51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ

Official Notifications

Previous Updates:
  • 3/9/51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ to Follow New Community Level Tool

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s Cabinet continues to monitor COVID-19 reports and protocols across the system. The Centers for Disease Control has a new Community Level tool to help guide us as we take steps to stay healthy and prevent the spread of this disease. Currently there are no known Covid-19 cases across our system, except for American Samoa. Our staff and students there continue to battle the virus and our prayers are with them.

    Effective immediately, all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses will follow the prevention steps based on the Covid-19 Community Level in their area. Community Level is determined by the CDC’s Covid-19 County Check (low, medium, high), located on the CDC website.

     

    On 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses where Community Levels are low, masks are no longer required. We encourage employees and students to keep up-to-date with available vaccines. Anyone who wants to wear a mask should feel comfortable in doing so regardless of the county check level or current campus protocols.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ administrators will continuously monitor all service areas and adjust Covid-19 protocols as warranted. Thank you.

     

  • 2/2/51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ

    Masks Not Required for Vaccinated Persons

    Thank you for your continued diligence in battling the Covid-19 pandemic. While we have experienced individual difficulties with this virus, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ continues to meet this challenge. While Omicron caused significant spikes this spring with all the communities and areas 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ serves, it now appears to have significantly diminished.

    The 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Cabinet has continued to monitor these developments and this morning determined that it is now time to remove the masking requirement for all vaccinated individuals both indoors and outdoors. Unvaccinated persons are asked to continue to wear masks and anyone who wishes to wear a mask, whether the person is vaccinated or unvaccinated, should feel comfortable in doing so. Please continue personal hygiene practices that help prevent spread of Covid and other illnesses.

     

    We will continue to monitor Covid and adjust our protocols as necessary. I hope that you all stay safe and well.

  • 1/7/51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University Releases Expanded Fall Dates

    Throughout the pandemic we have closely monitored national, state and local conditions across all campus locations and made changes as needed. Statistically and in the opinion of many medical authorities, it seems clear today that the Covid surge being seen in other parts of America is now coming to the communities 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ serves. We are clearly seeing the front of this wave which authorities believe will be the most significant one yet. Simultaneously, we will soon welcome students returning to our campuses from all across the nation and around the world, heightening the likelihood of greater virus transmission.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s goals related to the pandemic remain the same – to protect our employees and students and to remain operational and able to effectively deliver our educational product. I commend you for already having proven that you can do this very well.

    Based on these considerations, effective Monday, January 10, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will again require masking for all employees and students in all indoor locations and across all its campuses. Experts believe that this significant wave of Covid may be of relatively short duration and we hope that is the case. Be assured that we will constantly monitor and analyze the pandemic with hopes of again relaxing the masking policy as soon as it appears appropriate to do so.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s other Covid protocols remain unchanged but this is a quickly changing environment. Athletics protocols, for instance, are unclear as we await the results of the NAIA’s scheduled meeting of medical advisors on January 12. We will inform you of related changes in protocol and practice.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ students will be provided this and other pertinent student-oriented information via a separate email.

    In the days ahead, please be intentional about:

    • reading and following the instructions and advice disseminated by the Office of Health Services.
    • watching for updates or changes in protocol should they become necessary.
    • preparing now to work remotely or move all classes to a fully online format should that be required.
    • becoming fully vaccinated/boosted (if you are near the Plainview Campus, free testing and vaccinations are available on January 14 through the Office of Health Services). 

    While masking is a 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ decision, the second issue I will address is mandated by the federal government. Throughout the pandemic we have strongly encouraged all employees and students to be fully vaccinated and boosted as appropriate. While vaccination/boosting may not stop us from getting the virus, it has proven to be an important step in reducing hospitalizations and death. Out of respect for your privacy, we have never sought to learn the vaccination status of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ employees and we have never required vaccinations.

    The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandated that all organizations with 100 or more employees must require that all their employees either become fully vaccinated or be tested for Covid on a weekly basis. Though presently being considered by the US Supreme Court, this requirement is presently in effect and does apply to all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ employees. It supersedes state law and whether we agree or disagree, we must comply with it and have been taking all the preparatory steps to do so. Just as with the Covid pandemic, we are constantly monitoring this requirement. In consultation with experts in the field, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s Office of Human Resources has prepared policy compliant with the OSHA mandate and has also prepared a timeline, process and reporting mechanism for use as required.

    Please be looking for helpful materials and full instructions related to the OSHA mandate and 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s plan for compliance. It should be in your email inbox early next week. Staff in the Office of Human Resources and your cabinet representatives will be prepared to help you navigate this process, which could still change based upon the decision of the Supreme Court.

     

  • 11/11/2021

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University Releases Expanded Fall Dates

    Since March of 2020 we have jointly battled the COVID-19 virus and I have been most thankful and appreciative of your compliance with our protocols requiring masking and other measures designed to protect all of us and keep our campuses open. You have done a remarkable job. Thank you.

    As we have done regularly throughout the pandemic, members of the President’s Cabinet met yesterday and again reviewed infection rates across our campuses, infection and vaccination rates in the communities we serve, and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and other authorities. The number of identified COVID-19 cases across all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses continues to be very low and it was determined that it is now appropriate to change 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s COVID-19 protocols. Effective immediately, the following protocols will be observed:

    • Unless local mandates dictate otherwise, masks will no longer be required indoors or outdoors for those who are fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
    • Masks will continue to be required indoors for those who are not fully vaccinated.
    • Behaviors and hygiene practices that have proven to be effective in limiting the spread of the virus will continue to be emphasized, including regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose on sneeze or cough, staying home if you experience symptoms identified with COVID-19, and use of hand disinfectants.
    • All confirmed cases of COVID-19 on all campuses should be reported immediately to the Office of Health Services.
    • 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s COVID-related cleaning and disinfecting protocols will continue to be observed.
    • 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will continue to closely monitor infection rates on all campuses and is prepared to respond as necessary.
    • 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will continue to follow CDC guidance as well as instructions from local and state health authorities.
    • Campus signage will be changed over time.

    We are aware of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) recent rule requiring businesses with at least 100 employees companywide to ensure their employees get vaccinated against the coronavirus or wear a mask and test for COVID-19 on at least a weekly basis. As issued by OSHA, this rule would impact all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ employees, including part-time employees and some student workers. This rule is being actively challenged and a stay has been issued in New Orleans blocking implementation. Additional legal challenges are underway. We will inform you of any required changes as this unfolds.

     

  • 8/9/2021

    Guidelines for Fall 2021

    We are excited to welcome you back to campus this fall and look forward to a return of campus events. It is necessary that we continue to be diligent in our fight against COVID. With guidance from the CDC, ACHA, the Texas Department of Health and our local health department, here are some things we need you to know upon your return to campus. These guidelines are subject to change.

    • Strongly encourage vaccination with vaccines are readily available on or off campus. Check with campus leadership for times.
    • The vaccine is FREE and no insurance is required.
    • Vaccine clinics will be set up on the Plainview campus the week before school starts**.
    • Vaccine clinic opportunities are also available in Plainview at Walmart, CVS, Hometown Pharmacy, Amigos Pharmacy, and the Plainview Hale County Health Department.
    • Vaccinated individuals should carry documentation of COVID-19 vaccine in your purse/wallet and phone to avoid the need for frequent COVID testing and quarantine should you come in close contact with someone who tests positive.
    • A COVID test is required for all athletes, performing arts students, and students living in campus housing who are not vaccinated. Tests will be available at the same time our vaccine clinics are in progress.
    • All individuals will continue to protect themselves & others for the health of all concerned: Wear your mask properly inside all campus facilities , practice physical distancing, wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, clean and disinfect, and monitor your health daily.
    • Vaccinated instructors, while instructing indoors, may remove their masks as long as they maintain a 10-foot separation from their students. Unvaccinated instructors must wear a mask indoors at all times. Instructors should announce this policy to their class.
    • Healthy environment protocols such as appropriate ventilation and cleaning will continue.
    • Health protocols are in place for individuals who test positive for COVID-19. If you test positive, please notify health services at 806-291-3765 as soon as possible to help prevent the spread of the virus.
    • Non-51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ events scheduled to be hosted on campus will still be allowed and must follow these protocols.

    Thank you so much for helping us prevent the spread of the virus on our campus. With your help and cooperation, we will have a great school year. GO PIONEERS!!! 

    **Vaccine Clinic & COVID testing Schedule (J & J, Pfizer or Moderna Vaccine) listed below:

    • Monday, August 9th from 1 – 4 pm (Laney Recreation Center)
    • Friday, August 13th from 9 am – 12 noon (Laney Recreation Center)
    • Monday, August 16th from 8 am – 1 pm (University Center, Room 211)
    • Friday, August 20th from 1 – 4 pm (Laney Recreation Center)

     

  • 7/22/2021

    Guidelines for Fall 2021

    With guidance from CDC, ACHA, the Texas Department of Health and recent statistics provided by our local Health Department, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University recommends the following protocols for the student body returning to campus in the Fall 2021:

    • COVID-19 Vaccine is STRONGLY ENCOURAGED, but not mandatory.
    • Unvaccinated individuals must continue to protect themselves & others for the health of all concerned: practice physical distancing, masking, hand washing, cover coughs & sneezes, clean and disinfect, and monitor your health daily.
    • Implementation of a robust education program related to the coronavirus, also known as SARS-CoV-2 the Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, that is the causative agent of  , thru website, e-mail, social media, student organizations, and the classroom.
    • Vaccine Clinics will be set up on campus during the week before school starts; during athlete physicals, Koinonia activities and those students moving into the dorms (new and returning). COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer, J & J or Moderna) will be administered by the Texas National Guard to those who wish to participate at no charge.
    • Other Vaccine Clinic opportunities are available at Walmart, CVS, Hometown, Amigos Pharmacy and the Plainview Hale County Health Department.
    • Faculty, staff and students should carry documentation of COVID-19 vaccine in their purse/wallet and phone.
    • A COVID-19 (Antigen or PCR) test is required for all athletes, performing arts students and students living in campus housing who are not vaccinated. These tests will be available at the same time our vaccine clinics are in progress. Future COVID-19 testing will be utilized for diagnosing, screening and surveillance and will be determined by the number of COVID cases reported on or off campus, during the Fall Semester.
    • An Unmasked individual on the Plainview campus is an indication to our 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ family that they have been fully vaccinated.
    • Healthy environments, such as appropriate ventilation and cleaning will continue.
    • COVID-19 (+) Individuals: Notify Health Services (806)291-3765 as soon as possible. CDC guidelines will be followed for Isolation. On campus (+) students will be housed in Brotherhood Dorm. Students determined to be in “close contact” with a (+) individual will be housed in Fleming-Mays Tower (FMT) dorm. Education will continue via Zoom, Blackboard or whatever means the professor determines best. Sodexo will provide takeout food to those students in Isolation & Quarantine. Health Services will deliver food & administer daily Health checks.

    International Students traveling to the United States and plan to attend 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University will follow all Center for Disease Guidelines as listed below:

    Fully Vaccinated Individuals:

    • Before you arrive in the United States:
      • All air passengers coming to the United States,  including U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated people,   to have a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 3 days before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months before they board a flight to the United States.
    • After travel:
      • Get tested with a   3-5 days after travel.
      • Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms; isolate and get tested if you develop symptoms.
      • Follow all   recommendations or requirements after travel.

    Unvaccinated Individuals:

    Before you travel:

    • Get tested with a   1-3 days before your trip.
    • Before you arrive in the United States:
      • All air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated people,   to have a negative COVID-19 viral test result no more than 3 days before travel or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months before they board a flight to the United States.
    • After you travel:
      • Get tested with a   3-5 days after travel and stay home and self-quarantine for a full 7 days after travel.
        • Even if you test negative, stay home and self-quarantine for the full 7 days.
        • If your test is positive,   yourself to protect others from getting infected.
      • If you don’t get tested, stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days after travel.
      • Avoid being around people who are at   for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.
      • Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms; isolate and get tested if you develop symptoms.
      • Follow all   recommendations or requirements.

    Do NOT travel if you were  ,  ,  or you are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test. Learn when it is  . Don’t travel with someone who is sick.


     

  • 5/20/2021

    COVID Protocol Update

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University’s COVID-19 protocols have been based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control. The CDC recently issued new guidance for those who have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

    Effective immediately, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s protocols are being revised as follows:

    • Fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.
    • Those who have not been fully vaccinated are strongly encouraged to do so, and should continue to wear a mask and physically distance until fully vaccinated.
    • Any individual who wishes to continue to wear a mask and physically distance, regardless of vaccination status, is encouraged to do so.
    • 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s Covid-19 health protocols have been proven effective in limiting the spread of Covid-19 and other infections. Making common sense decisions about managing your own personal health through regular handwashing, covering your face when sneezing, and going to the doctor when sick (and not to school or work) are still encouraged. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will continue its sanitation efforts at campus locations to help provide a clean, safe environment.
     
  • 5/6/2021

    COVID Protocol Update

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ leadership announced an update to the university’s Covid-19 safety protocols for this summer. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ President Dr. Bobby Hall issued the following statement:

    We will continue to look to the CDC for guidance and follow their recommendations as we have since March of 2020. While some indicators are showing a decline in the volume of Covid-19 cases, the risk of infection is still significant. Our ultimate goal remains the safety of our students and employees and therefore we are issuing this update to our protocols.

    Effective today, masks are no longer required when you are outdoors, but we must still be cautious and avoid close contact. We will continue to require masks, encourage frequent hand hygiene, and physical distancing inside our facilities as we feel that has been a large factor for our low Covid-19 numbers across our campuses.

    Now that the number of people who are getting vaccinations is ramping up, we will continue to monitor and evaluate these protocols in the hope of relaxing them further in the future. Rest assured our decisions will be made with the safety of our students, employees and community members in mind. 

    For the summer and into the fall sessions, we strongly encourage all employees and students to be vaccinated as soon as possible. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ hopes to provide a vaccination clinic on the Plainview campus to administer the inoculation. We will also continue our cleaning and sanitation protocols to help reduce the spread of any infectious virus, especially Covid-19.

    We will continually monitor recommendations issued by the CDC and review 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s Covid-19 protocols accordingly.

     

     

  • 3/2/2021

    Governor Abbot Announcement/51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Mask Protocol

    Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced today that Texas could open 100% and he was ending the statewide mask mandate beginning March 10th. Reactions have been mixed as you might imagine. Please understand that he also included a plea to be responsible and not to abandon safe practices.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s position has always been, at a minimum, to follow CDC guidelines which at this time still recommend the safe practice of wearing face coverings and other COVID-19 protocols like social distancing and hand washing.  Therefore, for the continued safety of our students, employees, and guests, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will continue to follow the CDC guidelines and the current practices which have allowed us to keep our COVID-19 numbers low and our campuses open. That includes wearing a face covering.

    Please stay safe and well.

     

  • 1/11/2021

    WBU Welcomes Spectators Back to Athletic Events

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University will allow spectators – on a limited basis and with strict COVID-19 protocol – to its home athletic events to begin the spring semester.

    Fans should self-screen and stay home if they are not feeling well. While on the WBU campus, fans are required to wear face coverings and practice social distancing at all times. There will be zero tolerance and non-compliance will result in removal from the venue.

    At all WBU athletic events, capacity will be limited. Doors/gates will open one hour prior to the scheduled start time. Due to restricted seating and limited capacity, no special passes will be accepted. (WBU students and employees will be admitted free with proper ID.)

    No outside food or drink is allowed inside Hutcherson Center, and only bottled water will be made available (no concession stand).

    WBU Athletics Director Rick Cooper is looking forward to having fans back on campus.

    “We’re extremely excited to have the opportunity to be playing again with fans present when so many universities are either not playing or playing without spectators,” Cooper said. 

    He asks that spectators adhere to the COVID-19 protocol in an effort to maintain ongoing safety for student-athletes, officials and spectators.

     

  • 10/7/2020

    Changes to On-Campus Events

    Due to various state and local mandates, and the CDC’s continued concerns over exposure to the Coronavirus in large gatherings, the university made several adjustments today. These decisions were made in an effort to maintain the health safety standards that 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ has had in place this semester in order to combat the spread of COVID-19.

    WBU athletics in Plainview announced that all university sporting events will continue to be played as scheduled through the end of December, but without spectators. Games will be streamed live on

    Additionally, the following, in-person commencement ceremonies have been cancelled:

    • Hawaii (November 7)
    • Albuquerque (November 13)
    • Plainview (December 12)

    Students who were scheduled to graduate on those days will still receive their diploma and are invited to attend the next scheduled in-person graduation ceremony. Those students will receive more information through their university email.

    University officials emphasized the health of their students, employees and guests remains a top priority.

     

  • 9/7/2020

    Alaska Graduation Ceremonies Cancelled

    Due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis and concerns over exposure to the Coronavirus, the university made the decision to cancel in person graduation ceremonies for the Fairbanks, Alaska campus (October 8th) and the Anchorage, Alaska campus (October 9th). Students who were scheduled to graduate on those days will still receive their diploma. Those students should check with their advisor and campus dean for more details.

  • 8/7/2020

    University Issues Face Covering Policy

    With students returning to campus this weekend and classes starting on August 12, university president Dr. Bobby Hall issued an official face covering policy for students and employees to help protect everyone. The policy states:

    Students are required to wear their own face coverings while on campus. It is highly recommended that students always keep an extra face covering with them, in case the first one becomes unusable. Any design, artwork, or messaging on the face covering should be appropriate for a Christian university environment.

    Employees are required to wear their own face coverings while on campus. The face coverings should be professional in appearance, not promote another college or university, and any design, artwork, or messaging should be appropriate for a Christian university environment.

    Remember: Everyone is required to wear face coverings while in campus buildings and while in close proximity to others when outdoors.

    Thank you for doing your part to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

     

  • 7/30/2020

    In person graduation ceremonies for the following campuses have been cancelled for the health and safety of our students/faculty/staff and guests due to COVID-19.

  • 7/16/2020

    The Offices of Student Services have updated the schedule for students return to campus. If you have any questions, please contact Student Services at 806-291-3750.  

    • July 24: Move in for International students who are fall sport athletes only. International students who are not fall sport athletes will not be allowed to move in at this time. We will limit the number of people moving in at any given time in accordance with safety protocols.
    • July 29: Move in for international students who are not fall sport athletes.
    • July 30: Resident Advisors move in
    • July 31: Resident Advisor training begins
    • Aug. 6: Move in for fall sport athletes. We will limit the number of people moving in at any given time in accordance with safety protocols.
    • Aug. 7: Fall sport physicals
    • Aug. 8: Move-in for students participating in Koinonia
    • Aug. 10: Move in for returning students and new students who are not participating in Koinonia.
    • Aug. 12: Classes begin
    • Aug. 14: Athletic physicals

     

  • 6/19/2020

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University Releases Expanded Fall Dates

    For the past five months, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University president Dr. Bobby Hall has been carefully monitoring the COVID-19 crisis. President Hall and the Cabinet leadership team, along with members of the WBU Emergency Response Team and other specialized workgroups created in response to COVID-19, have met weekly to discuss issues surrounding the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ family. We have been carefully and prayerfully planning for your safe return and stay with us during the coming academic year.

    Our plan is the result of the detailed review of the most recent guidance available from national and state health authorities and consultation with top higher education and athletic associations - all with your well-being in mind. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s face-to-face classes held this summer at our external campus locations indicate our safety and sanitation measures worked well and it gives us confidence as we prepare to open the Plainview campus for the fall 2020 semester.

    The move to open a week earlier than normal, offer no Fall break and wrap up classroom instruction before Thanksgiving is designed to minimize back-and-forth travel to different cities for students, faculty and staff. The earlier start along with a slightly compressed schedule also reduces the overall risk to our students and employees. The adjustments help us avoid the start of the traditional flu season when some experts predict a spike in COVID-19 cases. This model is supported by prevailing research and best practices and aligns WBU with the prevalent fall schedule emerging nationwide in higher education. Although it does not eliminate the possibility that the coronavirus may spread, this approach positions 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ to provide the same high level of education, service and Christian care that it has been known for since 1908.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ is committed to academic integrity. We will make every effort to provide the full range of course delivery options – face-to-face, hybrid and online – that we have successfully embraced for decades. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ has been teaching online since 1997 and our professors were prepared to move to real, meaningful college classes online due to the coronavirus outbreak last spring. If necessary, we are fully prepared to do so again. Please know that no matter how our instruction is delivered, we remain committed to providing you with the best education possible.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ is also committed to a vibrant student life, athletic, and campus experience. The new calendar better positions us to align with the current sports schedules outlined by the Sooner Athletic Conference, the NAIA, and other athletic associations. Protocols for our student life and athletics will address how to safely navigate daily life on campus. Other adjustments will be made to benefit our students including revised room and meal plans to accommodate the new fall schedule. Details are being reviewed and will be made available soon.

    We’ve heard you say you want to be back on campus and we are excited to get the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Family back together again. We’ve missed you and look forward to seeing you back on campus this Fall.

  • 6/17/2020
    Dear 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Family:
    I pray you are finding ways to enjoy and stay healthy this summer, even as your university is preparing in the current COVID-19 environment for the return of on-campus classes in Plainview this fall.  All of our efforts center around supporting the health and safety of the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ community and providing the same high quality of Christian education expected at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ.

    Our COVID-19 Response Team was charged with planning the fall semester. Evidence indicates that instances of the flu typically increase in the late fall and that COVID-19 could spread in a similar pattern during that same timeframe. It also appears that travel increases the potential for exposure to the virus. Based on this research and planning, a revised academic calendar has been adopted for the Plainview campus.

    The results of the situational analysis allow us make the announcement today that the fall calendar for Plainview Campus instruction will be adjusted to begin classes on Wednesday, August 12, a week earlier than originally scheduled and students will not return to campus following Thanksgiving until Spring semester classes begin on January 11.

    These changes apply to the Plainview Campus only. External campus and WBUonline schedules remain unchanged.

    Listed below are the most pertinent details at this time. Please check our website as we will be providing more detail in the immediate future.
    • Student Athlete move-in and training will begin Thursday & Friday, August 6 th  & 7 th
    • Faculty & Staff professional development meetings will be conducted on Friday, August 7 th
    • Koinonia begins Saturday, August 8 th  and continues through August 9 th
    • The dining hall will open Sunday, August 9 th
    • Plainview move-in for new students will be Monday, August 10 th
    • Add/Drop will be Monday, August 10 th
    • Late Registration will occur on Tuesday, August 11 th
    • Classes begin on Wednesday, August 12 th
    • Classes WILL meet on Labor Day, September 7 th, and we will NOT have a Fall Break
    • In-person classes end Friday, November 20 th
    • Final exams will be administered remotely November 30 th  - December 7 th
    • Graduation ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday, December 12 th, with appropriate protocols being taken to ensure the health and well-being of all those participating.
    For a full 2020 Fall Semester Schedule please visit our website at:  While this semester will not follow our traditional schedule, we are committed to making it meaningful for our students. Please know we are taking the appropriate measures, as outlined by those at the CDC and state agencies, to ensure we do all we can to provide the safest and most secure environment for our 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Family. Thus, the challenges presented by COVID-19 give us the opportunity to once again be Pioneers and to become more innovative and imaginative in every attempt to maintain our quality Christian education in a safe and secure environment.

    Please know that I begin each day in prayer for 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ, specifically for our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends. I hope you will join me as I pray that the Lord provides protection for our community and moves us to continue to identify positive, creative learning experiences from the challenges we face in today’s world.

    Best regards,
    Bobby L. Hall, Ed.D.
    President
  • 5/14/2020
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ issues statements on Returning to Campus, Room and Meal Refunds and the CARES Act.
    Return to Campus
    On May 18, many of the buildings on 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses will begin to reopen while carefully following recommended protocols to keep students, employees and visitors safe. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ continues to practice CDC and EPA approved disinfecting and sanitizing procedures to help keep our facilities clean and safe. Signage will be posted on campuses to remind everyone about social distancing and other CDC guidelines. It is important we do our part to keep our buildings, our visitors, and our 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ family safe as we return to campus.

    All employees will need to complete the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Health Survey prior to May 18, 2020. Students taking May and Summer classes must also complete the survey prior to May 18.

    Buildings will have a single point of entry for all students and visitors and everyone will be screened before entering the building. Everyone entering a 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ building must complete the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Health Survey prior to entry. Students and employees can complete the survey online while guests will have a paper option at the point of entry.

    All 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ employees and students will be required to wear a face covering while on campus. It is the responsibility of the employee and student to provide their own mask at this time. Visitors to any campus will also be required to wear face covering while on campus.

    For a detailed look at the complete campus protocol as outlined by 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s Emergency Response Team,   click here.

    Room and Meal Refunds
    We have completed the process to determine room and meal cost adjustments for the spring semester as well as the potential refund or balance reduction to student accounts. We have contacted affected students via their 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ email addresses outlining the process moving forward. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ has developed specific guidelines for adjustments as they apply to our Plainview Campus room and meal plans. To view those details,   click here.

    R oom and Meal Refund Spring 2020 FAQs
    To view some of the most common questions regarding the room and meal adjustments,   click here.

    CARES Act Grant for Affected Students
    As part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ has been allotted grant funds that are to be used to provide emergency financial aid grants to students for expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus. These funds are to be disbursed to students and will not be applied to any balance students may carry at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ. Federal guidance gives 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ the discretion to determine the amount each grant, and 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ has chosen to disburse those grants equitably across all students deemed eligible by federal regulation.

    In an effort to make these funds available to our students as quickly as possible, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ is pleased to announce that the application process for these funds will open on   May 15.  This process will include completing a very brief institutional application and will also require that students complete a FAFSA if they have not already done so. It is important to understand that this is not a competitive process, and all applications will be reviewed. Note that due to federal regulation regarding grant eligibility, completing an application will not guarantee receipt of grant funds. 

    Much more information will be released in the coming days regarding these grant funds, including federal eligibility requirements and a link to the webpage housing the application, as well as instructions on how to apply.
    Click here to be directed to the CARES Act webpage.
  • 5/4/2020
    WBU President Announces All Campuses Will Open This Fall
    I am pleased to inform you that 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University classes will return to our normal schedule of on-campus delivery this Fall while continuing our traditional online course offerings. We are currently making arrangements to reopen all of our campuses this Fall and conduct operations as normal. I commend our students, employees, and supporters for their fortitude and commitment to 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ during this unprecedented time.

    I recognize the importance of the college experience for all students at all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses and am confident that our faculty and staff will provide you with the best educational experience possible whether it be in person or online. With more than a century of experience in delivering classes on campus and more than two decades of teaching courses and full degree programs online, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ is well prepared for today’s changing higher education environment.

    The decision to reopen our campuses was not made lightly. As we map out the plan to reopen our classrooms, laboratories and residence halls, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students, employees, and the communities we serve. We will continue to follow CDC-recommended protocols and governmental guidance to ensure a healthy experience for everyone.

    Like most universities, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ was compelled to move all instruction online in March as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because we had been offering a significant number of courses fully online since 1997, our faculty and staff were well equipped to make the instructional adjustment and our students also did remarkably well adjusting so quickly.

    Starting in August, we are planning a full return to campus life as before, but we will remain prepared to adjust to online delivery should conditions warrant. We know that relationships that are built through social proximity, achieved both face-to-face and online, are one of the best things about our 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ family. Whether you are returning to a physical 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campus for face-to-face classes or continuing with a fully online degree program, we look forward to welcoming you home!

    Here is my commitment to you. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will remain vigilant and will adhere to any state and federal guidelines that may remain in place in order to protect you and our employees so we may offer you a world-class Christian education, now and in the future.

    God bless you, stay healthy, and I look forward to welcoming you back on campus this Fall.

    Best Regards,
    Bobby Hall, Ed.D.
  • 4/30/2020
    We continue to pray for you as you navigate the final weeks of the spring term. We are proud of your resilience in these challenging times and we want you finish the semester strong. 

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ is constantly monitoring the updates released by Governor Abbott and other health authorities surrounding the coronavirus. We remain committed to your safety and will follow those directives as they apply to higher education.

    With registration for summer classes underway, we wanted to let you know that we are here to help. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ was well prepared for the disruptions caused by COVID-19, and we are committed to helping you as we all move forward. We are ready to deliver your education in an environment that is both safe and flexible enough to adapt to whatever comes our way – all while maintaining the quality you’ve come to expect from WBU.
    Here are a few things we want you to know:
    • Summer classes will continue at all campuses.
    • Classes will be delivered in a face-to-face/hybrid format with the capability to shift online if needed.
    • As always, online classes are available through WBUonline.
    • Registration for the Summer term is open!
  • 4/24/2020
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University is continually monitoring the rapidly changing threat posed by the Coronavirus. For the health and safety of our students and employees we continue to adhere to the recommendations from our national, state and local officials related to COVID-19.

    KALEO 2020 has been canceled due to COVID-19.

    The Albuquerque graduation ceremony, scheduled for May, 29 is canceled.

    The Lubbock graduation ceremony, scheduled for June 5, has also been canceled.
  • 4/22/2020
    In response to growing concerns and issues surrounding the fight against COVID-19, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University has established an Emergency Assistance Fund that will be used to assist 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ students, faculty and staff in times of crisis. If you would like to help, please make a gift to the Emergency Assistance Fund at
  • 4/15/2020
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University has been notified it will receive $2.5 million in emergency grant funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economy Security (CARES) Act. Those funds are made available through the Department of Education. When the funds and guidance become available from the Department of Education, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will advise students of the process for disbursement.

    As members of Congress, U.S. Senators John Coralyn and Ted Cruz, along with Representative Jodey Arrington approved the Education Provisions for H.R. 748. According to the bill, each school is required to award 50 percent of the grant they receive to students to help cover expenses caused by the closure of campuses due to COVID19.

    “We are so thankful that our congressional leaders worked hard to get this educational arm of emergency legislation passed as part of the overall CARES Act relief package,” said Dr. Bobby L. Hall, president of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University. “This funding is desperately needed and greatly appreciated by both our institution and our students as we navigate this most unusual period in our history.”
  • 4/8/2020
    CURRENT STUDENTS: All textbooks and supporting resources required for courses are being converted to automatic e-book if there is a digital option. A plan for room and board refunds for the Spring 2020 semester is being developed. Details will be released as soon as they become available.

    NEW STUDENTS: Registration for the Fall 2020 semester on the Plainview campus is open for new students through the spring. If you’re ready to enroll, call 806-291-3503 today!

    RETURNING STUDENTS: Pre-registration for the Fall 2020 semester on the Plainview campus for returning students is open online. Watch your WBU email for updates and instructions.
    Summer term registration for both new and returning students on external campuses and WBU-online runs from April 27 to May 25. Contact your campus or academic advisor for more details.

    Plans for Summer and Fall courses are being made as normal, but may be adjusted and moved fully online if conditions warrant.

    The Lubbock Scholarship Gala, scheduled for May 12th has been cancelled.
  • 4/3/2020
    Protecting the health, safety and well-being of our campus community continues to be our first priority.

    Due to the continued and projected growth in COVID-19 cases in the areas we serve, we have made the decision to immediately suspend public access to all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ facilities on all campuses. Students will continue to have remote access to faculty, staff and resources so they can complete their semester.

    Plans to route 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ office telephone extensions to off-campus cell phones are now implemented. Mail services on all campuses will continue to be provided as normal. Persons wising to contact the university may call the main switchboard directly at 806-291-1000.

    These are challenging times for us all, but we remain committed to providing the best possible student and employee experience that we can under these unprecedented circumstances.
  • 3/31/2020 4:45 p.m.
    Stay-At-Home Directive issued for City of Plainview and Hale County In an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, a Stay-At-Home Directive has been issued for residents of the City of Plainview and Hale County and is effective from 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31 until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, April 6. While 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ is not listed in the Directive among those organizations identified as Essential Services which will remain open while enforcing social distancing, it has been and continues to be included as a Critical Infrastructure Business as described by the Cyber & Infrastructure Security Agency and will continue its operations unchanged.
  • 3/31/2020 3:00 p.m.
    We want to you know we continue to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak across all of our 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses and we remain committed to helping flatten the curve by observing directives put in place by federal, state and local authorities.

    All 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses and teaching sites are under some form of emergency order issued by state and local authorities. We remain committed to being in compliance with those authorities.
    Across the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University system, our students and employees are reporting in through an online form. Of those who have reported; 37 persons are experiencing some symptoms and have reported those to their doctor 58 report they have placed themselves in self-isolation as a precaution 20 report having been in contact with someone who has been confirmed to have or is suspected to have COVID-19.

    Our campuses continue to adhere to federal, state and local guidelines for social distancing and safe hygiene.

    Three of our campuses in Texas, which include the Plainview, Lubbock and San Antonio campuses, have offered their parking lots, indoor facilities and other resources to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers should they need it. We have made these places available to those local communities and health authorities as well.

    Summer classes are being scheduled as normal, but we are prepared to move those online should circumstances warrant.

    It is important to remember, if you have filled out the Health Form and your health condition changes, please resubmit a new form so we can know about the well-being of our students and employees. Let us not grow complacent, but remember it is vital that we be responsible and diligent in this effort. You can access the .

    WBU students and employees are strongly encouraged to continue to monitor this webpage, WBU email, text messages and Pioneer Alerts for new developments or additional instructions.
  • 3/27/2020
    We are committed to supporting you during this time academically, spiritually and in all aspects of your wellness. We’re a family and we want to know how you are doing during this time of distancing.

    Please let us know if you, or someone in your household, begins to experience COVID-19 symptoms in the coming weeks. We can certainly lift you up in prayer.

    If you have filled out the Health Form and your health condition changes, please resubmit a new form so we can know about the well-being of our students.

    We care and we want to support you as you complete your semester.
  • 3/26/2020
    Registration for Upcoming Terms
    NEW STUDENTS: Registration for the Fall 2020 semester on the Plainview campus opens March 30 for new students. If you’re ready to enroll, call 806-291-3503 today!
    RETURNING STUDENTS: Pre-registration for the Fall 2020 semester on the Plainview campus for returning students begins April 6. Watch your WBU email for updates and instructions. • Summer term registration for both new and returning students on external campuses and WBUonline runs from April 27 to May 25. Contact your campus or academic advisor for more details.

    New Developments
    An Amarillo Campus student who lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, became the first 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ student to be tested positive. The student is now beyond the 14 day quarantine period and has been cleared. The student is staying in Nevada at this time.
    A Lubbock Campus student’s wife has tested positive and they are both in quarantine.
    A third party lab tested a Plainview Campus student and the results were negative.
    Hale County had its first confirmed case, but the person was not in Plainview
    A person on Altus AFB (not a 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ student) has tested positive Emergency Declarations
    Many states and local communities, including some 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ serves, have issued emergency declarations and orders. There is great variance in the language used by each state regarding shelter in place or stay at home requirements. We review each one carefully on a case-by-case basis as they become available.
    We are in continuous contact with local health departments who make the determination of what level of transmission is currently occurring in your community.
    We want to reassure you that 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s current protocol for each of its campuses is in compliance with the corresponding local authorities. Our goal continues to be keeping our students and employees safe through compliance.

    Academic Affairs
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ continues to reach out to support our students through phone, email and text correspondence. Our goal is to help facilitate the transition to online courses and to bolster student success during this time of change.

    Athletics
    WBU coaches continue recruiting and are planning for tryouts in late summer (late July and August) if appropriate. Congressional Action
    We are monitoring emerging federal support for higher education. The final bill has not been approved or released, so details are unknown at this time. We will continue following this topic closely as it develops.

    Health Services/51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ
    Residential students continue to follow the structured process for removing or storing their belongings. To date, more than 50% of impacted students have collected their items or made arrangements with the university. We appreciate the cooperation shown by our students and their families.

    Sodexo Food Service
    Sodexo Food Service reports their food supply continues to be stable. Grab-and-go style meals continue to be available for the students who needed to remain on the Plainview campus.

    Graduations
    Graduation ceremonies at all campuses have been cancelled through the Plainview spring commencement on May 9.
    We are constantly reviewing upcoming graduation ceremonies and will report on those as soon as decisions are available.
    All students, whose graduation ceremonies were cancelled, are invited to participate in the next regularly scheduled 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ graduation on any campus. Students should contact that campus well in advance so they can be accommodated.
  • 3/21/2020
    As we continue to navigate through an unprecedented global event, we recognize your anxiety, confusion and concern during this time. We are in constant prayer about the decisions that impact us all. Be assured, the leadership at WBU is continually evaluating our plans to support our students. Today we have developed specific guidelines for student workers on our Plainview campus.

    Student Workers-Plainview Campus
    Some student work opportunities will continue at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ.
    If student workers are asymptomatic and observe previously published guidelines, their unit supervisors may allow student workers to return to campus in order to discuss continuing employment opportunities. If student workers are unable to contact their unit supervisor they should contact the Office of Financial Aid at 806-291-3520.
    We are analyzing those opportunities that may be performed on campus or remotely.
    Some job requirements and types of work may change.
    We will communicate our plan forward in the immediate future.

    The topic of Room and Board charges for the Spring 2020 semester continues to be evaluated. Information regarding this topic will be sent to students as soon as it becomes available.
  • 3/19/2020
    GUIDANCE FOR STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES CONCERNING DORMS AND FACILITIES While there are known cases of COVID-19 in many of the areas we serve, there are no known cases among 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ students, faculty or staff.

    CDC Guidance continues to be that gatherings of more than 50 people be canceled or postponed for the near future. President Trump has asked that no groups larger than 10 assemble. People are urged to work from home if they can and practice social distancing to prevent a potentially catastrophic rise in infections.

    All 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ classes on all campuses will be taught exclusively in an online format for the remainder of the Spring semester/term. We will continue to monitor the pandemic and provide information on subsequent terms as conditions warrant.

    Effective Monday, March 23 and until further notice, campuses will operate with limited staff only in campus buildings as determined by the appropriate Cabinet representative in consultation with the unit supervisor. These arrangements may include a schedule for staff rotation. Those who can work from home will work from home as determined by their supervisor. If you fall into one of the CDC’s high-risk categories, you are strongly encouraged to work remotely to the degree possible as mutually agreed upon with your supervisor. Employees may come to campus as long as they are asymptomatic and follow social distancing guidelines as established by the CDC. Any person entering a 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campus may be subject to a screening process as defined by a policy that will forthcoming later today.

    Out of an abundance of concern for the health and well-being of our students, staff and faculty, the following facilities will be closed to the public, to all faculty and staff and to all students until further notice: Laney Center, Hutchison Center, Athletic Weight Room, Wilder Field, Wheeler, and Hilliard Field.

    All students to check your 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ email and point to the website for the most recent information – check Blackboard, Pioneer Alert.

    For IT inventory, business office, and audit reasons, employees cannot just take any equipment out of your office off-site to work without it being documented.
    if it is equipment like a laptop that you normally use, it is already registered to you and understood that you move about with it, but not just any piece of equipment you have in your office.

    IT has created a form for this purpose and unit supervisors are tasked with making a careful of all equipment leaving campus on that form.
    Will need to make adjustments as we go.

    A plan is in place for telephone traffic to be routed appropriately at each campus.
    External campuses have a plan in place to forward incoming calls to a common number.
    In some cases, employees will use their personal cell phones or land lines.
    We have an option for cell phone usage that protects your privacy and doesn't’t use your personal data.

    We will distribute a common voicemail message for all employees to put on their office phones
    Please remember that if you are forwarding your calls to your personal cell phone, we would appreciate your voicemail message being reflective of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s mission and values.

    Each campus also has a plan in place to continue inbound and outbound mail and parcel service.

    Our residence halls will remain open following spring break, for those students who remained on campus and are unable to return home. If you are at home for Spring Break, you will not be allowed to return to campus to reside in the dorms. You will need to complete your semester online remotely. If you are currently on campus and are able to return home, we require you to do so.

    For those students who believe that they have extenuating circumstances that would cause them to need campus housing, please contact Housing Services at 806-291-3766 for more information on how to apply to return to residential housing facilities.

    Students will move out of the dorms on the following schedule:
    Students currently in the dorms: March 20-21, 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., March 22, 1-5 p.m.
    Students coming back from spring break: March 23-April 4, 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.; April 5, 1-5 p.m.
    Following April 5, students can move out by appointment. Contact the housing office at 806- 291-3766. This process will take place on a first come, first served basis.

    There will be a limit to the number of individuals in the facility during this process and each student will be assisted by housing personnel in the move. You may experience a period of waiting prior to your turn to get moved out. Additionally, you will be asked about travel, possible exposure to Covid-19, and symptoms prior to entering the dorms. If you are already aware of possible exposure to Covid-19, have traveled to a level-3 country, or are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms you will not be allowed to enter our dorm facilities and ask that you not attempt to do so. The fewer the number of individuals who come into the facility, the safer it is for everyone involved.

    If you are unable to move your belongings during the above scheduled periods, we will be available by appointment to assist you. We ask that you call 806-291-3766 to set up a time to come and retrieve your belongings. There will be limitations to the number of individuals allowed at one time in the housing facilities. We will work diligently to accommodate our students and their families as they come to retrieve belongings. Scheduling your arrival to campus in advance will greatly assist in this process.

    If returning to campus to collect your belongings poses a significant hardship, we will safely retain your belongings until you return to campus in Fall 2020. The cafeteria will continue to serve meals for those students who are unable to return home. Pete’s Place will be closed, and all meals in the cafeteria will be served by cafeteria personnel in carry out boxes in a grab-and-go format until further notice.

    The cafeteria will be not available as a location to gather or eat your meals.

    Out of an abundance of concern for the health and well-being of our students, staff and faculty, the following facilities will be closed to the public, to all faculty and staff and to all students until further notice: Laney Center, Hutcherson Center, Athletic Weight Room, Wilder Field, Wheeler building and Hilliard Field.

    Persons seeking to return to Campus
    Students, Faculty and Staff returning to campus or working on campus, are required to fill out a Health Services Survey. The survey will ask what locations they have traveled to or through. It will also ask if they have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19. The survey will be delivered electronically through university email.

    Persons who know that they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 will be required to self-quarantine and self-monitor symptom free at a location other than 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ owned or controlled property for 14 days before returning to campus.

    Persons who have traveled to an area designated by the CDC as Level 3 will be required to self quarantine and self-monitor at a location other than 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ owned or controlled property symptom free for 14 days before being allowed to return to campus.

    Persons who do not fall into any of the previous categories, and who have traveled to areas within the United States where the CDC has declared community transmission has taken place may be allowed (following the application process mentioned above for students) to return to campus, but will be required to self-monitor with delegated supervision for 14 days upon their return.
    Monitoring will be administered through the office of Health Services.
    Monitoring will include taking temperature readings at least twice a day.
    Monitoring will also include answering a series of questions regarding possible symptoms at least twice a day.
    Persons will be required to restrict contact with others on campus for the duration of the monitoring period. This requirement, for students, may include moving to a separate residence hall designated for those who are under observation. It may also include alternate meal delivery options that circumvent the cafeteria.
    Should the person remain symptom free for 14 days upon their return to campus, self-monitoring will cease.

    Persons who have traveled to an area designated by the CDC as Level 3, or who have traveled to areas within the united states where the CDC has declared community transmission has taken place who begin to exhibit symptoms after returning to campus will immediately be moved into isolation.

    ISOLATION PROTOCOL
    They will be required to completely restrict contact with others on campus except for designated university officials.
    They will be required to move into a separate residence hall designated for those who are under observation.
    They will have meals delivered to them in their residence hall.
    They will be monitored daily through the office of Health Services.
    Local Health Department officials will be contacted and guidance from Health Department will be strictly followed.

    Persons currently living and working on campus
    Students, Faculty and Staff who have remained on campus are required to fill out a Health Services Survey. The survey will ask what locations they have traveled to or through. It will also ask if they have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Students, Faculty and Staff are required to contact Health Services if they believe that they may have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, or if they travel to or through an area where community transmission of COVID19 has taken place.

    Employees who report that they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID19 will be required to self-quarantine and self-monitor symptom free at a location other than 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ owned or controlled property for 14 days before returning to campus. Students living in residential facilities who believe they have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 will immediately enter isolation protocol.

    Persons who travel to an area designated by the CDC as Level 3 will be required to self-quarantine and self-monitor at a location other than 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ owned or controlled property symptom free for 14 days before being allowed to return to campus.

    Persons who do not fall into any of the previous categories, and who travel to areas within the United States where the CDC has declared community transmission has taken place will be allowed to return to campus, but will be required to self-monitor with delegated supervision for 14 days upon their return.
    Monitoring will be administered through the office of Health Services.
    Monitoring will include taking temperature readings at least twice a day.
    Monitoring will also include answering a series of questions regarding possible symptoms at least twice a day.
    Persons will be required to restrict contact with others on campus for the duration of the monitoring period. This requirement, for students, may include moving to a separate residence hall designated for those who are under observation. It may also include alternate meal delivery options that circumvent the cafeteria.

    Should the person remain symptom free for 14 days upon their return to campus, self-monitoring will cease.

    Persons who travel to an area designated by the CDC as Level 3, or who travel to areas within the United States where the CDC has declared community transmission has taken place who begin to exhibit symptoms will immediately be moved into isolation.

    ISOLATION PROTOCOL
    The will be required to completely restrict contact with others on campus except for designated university officials.
    They will be required to move into a separate residence hall designated for those who are under observation.
    They will have meals delivered to them in their residence hall.
    They will be monitored daily through the office of Health Services.
    Local Health Department officials will be contacted and guidance from Health Department will be strictly followed.

    For the sake of the health and safety of all those on the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campus, employees and students will be required to follow the procedures in this policy. Failure to comply with 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ policy is a violation and could result in disciplinary sanctions up to and including Disciplinary Expulsion for students and termination for employees.
  • 3/17/2020
    We are taking this global threat very seriously and the safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff remain our highest priority. We will continue to implement any new restrictions or necessary measures to keep the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ community safe. We encourage you to adhere to health officials’ recommendations to limit your contact with others. Click here for the latest official guidelines on how you can help suppress the spread of this virus in your circle.

    Due to federally issued guidance prohibiting significant sized gatherings; the following 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ graduation ceremonies have also been canceled:
    - Fairbanks, AK –April 16
    - Anchorage, AK –April 17
    - Hawaii –May 2
    - Plainview, TX –May 9
    Affected students may elect to participate in the next available 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ graduation ceremony regardless of location. Students wishing to graduate from another location should contact that WBU campus in advance. Future graduation ceremonies scheduled beyond May 9 continue to be evaluated and a decision for those ceremonies will be made in the near future as the situation develops.

    All NAIA spring sports practices and competitions have been canceled for the remainder of the semester.

    E-Sports have been suspended by NACE until April 13.

    While there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus among any of our students, faculty or staff, we continue to plan for and evaluate the potential need to shift to essential personnel only on campus and to ask the remainder of the workforce to work remotely. The university continues to evaluate teaching scenarios (online or face-to-face instruction) and residential living options for the remainder of the spring semester. We expect to make an announcement on March 19 regarding these issues.

    To further suppress the potential spread of the virus, existing non-51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ groups originally scheduled to visit or meet at university buildings are canceled during the period of March 16-April 6. No new, non-51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ groups are being scheduled at this time and university officials will continually review this policy as the situation develops.

    Thank you for teaming with us, both in action and in prayer, to do everything we can to decrease the likelihood of an outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) within the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ community, and to protect the most vulnerable among us.
  • 3/13/2020
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University leadership is continually monitoring the threat posed by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The University Response Team met today and issued these updates:
    All WBU students, faculty and staff are strongly encouraged to sign up for Pioneer Alert in order to receive timely messages regarding university updates.  
    To further suppress the potential spread of the virus, existing non-51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ groups originally scheduled to visit or meet at university buildings are cancelled during the period of March 16-April 6. No new, non-51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ groups are being scheduled at this time and university officials will continually review this policy as the situation develops.
    The following graduation ceremonies have been postponed:
    -Wichita Falls, TX and Altus, OK -March 20,
    -Phoenix, AZ -April 3
    -Sierra Vista, AZ -April 4
    Future graduation dates are being evaluated and decisions regarding graduation ceremonies scheduled after April 6 are expected in the coming week. Affected students may elect to be recognized at the next available 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ graduation ceremony regardless of location. Students wishing to graduate from another location should contact that WBU campus in advance.
  • 3/12/2020
    As a response to developments concerning the coronavirus (COVID-19) 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University will transition to an online delivery format for all classes at all campuses until April 6. WBU will continue to monitor the situation and adjust the schedule if conditions dictate.

    For 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s Plainview campus, spring break is scheduled for March 16-20. Student dorms and cafeteria will continue to operate as scheduled during and following spring break. Students who choose to return following spring break will continue classes online. Offices will remain open and conduct business as usual. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s external campuses are non-residential.

    WBU announced other specific changes and cancellations due to the virus.
    All classes on all 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ campuses transition to an online format beginning March 16. Face-to-face classes will resume on April 6, unless existing Spring Break schedules indicate otherwise.
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Plainview has canceled participation in spring break mission trips.
    Cafeteria and food service will operate as scheduled following spring break.
    Health services will be available to those students who remain on campus.
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s annual Pioneers of Excellence dinner for donors and friends has been canceled.
    New student registration for Fall 2020, scheduled for Big Weekend on March 28, will transition to an online experience. The recruitment day, March 27, on campus has been canceled. Those registered for the event will be contacted directly.
    NAIA sanctioned winter championships, including those currently underway, have been canceled. (NAIA Championships canceled)

    The safety and well-being of students is the primary concern.
    Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to use due diligence in monitoring their personal situations.
    Any student with concerns that they have been exposed to the virus should contact their health provider and avoid returning to campus.
    WBU faculty and staff who suspect they have been exposed should contact a health provider and immediately inform university officials of their concerns.
    Any student, faculty or staff member on the Plainview campus who tests positive for COVID-19 should contact the university nurse immediately at dillardc@wbu.edu or 806-291-3763. Those at other campus locations should contact the Executive Director/Campus Dean.
    Essential domestic university travel is permitted to areas that do not fall in high risk categories (CDC level 3, State Department level 4). There will be no university sanctioned international travel until further notice.
    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ currently uses CDC cleaning and disinfection guidelines daily with approved cleaning supplies.

    51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will release further updates as they arise. In the meantime, personnel are encouraged to practice good hygiene and lower the risk of infection and spread of the disease.
    Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
    Use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
    Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
    Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
    Stay home if you are sick.
    Cover coughs and sneezes.
    Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

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