mind and plan accordingly.  If you have questions about your travel arrangements and OPT, please contact the ISO.

December 11, 2020, is the OPT application due date recommended by SVA’s International Student Office (ISO) for Fall 2020 graduates. Students who have not applied yet but plan to do so should submit their applications online in Terra Dotta as soon as possible. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) must receive your OPT application by the end of your 60-day grace period upon the program end date listed on your I-20.

I’ve submitted the OPT Application Program on Terra Dotta. How can I receive my OPT-recommended I-20? 

The U.S. government recently announced that a designated school official may electronically send I-20 forms during this crisis. Effective March 30, 2020, the OPT-recommended I-20 will be given to applicants electronically. You will be able to download, sign and mail the OPT-recommended I-20 copy. For detailed step-by-step instructions, please see the notification email sent when your OPT-recommended I-20 is issued. (Reference: Frequently Asked Questions for SEVP Stakeholders about COVID-19.)

Can I leave the U.S. and go home after I mail my OPT application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS)? Will I be allowed to re-enter the U.S. to start working once my application is approved?

It is recommended that you stay in the U.S. until after your application is mailed and received by the USCIS.

You may leave the U.S. after you mail your OPT application documents to USCIS from within the U.S., but please make sure to have someone you trust who is able to receive all notifications from USCIS delivered to the mailing address provided in your I-765. As long as your safety is secure, it is recommended that you stay in the U.S. at least until you have received your official receipt notice. Please be aware that some cases, such as a denial notice, may be difficult to take care of if you are not in the U.S.

For information about re-entering the U.S. while your OPT application is pending or approved, please refer to the OPT Travel Guidelines in the Terra Dotta portal.

Does SVA have funds to help international students who are experiencing financial difficulties during COVID-19? 

Earlier in the Spring 2020 semester, the SVA Student Emergency Relief Fund was created to provide financial assistance to support currently enrolled, full-time graduate or undergraduate students, including international students, who are experiencing acute economic distress.

For complete information about the program and application guidelines click here. Due to an overwhelming response, available funds have been exhausted and the application portal is temporarily closed. However, you can fill out this form to be notified when more funds become available. 

What should I do if I feel sick or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Any SVA community members experiencing cold- or flu-like symptoms (including fever, cough, shortness of breath; see full list of symptoms here) are urged to consult with a health-care provider. 

In order to limit in-person interaction while you are ill, arranging a virtual appointment is strongly encouraged. Below are links to some virtual urgent-care providers:

• NYU Virtual Urgent Care (accepts Cigna)
• City MD Virtual Care (accepts Cigna)
• Mount Sinai NOW Video Urgent Care ($25 consultations; does not bill insurance)
• New York-Presbyterian ($49 consultations; does not bill insurance)

Urgent-care facilities near the SVA campus can be found here.

Will my SVA-sponsored health insurance cover a coronavirus (COVID-19) test?

Cigna PPO (Wellfleet), the provider of the SVA-sponsored health-insurance plan for students, has stated that it will cover SVA student member costs for COVID-19 testing at an in-network facility, including emergency rooms and urgent-care facilities, through May 31, 2020. They will waive all co-pays, deductibles and coinsurance. Similar to a preventive visit, like an annual physical, you will have no out-of-pocket costs for your testing.

Cigna, the provider of the SVA-sponsored health-insurance plan for staff, has also stated that it will cover member costs for COVID-19 testing, waiving co-pays, deductibles and coinsurance, through May 31, 2020.

I have been exposed to COVID-19 and need to self-quarantine. What should I do?

You will need to self-quarantine at home for 14 days. For World Health Organization guidelines on self-quarantine, click here.

What if a resident student needs to be quarantined?

In preparation for potential quarantines, SVA Residence Life has enacted a room consolidation protocol, in compliance with the college's emergency protocols, whereby vacancies in rooms with a private bathroom will be made available as needed.

What are some mental-health resources for dealing with anxiety?

Many members of the SVA community and our extended community are experiencing emotional distress during this time. We're here to support each other. This document from the World Health Organization has helpful tips on how to cope with and manage stress during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

SVA Student Health and Counseling Services staff are operating remotely via secure online sessions while the campus is closed. Current undergraduate and graduate students can make appointments Monday – Friday, 10:00am – 3:00pm. To make an appointment, please fill out this form. Students may also contact Student Health and Counseling Services at health@sva.edu.

Follow SVA Student Health and Counseling Services on Instagram, @svastudenthealth, to stay informed about stress reduction, meditation programs and how to stay connected while practicing social distancing. 

If you are a faculty or staff member and are enrolled in the SVA-sponsored health-insurance plan offered through Cigna, you can find mental-health resources by visiting your myCigna member page, selecting "Coverage," and choosing "Employee Assistance Program (EAP)."

For support for anyone, 24 hours a day/seven days a week, there are also the following resources: 

• NYC Well, a free New York City mental-health support resource. NYC Well offers English, Spanish or Mandarin speakers and has access for translators in about 200 languages.

- Call 1.888.NYC.WELL (1.888.692.9355)

- Text "WELL" to 65173

- Chat online

• Samaritans

- Call 212.673.3000

• Crisis Text Line

- Text "HOME" to 741741

• World Health Organization (WHO) coronavirus information
• New York City Department of Health coronavirus information
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) coronavirus information
• CDC travel notices
• U.S. Department of State COVID-19 Country-Specific Information
• NAFSA: Association of International Educators, COVID-19 Restrictions on U.S. Visas and Entry

SVA is committed to providing a learning, working and living environment free from unlawful discrimination and harassment. All incidents of harassment, discrimination or sexual misconduct should be reported to SVA’s Title IX Office. To do so, please complete this form or contact Laurel Christy, Title IX coordinator, lchristy@sva.edu.

Incidents of harassment, discrimination or sexual misconduct can also be reported to the New York Police Department, and someone from SVA can accompany any student who wishes to make a report to the NYPD. Incidents of harassment or discrimination experienced outside of the SVA community but within New York City can also be reported to the nearest NYPD precinct and/or the NYC Commission on Human Rights.

Any student, faculty or staff member who violates College policy by subjecting another to discrimination or harassment of any kind will be subject to disciplinary action, including immediate expulsion from the College or termination of employment, in accordance with the procedures and policies outlined in the SVA Handbook.

All matriculated students, faculty and staff are automatically enrolled in SVAlert, the College’s emergency communications system, which sends text, email and voicemail notifications about campus closures and other disruptions to operations. To confirm that your SVAlert contact information is up to date, sign in to your MySVA account through myid.sva.edu and click on the SVAlert icon in the right column.

SVA sends SVA Today, its daily e-newsletter, to all undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and staff; SVA Now, its weekly e-newsletter, to an external audience; and a monthly events e-calendar. 

If you are a current student, faculty or staff member and do not get SVA Today, contact proffice@sva.edu. To sign up for SVA Now and/or the e-calendar, visit sva.edu/subscribe.

Good Morning,

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost eight weeks since we began the new normal of sheltering at home, practicing social distancing, working online and connecting by Zoom and other platforms. I know it’s been a challenging time for all of you, and I’m grateful for your hard work to keep the College running smoothly and for your dedication to supporting our students and each other during this extraordinary time. I truly appreciate all of your help as we work through this crisis.

I want to share some important updates and resources with you as the academic year wraps up.

The plan for reopening SVA is well underway. The Emergency Management Committee, together with crisis recovery expert Daniel O’Neill of Advanced Data Risk Management (ADRM), has been crafting a reopening strategy that incorporates guidelines from federal, state and city authorities as well as valuable input from 70+ departments across the College. This plan emphasizes cooperation, flexibility and responsibility. While we don’t yet have concrete dates for reopening, we will be prepared to open gradually, in phases, to ensure the safety of everyone at the College. Facilities has already implemented more rigorous cleaning protocols throughout our buildings and is setting up distancing markings and protective barriers in close-contact areas, among other recommended actions. And before we do reopen, we will make sure we provide everyone with all the information and resources they need to do their part to keep our environment safe. 

I also want to call your attention to a new initiative that will make a real difference to students who are experiencing financial hardship. Last week, the SVA Student Emergency Relief Fund was launched to provide emergency financial assistance to support currently enrolled, full-time graduate or undergraduate students who are experiencing acute economic distress.

Monetary support for the program is provided by the SVA Alumni Society and Visual Arts Foundation. The fund is administered by the SVA Alumni Society and will be sustained by continual contributions from alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends of the College. (Click here if you would like to make a donation.) I applaud Jane Nuzzo and her team in Alumni Affairs and Development for the work they’ve done to launch this fund at a time when it’s needed the most. 

As summer approaches, we are forging ahead with some important events that we look forward to each year. As you may know, Commencement will be held on May 27 at 1pm as a virtual video streamed at sva.edu/commencement and on SVA’s Facebook page, with the inimitable filmmaker/writer/artist John Waters as the keynote speaker. 

The All-Staff Art Show will take place once again—but likely online—so keep working hard on your masterpieces!

I encourage you to continue to take care of your health and well-being by getting plenty of rest and taking breaks from screens to enjoy the beautiful springtime outdoors. See the resources below and remember to check SVA Today and sva.edu/coronavirus regularly for updates.

Health Resources

An infectious illness outbreak such as COVID-19 can be stressful to you and your loved ones. It is natural to feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious and afraid. To reduce your stress and help manage the situation, check out these tips.

NYC Well provides free emotional support, 24 hours a day/seven days a week. NYC Well offers English, Spanish and Mandarin speakers and has access for translators in about 200 languages. Call 1.888.NYC.WELL (1.888.692.9355) or text "WELL" to 65173.

I miss you all and look forward to seeing you in person, even at a distance!

Warm regards,

Anthony P. Rhodes

Executive Vice President

Dear SVA Students:

I hope this note finds you and your families safe and healthy, and settling into your online classes. I know studying the visual arts online is a bit counterintuitive, and certainly not what you expected when you returned to SVA from spring break. But we are not alone in our efforts to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. All 40 of the private, accredited, freestanding colleges of art and design in the United States are in the same exact position as we are—and it is true for the hundreds of colleges and universities across the country who made the difficult decision to close their campuses and move classes online.  

As I have shared in my previous letters to you, we as a community are going through this together. Since we began this strange odyssey, I have seen the very best from all of you—our students, members of the faculty and the entire administration. This gives me great confidence that despite the many challenges we face, we will persevere; we will get through this global crisis; and we will be stronger and better for having lived through the experience.   

In the meantime, the public health crisis here in New York intensifies almost daily, and it will likely continue to do so for the next couple of months. The advisories from the CDC, federal, state, and local authorities are growing increasingly more restrictive. Like all New Yorkers, we must do our part to combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus. This means we must further reduce the physical proximity of our students, faculty, and staff to one another—and to places like buses, trains and the subway. 

To that end, I am writing to advise you that all SVA academic facilities will close effective 5:00 PM, Monday, March 23. You will have the next five days to visit your departmental space and retrieve anything you want or need from lockers, storage areas, and studios and labs. Please, before you make the trip to campus, confirm with your department that someone will be onsite to allow you access to your belongings. 

If you have large pieces of your art, such as paintings, you may then leave them behind, and your department will help make arrangements to send you your work. Please make sure your name is clearly written on whatever you leave behind. When the campus does reopen, you will also have an opportunity to retrieve your work.  We will not throw out student work without first attempting to notify you through your sva.edu email account.

Please note that campus residence halls remain open at this time, but if you are able to return home you are strongly encouraged to do so.

Again, I wish you all the very best as we work, collectively, to finish out the spring semester under these difficult circumstances.

Sincerely,

Christopher J. Cyphers, Ph.D.

Provost

Dear SVA Students:

I hope your start to the week in this strange, new world is going well. Faculty and staff have been working around the clock to prepare to resume your spring classes online. We ask for your patience as we work our way through this first week together.

I am writing to update you on the status of the spring semester at SVA. The College will continue to operate remotely via Canvas and other online resources for the remainder of the spring semester; all in-person instruction is suspended. A similar memo will be sent to all SVA faculty members.

All of this is very new for faculty, so please be patient as we work through any kinks in our system. Remember, we’re all in this together.

I know many of you are eager to return home. The use of our online systems to conduct classes allows you to continue your studies full time from a remote location. This is true for students who live abroad and outside the New York City metropolitan area.

Certain SVA facilities remain closed through Friday, including the libraries and galleries, the SVA Welcome Center, the SVA Student Center, the SVA Campus Store, and the SVA Theater. Access to academic facilities is limited, and you should contact your department to obtain hours of operation.

Currently, campus residence halls remain open. You will soon receive information from Residence Life about vacating your residence hall, should you decide to leave campus.

I will be providing an update in a separate communication about the SVA Commencement Ceremony.

As more information becomes available, I will be certain to share it with you.

Please know the SVA faculty and staff, though working remotely, are available to help you get through this semester successfully. If you are scheduled to graduate in May, we will do everything we can to ensure you continue to meet the requirements for your degree.

Resources

Academic Matters: You can contact your academic advisor or the Registrar (registrar@sva.edu) with any questions about academic policy, and registration for summer and fall 2020 classes. 

Technical Support: Questions about Canvas, or online learning in general, should be directed to OLT@sva.edu. 

Student Health and Counseling Services: health@sva.edu

Residence Life: reslife@sva.edu

Wishing you all the very best,

Christopher J. Cyphers, Ph.D.

Provost

Dear Colleagues:

First and foremost, please accept my sincere thanks and gratitude for the tremendous effort each of you has put forth in mobilizing so quickly to transition our classes to an online format. This audacious undertaking would not be possible but for your hard work, commitment and dedication to seeing our students through to the end of this semester.

I am writing to update you on the status of the spring semester at SVA. The College will continue to operate remotely via Canvas and other online resources for the remainder of the spring semester; all in-person instruction is suspended. A similar memo has been sent to all SVA undergraduate and graduate students.

We know many of our students are eager to return home for the rest of the spring semester. The transition of our classes online allows students to leave the campus, if they choose to do so, while successfully completing the spring semester.

The Office of Learning Technologies (OLT) remains ready to assist you in continuing to develop and refine your classes. Additionally, OLT is expanding faculty discussion boards in Canvas to help faculty share recommendations and resources more easily with each other. 

Certain SVA facilities remain closed through Friday, including the libraries and galleries, the SVA Welcome Center, the SVA Student Center, the SVA Campus Store, and the SVA Theater. Access to academic facilities is limited, and you should contact your department to obtain hours of operation. 

Over the next several days, the College’s administration will make a determination about the 2020 Commencement exercises at Radio City Music Hall. As more information becomes available, I will be certain to share it with you.

Associate Provost Emily Ross and I are in regular contact with the department chairs. Please share questions with your chair, who will pass on to us those questions.

Resources

Academic Matters: rosters@sva.edu

Technical Support: The Office of Learning Technologies (OLT) can answer any questions you have about your online course at olt@sva.edu. You can also refer to this page for immediate answers to some common questions:

Moving Your Course Online

Wishing you the very best,

Christopher J. Cyphers, Ph.D.

Provost

At SVA, the health, safety and well-being of our community is of paramount importance. In response to the rapidly developing coronavirus situation, beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, March 11, SVA will suspend classes for the rest of the week, but campus buildings will remain open, with the exception of public spaces including the SVA Welcome Center, libraries and galleries. We are encouraging any personnel who can effectively work remotely to do so. This determination should be a conversation between employee and supervisor. Classes will resume next Monday, March 16, and be held online through SVA’s learning management system, Canvas, and other platforms. Toward the end of next week, an assessment will be made about resuming in-person activities.

Events

All College events and extra-curricular events are canceled from Wednesday, March 11, through Friday, March 20.

The SVA Career Fair, scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, is canceled.

Continuing Education

SVA Continuing Education classes are suspended until further notice, with the exception of online CE courses, which will proceed uninterrupted.

Additional Resources

For more information about SVA’s response to the coronavirus and additional resources from health authorities, see below, and periodically check this page (sva.edu/coronavirus) for updates. All SVA community members are urged to access SVAlert via the Campus Safety module on the home page of MySVA to make sure their contact information is up to date.

This is an unprecedented response to an unprecedented public health crisis. We will need to work together to ensure the smooth continuity of operations at SVA and plan for future action. We appreciate your cooperation and flexibility during this time.

Dear Students,

I am writing to provide you with an important update concerning SVA’s academic operations. Beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, March 11, all undergraduate and graduate classes will be suspended for the rest of the week. Classes will resume next Monday, March 16 and be held online through SVA’s learning management system, Canvas, and the teleconferencing resource, Zoom. Toward the end of next week, we will assess whether to continue to hold classes online or to resume in-person activities. 

Attendance 

SVA’s regular attendance policy will be suspended until further notice. However, all students are expected to continue to participate in all of their scheduled classes online. 

Residence Halls

Residence Halls will remain open and unaffected by the cancellation of classes. 

Access to Facilities

Access to campus facilities will be limited during this period. Beginning tomorrow, public spaces including both library locations, all galleries, and the Student Center will be closed. Please note that library resources will continue to be available online. Further cancellations will be determined toward the end of next week. 

Departments will remain open with appropriate staffing levels necessary to grant access only to students as necessary for thesis work. 

Events

All College events and extra-curricular events are cancelled from March 11 through March 20. 

The Career Fair, scheduled for March 31st, is cancelled. 

Continuing Education

Continuing Education classes are suspended until further notice, with the exception of online CE courses, which will proceed uninterrupted. 

Discrimination & Harassment

We are aware of some incidents of harassment and discrimination against students, related to the COVID-19 crisis. We once again remind all members of the community that such behavior is opposed to the core values of the College and will not be tolerated. Students experiencing harassment and discrimination of any kind should contact lchristy@sva.edu or use the online form available at this page under the dropdown "resources for reporting."  

Student Health and Counseling 

Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms should call their healthcare provider for direction. Most people will experience COVID-19 as being similar to a bad cold or the flu. People at most risk are the elderly or those with other health conditions. More information on symptoms and recommended actions can be found here. 

If you are experiencing emotional distress, please contact Student Health and Counseling Services at health@sva.edu. NYC Well is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Call: 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355); Text "WELL" to 65173 or Chat

International Student Office

International students seeking support from the ISO can refer to sva.edu/iso for updates on advisement hours. ISO's walk-in and phone advisement hours are suspended through March 13th. Advisement during this period will be by appointment only, please email iso@sva.edu.

Technology

Students in the residence halls should be mindful of their internet usage so that all students may participate in their online courses with ease. 

The Office of Learning Technologies (OLT) is available to answer any questions about Canvas and Zoom at olt@sva.edu. 

Registration 

Online registration will proceed as planned.

Graduation 

As of today, graduation will proceed as planned. 

Updates and Additional Resources

For the latest information about SVA’s response to the coronavirus and additional resources from health authorities, see sva.edu/coronavirus. Access SVAlert via the Campus Safety module on the homepage of MySVA to make sure your contact information is up to date.

We recognize that there are many aspects of the curriculum and extra-curricular events that simply cannot be recreated online, and over the coming weeks the administration will attempt to reschedule as many of these events and activities as is practicable. 

Best wishes,

Christopher J. Cyphers, PhD

Provost

Dear SVA Faculty Members,

I am writing to provide you with an important update concerning SVA’s academic operations. Beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, March 11, all undergraduate and graduate classes will be suspended for the rest of the week. Classes will resume on Monday, March 16 and be conducted online through SVA’s learning management system, Canvas, and the teleconferencing resource, Zoom. (Please follow the on-screen prompts provided by Zoom that will appear after opening the link.) For the remainder of this week, we ask all faculty to work towards migrating as much of their course online as possible. 

I recognize that we are asking you midway through the semester to completely rethink how you teach. We do this because we know that you want to avoid putting your students at risk.

The Office of Learning Technology (OLT) has developed a variety of templates, a tutorial video, and realtime support, to help you conduct your classes online. More information can be found here. Faculty should begin preparing now to transition their courses into Canvas. OLT will hold regular training sessions via Zoom at the times indicated below. There is the obvious question about how to teach a studio course online. Though different, teaching studio content online is possible, and the OLT staff stands ready to assist you in this endeavor. OLT will also hold ongoing digital office hours to provide individual support to faculty throughout the term.  

Some of you are more familiar with Canvas than others. The OLT has developed a variety of templates, a tutorial video, and will be holding training sessions via Zoom from Wednesday through Friday at the following times: 

• 11am
• 1pm
• 3pm

Representatives from OLT will also be available for individual consultation during business hours throughout this and next week. More information can be found here. 

Toward the end of next week, we will assess whether to continue to hold classes online or to resume in-person activities. 

This is, as you all know, an unprecedented situation, and the contours of the emergency continue to evolve. We will continue to keep you updated as we assess and refine our approach. As of now, I will try to address some additional details:

Attendance 

SVA’s regular attendance policy will be suspended until further notice. However, all students are expected to continue to participate in all of their scheduled classes online. 

Access to Facilities 

Access to campus facilities will be limited during this period. Beginning tomorrow, public spaces including both library locations, all galleries, and the Student Center will be closed. Please note that library resources will continue to be available online. Further cancellations will be determined toward the end of next week. 

Departments will remain open with appropriate staffing levels necessary to grant access only to students as necessary for thesis work. To the extent possible, any staff that can work remotely should do so.  

Travel

SVA-sponsored international travel is suspended until further notice; domestic travel should only be undertaken voluntarily at one’s own discretion.

Continuing Education

Continuing Education classes are suspended until further notice, with the exception of online CE courses, which will proceed uninterrupted. 

Discrimination & Harassment

We are aware of some incidents of harassment and discrimination against students, related to the COVID-19 crisis. We once again remind all members of the community that such behavior is opposed to the core values of the College and will not be tolerated. Students experiencing harassment and discrimination of any kind should contact lchristy@sva.edu or use the online form available at this page under the dropdown "resources for reporting."  

Events and Extra-Curricular Activities

All campus events, including those at the theatre and galleries are suspended from March 11-20. We will reassess again at that point. 

Updates and Additional Resources

For the latest information about SVA’s response to the coronavirus and additional resources from health authorities, see sva.edu/coronavirus. Access SVAlert via the Campus Safety module on the homepage of MySVA to make sure your contact information is up to date.

During this time my team and I will maintain close contact with you all to provide updates, guidance, and support. This is an unprecedented response to an unprecedented public health crisis. We will need to work together to provide our students with as productive an educational experience as possible under the circumstances. I thank you all in advance for your support and cooperation. 

Sincerely,

Christopher Cyphers, Ph.D.

Provost

Here is some important information about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) as you return to school and work today.

If you have recently returned to the United States from CDC-designated areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan or South Korea, you must notify the Registrar’s Office (registrar@sva.edu) as soon as possible and self-monitor by quarantining yourself at home for 14 days. During that time you must not attend work, school, public events or group gatherings. Read the following document for information about self-monitoring and how and when you can go back to work or school.

On Saturday, Governor Cuomo declared a state of emergency. The State uses that designation to allow itself to expedite the ordering of supplies and hiring of additional workers for health departments. This does not require action on our part. Neither the Governor of New York nor the Mayor of New York City are recommending that schools close at this time.

We understand these are anxious times and that many of you have expressed concern about returning to SVA’s classrooms and common spaces. SVA leadership is in contact with health authorities at the New York State Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for guidance. Based on this collective guidance, SVA, like many other colleges located here and across this country, will remain open.

A special task force comprising SVA’s Emergency Management Committee and other key administrative departments is rapidly responding to the situation as it unfolds and is committed to providing you with the latest information about the virus and its prevention, which can be found on this page of sva.edu. Contingency plans are being developed that take into account a number of different scenarios, ranging from learning and working remotely to class and work suspension, and we will be prepared to change course when needed. 

David Rhodes

President, School of Visual Arts

The COVID-19 (novel Coronavirus) situation is constantly evolving, and SVA’s Emergency Management Committee (EMC) is closely following news reports and government guidelines for changes that affect our community. As always, we are committed to keeping the SVA community safe, healthy and well-informed. 

If you have recently returned to the United States from CDC-designated areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan or South Korea, you must notify the Registrar’s Office (registrar@sva.edu) as soon as possible and self-monitor (quarantine) for 14 days. During that time you must not attend work, school, public events or group gatherings. Read the following document for information about self-monitoring and how and when you can go back to work or school.

International students concerned about travel restrictions can contact the International Student Office: iso@sva.edu. For information regarding international travel, refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

We understand this is an unsettling time for many of you, but it’s important to keep calm and stay focused on the facts. There are currently no suspected SVA community members affected by the virus. There has been no indication that SVA should do anything but continue to function normally—the same as other colleges in the NYC area who are likewise following the latest guidelines set by local, state and federal authorities. 

Here’s how we can work together to keep our College healthy and thriving.

Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms should call their healthcare provider for direction. If you have a fever, you must avoid work for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine. Most people will experience COVID-19 as being similar to a bad cold or the flu. People at most risk are the elderly or those with other health conditions. More information on symptoms and recommended actions can be found here. 

SVA’s student attendance and staff sick leave policies are created in accordance with local and federal laws and are flexible to accommodate an individual’s needs. They have not been changed as a result of this situation. No employee or student is required to submit a doctor’s note to return to work or class. Stay home if you are sick.

SVA Facilities staff have been performing additional cleanings of restrooms, elevators and other common area locations with approved disinfectants.

SVA has many students from East Asian countries where the use of facemasks are common. Official guidance and culture in the U.S. may differ from this practice. Please be aware that the choice to wear a facemask does not always indicate that the person is ill. We should be sensitive to cultural differences and guard against discrimination in our daily lives.

Christine Gilchrist, MS MPH RN

Associate Director, Student Health and Counseling Services

Joyce Rutter Kaye

Director, Communication

Kaori Uchisaka

Director, International Student Office

The School of Visual Arts’ Emergency Management Committee continues to monitor COVID-19 (Coronavirus) as it evolves, and we are committed to providing necessary updates to our College community. As of today, one person has been diagnosed with COVID-19 in New York City. According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the risk to New Yorkers of contracting COVID-19 is still low. Currently, there has been no community transmission (spread of disease when the source of infection is unknown) of COVID-19 detected in New York City. It's important at this time that we focus on facts and guard against stigma and panic.

SVA is currently operating normally, but preparations are being made in the event that the situation calls for changes. Potential contingency plans are being discussed by SVA administration (representing Student Health & Counseling Services, Academic Affairs, Human Resources, Communication, the International Student Office and Student Affairs). These plans are informed by guidelines issued by federal and local governmental agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the New York State Department of Health and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

The latest updates to the SVA community about COVID-19 can be found here. Anyone concerned about their health can find more information on symptoms and recommended actions here. International students concerned about travel restrictions can contact the International Student Office: iso@sva.edu. For information regarding international travel, refer to the CDC.

We know that many in the SVA community may have family or friends directly affected by this outbreak. We're here to support each other. If you need to reach out for help during this time, please contact Student Health and Counseling Services at health@sva.edu.

Christine Gilchrist, MS MPH RN

Associate Director, Student Health and Counseling Services

Joyce Rutter Kaye

Director, Communication

Kaori Uchisaka

Director, International Student Office

February 27, 2020 Notification

The School of Visual Arts’ Emergency Management Committee continues to monitor COVID-19 (Coronavirus) as it evolves, and we are committed to providing necessary updates to our College community. As of today, there are still no confirmed cases of the virus in New York City, and the College is operating under normal conditions. Potential contingency plans are being discussed by SVA administration (representing Student Health & Counseling Services, Academic Affairs, Human Resources, Communication, the International Student Office and Student Affairs) should New York City and the SVA community become directly impacted by the virus. These plans are informed by guidelines issued by federal and local governmental agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the New York State Department of Health and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

As members of a community, we all need to work together to help prevent the spread of illness at SVA. If you are sick, or need to take care of a sick family member, stay at home. Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms should call their healthcare provider for direction. If you have a fever, you must avoid work for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine. Anyone concerned about their health can find more information on symptoms and recommended actions here. We would also like to remind everyone that no employee or student is required to submit a doctor’s note to return to work or class.

It is essential that we take care of ourselves and support one another's well-being at this time.

We thank you for your cooperation with the College’s policies and for creating an environment that is healthy, caring and inclusive.

 Frank Agosta

Executive Director, Human Resources

Christine Gilchrist, MS MPH RN

Associate Director, Student Health and Counseling Services

Joyce Rutter Kaye

Director, Communication

The School of Visual Arts’ Emergency Management Committee continues to monitor the Coronavirus (Novel Coronavirus 2019-nCoV) as it evolves and is committed to providing necessary updates to our College community. As of today, there are still no confirmed cases of the virus in New York City. 

SVA students, staff and faculty are reminded to stay home if they are sick. If you experience a fever, you must avoid class/work for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine. Any student experiencing flu-like symptoms of any kind should inform Student Health and Counseling Services (212.592.2246) and seek medical care immediately. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms. Faculty and staff experiencing symptoms should call their healthcare provider for direction.

If you or anyone you know is concerned about your health, you can find more information on symptoms and recommended actions here. All travelers to and from China must follow the directives of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. International students with questions or concerns regarding the travel restrictions effective February 2 may contact the International Student Office (iso@sva.edu). 

Health experts have indicated that facemasks are not recommended at this time in the United States. While the choice to wear one is with the individual, given recent shortages, the suggestion is to save them if they do become recommended. Wearing a mask does not supersede the SVA guidelines; everyone is asked to stay home when sick.

It is essential that we take care of ourselves and support one another's well-being at this time. To members of our community worried about their friends and family, please know that SVA cares about you and is here for you. Students are encouraged to seek support through Student Health and Counseling Services (health@sva.edu).

We thank you for your cooperation with the College’s policies and for creating an environment that is healthy, caring and inclusive.

Christine Gilchrist, MS MPH RN

Associate Director, Student Health and Counseling Services

Joyce Rutter Kaye

Director, Communication

Kaori Uchisaka

Director, International Student Office

School of Visual Arts is closely monitoring the emerging public health problem regarding an outbreak of a new strain of coronavirus (Novel Coronavirus 2019-nCoV) in Wuhan, China. Reports of infections from the virus were made in other regions of China and in other countries, including the United States. To date, there are no confirmed cases of the virus at SVA or in New York City.

The new Coronavirus causes a respiratory illness. Symptoms of the virus may include fever, cough, runny nose, headache and sore throat. In severe cases, the virus can cause pneumonia. Since the virus is very new, health authorities continue to carefully monitor how this virus spreads. 

Any student experiencing flu-like symptoms of any kind should inform Student Health and Counseling Services (212.592.2246) and seek medical care immediately. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

Faculty and staff experiencing symptoms should call their primary care physician or visit an urgent care center immediately.

If you or anyone you know is concerned about your health, you can find more information on symptoms and recommended actions here.

SVA students, staff and faculty are asked to stay home if they are sick. If you experience a fever, you must avoid class/work for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.

For more information on flu prevention, click here. SVA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.

●   Wash your hands frequently with soap and water

●   Increase your fluid intake

●   Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth, face

●   Keep home/personal spaces clean, disinfect common surfaces

●   Avoid contact with sick people

●   Cover your cough with tissue/paper towel or the crook of your elbow

●   If you have not received an Influenza (Flu) vaccine this year, do get one as soon as possible.

Since the fall semester (concurrent with the beginning of flu season), SVA Facilities staff have been performing additional cleanings of common restrooms, elevators and other sensitive locations with approved disinfectants.

Please be aware that the wearing of surgical or face masks in public spaces does not indicate the person in question is ill or infected with the Coronavirus (or any other illness). Many people wear these masks as a precaution against themselves getting ill.