First cases of coronavirus in San Francisco not linked to SF State

Dear campus community,

The City of San Francisco confirmed today its first two cases of the new coronavirus (COVID-19). The two individuals are not employees or students of San Francisco State University. On behalf of the entire University, I am wishing the patients speedy recoveries as they are being cared for in separate hospitals.

I understand that these recent developments can be concerning for many, especially as Lowell High School — in proximity to our main campus — decided to close the school and all events and gatherings for the time being out of an abundance of caution. I want to remind everyone that as San Francisco ramps up its testing measures for COVID-19, it may lead to an increase in the number of confirmed cases reported in the area. However, that does not necessarily signal that the rate of infection is increasing, but that the City’s ability to test more people more rapidly is leading to better detection. 

I also want to reassure you that our University, in consultation with City and State agencies, is working diligently to ensure the safety and health of our students and employees. The San Francisco State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been activated for weeks responding to and preparing for evolving contingencies. 

Many of you are asking about the status of classes and campus operations. Currently, we are not planning to cancel classes or modify operations. We are in direct contact with the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) and other agencies, as well as the Office of the CSU Chancellor.

Our goal is that teaching and learning will continue at SF State. Earlier this week, Provost Jennifer Summit and Academic Senate Chair Nancy Gerber sent a message to the faculty requesting that they plan for a possible interruption in face-to-face delivery of instruction. To assist in these efforts, the Center for Equity and Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CEETL) and Academic Technology have created and compiled a variety of resources, which can be found on the Instructional Continuity at SF State website. 

If any recommendations from the SFDPH require changes in regular campus programs, the University will inform the campus community, and support will be provided.

The safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty and staff continue to be our highest priorities. Please stay well and take the same preventative measures outlined in the SF State COVID-19 FAQ. 

Lynn Mahoney, Ph.D.
President