January 13, 2022

Dear parents and guardians of Yale College students, 

I want to share with you a message that I just sent to all undergraduates telling them about contingency planning that may call for some of them to isolate in place, rather than in isolation housing, if they test positive this semester. Given the surge in COVID-19 cases around the world and here in New Haven, it is possible that students will test positive after they come to campus, in numbers that could exceed the capacity of isolation housing. 

The plan is designed to limit transmission in the community and support the in-person spring semester. Whether or not it is enacted, it could influence some students' plans. I have therefore included information about two changes that may help them with their planning for the spring: the deadline for requesting a leave of absence has been extended to February 8, 2022, and students may relinquish housing if they wish until that same date without incurring the usual relinquishment fee. 

To minimize the risk of transmission as early as possible, I have also urged students to test and await their test results before they come to campus, get their required booster and flu shots, and register their arrival time and date so that the public health team, facilities, dining, and the residential colleges can plan. These are vitally important steps. 

In a message that I sent to students on Tuesday, I further urged them to keep themselves informed this semester since conditions can change so quickly. I know that many of you also want to stay informed about developments on campus, so I will continue to forward important messages throughout the semester. My messages are also available on Yale College's website. Students also receive regular updates from the University COVID-19 Coordinator, Dr. Stephanie Spangler, whose messages are also posted online. And answers to questions about undergraduate policies, logistics, and deadlines, are available on Yale College's FAQ page, which is updated regularly. So is the university’s COVID-19 site. You will always be able to find the most current information at these sites. 

Let me close with a note about housekeeping: if you are not receiving my messages at your preferred email address, or if others in your family should be receiving my messages, please ask your sons and daughters to revise their records; they have the sole ability to update your contact information. They can make those updates within SIS. 

I am looking forward to January 25, when classes start, and to welcoming students back in the weeks ahead. As the academic year resumes, I send you my best wishes from campus. 

Sincerely, 

Marvin M. Chun 
Dean of Yale College 
Richard M. Colgate Professor of Psychology; Neuroscience; Cognitive Science