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  • Coronavirus Spring 2022 FAQs


    General FAQs

    Question Answer
    What can I expect for move-in day?
    • Students will receive an email from the Residence Manager to set up an appointment for move-in.
    • Parents, Family, or friends are NOT allowed to enter the Residence Halls at all during move-in. Only the student is allowed in the building.
    What if I want to attend Shaw Spring 2021, but am unable to take classes on campus this fall?

    Students with extenuating circumstances and are unable to attend classes on campus Spring 2021 must request and submit the Course Registration Accommodation form.

    Students will be notified through their shawbears email from the Office Academic Affairs as to the outcome of their request.

    How will classes be taught during the Spring 2021 semester?

    In keeping with many of the local universities, Shaw University will have in- person classes for the spring 2021 semester. As with other semesters, the university will continue to offer hybrid and online classes. For more information about or a copy of the Spring 2021, the University’s course schedule can be found on BearsNet.

      How will classroom seating be arranged due to COVID?

    Classroom seating will be arranged to maintain 6 ft social distancing between seats.

      What if I do not have a Shaw email. Who do I contact?

    Contact the Office of Information Technology at helpdesk@shawu.edu / 919-546-8587.

      Who do I contact if I have problems with my schedule or want to change my schedule?

    Contact your advisor. Students can find their assigned Academic Advisor by logging into BearsNet. Once logged in, the student should click the Students tab. The top box will list the faculty advisor’s name and the student’s major.

    Once classes start, what if I have a personal or medical situation that affects my ability to attend class?

    Requesting academic accommodations for medical or counseling reasons must be sent to the Director of the Counseling Center. For contact information visit Shaw University Counseling Center.

      How do I or my child order textbooks?

    Textbook and course materials are provided to students through an e-book program and book rental program (ACCESS). Information is sent to students shawbears email account. Students can contact moodlehelp@shawu.edu and Student Accounts at sa@shawu.edu for more information.

      Will Financial Aid cover books?
    Yes.
      Can I get a hardcopy textbook?

    Yes, through the book rental program. Contact the Bookstore for more information shaw@bkstr.com.

      When does the spring semester end?

    The spring semester ends after final exams end. Visit the academic calendar.

      Where can I find important dates for the semester?

    Important dates for the academic school year are listed in the academic calendar and shared via students’ shawbears email.

      What courses are required for my major?

    Course requirements are listed on the University Catalog under Academic Schools. Your Academic Advisor will also share with you a program checklist of your required courses. Remember, unless otherwise approved, you must follow the requirements directly related to the year in which you began at Shaw University.

      Where can I go if I am interested in an internship or experiential learning?

    The Experiential Learning and Career Development Center provides students assistance with internships and career experience. You can make an appointment by emailing careerdevelopment@shawu.edu.

      What are my next steps after being admitted?

    Step 1: Finalize Your Admissions Status

    Submit all the required documents (i.e., your Background Check, if required, and/or SAT or ACT scores if you were able to take the aforementioned test prior to the COVID-19 pandemic) to www.shawu/Admissions-Forms. These documents may be emailed to admissions@shawu.edu or hand delivered, faxed or mailed.  For all students who are submitting final, official transcripts electronically, they MUST be sent to transcripts@shawu.edu.  Our physical/mailing address, telephone number, and facsimile number are located on the Website.  Please include Attention: Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

    Step 2: Complete Financial Aid

    The FAFSA process begins October 1st of each calendar year. The priority filing deadline is December 1st. If you have not already submitted your FAFSA and plan to enroll for the 2021-2022 school year, visit https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa as soon as possible or download the myStudentAid app either in the Apple App Store (iOS) or in Google Play (Android).  There is a Data Retrieval Tool on the FAFSA site that can help you.  The Shaw University Federal School Code is 002962.

    Step 3:  Register for New Student Orientation

    Please register for new student orientation online at http://www.shawu.edu/Orientation/.  If you experience difficulty registering or have additional questions regarding new student orientation, please contact the Office of Student Retention at Officeofstudentretention@shawu.edu.

    Step 3A: Submit Immunizations and Health Records

    You are required to submit up to date physical and immunization records. You must submit an up to date shot record with your physical form. 

    Step 3B: Pay Housing Deposit

    Submit the $75.00 housing deposit online prior to New Student Orientation to secure on campus housing for the Spring 2021 semester asap.  Move-in day is January 15, 2021.

    Step 3C: Complete Campus Housing Application

    Housing is provided on a first come, first serve basis. Therefore, we encourage you to secure your housing as soon as possible. You will be automatically directed to the housing reservation form once your housing deposit has been received (step 3B).  Please be sure to pay the housing deposit fee of $75.00 before January 15, 2021.


      What if I have more questions?

    At any time during the admissions process, please feel free to contact us at either: admissions@shawu.edu or call us at 1-800-214-6683.

    Shaw University Admissions Frequently Asked Questions 

    Question Answer
    How do I apply?

    There are several ways to apply to Shaw University:

    • Go to www.shawu.edu and click on the admissions tab. Select the “apply to Shaw” tab. Complete the application for your status type (Freshman/Transfer or Non-Traditional/ CAPE).
    • NC Residents only: may go to www.cfnc.org and apply online.
    • Go to www.commonblackcollegeapplication.com and apply ($35 fee) and select Shaw University in your top four (4) schools.
    Is there an application fee, and can I pay online?

    Yes. The application fee is $25.00. It may be mailed in the form of a check or money order to:

    Shaw University
    Office of Admissions and Recruitment
    118 East South Street
    Raleigh, NC 27601

      What documents do I need to complete my application?

    1.    Official High School and/or college transcript(s)
    2.    SAT or ACT scores, if you took either test before the COVID-19 pandemic
    3.    A Background check, if required, from your local police station or clerk of court office* *Available online at www.shawu.edu/Admissions-Forms
    4.    $25.00 application fee

    To ensure all your documents are processed in a timely manner and you are admitted prior to the Move In date in August, all outstanding documents must be returned to the Office of Admissions and Recruitment on or before July 1, 2021. These documents may be emailed to admissions@shawu.edu or hand delivered, faxed or mailed.  For all students who are submitting final, official transcripts electronically, they MUST be sent to transcripts@shawu.edu.  Our physical/mailing address, telephone number, and facsimile number are located above.  Please include Attention: Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

    Is there a certain GPA for admission?

    Yes. At the time of your application, your cumulative GPA must reflect a minimum of a 2.0.

      Is there specific SAT or ACT score required for admission? 

    No.  Shaw University uses standardized test scores for placement purposes only.  However, test scores MUST be submitted in order to be granted full admission to the university only if you took a standardized test prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

      How long will it take for me to find out my admissions decision for Fall 2021?

    To enroll for the Fall 2021 semester, term, you must be admitted on or before August 1, 2021.  August 18, 2021 is the first day of classes.  The earlier you submit your completed application, the sooner the Office of Admissions and Recruitment can evaluate your application and provide an admissions decision.  Please ensure that you submit all required documentation at the time of application submission.

    What if I am not admitted when I apply?

    You may resubmit your final, official transcript after your high school graduation and your application will be reconsidered.  You may also attend community college or junior college and transfer to Shaw University, after successfully completing 12 college credit hours, 100-level courses or higher.

      I applied last year but did not attend. Do I have to reapply?

    Yes.

      I attended Shaw University in the past. Do I have to reapply?
    Yes.
      What if I have a GED?  Can I apply?

    If you have a GED, you may still apply. However, you will need to submit the following:

    1. A final, official transcript from your GED testing center

    2. SAT or ACT score(s), if you took either test prior to the COVID-19 pandemic


      How do I contact the Office of Admissions and Recruitment?

    The office is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 am-5:00 pm. The phone number is 919-546-8275.

      How do I schedule a campus tour?

    You may go to www.shawu.edu and click on the admissions tab.  Once you are on this site, you may complete the campus tour request form.  After you submit your form, you will receive a ticket via email confirming that your tour has been scheduled.

      When can I schedule a tour?

    Please contact the Office of Admissions and Recruitment for additional guidance on scheduling tours due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Unscheduled group tours are NOT permitted.

      Do I need an appointment to see an admissions counselor?

    No. Admissions staff are available Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

      Does Shaw University have rolling admissions?

    Yes. Shaw University processes all applications in the order in which they are received.

      Is Shaw University accredited?

    Yes. Shaw University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).

      I have been accepted. When and how do I register for classes?

    All new students will register for classes during orientation.  The last Orientation will take place on July 2021.  If you have been admitted, you should be notified by email.  If you were admitted recently and have not been notified, please contact the Office of Student Retention at Officeofstudentretention@shawu.edu.

      What are my next steps after being admitted?

    Step 1: Finalize Your Admissions Status

    Submit all the required documents (i.e., your Background Check, if required, and/or SAT or ACT scores if you were able to take the aforementioned test prior to the COVID-19 pandemic) to www.shawu/Admissions-Forms. These documents may be emailed to admissions@shawu.edu or hand delivered, faxed or mailed.  For all students who are submitting final, official transcripts electronically, they MUST be sent to transcripts@shawu.edu.  Our physical/mailing address, telephone number, and facsimile number are located on the Website.  Please include Attention: Office of Admissions and Recruitment.

    Step 2: Complete Financial Aid

    The FAFSA process begins October 1st of each calendar year. The priority filing deadline is December 1st. If you have not already submitted your FAFSA and plan to enroll for the 2021-2022 school year, visit https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa as soon as possible or download the myStudentAid app either in the Apple App Store (iOS) or in Google Play (Android).  There is a Data Retrieval Tool on the FAFSA site that can help you.  The Shaw University Federal School Code is 002962.

    Step 3:  Register for New Student Orientation

    Please register for new student orientation online at http://www.shawu.edu/Orientation/.  If you experience difficulty registering or have additional questions regarding new student orientation, please contact the Office of Student Retention at Officeofstudentretention@shawu.edu.

    Step 3A: Submit Immunizations and Health Records

    You are required to submit up to date physical and immunization records. You must submit an up to date shot record with your physical form. 

    Step 3B: Pay Housing Deposit

    Submit the $75.00 housing deposit online prior to New Student Orientation to secure on campus housing for the Spring 2021 semester asap.  

    Step 3C: Complete Campus Housing Application

    Housing is provided on a first come, first serve basis. Therefore, we encourage you to secure your housing as soon as possible. You will be automatically directed to the housing reservation form once your housing deposit has been received (step 3B).  Please be sure to pay the housing deposit fee of $75.00 before August 1, 2021


      What if I have more questions?

    At any time during the admissions process, please feel free to contact us at either: admissions@shawu.edu or call us at 1-800-214-6683.

    Financial Aid General Questions about Eligibility and Applying

    Question Answer
    How do I apply for financial aid?

    The financial aid process for full-time, undergraduate students working on your first bachelor’s degree begins with submission of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form (FAFSA). FAFSA applications are available starting October 1 each calendar year.  The FAFSA is used to evaluate your eligibility for state and federal financial aid.  If you are an incoming first-year or transfer student, don’t wait for admission before starting your FAFSA. Your aid status is never a factor in admissions decisions, so you may file your FAFSA as soon as possible. 

    If you have not already submitted your FAFSA and plan to enroll for the 2021-2022 school year, visit https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa as soon as possible or download the myStudentAid app either in the Apple App Store (iOS) or in Google Play (Android).  There is a Data Retrieval Tool on the FAFSA site that can help you.  The Shaw University Federal School Code is 002962. 

    Do I need to apply for financial aid each year?

    You must complete a new FAFSA each year to remain eligible for financial aid.  Financial circumstances change from year to year, which is why the federal government requires an updated FAFSA. You can also contact us at any time during the year if you have a major change in your financial circumstances — something that significantly affects your ability to pay for school. We can’t always make changes to your aid, but we’re happy to consider new information if things have changed.   

      I’m a new transfer student. How do I apply for financial aid?

    New transfer students follow the same application process and are awarded in the same manner as other students.

    I’m an international student studying at Shaw University. Am I eligible for financial aid? 

    Only Permanent Residents or citizens of the United States are eligible for need-based federal funds. Follow the instructions on the fafsa.gov website to determine your eligibility status.

      What is the school code for Shaw University?

    Our FAFSA Title IV Code is 002962. 

      I’ve submitted my FAFSA. How do I know if you need something else from me?

    Once you have submitted your FAFSA and have already been admitted to Shaw University, you will receive correspondence (tracking letter) indicating next steps/missing documents. If additional information and/or documents are required from you before your financial aid eligibility can be determined and an award made, these requirements will be displayed in the tracking letter.  

    How is my financial aid eligibility determined?

    Financial aid eligibility is based on the information provided on the FAFSA.  Costs of  attendance, income and assets of students and parents, and the number of supported household members determine financial aid eligibility.

      Can my aid package be adjusted?

    If a student has legitimate educational expenses not included in the standard budgets (e.g., childcare or special family circumstances that affect their eligibility), information may be submitted in writing to the Office of Scholarships and Student Aid with an itemized explanation of the situation.  Changes may be made only with appropriate documentation from you. If unique financial circumstances exist, such as the loss of a job, please contact the office to discuss. Awards are made up-front in a manner that is equitable to all students. As such, they are not able to be negotiated and will only be adjusted in the case of a significant change in income as compared to last year or some other extraordinary circumstance.

      What type of scholarships do you offer, and how do I apply for them?

    Please visit http://www.shawu.edu/Admissions/Financial_Aid.aspx?id=1212 page to research answers to your scholarship questions.  

      I received an outside scholarship. Should I report it to the financial aid office?

    Yes. If you are receiving any kind of financial aid from outside or government sources, you must report the scholarship to the financial aid office. 

      Are my parents responsible for my educational loans?

    No. Parents are, however, responsible for the Federal PLUS loans. Parents will only be responsible for your educational loans if they co-sign your loan. In general, you and you alone are responsible for repaying your educational loans. 

      My question is not addressed here, who can I contact to get an answer?

     We hope many of your questions are answered either here or on the financial aid page of our website. If, however, you cannot find the answer to your question, you may contact us via email, by phone, or in person. This information is listed on our department webpage http://www.shawu.edu/Admissions/Financial_Aid.aspx?id=1212

      My household was impacted due to the Pandemic. How would that affect my aid eligibility?

    If your household was impacted, for example, due to loss of job, unusual medical expenses, parent’s death, divorce, or student cannot obtain parent’s information, you may submit a special circumstance form (https://www.shawu.edu/uploadedFiles/Admissions/Financial_Aid/Forms/2020-21/20-21SpecialCircumstanceApplication.pdf) along with documentation for our review.   

    COVID-19 FAQs

    Question Answer
    What is COVID-19?

    The 2019 Novel Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a new respiratory virus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Read more about coronavirus here

      What are the symptoms of coronavirus? 
    Symptoms may include fever, cough and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. 
      Where can I find more information about coronavirus?  Review the Centers for Disease Control’s website
    How can I be tested for COVID-19?

    Currently, all testing for COVID-19 is performed by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Testing is done only under specific circumstances. Only those who meet all of the following criteria should request testing: 1) Recently traveled to a country with a CDC Level 2 or Level 3 Travel Health Notice for COVID-19, 2) experiencing fever, and 3) experiencing respiratory symptoms. Individuals who meet all three criteria should contact their doctor or local health department. A clinician and public health officials will decide if a COVID-19 test is appropriate. Other health groups such as hospitals and clinics will have the capability in the coming days and weeks to run their own tests, but again only for patients who meet criteria. More testing options are being explored, and the University will provide updated information as it becomes available.

      Has any member of the Shaw University community been diagnosed with coronavirus? 

    Yes, we were notified on March 23 that a graduate student tested positive for COVID-19 and is now in home quarantine. The individual was last on campus on March 9, 2020 to attend a musical performance by the Virginia Commonwealth University Black Awakening Choir that was held in the foyer of the Willie E. Gary Student Center.

    We also were notified on March 30 that a current employee has tested positive for COVID-19. The employee was last on campus and interacted with staff and students on March 13, 2020. The employee and family are now quarantined at home.

    We urge everyone in the Shaw University community who may be experiencing symptoms to contact your personal physician for treatment advice. The University is adhering to the recommendations and orders of federal, state, and local agencies to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

      What happens if a student or member of faculty or staff tests positive? The University has established protocols for quarantine and/or isolation of individuals who test positive. Students who reside on campus will be isolated in a designated dormitory location; faculty will be isolated at their homes. Contact tracing will be undertaken to notify any individuals who may have come in contact with anyone who tests positive.
    How will the University manage social distancing requirements?
    Social distancing (minimum of 6 feet) is mandated for all common areas. For more information on on-campus interaction, see https://www.shawu.edu/COVID_Campus_Operations/
      Can I contract coronavirus from mail or other packages sent to me?    No, there is no scientific evidence that you can contract the virus from packages, mail or other items mailed to you. 
      Does wearing a mask keep someone form getting COVID-19?
    Currently, if you are healthy there is no additional benefit to wearing a mask yourself. If you are sick with fever and cough, you can wear a surgical mask to prevent transmission to other people.
      How do I know if I have COVID-19 symptoms or just seasonal allergies?
    Seasonal allergies symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, red, watery, and itchy eyes.  People may also experience puffy eyes, nasal congestion, headache, post-nasal drip, throat irritation, and breathing through the mouth or wheezing. Symptoms of COVID-19 are a fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath.
      Can I contract COVID-19 from a patient who tests positive? 

    At the present time, the CDC has determined that people with COVID-19 are most contagious when they first become symptomatic. Therefore, public health officials are working to identify who came in close contact with a patient. Currently, “close contact” is defined as people who were within six feet of the symptomatic patient for 10 minutes.

    As these contacts continue to be identified, the Wake County Health Department can assess their risk of exposure and implement the appropriate public health recommendations. 


      How should I prepare for the possibility of contracting coronavirus? 

    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has information listed on their website about how individuals, businesses and others can prepare.

    What can I expect coming to Shaw for Spring Semester regarding COVID-19?

      Are COVID-19 vaccinations required for students?

    Yes, all students must present proof of vaccination. However, religious and medical exemptions can be granted. Learn more here.

    Covid-19 FAQs for the Fully Vaccinated

    Question Answer
      If I have already had Covid19 and recovered, do I still need to take the Covid vaccine? Yes, you should be vaccinated regardless of whether you already had COVID-19. That’s because experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. Even if you have already recovered from COVID-19, it is possible—although rare—that you could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 again. Studies have shown that vaccination provides a strong boost in protection in people who have recovered from COVID-19. Learn more about why getting vaccinated is a safer way to build protection than getting infected.
      If I am fully vaccinated, can I still get the virus? COVID-19 vaccines help protect people who are vaccinated from getting COVID-19 or getting severely ill from COVID-19, including reducing the risk of hospitalization and death.
    Breakthrough cases
    It’s possible a person could be infected just before or just after vaccination and still get sick. It typically takes about 2 weeks for the body to build protection after vaccination, so a person could get sick if the vaccine has not had enough time to provide protection. New variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 illness are spreading in the United States. Current data suggest that COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use in the United States offer protection against most variants. However, some variants might cause illness in some people after they are fully vaccinated.
      If I am fully vaccinated, can I spread the virus if I test positive for Covid 19? Studies show that fully vaccinated people can be less likely to spread the virus to others, even if they do get COVID-19.
      If I am around someone who tests positive for Covid19, and am fully vaccinated, do I need to quarantine? If you’ve been around someone who has COVID-19, you do not need to stay away from others or get tested unless you have symptoms. Fully vaccinated people who have come into close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to be tested 3-5 days after exposure, and to wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.
      If I test positive for Covid 19, am fully vaccinated, and have no symptoms, do I still need to isolate? Yes, everyone who tests positive for Covid19 must stay away from others for 10 days and check for symptoms. If you develop symptoms, see a doctor immediately.

    Students

    Question Answer
      The University will offer both in-person and online courses for Fall 2020. What will in-person classes look like?

    Fall classes will be taught using two methods.

    Method 1:  Totally online, available for upperclassmen only. No specific class day or time; work completed independently.

    Method 2:  Hybrid of online classes with in-person interaction with faculty as well as virtual interaction. Classes will have specific dates and times.

    Additionally, the University has significantly increased its WIFI bandwidth to accommodate the needs of instructors and students. The University also is working to provide all faculty with required technology for remote instruction. Social distancing and optimized cleaning and sanitation procedures will be observed in classrooms. For more details go to https://www.shawu.edu/COVID_Campus_Operations/

      How will classroom seating be arranged due to COVID?

    Classroom seating will be arranged to maintain 6 ft social distancing between seats.

      My household was impacted due to the Pandemic. How would that affect my aid eligibility?

    If your household was impacted, for example, due to loss of job, unusual medical expenses, parent’s death, divorce, or student cannot obtain parent’s information, you may submit a Special Circumstance Form along with documentation for our review.

      Once classes start, what if I have a personal or medical situation that affects my ability to attend class?

    Request of academic accommodations for medical or counseling reasons must be sent to the Director of the Counseling Center. For contact information visit Shaw University Counseling Center.

      How will the cleaning/sanitizing of campus facilities be managed?

    Cleaning and sanitizing schedules have been optimized, and hand sanitizer stations have been placed at the entrances of every building and at elevators. Dorm restrooms will be cleaned and disinfected twice a day – product used is QC57 – Peroxide cleaner with disinfectant – this is a multi-surface product that has a 60 second COVID Kill time. The product also has a long-lasting residual hold time and is one of the few products recommended by the CDC for COVID disinfecting. In addition, anytime a cleaning request is made it will be addressed on a priority schedule each day.

      Will I have a roommate?

    We have increased the number of single occupancy rooms and will allow roommates under certain circumstances.

      Am I guaranteed a single room?

    A limited amount of single rooms are available on a first paid basis. You may be assigned a single room according to when you paid your Housing Deposit.

      When will I receive my move in information/date?

    All Move-In information (Residence Hall, date of move-in, and times) should be emailed to you starting July 28. 

      Am I responsible for my own PPE equipment, masks etc.?

    All students are responsible for bringing masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies for their personal area.

      Is the $75.00 housing fee required before moving into the residence hall?

    You are not required to pay before you arrive; however, you must pay the non-refundable deposit before checking into the Residence Hall..

      Can I bring the required immunization document on move in day?

    You may bring all required health documents on the day that you check into the Residence Hall. A box will be in the lobby for you to place these documents in. Please put them in an envelope for security purposes.

      Will I be able to assist my student with move-in?

    Our first priority at Shaw University is the safety and well-being of our students, their families as well as our staff. Please rest assured, your student will have personnel on hand with hand carts to assist with move in. However, in an effort to maintain safe distancing and limits on indoor gatherings, we will NOT be allowing parents, family, or friends to assist their students with move-in. We know how exciting this event is for parents and students but we must be diligent in our efforts to keep everyone as safe as possible. We thank you in advance for understanding and appreciating this policy.

      Where will students eat?

    The Shaw University dining hall will be open to serve students.

      How does the dining hall plan on enforcing social distancing?

    Dining services will feature expanded seating options, as well as grab-and-go dining options.

      Who is my Department Head?

    Your Department Head is the supervisor of the curriculum, courses and faculty for your major/program. To find your Department go to Shaw University Academic Affairs webpage and click on your program. Contact information for your Department Head can be found either on the specific Department’s webpage or by contacting your Academic Advisor or the Office of Academic Affairs at academicaffairs@shawu.edu / 919-546-8330.

      Who is my School Dean?

    Your School Dean supervises the Department for of the curriculum, courses and faculty for your major/program. To find your School go to Shaw University Academic Affairs webpage. Contact information for your Dean can be found either on the specific School’s webpage or by contacting your Academic Advisor or the Office of Academic Affairs at academicaffairs@shawu.edu / 919-546-8330.

    Faculty & Staff

      Question Answer
      How will the cleaning/sanitizing of campus facilities be managed?

    Cleaning and sanitizing schedules have been optimized, and hand sanitizer stations have been placed at the entrances of every building and at elevators.

      My child’s school has closed, and I have to stay home for childcare purposes. How will I be paid?  North Carolina Governor Cooper mandated a statewide Stay-at home order effective Monday, March 30 at 5 P.M. Although educational institutions are provided an exemption as an essential service, all members of the Shaw University community are urged to stay at home, and take preventative measures as directed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as state and local health officials. Absolutely NO ONE will be granted access to the campus that was not granted exceptions. If your duties do not permit you to work temporarily from home, you may use any available paid time off you have until exhausted or if superseded by any Shaw changes. If you are not able to work and have exhausted your available PAL and have medical benefits through Shaw, Shaw will continue your coverage until further notice, so you will still be covered.
    I have Shaw’s medical plan through Cigna, how is Cigna preparing for the coronavirus?

    On March 6, 2020, Cigna announced it is taking specific steps to improve its members’ access to doctors and medications, as it monitors the Coronavirus Disease -19, or COVID-19. This includes virtual access to doctors (via the Amwell or MDLive App) and ensuring access to acute care and medications. In addition, Cigna is waiving all co-pays and deductibles for COVID-19 testing. For individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, Cigna will ensure all patients receive the care they need. If you are not able to work and have exhausted your available PAL and have medical benefits through Shaw, Shaw will continue your coverage until further notice, so you will still be covered. 

    If I am not able to work and have no paid time off, can I get unemployment?

    Governor Cooper recently signed an executive order relaxing requirements for unemployment. Some of the changes include:

    - It removes the one-week waiting period to apply for unemployment payment for those workers who lose their jobs.

    - It removes the requirement that a person must be actively looking for another job during this time when many potential employers are closed, and social distancing guidelines are in effect.

    - It allows employees who lose their jobs or, in certain cases have their hours reduced due to Covid-19 to apply for unemployment benefits.

    - It directs that employers will not be held responsible for benefits paid as a direct result of these COVID-19 claims.

    - It waives the requirement that people must apply for benefits in person; workers can apply for benefits online or by phone.

    You can apply for Unemployment through the Employment Security Commission at https://des.nc.gov/ during this time of unavailable work. If you are not able to work and have exhausted your available PAL and have medical benefits through Shaw, Shaw will continue your coverage until further notice, so you will still be covered.
      On the days that I plan to work on campus, what should I do to confirm that I am healthy enough to do so?

    Each Shaw University employee must review the Employee Health Questionnaire every morning that they intend to work on the University’s campus.

      If I do not report to work, will I be disciplined?

    If you feel ill, you should use the same judgment you would normally use about attending work, staying home or seeking medical care. Because the campus offices and services will remain open and operations will continue normally, leave policies will apply for work attendance. You should always notify your supervisor if you are unable to make it to work for any reason.

    I am not able to come to work because of sickness, but I do not have any available paid time off, what should I do?

    If you are under a doctor’s care and your doctor has written you out from working, and do not have any paid time off available, then your time off will be unpaid; contact Human Resources for any potential Family Medical Leave benefits. If you are not able to work and have exhausted your available PAL and have medical benefits through Shaw, Shaw will continue your coverage until further notice, so you will still be covered.

      I heard President Trump signed into law the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. What does this provide? 

    On March 18, President Trump signed into law H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This law became active on April 1, 2020 and is not retroactive. This piece of legislation is intended to help workers, businesses and the healthcare sector in their response to and the consequences of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

    The law provides free coronavirus testing, expands food assistance and unemployment benefits, and requires employers to provide additional protections for healthcare workers. The law also creates two forms of paid leave for workers impacted by the outbreak. 

    Emergency Family and Medical Leave

    The first paid leave provision requires private-sector employers with fewer than 500 employees and all public sector employers to provide employees who have been on the payroll for 30 calendar days up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave as established under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for “a qualifying need related to a public health emergency.” The law defines “qualifying need” as instances where the employee is unable to work or telework due to the need to care for a minor if the child’s school or childcare has been closed or is unavailable due to a public health emergency.

    The first 10 days of the leave would be unpaid, but the employee would have the option to substitute available PAL. The remainder of the leave would be paid; eligible employees would receive generally two-thirds of their regular rate of pay for the hours they would be scheduled to work if the public health emergency was not occurring. However, the per employee paid leave under this provision is capped at $200 per day, or $10,000 total.

    As is established by typical FMLA leave, H.R. 6201 ensures employees’ positions are job-protected until they return to work.

    If you meet the requirements for either the Emergency Paid Leave or expanded FMLA, please complete the Families First Coronavirus Response Act Request form located on the HR Intranet.

    Emergency Paid Sick Leave

    The second paid leave provision within H.R. 6201 requires private employers with less than 500 employees and all public employers to provide up to 80 hours (pro-rated for part-time workers) of paid sick time for employees who are unable to work or telework, because:

    - they are subject to a government quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19;

    - they have been advised by a healthcare provider to self-quarantine due to COVID-19;

    - they are experiencing the symptoms of COVID-19 and are seeking a diagnosis;

    - they are caring for an individual subject to or advised to quarantine or isolate;

    - they are caring for a child whose school or childcare is closed or unavailable due to COVID-19; or

    - they are experiencing substantially similar conditions as those specified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in consultation with the Secretaries of Labor and Treasury.

    The leave would be immediately available for all workers. Employers would be required to pay each employee up to $511 per day, or $5,110 total, when leave is taken for the first three reasons identified above. For the latter three reasons, employers would be liable for up to $200 per day, or $2,000 total.

      I need help to pay bills; where can I find resources? If you need assistance in paying bills during this time, go to www.findhelp.org.


    Campus Events

    Question Answer
      What is the status of University sponsored events? The University has postponed, canceled or modified events for the immediate future. This includes recruitment events, tours, student programs, alumni events, performances, conferences and social events. Commencement currently is scheduled for December. Click here for more information 
      My organization had planned to host an event on campus soon. Should I make other arrangements? All non-University events scheduled to be held on campus have been cancelled, and you will receive an emailed notification from Facilities Management. We are not accepting any new event reservations until further notice.