Dear students and families,

The coronavirus situation in Italy is unfolding quickly and we have further updates to our communication sent on February 29 12:48 (EST). As a reminder, on February 28, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) increased their Italy advisory level to Level 3, “Avoid Nonessential Travel.” The College policy related to coronavirus (COVID-19) is guided by the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO).

As a result of the CDC Level 3 designation, Marist is suspending all regular programming and coursework for the Spring 2020 semester at the Florence campus.

While daily life in Florence remains calm, our top concern is first and foremost the health, safety, and security of our students. All Marist students in Italy are strongly advised to make immediate plans to leave and return home with all of their academic materials. Students will be able to complete the remainder of their spring courses online or through directed study starting March 23. Marist will ensure all students in Italy will have the opportunity to complete the spring semester and stay on track for graduation. Any student who is unable to secure plans to depart Italy by Wednesday, March 4, must speak with the Marist Italy office immediately.

Below please find the immediate next steps students should take.

Immediate next steps:

• Transportation: We are committed to working with each student to make arrangements to return home safely. As most Marist students book flights directly, students should immediately contact their flight carriers to make alternate arrangements to leave Italy. Freshman students booked on the Advantage Travel Group Flight need to contact Advantage Travel immediately to discuss the availability of spaces on a flight leaving Monday, March 2. Other students interested in this flight should contact the Marist Italy office immediately. Marist is providing each student who returns from Italy with a $500 travel allowance, which will be credited to their student account. All students may also collect a taxi voucher (Taxi 4242) to the Florence airport from the LdM Reception (bring Marist ID).
• Housing: Marist and LdM housing will remain available to all students until departure plans can be made. Students in Marist housing will receive direction from Marist Italy staff and MAP students will receive direction from their LdM advisors on specific procedures to follow. Students in independent housing must contact their individual landlords to discuss departure arrangements. Any degree-seeking student may store a reasonable amount of belongings in Marist Italy storage.
• Student Visa: Due to the suspension of Marist academic programs for Spring 2020, student visas will expire shortly. Students who decide to stay in Italy must check their individual visa requirements.
• Academics: Students will be able to complete the remainder of their spring courses online or through directed study starting March 23. Students will receive additional information within the next week.

Marist Policies: All students should remain updated on Marist policies, including restrictions on travel to Marist locations, and communications related to coronavirus.

Best regards,

Dr. Thomas S. Wermuth
Vice President of Academic Affairs

Dr. John E. Peters
Dean of International Programs