A further update on international travel regulations for Fall 2020 and Winter 2020-21.
Spring 2021 semester study abroad programs are cautiously proceeding as conditions and travel restrictions allow on a case-by-case basis. However, Occidental College continues to prohibit other types of international College-sponsored student travel for the duration of the fall semester and winter break 2020-2021. Examples of impacted programming include:
- Independent, non-credit "Global Projects" (Endeavor, Young, Davis Projects for Peace, URC-Richter ASP, Richter, Anderson, Schwartz, and Maes);
- Any international student travel normally authorized and/or funded by Athletics, administrative or academic departments, or ASOC, DEB, and other student organizations.
Background/Rationale:
The International Programs Crisis Management Team and International Programs Committee (a standing committee of Faculty Council) reviewed this decision in accordance with Occidental's Statement of Location Safety and the Student Travel Policy, in light of the U.S. Department of State’s advisory levels and with regard to global travel restrictions.
The prohibition helps limit the spread of COVID-19 to communities around the world. Further, by suspending these programs, departments and organizations will prevent the irrecoverable loss of funds due to cancelled flights, travel restrictions or mandatory quarantine, etc.
We look forward to resuming activity when circumstances allow.
Sincerely,
Wendy Sternberg, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College
Rob Flot, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
Robin Craggs, Executive Director, International Programs