This semester, Asbury students received a COVID-19 covenant that contains guidelines to follow as an Asbury student.
Students are required to sign the covenant in order to stay on campus.
“The COVID covenant is not really because we think the students are not on board and not willing, it’s just because the stakes are increasingly high this semester, especially right now when we’re in the midst of winter. And so it’s just so critical that everybody recognizes their part to play in keeping us all healthy,” Vice President of Student Development Dr. Sarah Baldwin said. “And unfortunately, there’s no other really good way to do it, then just to remind everyone about how serious it is.”
If a student does not follow the covenant, he could be sent home. Discipline begins with a warning followed by probation and then moving home from the university.
“If you want to be a residential student, or you want to be in person in your classes, then you have to be willing to follow the protocols,” Baldwin said.
The student population’s reaction to the covenant varies. Some students accept and support it.
“I very much support the COVID covenant, it is a simple request from the university,” Courageous Class student Veronica Rojas said. “Those who intentionally disrespect it are immature and inconsiderate.”
Other students struggle with the moral implications of the covenant.
“Because we are a Christian school, we have certain moral standards that we believe in and that we must abide by such as no drinking, drugs, or premarital sex,” Surrendered Class student Hayley Anderson said. “However, when this ‘COVID covenant’ was released, wearing a mask has become equal to, if not more important to follow than the rules on drinking or sex.”
“Everyone did a tremendous job last semester, I was so proud of how hard we worked on it and how people were willing to be in mask mode,” Baldwin said. “My sense is that we are going to have another really good semester.”
