Coronavirus Update

York College affirms our longstanding institutional values, including our commitment to diversity and inclusion. In adherence with the CUNY Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy, York does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. It is essential that we remain supportive, respectful, and inclusive to all members of our campus community at all times. 

There has been an increase in acts of bullying and violence directed towards certain ethnicities and cultures, both in the public and at other institutions. Such acts can be perpetuated in person or online. We remind you to be aware of assumptions and prejudice, and to act in a respectful manner to individuals within our diverse campus community, regardless of the medium of interaction. Community standards that promote a culture of respect are just as applicable in the online learning environment as they are in our buildings and community.

As we move to distance, remote, and online learning alternatives, York and CUNY conduct policies remain in effect. Acts of discrimination, harassment or exclusion run counter to our institutional values and are contrary to CUNY Policy. If you witness or experience an incident of discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the Office of Diversity and Compliance at (718) 262-5304, or by email at compliance@york.cuny.edu.

As always, if you are on campus and in immediate danger, please contact Public Safety at x2222.

For purposes of this virus, if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or shortness of breath, 14 days after returning from a country under a CDC Level 3 warning, or after close contact with someone who has recently traveled to them and is displaying these symptoms, you should immediately contact your health care provider.

Employees who are sick and exhibiting symptoms of acute respiratory illness are asked to stay home and not come to work until they are free of fever (100.4° F [37.8° C] or greater using an oral thermometer) and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines. Employees should notify their supervisor and keep them informed of their absence. For the health and safety of all employees, staff members who report to work exhibiting these symptoms may be sent home.

Employees returning from a country designated as “Level 3” by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are to contact the Human Resources Office before returning to work. The number to call for York’s Human Resources Office is 718-262-2135.

Students who need help connecting to a health care provider should call the Campus Health Services, located in AC1F01, at 718-262-2050.  CUNY Central has also requested that each campus designate a liaison to handle inquiries and concerns. For York College, that person is Chief of Staff Dana Trimboli; if you have specific concerns about yourself or another member of the community related to COVID-19, please contact Ms. Trimboli at X5374 or at dtrimboli@york.cuny.edu.

As a community, we want to encourage elbow bumps and hand waves, as opposed to handshakes. Hand sanitizer is great, but experts say washing your hands regularly with soap and water is even better. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing. Do not touch your face with unwashed hands. Wearing a mask is considered necessary.

We understand that members of the college community may be anxious during this time. Students can receive free, confidential services in the Counseling Center located in AC-1G03 or call 718-262-2272. For faculty and staff, CUNY’s Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) is available to help. CUNY’s EAP may be reached at 1-866-327-2400 or https://www.deeroaks.com

Mayor Bill de Blasio has issued additional guidance on best practices that can help stop the spread of COVID-19. For more information on the City's response, visit: https://on.nyc.gov/2TOFnsB.

For updates on coronavirus, text COVID to 692-692.

For Coronavirus preparedness tips and safety info, visit: www.NYC.gov/coronavirus.