CLARKSVILLE, Tenn, (CLARKSVILLENOW) – An individual has tested positive for COVID-19 after attending an APSU student organization’s off-campus party, according to an email from Interim President Dannelle Whiteside.
University officials learned of the party over the weekend, which was hosted by a student organization with more than 30 people in attendance, one of whom has tested positive for COVID-19. Neither the organization nor the party’s location were included in the announcement.
According to the email, action against the organization and/or individuals in question will be decided following an investigation by campus officials.
APSU spokesman Bill Persinger called the incident a reminder of the importance of personal responsibility.
“We have spent 6 months going to great effort to line out a plan so we could come back to school in the safest manner possible, but that also depends on personal responsibility of students, faculty and staff after they are off our campus. We just need to remind everybody that, whether you are on or off campus, what you do can effect the entire campus and to be responsible,” said Persinger
Persinger went on to say that, while there has been a slight rise in cases, the semester has so far moved forward as expected.
“This incident serves as a reminder to the campus community that we are still in an emergency situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the discipline process applies to conduct both on and off campus. Gatherings of any kind that do not follow University protocols will be investigated and individuals involved will be subject to disciplinary action,” said Whiteside.