Face Coverings and Physical Distancing Policy - 07.02.21

Cal-OSHA (Division of Occupational Safety and Health) announced changes regarding masking and social distancing on June 24th 2021. Los Angeles County Public Health also revised its health orders to be consistent with State guidance. As a worksite Pitzer is required to follow Cal-OSHA and the state of California compliance standards. In addition to removing physical distancing as a required protocol, the revised masking requirements are largely based upon whether an individual employee has been fully vaccinated. The College has reviewed the new requirements and is, therefore, making the following changes to our current COVID-19 policies. All persons working on campus are required to follow these policies.

Face Coverings

  1. Fully Vaccinated: Fully Vaccinated individuals are not required to wear face coverings outdoors.  At this time face coverings will still be required indoors in alignment with LA county recommendations unless the individual is alone in a room, when eating or drinking (as long as physical distancing of at least six feet can be maintained), or when specific tasks cannot feasibly be performed with a face covering (in which case the face covering may only be removed during completion of that task).
    1. If you are fully vaccinated and would like to continue wearing your mask in any setting please feel free to do so.  The College will continue to supply face coverings to all employees regardless of vaccination status at no cost.
  2. Non-Vaccinated: Non-Vaccinated individuals are required to wear face coverings outdoors when physical distancing of at least six feet cannot be maintained. “Non-vaccinated” includes employees who have yet to provide Pitzer with proof of full vaccination status, or whose vaccination has not been verified by Hamilton Health Box.
    1. Non-vaccinated employees are also required to participate in COVID-19 testing once or twice a week depending on your scheduling.  Please see the testing policy for details.
    2. COVID-19 testing is not an alternative to face coverings.
    3. Those who are required to wear a face covering but cannot do so due to a medical or mental health condition or disability, or who are hearing-impaired or communicating with a hearing-impaired person, must wear an effective, non-restrictive alternative (such as a face shield with a drape on the bottom) if the individual’s condition/disability permits it.

Physical distancing requirements:

  1. Other than the physical distancing conditions stated above, the State and County no longer impose any other physical distancing requirements.
  2. Physical distancing is still recommended, please be considerate of those around you and maintain 6ft apart when possible.

Residence Life Updates – Food Service, Mead Furniture & CCA for Fall 2021 - 06.14.21

Monday, June 14, 2021 

Dear Returning Students for Fall 2021,  

As you consider your “next steps” in our housing selection process, we wanted to provide more information to returning students about food and dining services options, new Mead suite furniture, and the Pitzer @ Claremont Collegiate Apartments (CCA) experience. Although our plans on these topics are still ongoing, and will respond to local health guidance, we felt it was important to give an update with what we know as of now to help students use this information during the housing selection process. We welcome your questions and feedback on these updates as we want them to be informed by student input!  

Food and Dining Services 

(NOTE: The exact dining hours, dining options, and food service plans are subject to change throughout the summer and fall semester as we gain student input, analyze student usage, and review updated guidance.) 

  • As a reminder, for Fall 2021 Pitzer students will not have access to the other Claremont Colleges’ dining halls/cafes. And conversely, other Claremont Colleges students won’t have access to Pitzer dining hall/cafes. We remain committed to returning to “crossover dining” (i.e. Claremont Colleges students eating at any Claremont Colleges dining hall) for Spring 2022, pending discussion with the other campuses.
  • Goals: To provide healthy, delicious food safely with dietary options available 
    • Food Service Venues: McConnell, Pit-Stop, Shakedown, with some extended hours, one way circulation, and new service styles  
    • Payment: no-touch card tapping using Pitzer ID card or Apple Pay 
    • Safety: social distancing, sanitizing, and personal protective equipment by all 
    • Outdoor dining only: increased outdoor furniture to accommodate outdoor eating (this decision will be reevaluated as new LA County Department of Public Health guidance is released) 
    • Sustainability: recycled and recyclable tableware, new trash compacting trash bins and composting options  
  • Types of Food Service Overview 
    • Served, to-go meals during regular meal periods from McConnell Dining Hall 
    • Meal swipe replacement options and individual items to purchase at the Pit Stop Cafe 
    • Meal swipe replacement options and late-night food service from the Shakedown Café  
    • Quarantine/isolation housing meal delivery 
  • Food Services Venues and Sample Menus 
    • McConnell Dining Hall  
      • Hours: Typically open for three set meal periods (breakfast, lunch and dinner) on weekdays and two meal periods (brunch/dinner) on weekends (Saturday/Sunday) 
      • Concept: Quick serve with choices of appetizer, entrée, dessert (2-4 options for each), food placed in a to-go container by staff and passed down the hot line with one-way circulation in the east door, along the hot line, and out the west door, indoor dining area closed for now 
      • Refresh: In McConnell a refresh is currently underway to upgrade finishes and lighting and improve circulation in the space, as well as to provide new furniture for when indoor dining restrictions are lifted by LA County 
    • Pit Stop Café 
      • Hours: Typically open 8:30-4:30 pm, Monday-Friday (hours may be adjusted)  
      • Concept: Outdoor snack bar concept, order outside through a window, pick up at other window, can use flex/credit card for individual items or a meal swipe for a set meal package  
    • Shakedown Café 
      • The Shakedown will be operated by Bon Appetit beginning Fall 2021. Discussions on future involvement of student employees in the Shakedown will continue. 
      • Concept & Hours: Discussions on extended hours are in progress. 
    • Grove House 
      • At this time the Grove House kitchen will not be used for food service this fall semester due to space restrictions and the need to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines. 
  • Meal Plan Options 
    • 16 meal plan – 16 meals in a one-week period (Sunday-Saturday) including $160 flex dollars per semester OR 
    • 12 meal plan – 12 meals in a one-week period (Sunday-Saturday) including $120 flex dollars per semester OR 
    • 5 meal plan – 5 meals a week (Sunday-Saturday), no flex dollars (only available to CCA residents, off-campus students, or those who have been approved for a reduced meal plan) 
    • More information on meal plans, flex, and Claremont Cash.  
  • Students with Special Dietary Needs 
    • The dining hall has vegetarian and vegan meal options for each entrée.  
    • Students who are on a special diet, need a higher caloric meal, or have specific food allergies are encouraged to indicate this on their Housing Application. Students with these special needs should contact Pitzer’s Dining Manager, Toni Morbitt, to discuss meal accommodations prior to arrival for Fall 2021.  
    • Students who may want to apply for a reduced meal plan based on dietary needs should email [email protected] for this application.  
  • Meal Periods and Card Swipes 
    • Typically, students can only use their 5, 12 or 16 meals per week during designated meal times in the dining hall (3 meal periods on weekdays and 2 meal periods on weekends). For a total of 19 meal periods each week. 
    • This Fall 2021, students will be able to get a meal using one of their meal swipes at McConnell, the Pit Stop Café AND the Shakedown Café during extended hours. 
    • This means students can use a meal swipe for one complete meal.  
  • Using Flex Dollars (Board Plus)  
    • Students will still be able to use their $120 flex dollars (for 12 meal plans) or $160 (for 16 meal plans) for individual items at the Pit Stop Café and Shakedown Café or to purchase an additional meal in any Pitzer venue. The flex cost of a meal can be found here.  
  • Academic Break Periods 
    • Pitzer will continue to offer food service on the meal plan throughout the Fall, Thanksgiving and Spring Break periods. Food service during this time will likely include adjusted dining schedules, pre-ordering, grab and go style, etc.  
  • Student Survey 
    • Student feedback on our fall food services plans, and Reopening Campus generally, can be submitted to this online survey

Mead Suite Furniture 

  • As previously mentioned, Mead Hall has received some wonderful upgrades over the past year, including remodeled suite restrooms and new furniture.  
  • As you consider your housing options, we wanted to share the final selection for the Mead Suite furniture. This furniture was selected in collaboration with Residence Life staff, the Student Voice Committee, and the Facilities team. 
  • Each 8-person common suite in Mead will have: 3 comfy lounge chairs, 2 side tables, and one study table with four chairs.  

Pitzer @ Claremont Collegiate Apartments (CCA) 

  • Pitzer @ CCA Overview:  
    • Pitzer has a long-term master lease with CCA, a third-part managed apartment complex, to offer apartment-style living close to campus to returning Pitzer students. Living at CCA is a great step towards independent living as students will experience apartment-style amenities with full kitchens, all utilities included, and housing dates that match the academic calendar (no need to find someone to take your summer sublease!) 
    • CCA has great amenities including FREE LAUNDRY, free printing, onsite gym, fully furnished rooms and common areas, high speed wi-fi, coffee and tea bar in the CCA office, community gas grills, and more!  
    • In Fall 2021, we anticipate that over 150 Pitzer students will reside at CCA. Approximately 110 Pitzer students will be in single rooms (in 2 bed/1 bath or 3 bed/2 bath units) and around 40 students will be in double rooms (in 2 bed/2 bath units). The 2 bed/2 bath units also have a common room!
    • Additionally, almost all of the other bed spaces at CCA will be occupied by Scripps College students next fall, making CCA an almost completely undergraduate community for the first-time.  
    • Pitzer will have three Resident Assistants (RAs) living at CCA to support the community as well as a live-in professional staff member, Cortlyn Raymond, Coordinator for Student Engagement. These staff will collaborate with Residence Life and Campus Life to bring activities, events, support and resources to Pitzer students residing at CCA.  
    • The CCA management staff is excited to work in conjunction with Pitzer Residence Life to ensure Pitzer (and Scripps) residents feel a sense of community through programming. There will be a variety of social interactions, activities, and educational programs implemented to make residents feel welcomed, included, and happy in their new homes. There will be virtual and in-person options, chances to win gift cards, food parties, DIY events, a free coffee station in the office and much more. 
  • CCA transportation options and updates  
    • We have heard from students living at CCA in the past, and from Student Senate this past year, that transportation between CCA and Pitzer is an important element of the choice to live at CCA. With this in mind, Student Affairs, the Treasurer’s Office, and Facilities has been partnering with student representatives on transportation solutions. Although some of these conversations are still in progress, the following options are being explored for potential availability in the Fall:  
      • CCA Shuttle: 
        • We continue discussions with the other Claremont Colleges about the potential for a shared shuttle to CCA as well as to other college-sponsored housing located away from the main Claremont Colleges campuses.  
      • Campus Safety, Safe Escort Program:  
        • Campus Safety will continue to provide free, 24/7, on-demand, no questions asked safe rides on-campus and to and from CCA to the Colleges.  
        • More information can be found on Campus Safety’s website under “Types of Services”.  
      • Green Bike Program (GBP) Loaner Bikes: 
        • The College is committed to increasing the number of loaner bikes GBP has available to students and is encouraging prioritization of CCA students in the lottery process. These bikes will come equipped with safety equipment including a helmet, bike lock, and lights.  
      • Claremont Dial-A-Ride: 
        • This is a local service provide in collaboration with the Pomona Valley Transportation Authority and is an affordable alternative to Uber/Lyft. More information can be found on their website.  
        • Zipcar 
        • We are exploring adding Zipcar stations at CCA and at Pitzer for students who may wish to use this service.  
      • Foothill Transit  
        • All Claremont Colleges students are eligible for a free Class Pass to access Foothill Transit buses.  

Other Fall 2021 Planning  

  • We plan to have a centralized Pitzer Pathway Forward website with more Fall 2021 plans available for students in late June, after mid-June guidance is received from LA County Department of Public Health.  
  • As always, much about fall semester remains to be determined including COVID-19 related health and safety measures on-campus (e.g. social distancing, face coverings, guests, gatherings, etc.). We encourage students to stay tuned to their email for updates as we have them. 

We look forward to our return to campus and we appreciate everyone’s patience throughout the process. As questions emerge, please reach out!  

Our best, 
Residence Life, Facilities & Dining 
Kirsten, Josh, Patrice, Mark, and Toni 

Josh Scacco, M.Ed. (He/Him/His) 
Associate Director of Residence Life 

Kirsten Carrier, M.S. (she/her/hers) 
Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life and Conference Services 

Patrice Langevin 
Architect | AIA | LEED AP BD+C 
Assistant Vice President of Campus Facilities 
Pitzer College Facilities and Campus Services

Mark Crawbuck 
Senior Director of Facilities, Safety, and Event Management 
Pitzer College Facilities and Campus Services 

Tonian Morbitt 
General Manager 
Bon Appetit Management Company at Pitzer College

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Students Needed by July 1 - 05.28.21

May 28, 2021

Dear Students,

As we continue to plan for a return to campus this fall, we want to remind you to obtain the COVID-19 vaccination in your local area PRIOR to arrival at Pitzer and ideally by July 1. We would also like to remind you that COVID-19 vaccinations will be required for all Pitzer students unless an exemption for medical or religious reasons has been approved.

ALL students will need to complete one of the following by July 1:

  1. Upload proof of COVID-19 vaccination to Healthy Pitzer. Easy upload instructions can be found here. (NOTE: If your vaccination card is in another language, please have it translated prior to upload). If you experience any issues in uploading your vaccination card, please contact [email protected] or call the Help Desk at 909-607-3065.
    OR
  2. Email [email protected] to begin the process to receive a medical/religious exemption from the vaccination. If you plan to request an exemption, please do so as soon as possible so we can begin working with you on the process.
    OR
  3. Complete the “Early Arrival Application Fall 2021“on your Residence Homepage to officially request an early arrival AND to request to receive a vaccination in Claremont this fall after arrival.

Students Arriving from International Destinations this Fall and International Students:
Please review the detailed email sent to all international students earlier this week for more specific information including guidance from the World Health Organization, early arrival guidance and support for students needing to set-up vaccination appointments and self-quarantine. As a reminder, Todd Sasaki ([email protected]) is a great resource to assist you with coordinating your plans. If you did not receive this aforementioned email, please reach out to Todd as the email was primarily sent to international students.

Students Currently Residing in the United States:
We expect ALL students currently residing in the United States to be fully vaccinated upon arrival this fall or to have received an exemption via the process above. We will not be able to provide COVID-19 vaccination upon arrival to these students as we are prioritizing those arriving from international destinations who do not have vaccine access this summer. For assistance locating vaccine access near you, please click here. You can also reach out to our team at [email protected] for support.

Questions related to the COVID-19 Vaccine:

Opportunity Chance Drawing for All Students:
We all have a social responsibility to do our part in our community’s safe return to campus and greatly appreciate your important contributions by taking action by July 1. Students who complete the required steps above by July 1 will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $100 gift card, Fitbit, $100 to the Huntley Bookstore, $50 Claremont Cash, or by popular student demand, an Orange Blossom backpack.

We expect to receive more updated guidance in mid-June and will provide you with additional updates, as well as access to a new centralized Pitzer Pathway Forward website that will house all of these important updates, and more, by late June.

As always, we encourage you to remain in communication with us over the summer as any questions or concerns arise by contacting [email protected].

Sincerely,

Sandra Vasquez
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs

I-Place Update for Students - 05.21.21

May 21, 2021

Good Morning Pitzer Students,

Congratulations on wrapping up the spring semester. We hope your summer plans are restorative, and we all look forward to welcoming you back to campus in August. We are writing today to provide an update on the information shared in September 2020, when it was announced that this current academic year would be the last year of operations for the jointly funded I-Place program.

Each College will continue to offer its own international student program and collaborate with the international student programs at the other Colleges. The Student Deans Council (SDC) has been working for the past 18 months to prepare for this shift from a shared services model of providing community programs to campus-based models to support our international student populations.

International students are incredibly important and valued members of our Claremont Colleges community. This new model will increase the support and available resources on each individual campus, while retaining a structure and funding for the continuation of collaboratively developed 5C and 7C community programs.

To carry on the coordination and traditions of cross-campus programs and events, SDC recently formed the 7C International Student Community Program Council (ISCPC), a group of professional representatives from each of the 7 Claremont Colleges. This group is charged with responsibility for meeting regularly to plan and implement 5C and 7C programs, events, and opportunities for international students across the campuses to meet each other and develop a sense of a connected international community. While each of the 7 Colleges will manage its own new international student orientation program, the ISCPC will develop events to bring together our new international students across the campuses during the first few weeks of each academic year. ISCPC will also host events on the multiple campuses, create ongoing program traditions, and continue some of the most successful events from the past. The ISCPC will develop an annual calendar of events and programs to provide students, faculty and staff opportunities to meet, gather, and learn about different cultures. They will seek input and assistance from international students to inform these opportunities. The ISCPC has already begun to meet to prepare for the fall ’21 semester. This approach is modeled after the successful operations of the 5C Student Activities Professionals, and the 7C Residential Deans – two standing committees that have been in existence for many years to coordinate plans across the Colleges.

At Pitzer, we are taking steps to strengthen support and increase resources for international students through:

Developing international student centered programming, including a Pitzer international student orientation. Additional programming will be developed in collaboration with broader ISCPC initiatives as well as Pitzer-specific events.

  • The Office of Student Affairs has increased staffing to help with this – Cortlyn Raymond was recently hired as the Coordinator of Student Engagement. This position will assist student organizations with programming and participate in the ISCPC on 7-C collaborative programming. Todd Sasaki, Director of International Programs and Alayna Sessions-Goins, Director of Campus Life have already begun working together on orientation and additional events.
  • Work has begun on identifying a space for international students on campus. With the coming absence of the I-Place physical space, this will be a welcome support and resource for our new and returning international students.
  • We look forward to continuing to work with the Pitzer International Student Association (PISA) on their projects and to partner with them in addressing international student initiatives and concerns.
  • We welcome and encourage student support and participation in working on these and other ideas. Please feel free to reach out to Todd ([email protected]) and Alayna ([email protected]) if you are interested.

Although it is sad to see the end of International Place, we are excited about the opportunities available to offer direct support to our international community at Pitzer.

Sincerely,
Mike Segawa & Sandra Vasquez

Residence Life & Housing Updates – Food Service, Mead Furniture and CCA for Fall 2021 - 05.19.21

May 19, 2021

Dear Returning Pitzer Students for Fall 2021,

Congratulations on all of your hard work in completing the Spring 2021 semester! As promised, this is yet another update from Residence Life and Housing to continue giving information as we move closer to fall semester. Our update today will cover updates on the housing applications we received, the Returning Student Housing Selection timeline, and more move-in information. We welcome your questions and feedback on these updates as we want them to be informed by student input!

Student Housing Selection Updates

The Housing Selection process is facilitated entirely online using our Residence software system. As such, the Housing Selection has three main phases:

  1. Apply (Completed)
  2. Roommate Groups and Room Explore (New Dates Announced!)
  3. Select Rooms (New Dates Announced!)

Detailed notes and screenshots of each phase, and all prior Housing Selection Updates can be found on our Housing Selection website. Students are encouraged to reach out to [email protected] with any questions in regards to the Housing Selection process.

Housing Applications

  • Off-Campus Housing
  • Students still interested in off-campus housing for fall semester are encouraged to apply as we do have some availability left. The Off Campus Housing application can be requested at [email protected] for review on a case-by-case basis.
  • Room Accommodations for Disabilities Application (RADA) Housing
  • Although it is now past the deadline, this application can still be requested at [email protected] for review on a case-by-case basis.
  • Sophomore Year Experience (SYE) Housing
  • The incoming first-year class is projected to fill all Skandera Hall double suites at this time. Students in SYE Housing will be in West and East Halls.
  • General Housing Selection
  • Based on current applications, around 200 single rooms are projected to be available as part of the General Housing Selection process, more details on location and suite types will be available when Final Room selection begins.
  • Due to SYE housing interest and new student class size, we do not project any West and East double suites to be available for Juniors or Seniors at this time.

Housing Selection Dates

  • We expect to receive more guidance from LACDPH on what campus life will look like for fall semester sometime in June. So, we have now established the Housing Selection timeline below with this in mind.
  • Hopefully students will get more of an idea of what campus life will look like in June and be able to make informed decisions on who they’d like to live with, and where they’d like to live, prior to their final housing selection in late June.
ProcessApplication Review & ApprovalStep 2: Roommate Groups, Individual Selection Times and Room ExploreStep 3: Final Room SelectionNotes
Off-Campus HousingApr 23N/AN/AAccording to current projections of remaining returning students and rooms available, every student seeking Campus Housing will have a bed.
Those still interested in living off campus are still encouraged to apply.
Room Accommodation due to a Disability (RADA)May 6May 28June 7Assigned spaces: Applications with highly specific room accommodations will be offered a space on May 24 – May 27.
All other RADAs will Group and Select on May 28.
Sophomore Year Experience (SYE)May 17June 8June 29Halls: Sophomores will be housed in West and East halls.
June 8 – Make roommate groups of 4. (Or 3 with one bed held for an incoming/transfer/exchange student).
General Returning Student Housing SelectionMay 17June 8June 30Halls: Due to the number of SYE Housing Applications, General Returning Student Housing selection will only be available in Mead and CCA halls.
June 8 – Make roommate groups fitting suite sizes (or 1 less with one bed held for an incoming/transfer/exchange student).
  • Next Steps for you!
    • Mark your calendar with the important dates of your process.
    • Start talking to potential suitemates considering the new information above!
    • Consider Roommate groups according to different suite sizes
      • Students approved for Room Accommodations for Disabilities will receive an additional email with next steps soon.
      • If you need one additional person to match your roommate group size with a suite, you can request to add a Transfer or Exchange student placeholder to be placed in your group by contacting Residence Life. Residence Life will place that student later is the summer.
      • WES – Double and single rooms (in 4 person suites, 2 double rooms or 4 single rooms)
        • Any spaces still available after Room Accommodations for Disabilities, FYE and SYE housing processes.
      • CCA – combination double and single rooms in apartment-style living
        • 2 bed, 1 bath w/kitchen
        • 2 bed, 2 bath w/kitchen
        • 3 bed, 2 bath w/kitchen
      • Mead – combination double and single rooms*
        • *some Mead suites will be partially full due to the RADA selection process. Those in the General Housing Selection must have roommate group sizes that match and complete the number of the suite’s open spaces.
        • 8 person suites with 2 double rooms and 4 single rooms
        • 7 person suites with 2 double rooms and 3 single rooms
        • 4 person suites 1 double room 2 single rooms

Move-In Dates and Times Reminders

  • Early Arrivals
    • Please review our Early Arrival Policies.
    • Student Leaders, Student Athletes, and Students who still need to be vaccinated.
      • Some student leaders/athletes may be arriving early according to coordination between supervisors/advisors/coaches and Residence Life. Student Leaders should communicate with their supervisor/advisor/coach for more information.
      • All Early arrival students (after being approved by their supervisor) must complete an Early Arrival application on Residence for approval.
  • Orientation Move-In
    • First-Year Orientation Move-In Day – Saturday, August 21, 2021
    • Returning Student Orientation Move-In Day – Sunday, August 22, 2021
      • Returning students who will be participating in Returning Student Orientation will move-in on Sunday, August 22, 2021 during the times associated with the first letter of their last name. Each student may have up to two (2) persons assist with move-in. Students may arrive with their helpers anytime during their 2-hour move-in slot.
        • A-F 8:00am – 10:00am
        • G-K 10:00am – 12:00pm (noon)
        • L-R 12:00pm (noon) – 2:00pm
        • S-Z 2:00pm – 4:00pm
    • More Orientation-related information for incoming first-years, rising sophomores and transfers can be found here.
    • More information on Family Orientation will be forthcoming.
  • Returning Student Move-In (mostly Juniors and Seniors)
    • Saturday, August 28, 2021 and Sunday, August 29, 2021
    • Returning students will move in on Saturday and Sunday during the times associated with the first letter of their last name. Each student may have up to two (2) persons assist with move-in. Students may arrive with their helpers anytime during their move-in slot.
    • Saturday, August 28
      • A-K: 9am-1pm
      • L-Z: 1pm-5pm
    • Sunday, August 29
      • L-Z : 9am-1pm
      • A-K: 1pm-5pm
    • First Day of Class
    • COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for All Students for Fall 2021
    • Reopening Feedback
      • As a reminder, if you have feedback on any of the current reopening plans, please consider completing this survey that was sent to the community.

Additional Reminders

  • Storage Items from March 2020 Campus Closure
    • Graduates – Recent (since Spring 2020) and upcoming (Spring 2021) graduates, who still have storage items on campus are encouraged to reach out to Residence Life (at [email protected]) to coordinate a plan for their items.
    • Returning Students – Items still on campus will be moved to Fall 2021 room assignments prior to arrival. Students living off-campus in the Fall semester will have the opportunity to pick up their items on-campus upon arrival. More details on this process will be sent this summer.
  • Other Fall 2021 Planning
    • Much about fall semester remains to be determined including COVID-19 related health and safety measures on-campus (i.e. social distancing, face coverings, guests, gatherings, vaccine guidelines, etc.). We encourage students to stay tuned to their email for updates as we have them.

As always, we look forward to our return to campus and we appreciate everyone’s patience throughout the process. As questions emerge, please reach out!

Our best,
Residence Life
Kirsten and Josh

Josh Scacco, M.Ed. (He/Him/His)
Associate Director of Residence Life

Kirsten Carrier, M.S. (she/her/hers)
Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life and Conference Services

Residence Life & Housing Updates for Fall 2021 (April) - 04.30.21

April 30, 2021

Dear Pitzer Students,  

We hope this update finds you studying hard and getting excited to complete the academic year soon! As promised, this is yet another update from Residence Life and Housing to continue giving information as we move closer to fall semester. Our update today will cover the housing applications opening, an update on our housing selection process so far, and other reminders about fall. We welcome your questions and feedback on these updates as we want them to be informed by student input!  

Student Housing Selection Updates 

The Housing Selection process is facilitated entirely online using our Residence software system. As such, the Housing Selection has three main phases: 

  1. Apply (Current) 
  2. Roommate Groups and Room Explore (TBA) 
  3. Select Rooms (TBA) 

Detailed notes and screen shots of each phase, and all prior Housing Selection Updates can be found on our Housing Selection Website. Students are encouraged to reach out to [email protected] with any questions in regards to the Housing Selection process. 

Housing Selection Application Dates 

Process Application Open/Closes Application Review & Approval Notes 
Off-Campus Housing CLOSED CLOSED All Off-Campus Housing Applications received by the deadline have been approved and met the anticipated need.     According to current projections of remaining returning students and rooms available, every student seeking Campus Housing will have a bed.     There is not an anticipated lack of bed spaces in Campus Housing.    
Room Accommodation due to a Disability (RADA) April 23 – May 3 May 6 Open now: Half way through open period. 
Sophomore Year Experience (SYE) April 30 – May 10 May 17 Open Now: Sophomores will only choose one application to complete, this SYE application or the General Returning Student Application. 
General Returning Student Housing Selection  April 30 – May 10   May 17 Open now 

Move-In Dates and Reminders 

  • Early Arrivals 
    • Please review our Early Arrival Policies.  
    • Student Leaders, Student Athletes, and Students arriving via international travel who still need to be vaccinated. 
      • Some student leaders/athletes may be arriving early according to coordination between supervisors/advisors/coaches and Residence Life. Student Leaders should communicate with their supervisor/advisor/coach for more information.  
      • All Early arrival students (after being approved by their supervisor) must complete an Early Arrival application on Residence for approval. 
  • Orientation Move-In 
    • First-Year – Saturday, August 21, 2021 
    • Sophomore – Sunday, August 22, 2021 
    • More Orientation related information for incoming first-years, rising sophomores and transfers can be found here
  • Returning Student Move-In 
    • Saturday, August 28, 2021 and Sunday, August 29, 2021 
  • First Day of Class 
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for All Students for Fall 2021 
  • Reopening Feedback 
    • As a reminder, if you have feedback on any of the current reopening plans, please consider completing this survey that was sent to the community on Thursday, April 22, 2021. 

Additional Reminders 

  • Storage Items from March 2020 Campus Closure  
    • Graduates – Recent (since Spring 2020) and upcoming (Spring 2021) graduates, who still have storage items on campus are encouraged to reach out to Residence Life (at [email protected]) to coordinate a plan for their items. 
    • Returning Students – Items still on campus will be moved to Fall 2021 room assignments prior to arrival. Students living off-campus in the Fall semester will have the opportunity to pick-up their items on-campus upon arrival. More details on this process will be sent this summer. 
  • Summer Housing Options 
    • Although we will not be offering any residential options at Pitzer for summer 2021, since Summer Session is completely virtual this year, we are still partnering with the Claremont Collegiate Apartments (CCA) for any students seeking Claremont area housing. 
    • More information on details about summer housing at CCA can be found here.  
  • Other Fall 2021 Planning  
    • Much about fall semester remains to be determined including COVID-19 related health and safety measures on-campus (i.e. social distancing, face coverings, guests, gatherings, vaccine guidelines, etc.), the timeline for forming roommate groups, individual selection times, and final selection timelines.  We encourage students to stay tuned to their email for updates as we have them.  

As always, we look forward to our return to campus and we appreciate everyone’s patience throughout the process. As questions emerge, please reach out!  

Our best, 
Residence Life 
Kirsten and Josh  

Josh Scacco, M.Ed. (He/Him/His) 
Associate Director of Residence Life 

Kirsten Carrier, M.S. (she/her/hers) 
Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life and Conference Services 

Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) - 04.28.21

Dear Students,

I hope this note finds you healthy and well.  I write to give you an update on the availability of additional emergency funding through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA).

On January 14, 2021, the U.S. Department of Education announced the availability of additional emergency funding through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) for institutions of higher education to serve students and ensure learning continues during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pitzer College has received funding from the recently approved Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA). Unlike the CARES Act, the CRRSAA requires that institutions prioritize students with exceptional need, such as students who receive Pell Grants, in awarding financial aid grants to students. Per federal guidelines, $312,931 has been allocated to go directly to students in the form of CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grants. More than half the funds have been distributed already since March 2020 to provide direct support during the pandemic to students with exceptional need and considered housing insecure. The remainder of the funds will be disbursed as quickly as possible to provide students with the support they need to continue their educational pursuits via additional Emergency Relief Grants.

CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grants are intended to assist students with expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the ongoing nation-wide pandemic (including eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and childcare). If you have experienced any difficulties due to the disruption of campus operations, we strongly encourage you to apply for a CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant.

Unfortunately, the current legislation limits eligibility for funds only to students eligible to receive federal financial aid, excluding assistance to non-U.S. citizens. However, just as we did with CARES Act, Pitzer College will use its own funds to cover grants in cases where students are ineligible to receive CRRSAA funds.

  • To be eligible to receive a CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant, students should be currently enrolled with consideration to students on leave of absence
  • The CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant is limited to $500 and a one-time request. While $500 is the maximum, we ask that you only request what you need, being mindful of other students also impacted by the pandemic. Pending resource availability, we may consider allocating additional support based on exceptional student need.
  • The request must be costs incurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. 
  • The U.S. Department of Education has prioritized students with the greatest demonstrated financial need for immediate disbursement of funds.
  • With your consent, the funds can be applied toward student account balances.
  • Students must complete the CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant form.

CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant funding is limited. Applicants will be awarded grants as long as funds remain available.

We want to thank our entire community for continuing to come together to care for each other and those most greatly impacted by the pandemic. It has been wonderful to see such care and collaboration in our community.

Best Regards,
Laura & Sandy 

Updated Faculty and Staff Testing Policy - 04.19.21

Beginning April 19, 2021, faculty and staff who are fully vaccinated will no longer be required to participate in routine testing.

  • A person is considered fully vaccinated ≥2 weeks following the receipt of the second dose in a 2-dose series (Pfizer/Moderna) or one dose of a single-dose vaccine (Johnson and Johnson)
  • Please upload your vaccination status to Healthy Pitzer: www.pitzer.edu/healthypitzer to be eligible.

Pitzer strongly encourages our staff and faculty to get vaccinated when you are able. Vaccination has proven to be safe and effective and is the best way to protect yourself and your community. If you have any questions regarding vaccination, please contact River at (909) 607-2180 or [email protected].

If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 (cough, fever, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, loss of taste/smell etc.) or have been exposed to a positive case please notify River even if you are fully vaccinated. River and HHB physicians will evaluate if you need testing or further follow up care.

Faculty and staff who are not fully vaccinated and come to campus on a regular basis will be required to continue testing for COVID-19 on a routine basis as a condition of their presence on campus as outlined below:

  • Faculty and staff who come to campus two or three days per week will be required to test once per week.
  • Faculty and staff who come to campus four or more days per week or live on campus will be required to test twice per week.
  • Faculty and staff who come to campus one day per week will not be required to test routinely.
  • Faculty and staff who come to campus intermittently, on an irregular schedule, will not be required to test routinely
  • If you have tested positive for COVID-19 you will not be required to participate in routine testing for 90 days following your positive test as long as you no longer have symptoms. After the 90 days, testing will resume as scheduled.

Scheduling a COVID-19 Testing Appointment through Healthy Pitzer

To facilitate this process, faculty and staff members who plan to be on campus on a routine basis are asked to schedule themselves for their weekly or twice weekly testing using Healthy Pitzer at www.pitzer.edu/healthypitzer or go to the Pitzer website>Resources>Daily Health screening. You can find instructions for scheduling here: www.pitzer.edu/information-technology/healthy-pitzer-appointment/

This is important to (1) ensure that we know who will be on campus on a given day, (2) facilitate contact tracing and (3) efficiently allocate COVID-19 tests for those who are required to be on campus, who will maintain a regular presence on campus and those members of our community who are symptomatic or believe they have been exposed. If you are unsure of your testing frequency, please contact HHB nurse River Santee at [email protected] or (909) 607-2180.

All routine testing will be done at the Benson Atrium on campus (see map below). Faculty and staff members will receive test results directly from the lab within 24 to 48 hours.

  • If you are on campus two or three days per week, you will be tested once on the earliest day you are on campus. If you are on campus four or more days per week, you will be tested on a Monday-Wednesday or Tuesday-Thursday schedule.
  • Tests will only be performed within scheduled hours; those faculty and staff who fail to get tested as scheduled will be expected to leave campus and to consult with their supervisor and VP on next steps.
  • If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have had a known exposure to a sick patient contact HHB nurse River Santee at [email protected] or (909) 607-2180 (x72180) before going in for your routine testing appointment.
  • Those who test positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by River Santee, who will provide further instructions for quarantine or isolation. River Santee will also initiate contact tracing and will contact those who may have been exposed.
Testing site in Benson

Given the contagious nature of COVID-19, we are asking faculty and staff who are on campus routinely to stick to their approved schedules. Should a schedule change, faculty and staff members will be expected to consult with their supervisor or VP, who will let HR know of the change.

Testing for Employees Who Do Not Fall Under the Policy:
If staff or faculty would like to be tested at our on-campus clinic but do not come to campus frequently enough to fall under our testing policy, they will be allotted one free test per month. They will be charged $75 per test for any additional testing. This applies only to healthy individuals who would like testing for personal reasons. If you are symptomatic or exposed to a positive case this would be a diagnostic test and would be free of charge. As a reminder Pitzer is responsible for the cost of every test, which is currently $75. Testing may also be obtained for free with use of insurance through your healthcare provider.

Testing for Symptomatic or Exposed Staff and Faculty:
Any staff or faculty who have symptoms of COVID-19 or have had a known exposure to a sick patient must contact HHB nurse River Santee at [email protected] or (909) 607-2180 (x72180) as soon as possible. River will provide diagnostic testing for those who meet criteria. Diagnostic testing will be a same day or next day drive-up appointment. The drive-up testing will be located in marked parking spots at Holden parking lot, instructions will be provided before testing.

Outside Testing:
If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or test positive through a non-Pitzer testing site, AND you have been on campus in the fourteen days prior the first day of symptoms, you must immediately report that information to HHB Nurse River Santee at (909) 607-2180 (x72180) or [email protected]. This is required so that we may report to the State of California, as well as our workers’ compensation carrier, per changes in state laws effective January 1.

Testing Family Members/Partners:
Our on-campus clinic is available to family members and partners of Pitzer faculty and staff. If a member of your family needs to be tested, please contact HHB Nurse River Santee at 909) 607-2180 (x72180) or [email protected]. Please note that, effective March 1st, 2021, you will be charged $75.00 for each test for each family member.

Changes in Notification Procedures:
New legal and regulatory mandates will bring new notifications to members of our Pitzer College community if there is an outbreak. California’s Office of Occupational Safety and Health now mandates notice be given within one business day to all employees who occupy an “exposed workplace” when there are multiple COVID-19 infections or outbreaks in a single location. As a result, you may receive notices from the College from time to time as we track COVID-19 cases in our community.

As a reminder:

  • A COVID-19 case is defined as a person who has tested positive, is subject to an order to isolate from a health professional or public health official or who has died from COVID-19.
  • You are at risk for exposure if you were within six feet of the person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more, with or without the use of face coverings, over a 24-hour period, or had unprotected contact with the person’s body fluids and/or secretions (for example being coughed or sneezed on, sharing utensils or saliva) or provided care without using appropriate protective equipment.
  • We will be sending out notices within one business day to faculty and staff who work in a particular workspace in cases of multiple COVID cases in a single location. If contact tracing reveals that you are at risk of exposure, you will be contacted by HHB Nurse River Santee.

Additionally, resources are available for anyone who needs wellbeing assistance:
Employee Assistance Program: The EAP is administered by OptumHealth and is available to benefits-eligible staff and faculty for free counseling support during this stressful period.

You may contact the EAP by calling (800) 234-5465. You can also find information and resources online at www.liveandworkwell.com

COVID-19 Vaccine Update for Students - 04.13.21

April 13, 2021

Dear Students,  

As we continue to plan for a Fall semester return to campus, we are committed to the health and safety of all members of our community. The cherished student and community experience in and out of the classroom, and our shared core value of Social Responsibility, will continue to light our Pitzer Pathway Forward, in our planning. To this end we would like to inform you that all students will need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to campus. Students will be considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after receiving their second dose of a 2-dose vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) or a dose of a single dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson).  By adding COVID-19 vaccination to our student immunization requirements, we will help provide a more robust college experience. The possibility of an exception to this vaccination requirement will be considered only for documented medical conditions or religious exceptions. 

Healthy Pitzer has been established for you to upload completed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued vaccination cards, created in partnership with Student Health Services (SHS). Students arriving from international destinations will also be able to upload vaccination documentation through the Healthy Pitzer App and are strongly encouraged to contact Todd Sasaki ([email protected]) in Study Abroad and International Programs for support.  Guidelines and recommendations are still emerging for students receiving a COVID-19 vaccine abroad that has not been approved by the FDA.

Students living in California who are not vaccinated before arrival to Pitzer will need to get vaccinated upon arrival, comply with weekly (2xs) COVID-19 testing, and will continue until different guidelines are issued by LACDPH. Out-of-state students who are not vaccinated before arriving at Pitzer will need to get vaccinated upon arrival, quarantine for 10 days after arrival, and comply with weekly (2xs) COVID-19 testing.  

If you are unable to obtain access to the vaccine in your local area, SHS may be able to assist upon arrival as vaccines become available. We are uncertain at this time the amount of COVID-19 vaccines available at the start of the Fall semester. Please do not wait to get vaccinated if at all possible. More information on this to come.

Any questions or concerns related to the COVID-19 vaccine can be fielded by Student Health Services: 

  • TCCS COVID-19 FAQs section on COVID-19 vaccines  
  • Nursing phone appointments available by contacting SHS (909) 621-8222 
  • Provider phone appointments also available by contacting SHS (909) 621-8222 
  • 7C.Health provider appointments available via telemedicine 24/7 

We also want to remind students that LA County continues to require the influenza vaccine for all students during flu season, starting around November. The College will assist students in accessing flu vaccines during the fall semester.

We are excited for the moment when we can be together again in community this fall. Thank you for your continued commitment to being “Mindful of Each Other” in our return to campus by proactively setting up your vaccination appointment and reaching out to SHS with any questions. We will continue to update the campus community as new information becomes available and/or if CDC and LACDPH guidance requires any changes to our approach and community expectations. As a reminder, ongoing student support resources can be found on our Spring 2021 Student Success Support Services and Resources Website and our One-Stop Student Support Center.  

Sincerely,  
Sandra Vasquez  
Interim Vice President of Student Affairs  

COVID-19 Vaccination Updates - 03.31.21

March 31, 2021

Dear Students,

As we continue to plan for a return to campus, we want to HIGHLY encourage you to receive a COVID-19 vaccination in your local area, as they become available, PRIOR to arrival at Pitzer this fall. There are many benefits to receiving the vaccination prior to arrival. For example, students who are vaccinated will not need to observe the same quarantine periods if identified as in close contact with someone with COVID-19 and will likely be exempt from regular COVID-19 testing protocols.

As you may know, the COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for Emergency Use Authorization by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is becoming more readily available nationwide. For example:

  • As part of the employees of institutions of higher education, we have learned that student employees who reside in the local area are now eligible to receive that vaccine. They can do so through Student Health Services (SHS) and other local vaccine providers with proof of student employment (such as a W2).
  • In the State of California, all individuals over the age of 16 will become eligible for vaccination starting April 15.
  • And, President Biden has declared that all individuals over the age of 16 will become eligible for vaccination nationwide starting no later than May 1, with most individuals becoming eligible by April 19.
  • Please check with your vaccine provider in advance to confirm the requirements.

Any questions or concerns related to the COVID-19 vaccine can be fielded by Student Health Services (SHS):

  • TCCS COVID-19 FAQs section on COVID vaccines
  • Nursing phone appointments available by contacting SHS (909) 621-8222
  • Provider phone appointments also available by contact SHS (909) 621-8222
  • 7C – Health provider appointments available via telemedicine 24/7

In the near future, students will be informed of their access to our Healthy Pitzer Daily Screening Form. This will allow students who have been fully vaccinated to provide us with confirmation that they have been vaccinated by uploading a copy of their fully completed CDC-issued vaccination card, created in partnership with Student Health Services (SHS).
We hope you will join us in being “Mindful of Each Other” in our return to campus by considering your options to become vaccinated and reaching out to SHS with any questions. And, as new information becomes available, we will continue to update our website.

Sincerely,

Sandra Vasquez
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs

Residence Life & Housing Updates for Fall 2021 - 03.30.21

March 30, 2021

Dear Pitzer Students,  

As stated in President Oliver’s email yesterday and in our February 25th email to the community, we are currently planning a return to full occupancy in our residence halls for fall 2021. We aim to send students regular housing updates in the coming months as we get more information from LA County and from the Claremont Colleges on planning for fall semester. Today’s update will cover move-in dates, food services, tentative housing selection timeline, summer housing options, and a reminder about our open off-campus housing application. We welcome your questions and feedback on these updates as we want them to be informed by student input!  

(As a reminder, these occupancy plans are in process and will respond accordingly to college-wide planning for fall, LA County guidance, and other health and safety protocols. There may be other COVID-19 related safety measures (i.e. masks, social distancing, Mindful of Each Other community agreement expectations, community health ambassadors, etc.) involved in a return to campus that we cannot fully predict at this time.) 

Question: Based on the information below, can I make travel plans back to Pitzer this fall?  

Answer: As this time, due to the fluidity of protocols and LA County’s changing COVID-19 situation, students are encouraged to make flexible travel plans based on the dates and information below. We encourage you to review flight change fees, travel insurance, alternative travel options, etc. in case you need to alter your arrival plans.  

  • Currently LA County requires a 10-day quarantine, even for fully vaccinated individuals. However, we hope that as more data comes in regarding vaccine efficacy, LA County will waive this quarantine restriction for those who are fully vaccinated. We encourage all students to seek COVID-19 vaccination as soon as it is available to them in their local area and to continue monitoring LACDPH guidance. Vaccinated students who are arriving from domestic locations this August should plan to arrive as scheduled.  
  • Conversely, we encourage students arriving this August from international locations to be in close contact with Pitzer International Programs in regards to their travel planning. Students traveling to the United States will be expected to follow travel guidance and it is unknown what travel restrictions will be in place in August. Students arriving from international locations who are living in the residence halls in the fall semester will have the option to register with International Programs/Residence Life to arrive early and complete their quarantine period in campus housing. More information on this process will be communicated to eligible students soon.  

Move-In Information and Dates 

  • Early Arrivals 
    • Student Leaders, Student Athletes, and Students Arriving from International Locations 
      • Some student leaders/athletes may be arriving early according to coordination between supervisors/advisors/coaches and Residence Life. Student Leaders should communicate with their supervisor/advisor/coach for more information. 
    • COVID-19 Vaccine Access Upon Arrival 
      • Wherever possible, we HIGHLY encourage students to receive vaccination in their local area PRIOR to arrival at Pitzer this fall. Any questions related to the vaccination can be fielded by Student Health Services (SHS).  
        • There many benefits to receiving the vaccination prior to arrival. For example, students who are vaccinated will not need to observe the same quarantine periods if identified as a close contact to someone with COVID-19 and will likely to be exempt from regular COVID-19 testing protocols.  
    • Students arriving to campus who have not had the opportunity to receive a COVID-19 vaccination yet will be able to coordinate with Student Affairs, Residence Life, and Student Health Services to receive their vaccination upon arrival and enter into our regular COVID-19 testing process.  
    • Details on this are TBD, but we do know that SHS has been approved as a vaccine distribution site and plans to provide vaccine access to students this fall, subject to vaccine availability and allocation.  
  • Orientation Move-In Dates and Details  
    • New Student Orientation Move-In (new students enrolling in Fall 2021) 
      • Saturday, Aug 21, 2021 
      • Students will sign-up for individual move-in times this summer after final room selection. Please plan to arrive between 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and account for this when coordinating travel details. 
    • Returning Student Orientation Move-in (current new students that enrolled during Fall 2020 or Spring 2021) 
  • Returning Student Move-In 
    • Saturday, August 28 & Sunday, August 29, 2021 
    • Students will sign up for individual move-in times this summer after final room selection. Please plan to arrive between 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and account for this when coordinating travel details. 
  • First Day of Class 
    • Monday, August 30, 2021 

Food Services in Fall 2021 

  • We wanted to be sure to share some updates to our food service operations as we know them now.  These updates are based on current LACDPH requirements, and as the LACDPH food service restrictions lessen, current dining hall and café modifications will be re-evaluated so that we can pivot to provide currently restricted services, such as indoor dining, when deemed safe and allowable to do so. 
  • Food Service Options 
    • 5Cs food service venues: Pitzer students will not have access to the other Claremont Colleges’ dining halls/cafes (and conversely, other Claremont Colleges students won’t have access to Pitzer dining hall/cafes, etc.).  
    • Venues: McConnell Dining Hall, the Pit Stop Cafe and the Shakedown Café will be open for served or grab-and-go food, with options for dietary needs. And, to accommodate social distancing requirements and student schedules, extended hours will be offered. Additionally, minor remodel changes will expedite food service.  
    • As noted above, only outdoor eating will be available, with additional furniture provided in several locations across campus and near the food service venues.  
    • Students who choose to live with us through Pitzer@CCA will, due to the modifications above, have several options: be completely off the meal plan (for this year only) or be on a 5,12 or 16 meal plan.  
  • Our Food Services Working Group continues to actively meet and consider community input. Student ongoing input is welcome and can be sent to the Student Senate appointed student reps on the Food Services Working Group:  
    • Kaila Teague, Milena Passage, Mya Bolden, Z Slade-Bridges, Aman Ahmed, and Becca Zimmerman. 

Student Housing Selection Updates  The Housing Selection process is facilitated entirely online using our Residence software system. As such, the Housing Selection has three main phases: 

  1. Apply 
  2. Roommate Groups and Explore Rooms 
  3. Select Rooms 

Detailed notes and screen shots of each phase, and all prior Housing Selection Updates can be found on our Housing Selection Website. Students are encouraged to reach out to [email protected] with any questions in regards to the Housing Selection process. 

Housing Selection Application Timeline 

Application ProcessApplication Open/ClosesApplication Review & ApprovalRoommate Group & Explore RoomsSelect Rooms/Room Assignment
Off Campus HousingFeb. 24 – April 22Rolling until April 22N/AN/A
Room Accommodation due to a Disability (RADA)April 23 – May 3May 6N/ATBD – June/July, after LA County guidance
General Returning Student Housing Selection (including Sophomore Community)April 30 – May 10May 17TBD – June/July, after LA County guidanceTBD – June/July, after LA County guidance
  • Off Campus Housing – Applications now open  
    • Apply online using our Residence software system. 
    • We encourage anyone interested in Off-Campus Housing to review our Off-Campus Guide and consider attending our upcoming Off-Campus Student Forum to hear from other students about their experience living locally in Claremont.  
    • Off Campus Applications are reviewed before the Campus Housing Selection process begins. If you are interested in living off campus, please review our Off Campus Housing Priority criteria, outlined on the Housing Selection Website.  
    • Applicants are prioritized according to our Off-Campus priority guide as well as the date/time they applied.  
    • Students must apply and be approved to live off-campus BEFORE they sign a lease for off-campus housing. 
  • Housing and Meal Plan Rates 
  • Storage Items from March 2020 Campus Closure  
    • Graduates – Recent (since Spring 2020) and upcoming (Spring 2021) graduates, who still have storage items on campus are encouraged to reach out to Residence Life to coordinate a plan for their items. 
    • Returning Students – Items still on campus will be moved to Fall 2021 room assignments prior to arrival. Students living off-campus in the Fall semester will have the opportunity to pick-up their items on-campus upon arrival. More details on this process will be sent this summer.  
  • Summer Housing Options 
  • Next Steps 
    • Future Housing Selection Update Topics 
      • Bed Availability – Once all applications have closed and been reviewed, the number of applications will be audited and compared to beds available. If there are more campus housing applications than beds available, excess applications (ex: those who did not apply by the deadline) will be placed into off-campus status or placed on the double deferred housing list to be assigned as space allows. 
        • NOTE: Some CCA rooms may be converted from single to double occupancy to allow for more occupancy in campus housing.  
      • WES Availability – Depending on Sophomore Year Experience applications, an update on available beds will be provided so Juniors/Seniors know how many spaces may be available for selection.  
    • Sophomore Roommate/Suitemate Search Processes  
      • Since our rising Sophomores have not been able to reside on-campus this academic year, we are increasing our efforts to help these students get to know our residence halls and connect with potential roommates/suitemates.  
        • April 26-30: Sophomore Year Experience (SYE) & Housing Prep Week 
          • Some initiatives may include: Tour of WES, meeting roommates/suitemates, “How to” Housing Selection presentations, identity group sessions on the importance of selecting roommates/suitemates, etc.  
        • July 19 – August: Roommate/Suitemate Conversation Topics  
          • Room assignments will be posted and ResLife staff will lead opportunities for pre-arrival roommate/suitemate conversation topics.  
  • Other Fall 2021 Planning  
    • Much about fall semester remains to be determined including COVID-19 related health and safety measures on-campus (I.e. social distancing, face coverings, guests, gatherings, vaccine guidelines, etc.), Forming Roommate groups, Individual Selection times, and Final Selection timelines.  We encourage students to stay tuned to their email for updates as we have them as well as for input and open forum opportunities as we have them.  

As always, we look forward to our return to campus and we appreciate everyone’s patience throughout the process. As questions emerge, please reach out!  

Our best, 
Residence Life 

Kirsten and Josh  

Josh Scacco, M.Ed. (He/Him/His) 
Associate Director of Residence Life 

Kirsten Carrier, M.S. (she/her/hers) 
Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life and Conference Services 

Fall 2021 Plans from President Oliver - 03.29.21

Monday, March 29, 2021

Dear Pitzer Community,

I am pleased to report that we are planning for in-person instruction and residential living on campus at Pitzer this fall. The first day of classes will be August 30, 2021. More information on the academic calendar and other important dates will be shared soon.

Our planning takes into account that vaccine availability will be expanded to all members of our community over the next few months, that infection rates continue to decline and that public health authorities ease the current restrictions in place for our region. Your health and safety will continue to be our top priority in every circumstance and scenario.

As I mentioned in my message of March 8, Student Health Services (SHS) of The Claremont Colleges was approved as a COVID-19 vaccination site. I am so pleased to report the SHS has administered more than 500 doses to eligible faculty, staff, students, and the local community. All this done in only the past few weeks. SHS is prepared to continue to provide vaccinations throughout the spring and summer as we bring students back to campus in Claremont.

Continually updated information on Pitzer’s plans and COVID-19 can be found here. Information on student housing for the fall semester will be shared in the next few days, as will other important information and dates regarding move-in and orientation for new students.

New students can also access the Admission portal where they can find details on admitted student events, orientation, medical insurance, and more. All students should continue to keep an eye out for emails and information shared via social media about fall semester plans and dates.

The Pitzer Community is resilient, resourceful, and determined. I am so proud of our collective efforts to educate, care for, and sustain each other over the past year. I look forward to being together in person, this fall. Until then, continue to remain careful – wear masks, social distance, and please vaccinate as soon as you are eligible.

Provida Futuri,

Melvin L. Oliver
President

Commencement Update, Class of 2020 - 03.15.21

March 15, 2021

Dear Class of 2020,

Hello from Claremont CA where, yes, it actually rained recently! I truly hope this message finds you navigating these times well and discovering many silver linings in spite of the challenges we are all facing. In my last letter to you, I indicated that we would make a decision on your Commencement Ceremony by March 15th. So I write to let you know how we plan to proceed.

I am sure most of you have been following how we are doing in Los Angeles County and see that while significant progress has been made with the health metrics here, we are still not yet allowed to host a large public event. In a recent conference call with public health officials, it was also not yet clear when that circumstance would change but we do know it will not be in the immediate future and when it does, there will be limits on how many can attend and out-of-state guests would not be allowed.

As a result, we have decided to not plan for an in-person Commencement Ceremony for you in May. We realize this will again be a disappointment for you, your family and your friends and we are sorry to have to make this decision. It is a great disappointment to us as well and frustrating that the pandemic has again intruded on our lives. We continue to be guided by the feedback you all provided last semester which clearly indicated your preference to wait to have an in-person ceremony rather than a more immediate remote one.

We hold out hope and have confidence that as we get into the new academic year, the public health situation will be much improved and it will become more than feasible to hold your ceremony in the upcoming year. Of course, that cannot be guaranteed but especially as the vaccination rollout continues, we become more hopeful of our ability to see you in-person walk across the graduation stage on our Pitzer campus in the not-too-distant future. Look for an update later this spring or early summer and opportunities to provide us with ideas and feedback for your ceremony. Until then, if you have any questions or thoughts to share, please feel free to send them to [email protected].

As you know, I am completing my service to Pitzer in May, however, I have promised your class leadership that I will return to campus for your ceremony so this is not yet good-bye but, rather, see you soon!

Take Care,

Mike Segawa
VP for Student Affairs

Commencement Update, Class of 2021 - 03.15.21

March 15, 2021

Dear Class of 2021,

We hope this message finds you well and continuing to find healthy ways to navigate these extraordinary times. The past year has certainly tested us all. This isn’t how any of us imagined your last semester at Pitzer unfolding but we hope that your spring semester has been a positive one.

The scope of the pandemic has changed drastically since we departed campus last March. Since then the Commencement committee has held several meetings and the plans for Commencement have evolved almost weekly. We write now to share our most recent thoughts on celebrating your Commencement. 

While most of the health metrics in Los Angeles County and our country are headed in a healthier direction, they are still above the standards needed to hold a large public gathering. We still remain in a precarious public health environment. We are also very aware that you and your families need as much advance notice as we can responsibly provide.

With all this in mind we have decided, much to our deep disappointment, that holding an in-person Commencement ceremony on May 15th is not in the best interest of the health and safety of our community and the surrounding area. Even the most optimistic health metrics forecasts would severely limit the kind of in-person ceremony we could hold (less than full capacity and no out-of-state guests).

We will now shift our energies to the creation of a thoughtful, touching, and uplifting virtual ceremony to be held on May 15th. There will be pomp and circumstance as well as a good dose of fun! This is the preferred plan for over 67% of the class who participated in our recent poll.

We remain committed to providing an in-person gathering of the Class of 2021 sometime in the not-too-distant future but we want to be sure that we acknowledge your accomplishments at the end of this semester. Your journey to graduation has been incredibly challenging and you have had to forego or delay too many traditions in your senior year. We did not want to delay the most meaningful tradition, your Commencement ceremony.

Sometime in the next couple of weeks, we will be providing you with more details on this virtual event. In the meantime, if you have any specific suggestions, questions or concerns, please email [email protected]. Information for the class of 2021 is also available at www.pitzer.edu/commencement

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we plan to celebrate your achievements. As with all things pandemic, this is an unprecedented challenge we are tackling but we remain excited and hopeful about the possibilities for recognizing our (almost!) Pitzer graduates. 

Best Wishes,
Mike Segawa
Chair, Commencement Planning Committee

Community Update from President Oliver - 03.08.21

March 8, 2021

Dear Pitzer Community,

I hope this message finds everyone well as Spring Break begins. While we take some time to recharge, I’m sure many of us are also taking time to reflect that March marks one year since we moved from an on-campus learning experience to a virtual one, a year since the world seemed to stop in its tracks.

When I wrote to you on March 11, 2020, to explain our plans for closing campus and transitioning to online learning, I said I was confident that, with your support, we would meet the extraordinary challenges of the coming days and months. Today, I write to say thank you—the magnitude of both your support and the challenges surpassed anything I could have imagined that day.

Thank you to the students, from those who have had their college lives upended for more than one academic year to first-year students who have never studied on the Mounds. Thank you to the faculty who had to learn how to teach and reach students through a camera instead of in a classroom. Thank you to the staff who have worked round the clock to protect the health of our community and keep the College running remotely.

Along with my gratitude, I would like to share some updates today regarding Pitzer’s response to the pandemic and plans. As I mentioned in an earlier message, Pitzer will remain remote for the entire spring 2021 semester following Los Angeles County Department of Public Health guidance. The College continues to plan for a safe return to on-campus living and in-person learning in the fall.

Student Health Services (SHS) has received approval to dispense COVID-19 vaccines. We do not know yet when SHS will receive a supply of vaccines but will share this information once it is available.

We began on-site testing of employees recently, and more information for faculty and staff who regularly come to campus to work is available here. Higher education employees in California are now eligible to be vaccinated. I encourage everyone in our campus community to get vaccinated as soon as they are eligible and able to schedule an appointment.

I also want to let you know that a committee of students, faculty, and staff has been meeting regularly regarding plans for Commencement. Conversations about graduation ceremonies and celebrations for both the classes of 2020 and 2021 continue. Plans for these will be announced soon.

In closing, let me say thank you again. It will take years to fully understand this past year. We know there has been untold hardship, loss, and pain. We also know we can feel enormous pride about what we have accomplished at Pitzer over these past 12 months. We were mindful of the future and of each other. The College supported students facing housing insecurity, adjusted course-load requirements, provided room-and-board refunds without adjusting financial aid, and avoided pandemic-related layoffs and furloughs. And although we’ve all been tapped out, we didn’t tap out, we kept showing up. This community held more than 35,000 Zoom meetings and hosted more than 75 webinar events. I know that too took a toll.

I appreciate everyone’s patience and persistence as we continue to work toward being together on our beautiful campus. You have helped sustain this very special community in perhaps its most extraordinary time, and I am grateful.

Best wishes for a restorative break and a successful conclusion to the spring semester.

Provida Futuri,
Melvin L. Oliver President

Housing Selection Update for Fall 2021 - 02.25.21

February 25, 2021

Dear Pitzer Students,  

With the optimistic news of increased vaccine access nationwide, we are currently planning a return to full occupancy in our campus housing for Fall 2021. We very much look forward to having our residence halls once again (safely) filled with our wonderful Pitzer students! From meeting virtual friends in-person for the first time and reconnecting with past roommates to enjoying Pasta Bar and repainting the Free Wall, we have much to look forward to as we reunite our community after these many months away from campus.  

As a reminder, these occupancy plans are in process and will respond accordingly to college-wide planning for fall, LA County guidance, and other health and safety protocols. There will be other COVID-19 related safety measures (i.e. masks, social distancing, Mindful of Each Other community agreement expectations, community health ambassadors, etc.) involved in a return to campus that we cannot fully predict at this time.  

To assist in student housing planning for the fall, in particular for those students who typically lease off-campus in the fall, we felt it was important to start painting a picture of our fall housing process. 

Changes for Fall 2021 to Housing Selection 

  • First-Year Experience (FYE) 
    • As is tradition, our Pitzer, Sanborn and Atherton (PAS) Halls will be used for the entering class.  
    • Considering the size of our incoming first-year class, some of these students will also live in Skandera Hall, which is typically within the West, East, and Skandera (WES) complex, but is located immediately adjacent to PAS.  
  • Sophomore Year Experience (SYE) 
    • We are eager to welcome the rising sophomore class to their first semester on campus!  
    • Since the sophomore class missed out on a first-year residential experience, we will be offering an opt-in “Sophomore Year Experience Community” this coming year in West, East, and Skandera halls.  
    • Sophomores looking to opt-out of the SYE can choose to live and select housing with Juniors and Seniors, or apply for Off-Campus approval.  
    • All sophomores in the SYE will be able to select their own suitemates/roommates, explore new roommates/suitemates via our software system, or sign-up to be placed with another sophomore who is also interested in the assigned roommate experience.  
  • Off-Campus Housing 
    • Typically about 40% of Seniors, 30% of Juniors, and 10% of Sophomores live off-campus. 
    • Sophomores,  Juniors, and Seniors are welcome to begin applying to live off-campus in the local Claremont area. Students must apply and be approved to live off-campus each year to be released from the live-on requirement.  
    • Seniors will be automatically approved for off-campus status upon applying. Juniors and Sophomores will be approved based upon review following our usual guidelines, more information at the Housing Selection website. 
    • Students considering applying for off-campus housing should review the Off-Campus Housing Guide
  • Campus Housing Selection 
    • Sophomores that decide to opt-out of the SYE can group with Juniors and Seniors.  
    • Individual housing selection times will be provided based on Class year, with Seniors prioritized. The best Individual Selection Time in a group becomes the Group Selection Time. The housing selection application is not yet available will be announced.  
    • Most of Mead Hall and the Claremont Collegiate Apartments (CCA) will be available for upper-class students seeking to live in campus housing. Any WES spaces still open after RADA, FYE, and SYE selection will also be available.  These halls host the majority of our singles and offer unique suite sizes: 
    • WES – Double and single rooms  
      • Any spaces still available after Room Accommodations for Disabilities, FYE and SYE housing processes.  
    • CCA – combination double and single rooms in apartment-style living  
      • 2 bed, 1 bath w/kitchen 
      • 2 bed, 2 bath w/kitchen  
      • 3 bed, 2 bath w/kitchen 
    • Mead – combination double and single rooms 
      • 8 person suites 
      • 7 person suites 
      • 4 person suites 
  • Class-Year Identity 
    • We want to acknowledge that many students may feel they aren’t sure what “class-year” they belong to this fall given defers and leave of absences from this virtual academic year. We will allow students to assist us in self-identifying if they feel they should belong to a certain class that they, by credit, don’t officially fall into.  
  • Universal Room Rate 
    • As a reminder, all campus housing rooms, whether they are a single, double, apartment, suite, etc., will be billed at a universal room rate. Main campus single rooms are only accessible to students with documented disability accommodations, as well as Seniors and Juniors.  
  • Financial Aid Cost of Attendance (COA) 
    • Students on financial aid are encouraged to review the updated Cost of Attendance (COA) calculation regarding how students’ financial aid packages change depending on their selection of campus housing, off-campus housing, or living at home with relatives.  
    • More information can be found on the Financial Aid website.   
  • Room Accommodations for Disabilities Application (RADA) 
    • Students seeking to apply for a Room Accommodation for Disabilities (RADA) will be able to complete a separate RADA form on Residence before the Sophomore and Junior/Senior selection processes (timeline TBA).  
    • Due to the potential strain on medical systems as a result of the ongoing pandemic, we highly encourage students seeking to apply for accommodations to begin communication with their medical provider to gain proper documentation. Documentation standards can be found here. More information on Housing Accommodations can be found Here.  

General Housing Selection Information   The Housing Selection process is facilitated entirely online using our Residence software system. As such, the Housing Selection has three main steps: 

  1. Apply 
  2. Roommate Groups and Explore Rooms 
  3. Select Rooms 

Detailed notes and screen shots of each phase can be found on our Housing Selection Website. Students are encouraged to reach out to [email protected] with any questions in regards to the Housing Selection process. 

Application Timeline 

  • Off-Campus Applications – OPEN NOW on Residence 
    • Off Campus Applications are reviewed before the Campus Housing Selection process begins. If you are interested in living off campus, please review our Off Campus Housing Priority criteria, outlined on the Housing Selection Website.  
    • These applications are open on a rolling basis for now, with a deadline TBD. Applicants are prioritized according to our Off-Campus priority guide as well as the date/time they applied.  
    • Students must apply and be approved to live off-campus BEFORE they sign a lease for off-campus housing.  
  • Campus Housing Selection – DATES TBD 
    • The Housing Selection timeline will be impacted by health and safety standards dictated by local health officials. We aim to facilitate the Fall 2021 housing selection process only once. So, while the Campus Housing application typically goes live at the end of February, we will be delaying the application until more Fall 2021 details are confirmed. 
    • We aim to open the Campus Housing application during the Spring 2021 semester, but will likely delay students’ selection of rooms until Summer 2021.  

Other Fall 2021 Planning  

Much about fall semester remains to be determined including move-in dates and logistics, Orientation  program plans for incoming first-years and rising sophomores, COVID-19 related health and safety measures on-campus (I.e. social distancing, face coverings, guests, gatherings, etc.), and more. We encourage students to stay tuned to their email for updates as we have them as well as for input and open forum opportunities as we have them.  

We remain optimistic about the potential of a modified fall return to campus and will do our best to communicate updates as we have them. We appreciate everyone’s patience throughout the process. As questions emerge, please reach out!  

Our best, 
Residence Life 
Kirsten Carrier and Josh  

Kirsten Carrier, M.S. (she/her/hers)
Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life and Conference Services

Josh Scacco, M.Ed. (He/Him/His)
Associate Director of Residence Life

Faculty and Staff Testing Policy - 02.24.21

For the current polices visit Pathway Forward. This information is available for reference only.

February 24, 2021

Beginning March 1st, 2021, faculty and staff who come to campus on a regular basis will be required to be tested for COVID-19 on a routine basis as a condition of their presence on campus.

The College will use the following methodology to govern COVID-19 testing:

  • Faculty and staff who come to campus two or three days per week will be required to test once per week. 
  • Faculty and staff who come to campus four or more days per week or live on campus will be required to test twice per week. 
  • Faculty and staff who come to campus one day per week will not be required to test routinely.
  • Faculty and staff who come to campus intermittently, on an irregular schedule, will not be required to test routinely
  • At this stage vaccinated individuals will continue to be tested routinely. This may change as more research becomes available regarding effectiveness of the vaccine in reducing transmission of the virus from vaccinated individuals to others. 
  • If you have tested positive for COVID-19 you will not be required to participate in routine testing for 90 days following your positive test as long as you no longer have symptoms. After the 90 days testing will resume as scheduled. 

To facilitate this process, faculty and staff members who plan to be on campus on a routine basis are asked to schedule themselves for their weekly or twice weekly testing using Healthy Pitzer at https://www.pitzer.edu/healthypitzer or go to the Pitzer website>Resources>Daily Health screening.  You can find instructions for scheduling here: https://www.pitzer.edu/information-technology/healthy-pitzer-appointment/

This is important to (1) ensure that we know who will be on campus on a given day, (2) facilitate contact tracing and (3) efficiently allocate COVID-19 tests for those who are required to be on campus, who will maintain a regular presence on campus and those members of our community who are symptomatic or believe they have been exposed.

If you are unsure of your testing frequency, please contact HHB nurse River Santee at [email protected] or (909) 607-2180.

All routine testing will be done at the Benson Atrium on campus (see map). Faculty and staff members will receive test results directly from the lab within 24 to 48 hours.

  • If you are on campus two or three days per week, you will be tested once on the earliest day you are on campus. If you are on campus four or more days per week, you will be tested on a Monday-Wednesday or Tuesday-Thursday schedule.
  • Tests will only be performed within scheduled hours; those faculty and staff who fail to get tested as scheduled will be expected to leave campus and to consult with their supervisor and VP on next steps.
  • If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have had a known exposure to a sick patient contact HHB nurse River Santee at [email protected] or (909) 607-2180 (x72180) before going in for your routine testing appointment. 
  • Those who test positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by River Santee, who will provide further instructions for quarantine or isolation. River Santee will also initiate contact tracing and will contact those who may have been exposed.

Given the contagious nature of COVID-19, we are asking faculty and staff who are on campus routinely to stick to their approved schedules. Should a schedule change, faculty and staff members will be expected to consult with their supervisor or VP, who will let HR know of the change.

Testing for Employees Who Do Not Fall Under the Policy:
If staff or faculty would like to be tested at our on-campus clinic but do not come to campus frequently enough to fall under our testing policy, they will be allotted one free test per month.  They will be charged $75 per test for any additional testing. This applies only to healthy individuals who would like testing for personal reasons. If you are symptomatic or exposed to a positive case this would be a diagnostic test and would be free of charge. As a reminder Pitzer is responsible for the cost of every test, which is currently $75. Testing may also be obtained for free with use of insurance through your healthcare provider.

Testing for Symptomatic or Exposed Staff and Faculty:  
Any staff or faculty who have symptoms of COVID-19 or have had a known exposure to a sick patient must contact HHB nurse River Santee at [email protected] or (909) 607-2180 (x72180) as soon as possible.  

River will provide diagnostic testing for those who meet criteria.  Diagnostic testing will be a same day or next day drive-up appointment.  The drive-up testing will be located in marked parking spots at Holden parking lot, instructions will be provided before testing. 

Outside Testing:
If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or test positive through a non-Pitzer testing site, AND you have been on campus in the fourteen days prior to the first day of symptoms, you must immediately report that information to HHB Nurse River Santee at (909) 607-2180 (x72180) or [email protected]. This is required so that we may report to the State of California, as well as our workers’ compensation carrier, per changes in state laws effective Jan.1.

Testing Family Members/Partners:
Our on-campus clinic is available to family members and partners of Pitzer faculty and staff. If a member of your family needs to be tested, please contact HHB Nurse River Santee at 909) 607-2180 (x72180) or [email protected]. Please note that, effective March 1st, 2021, you will be charged $75.00 for each test for each family member. 

Changes in Notification Procedures:
New legal and regulatory mandates will bring new notifications to members of our Pitzer College community if there is an outbreak. California’s Office of Occupational Safety and Health now mandates notice be given within one business day to all employees who occupy an “exposed workplace” when there are multiple COVID-19 infections or outbreaks in a single location. As a result, you may receive notices from the College from time to time as we track COVID-19 cases in our community.

As a reminder:

  • A COVID-19 case is defined as a person who has tested positive, is subject to an order to isolate from a health professional or public health official or who has died from COVID-19.
  • You are at risk for exposure if you were within six feet of the person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more, with or without the use of face coverings, over a 24-hour period, or had unprotected contact with the person’s body fluids and/or secretions (for example being coughed or sneezed on, sharing utensils or saliva) or provided care without using appropriate protective equipment.
  • We will be sending out notices within one business day to faculty and staff who work in a particular workspace in cases of multiple COVID cases in a single location. If contact tracing reveals that you are at risk of exposure, you will be contacted by HHB Nurse River Santee.
Benson Atrium Map

Laura A. Troendle, CPA, MBA
VP, Chief Operating Officer, and Treasurer

Updates to COVID-19 Procedures - 02.12.21

February 12, 2021

Dear Pitzer Community;

As the pandemic continues, we remain focused on the health and safety of everyone in our community. As such, we have further developed the processes and protocols for visiting and working on campus this semester in conjunction with medical services by Hamilton Health Box.  As of January, Pitzer has contracted with Hamilton Healthbox, medical provider, to assist with pandemic related needs for the campus with a focus on employees. Our new, full-time Hamilton Health Box nurse, River Santee, is now on campus in West Hall Q222 and can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone, 909-607-2180. We are excited to have River working with us and welcome her to Pitzer! River will be our employees’ first point of contact for covid related concerns going forward.

There are some changes to procedures for faculty and staff who are working on campus:

BEFORE YOU COME TO CAMPUS NEXT:

  1. REQUIRED: Complete state mandated Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Training.  Click here to access the Training online.  This is an interactive training video that will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.  Once you have completed the training, email your certificate of completion to [email protected]
  1. Cal/OSHA also requires employers to adopt a COVID-19 Prevention Plan (CPP), which includes training for all employees who are working on site.  You can view Pitzer’s CPP plan here.  
  1. Please review the most current update of the Workplace Health and Safety Protocols, available here.

EACH TIME YOU COME TO CAMPUS:

Complete the Health Screening Survey.  The platform for this form will be changing to our Healthy Pitzer tool (Qualtrics), beginning this Monday (February 15, 2021).  Located at www.pitzer.edu/healthypitzer

You can also access this form by:

  • Using the link on Pitzer’s main website under Resources > Daily Screening Form
  • Adding this link to your mobile phone
  • Scanning the QR code on the signage outside campus buildings (note: existing QR codes on entryways have been reconfigured to point to the new platform.)
  • Using the iPad Kiosk near the timeclock in McConnell Basement Timeclock (for those without smart phones or computer access)

For more instructions on how to use the new form, please visit:  https://www.pitzer.edu/information-technology/covid-19/

THE FIRST TIME YOU SIGN ON TO HEALTHY PITZER:

The first time you use the new screening tool, you will be asked to sign five documents (this only is needed once a year). 

  1. Return to Campus Acknowledgement Form – this form details Pitzer’s expectations for COVID-19 exposure management practices (wearing a mask, washing hands, etc.) and compliance with testing, contact tracing, and isolation and quarantine requirements, as applicable.
  2. Confidentiality of Medical Information consent form – California law requires consent for Hamilton Health Box (HHB) to share COVID-19 information with Pitzer.
  3. HIPAA Consent Form – The Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) also requires consent for HHB to share COVID-19 information with Pitzer. Note:  “COVID-19 Information” is described in the Healthy Pitzer app.
  4. HHB Privacy Practices Acknowledgment – this form describes HHB’s information privacy practices and your rights with respect to that information.
  5. HHB Specimen Collection and COVID-19 Testing Consent – this form authorizes HHB to conduct COVID-19 testing and, if needed, engage with you in the contact tracing process and other follow-up measures as indicated by the test results.

Once signed in to Healthy Pitzer, after you complete consents, this platform gives access to the health screening survey form, this platform will allow you to manage your personal COVID-19 data; including (eventually) scheduling on-campus testing, receiving test results, and communication/reminders about testing. 

WHAT TO EXPECT NEXT:

Our HHB nurse, River Santee, will begin a pilot of 11 staff to begin testing the week of February 15, 2021. By month end, we will be implementing a screening testing plan for all other employees coming to or living on campus.

For technical guidance on using the new Pitzer Healthy platform or completing your Cal/OSHA Training, please contact our Pitzer Help Desk ([email protected]). For questions about consent, policies, protocols, and expectations, please contact Human Resources ([email protected]).  For COVID-specific medical concerns, contact River Santee at [email protected].

Thank you all for your ongoing patience and resilience at this hard time.  Be well, Laura

Laura A. Troendle
Vice President for Finance, Administration and Treasurer

Information About Spring Semester and Summer - 02.03.21

Dear Pitzer Students:

Welcome back for spring semester 2021! Although the semester has just begun, I write to call your attention to information and deadlines that may impact your plans for the remainder of the academic year, including this summer.

  1. First, students who plan to select the 3+1 enrollment option for this semester (enrolling in 3.0 credits for spring and 1.0 credits in Pitzer’s Summer Session), must make that selection by this Friday, February 5, 2021. This new option is only available for spring enrollment of 3.0 credits and 1 summer class. Instructions for selecting this option and FAQs about it are available at:
    www.pitzer.edu/dean-of-faculty/office-of-the-dean-of-faculty/faq-3-1-enrollment-option/
  2. Second, as you are probably aware, the undergraduate Claremont Colleges have adopted a spring semester schedule that includes contiguous days of spring break from March 8-12, 2021. The final day of classes for all students is May 7, 2021, and final exams for all students take place May 10-14, 2021. The academic calendar can be found at:
    www.pitzer.edu/registrar/academic-calendar/
  3. Third, I want to inform you that the Pitzer faculty recently amended the modification to the transfer credit policy for this year.  Specifically, students are allowed to transfer up to a total of 2.0 Pitzer credits from an institution of higher education for coursework completed during the entire 2020-2021 academic year, including summer 2021. The procedures for obtaining approvals for transfer credits and the overall transfer credit limit are unchanged.  For more information on transfer credits:  
    pitzer.catalog.acalog.com/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=1152#Transfer%20Credits
  4. Finally, I am pleased to provide information on Pitzer’s Summer Session. Pitzer College will once again offer a Summer Session that includes a wide range of class offerings and at a discounted tuition price. The session is scheduled for May 24-July 2, 2021 and the courses will be offered online.  See the links below for additional information on this year’s Summer Session:   
    www.pitzer.edu/summer/
    www.pitzer.edu/dean-of-faculty/office-of-the-dean-of-faculty/faq-3-1-enrollment-option/

Allen Omoto
Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty

Spring Welcome and Update from President Oliver - 01.26.21

January 26, 2021

Dear Pitzer Community,

A warm welcome to the Spring 2021 semester at Pitzer College. I hope that you are well-rested and energized to take advantage of the many educational and co-curricular opportunities that will be offered this spring. In addition to our continuing students from the fall, please help me welcome our new students to the Pitzer community.

I want to update you on the current status of higher education residential, congregate living in Los Angeles County. On Friday, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) held a briefing for institutes of higher education in the region. They announced that, due to the significant number of coronavirus cases and the strain on the healthcare system in the county, they do not anticipate permitting students to live on college campuses in the next few months. The possibility of allowing some schools to bring a limited number of students to campus later in the spring that I referenced in my message of December 10 is on hold at this time.

LACDPH has placed college and university residential programs on hold – seemingly for the entire spring semester. Given this, and our continuing concern for the health and safety of students, staff and faculty, Pitzer will remain virtual for the entire Spring 2021 semester. This is a difficult decision but we need to move beyond the uncertainty of the end stages of this pandemic and turn our attention to the fall.

We are eagerly looking forward to the Fall 2021 semester, for which we are planning to have everyone back on campus – a campus that will be fully functioning. Pitzer’s COVID-19 Task Force met last week and will convene regularly in the coming months. And, as I stated previously, we are working closely with Student Health Services and have contracted for additional on-site medical advice and support. We are all disappointed that the pandemic conditions continue to keep us physically separated, but I remain impressed and inspired by the dedication of our entire community to making the virtual environment the absolute best it can be.

We understand that an entire online semester can be challenging, so the College has offered students the option of taking three courses this spring and one in the summer to help provide some relief. And, students are encouraged to read the Dean of Students Newsletter, which includes information about support services and resources.

I know we all look forward to some sense of normalcy in the not-too-distant future as new therapies are implemented and vaccinations become more widespread, including here at the Claremont Colleges. Until then, I urge you to take care of yourself and be mindful of one another.

Be on the lookout for the many programs and opportunities available this semester, including:

I appreciate everyone’s patience and persistence as we work toward being together on our beautiful campus as soon as safely possible.

Best wishes to all for a successful spring semester.

Provida Futuri,
Melvin L. Oliver President

Update to the Academic Calendar for the Undergraduate Colleges, Spring 2021 - 12.11.20

This post has been archived. The information below may be outdated.

December 11, 2020

In response to the accelerating numbers of coronavirus cases in the region, all five of the undergraduate Claremont Colleges have announced that they will not be able to return students to residences on campus as hoped for at the start of spring semester.

In light of this development, the academic deans have revised the previously announced spring semester calendar so that it will now contain a contiguous week-long spring break. With the change to a five-day break, the last day of classes will be on Friday, May 7. The revised spring semester calendar, outlined below, includes the following key dates:

  • January 25: Academic term begins
  • February 5: Last day to add full semester courses
  • March 8 – 12: Spring break
  • March 18 Last day to drop full semester courses
  • March 26: Cesar Chavez Day (campus holiday)
  • May 7: Final day of classes
  • May 10 – 14: Final exams for all students including seniors
  • May 20: All grades due by noon
  • May 25: Grades visible to students on the portal

The updated academic calendar for spring semester, including campus-specific deadlines, will be available shortly on the Registrar’s website.

This calendar has been adopted by all of the undergraduate colleges—CMC, HMC, Pitzer, Pomona, and Scripps. Claremont Graduate University and Keck Graduate Institute will preserve their previously published catalogues and work with any undergraduate students enrolled in their courses around differences between undergraduate and graduate schedules.
We appreciate your continued understanding and flexibility as we move forward together into spring.

Allen M. Omoto, PhD
Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dean of Faculty
Pitzer College

Spring Semester Update from President Oliver - 12.10.20

This post has been archived. The information below may be outdated.

December 10, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community,

I write to provide the latest information on Pitzer’s plans for the spring semester as they relate to the current public health situation.

Los Angeles County is experiencing an unprecedented increase in COVID-19 cases that is expected to continue well into January, if not later. Hospitalizations and deaths due to the coronavirus, both locally and nationally, have reached staggering levels this week. More than 10,000 daily cases were reported in the county on December 6, and the state recently issued a stay-at-home order for Southern California.

As I indicated in my message of November 24, and reiterated in my comments at the College Council meeting on December 3, given the ongoing grim public health outlook for the next few months Pitzer, along with the other undergraduate Claremont Colleges, will begin the spring 2021 semester online. Starting the semester remotely is the safest and most prudent action at this time.

We persist in our efforts to safely bring students to campus at some point during the spring semester. The College will continue to work with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) to investigate the possibility of returning a limited number of students to campus with appropriate protocols in place at some point in the spring semester. While the details and timing of this scenario have yet to be announced, LACDPH has indicated that it will only consider this possibility if the county’s adjusted coronavirus case count drops to a much lower level (10 in 100,000 people) for two consecutive weeks and a “bubble” is created and maintained on campus.

We have been working closely with Student Health Services and contracted with an outside vendor to provide on-site medical advice and support, including regular testing and other necessary health and wellness services that will permit students to live on campus prior to widespread vaccinations.

The undergraduate colleges have adopted a revised academic calendar for the semester that includes a full week for Spring Break, March 8-12. More details on the spring 2021 academic calendar will be forthcoming from the Academic Deans Committee soon and will be posted on the website. The five Claremont undergraduate colleges have agreed that if students are able to return to campus it will not be until after the conclusion of Spring Break, subject to approval from public health authorities.

As I shared recently, I understand that a fully online academic program is tiring and stressful. We continue to assess and revise our academic policies and co-curricular programming to provide the best possible environment, support, and resources for students. An example is the recently announced 3+1 enrollment option that will give students more flexibility with their course load next semester.

Our commitment to a high quality and student-centered educational experience for all of our students is strong and unwavering, and Pitzer faculty and staff are continuing to adapt and innovate to better meet the demands of remote education. 

Beyond the spring semester, I look forward to next fall. With the prospect of an effective vaccine on the horizon, along with new national leadership and a serious commitment to combating the virus, I am eager to welcome the entire Pitzer community back to campus in 2021.

Provida Futuri,
Melvin L. Oliver
President

New Enrollment Option for Spring/Summer 2021 - 12.08.20

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December 9, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community:

As indicated in President Oliver’s recent message, we do not expect to be able to bring students back to campus for a residential experience in January 2021. This is disappointing news and a consequence of the worsening COVID-19 pandemic. It also means that we are preparing for spring courses to be offered online.

During fall semester, many Pitzer students expressed difficulty and experienced stress taking four classes online. To facilitate student progress and reduce some of this online burden, I am pleased to announce that Pitzer College has created an optional 3+1 enrollment pathway for the spring 2021 semester. This new alternative will allow students to take three courses in spring 2021 and one in summer 2021 at the full tuition rate for spring semester only. This optional pathway should not alter spring financial aid packages for students who receive financial aid based on full-time enrollment.

The 3+1 enrollment option is considered full-time enrollment and supplements Pitzer’s usual tuition and enrollment structure in which students take four classes in a single semester. In short, students who plan to enroll full-time at Pitzer during the spring 2021 semester will be able to choose one of two enrollment paths: 1) take four spring semester classes as usual, or 2) take three in the spring and one in summer. Tuition costs for both paths are the same: full tution paid for spring semester.

I am providing below some general information about the new 3+1 enrollment option and how it will roll out after the first of the year. In addition, planning for summer school 2021 has just begun, and I am able to provide some general information about it at this time. More information on both the 3+1 enrollment option and summer school will be available in January. At that time, if you have questions about the 3+1 option and your financial aid package, you should contact the Office of Financial Aid. Here, I simply wanted to make you aware of these academic opportunities.

Wishing you the best for a restful semester break.

Allen M. Omoto, Ph.D.
Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dean of Faculty
Pitzer College

3+1 Enrollment Option

In the 3+1 enrollment option, students are responsible for full-time tuition for spring semester, but then enroll in three classes in the spring 2021 semester and one non-refundable class in Pitzer’s 2021 summer session. This 3+1 enrollment option gives students a reduced course load for spring semester, while also committing them to additional weeks of summer school. The clear benefit of this option is that students will be able to complete their usual four Pitzer classes this academic year and without having to take more than three online classes at one time.

It is important to note that this is the only alternative full-time enrollment option for spring semester (i.e., no 2+2 option), and the one summer class must be taken through Pitzer’s 2021 summer session, currently scheduled to be online and to run May 24 – July 2. Students are not permitted to take Independent Study as their summer class with this 3+1 enrollment option; they must enroll in a regular course from the Pitzer summer schedule. In addition, seniors who opt for the 3+1 enrollment option will not officially graduate until they have successfully completed all of their Pitzer and major/minor requirements.

As noted above, more details about the 3+1 option will be available in January. At this time, the plan is for students to actively choose the 3+1 enrollment option no later than Feb 5, 2021, and that once chosen, that this option is non-revocable. The summer course offerings will be available in mid-January, and before students must commit to the 3+1 enrollment option.

2021 Summer School

Students who do NOT take the 3+1 enrollment option, as usual, will be able to enroll in summer school class(es) and pay a per class tuition rate. Students opting for the 3+1 spring enrollment option who wish to take two summer school classes will pay the regular per class tuition rate for their second class. Enrollment in summer school, either through the 3+1 option or separately, does not entitle students to campus housing or housing assistance. Finally, limited financial aid may be available for students who receive financial aid for summer school courses taken outside of the 3+1 enrollment option. More information on summer school will be available by mid-January.

Campus Update from President Oliver - 11.24.20

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November 24, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community,

I write to provide information on the current situation regarding COVID-19 in Los Angeles County as it relates to Pitzer and our planning for the spring semester.

Recently the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) has held two separate briefings for Institutes of Higher Education (IHE) in the county. On November 12, less than two weeks ago, the county was experiencing more than 2,500 new coronavirus cases each day, an amount that was referred to at the time by health officials as “disappointing and alarming.” This week there have been more than 6,000 new cases reported each day, and hospitalizations and deaths in Los Angeles County are at the highest level since the start of the pandemic – a situation that was described as a severe health crisis in today’s briefing.

Given the recent acceleration in new cases in the region, and the likelihood of a continued surge due to the holidays, LACDPH does not plan to loosen restrictions on IHE anytime in the near future. They have indicated that case levels will need to decrease dramatically in order to consider any changes in the current public health guidance for colleges and universities.

As I indicated previously, it was my intention to inform the Pitzer Community of our plans for the spring semester by the middle of December. As of today, it seems extremely unlikely that we will be able to return students to campus and our best and safest course of action is to plan for a remote spring semester.

I want to assure you that we continue to work actively to explore avenues that will allow us to safely return students to on-campus living at some point in the spring. We acknowledge that the public health circumstances in our area will need to improve significantly before implementing these plans. Before returning students to campus, we will finalize and communicate about the safety protocols that will be in place to ensure the health and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and members of the surrounding community. 

I remain hopeful that with our solid planning as a foundation, we will be able to successfully pivot to returning students to campus at some time during the spring semester. At this time, though, the outlook is not encouraging, and is not what we envisioned for our campus next semester. I understand that a fully online academic program is tiring and stressful. We continue to assess and revise our academic policies and co-curricular programming to provide the best possible environment, support, and resources for students. Our commitment to a high quality and student-centered educational experience for all of our students is strong and unwavering, and Pitzer faculty and staff are continuing to adapt and innovate to better meet the demands of remote education. 

In the meantime, it was disheartening to learn about several large off-campus gatherings involving Claremont Colleges students during Halloween Weekend, gatherings that resulted in several students from across the consortium transmitting and contracting COVID-19. Student Health Services (SHS) of the Claremont Colleges has been working closely with staff in Student Affairs at individual colleges to provide support and assistance to students who have been impacted. In addition, since it was reported that some students traveled to the area to attend these gatherings, and many students are traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday, SHS has been offering free COVID testing for students.

Regardless of where we are it is important for all of us to adhere to appropriate health and safety protocols at all times. At a minimum, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, everyone should:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
    • if soap and water are not available use a hand sanitizer
    • avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Avoid close contact with others, both inside and outside;
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others;
  • Cover coughs and sneezes – always throw away tissues and wash hands immediately;
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly;
  • Monitor your health daily and follow CDC guidelines if symptoms develop.

At Pitzer we pride ourselves on our commitment to community – whether it is locally, nationally, or around the world. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we put this commitment into action, and that each of us does everything we possibly can to limit the spread of infection to friends, family, loved-ones, neighbors, and others with whom we have contact.

I will provide additional updates when new information becomes available. Until then, best wishes for a healthy and safe end of fall semester and Thanksgiving holiday.

Provida Futuri,
Melvin L. Oliver President

Winter Break and Spring 2021 Student Support - 11.24.20

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November 24, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community, 

As mentioned by the update to you by President Oliver, we now know that our Pitzer community will continue to remain apart for a while. We too are sad to see our community separated for more time, but also want to recognize the incredible efforts that everyone has put into this remote version of Pitzer College. We thank you all and stand in awe of your continued perseverance and commitment in face of this mighty obstacle.  

We now see that Los Angeles and many other regions worldwide are continuing to struggle with this ongoing pandemic. In support of CDC guidance, and consistent with this fall semester, Pitzer students currently not living in Los Angeles County and the local area, are strongly discouraged from traveling to Claremont and the surrounding area to live or visit. We implore all students to review local and national guidance around COVID-19 and to consider the impact of each of our individual choices on the greater good. Join us in remaining committed to our core value of Social Responsibility.  

Although we remain apart, all offices at Pitzer continue to work around-the-clock to not only prioritize the health and safety of the community, but also your continued success. Please review this email for updates on: our Spring 2021 Student Success website, COVID-19 health and travel updates, student conduct and medical amnesty reminders, a COVID-19 anonymous reporting form, and winter break support resources.  

Spring 2021 Student Success Support Services and Resources 

The Spring 2021 Student Success Support Services and Resources website has been updated and will continue to serve as a one-stop-shop for updates, resources and support throughout the Spring 2021 semester. Please bookmark this website in order to visit often for additional information about financial aid, student employment, work-study, student storage, technical support, new office updates, behavioral expectations, and many other support resources for students this Spring.

To connect individually with the Office of Students Affairs regarding student success resources and support services, please contact Assistant Dean and Case Manager Stephanie Hannant at [email protected]

COVID-19 Updates and Reminders

Practicing being Mindful of Each Other cannot be more critical now, than ever, and the health and safety of our community is dependent on our united efforts. We urge students to continue to cooperate with contact tracing efforts for the greater good and livelihood of all, including especially essential workers and immunocompromised persons, which has already greatly impacted our most vulnerable populations.  

All Pitzer students are required to comply with College, state, local, and CDC guidelines on or off campus. The hosting or attending of large student gatherings on or off campus, is strictly prohibited, and will result in immediate interim suspension for the party hosts, at a minimum. Students are also expected to comply with directives to quarantine or isolate by Student Health Services or other medical providers. 

Pitzer’s Medical Amnesty Policy applies to Pitzer students who take responsible actions when they have either been exposed to or impacted by Covid-19 by engaging in behaviors in alignment with our ethos of being Mindful of Each Other, our College’s core values, and being an upstander by complying and cooperating with Student Health Services or other Covid-19 medical directives to quarantine or isolate, and contact tracers. Specifically, under Pitzer’s COVID-19 Medical Amnesty Policy, Students who appropriately and cooperatively assist another student, or the health and safety of the greater community, and cooperate with the College in receiving medical attention will not be subject to disciplinary proceedings for their actions, with the exception of circumstances as determined by the Dean of Students such as being the host of a large gathering, engaging in malicious and intentional behaviors to infect others with Covid-19, where immediate interim suspension will apply.  

COVID-19 Concern Reporting Form 

Students may engage in being Mindful of Each Other through community action by using this form to report a COVID-19 concern involving themselves, another individual, or a group. These concerns may involve issues related to: monitoring symptoms, face covering guidance, physical distancing, cleaning, COVID-19 Disclosure, or other concerns. Submissions are also welcomed from local community members who wish to report concerns such as large off campus student gatherings. The form can be accessed here.

Winter Break Student Support Resources 

7C Health: Access to free 7C Health 24/7/365 on-demand medical and mental telehealth visits for Claremont Colleges. Reach a provider anytime, anywhere by visiting 7C.Health.

Aetna Teledoc/Televideo Services: Students enrolled in SHIP plan have access to Aetna’s Teledoc/Televideo services. Teledoc is a convenient option for a variety of medical services including general medical, behavioral health and dermatology care. You can even get a prescription send to your local pharmacy when medically necessary. Connect with a licensed doctor, dermatologist of therapist mobile app, web or phone. For more information, view this PDF. To get started visit teledoc.com/Aetna or call 1-855-Teladoc (835-2362). 

Pitzer Student Affairs 24/7/365 Dean-On-Call: Accessible by calling Campus Safety at 909-607-2000. 

We thank you all for your patience during this tumultuous time and we wish you all a smooth end to your semester and a restful winter break.  

Mindful of Each Other, 
Mike and Sandy  

Mike Segawa 
Vice President for Student Affairs 

Sandra Vasquez 
Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students 

Information About Spring Semester 2021 - 10.28.20

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October 28, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community:

I have read the letter from the 5C Student Body Presidents, the recent Pitzer Student Senate Resolution (57-R-7), the Change the Academic Calendar petition, the Pitzer FEC resolution, and email messages from students, parents, and faculty about the Spring 2021 academic calendar.  I also have talked first-hand with Pitzer community members and discussed the concerns and feelings that were raised at last week’s College Council meeting presided over by Dean Omoto.   

Please know that I hear you and understand you. It is clear that many in our community are not just working hard, but are tired, stressed, and spread thin, and there is considerable frustration, anger, and uncertainty about the pandemic and other world events. On top of that, many of us are missing the support and energy we typically receive from friends and colleagues, and also may be feeling the weight of assistance we are providing to others. We all want and need time for restoration. Based on experiences this semester, students and faculty have plainly stated that they desire days free of classes and other school-related responsibilities during the upcoming spring semester.

In developing the spring academic calendar, the Academic Deans Committee weighed the benefits and consequences of many scenarios, and with recognition that no calendar could accommodate all possible scenarios. They considered input from faculty and students from their home campuses as well as the Student Affairs Deans, and prioritized the health and safety of students, staff, and faculty, as well as the surrounding community. In addition to COVID-19 health risks, potential stress and mental health impact influenced the development of the calendar. Furthermore, Pitzer remains fully committed to preserving 5C class cross-registration, which requires that all of the undergraduate colleges adopt the same spring academic calendar.

Many of you have indicated that you understand the reasons for modifying the spring academic calendar in order to have students on campus. As a reminder, the spring semester starts later. This later start means that we will have longer recuperative time between semesters, but importantly, it provides additional time for any potential post-holiday spikes in COVID-19 infections to dissipate and more transition time for bringing students back to campus. In contrast to fall, the spring calendar preserves all weekends; that is, there are no Saturday class days. 

Although not a full week, there are four intermittent days off during the semester (including Cesar Chavez day). Our expectation is that these break days will be true days off without meetings or assignments or exams. The intermittent days off are intended to build in rest and recuperation while also reducing opportunities for travel to and from campus. Due to the delayed start, the spring semester has been reduced by four days. Changing the traditional five-day spring break to three intermittent days off ensures sufficient instructional days and weeks to meet pedagogical and curricular requirements as well as provisions for federal financial aid. Finally, the semester will end “on time,” thereby allowing students to take advantage of internship and work opportunities or simply have time off during the summer. It will also allow for faculty and staff to pursue their usual activities and typical time away from Pitzer.

As you know, the Presidents of The Claremont Colleges adopted this spring semester calendar.  We are all hoping to bring students back to campus next semester, and the calendar was developed to hold out the possibility that one or more of the Colleges will have students in residence. At this point, however, we are prohibited from operating residential campuses. As much as we would like to have students on campus, we await word from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) if this is even a possibility, let alone the health and safety requirements that will be necessary to have students in residence. Pitzer hopes to learn more from LACDPH in mid to late November. If we find out at that time that we cannot have students on campus during spring semester, I commit to lobbying for a change to the spring semester academic calendar. Regardless, I pledge to continue to work together with the Pitzer Community and consortium partners to explore alternate ways to effectively address the concerns that have been brought forward. 

I thank you for your input and ask for your patience and consideration. Like you, I long for the days when we can all be together on campus and to return to some sense of “normal” in our lives. I hope that you understand and trust that these decisions are made solemnly, after careful, deliberate consideration of the information at hand, and with earnest commitment to do what is best for our entire community.

Provida Futuri,
Melvin L. Oliver President

Message from the Academic Deans Regarding the Spring 2021 Academic Calendar - 10.20.20

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To: Students, Faculty, and Staff of the Claremont Colleges
From: Academic Deans Committee (ADC)
Re: Academic Calendar for the Undergraduate Colleges, Spring 2021


After careful deliberation and consultation, the Academic Deans Committee recommended—and the Presidents’ Council approved—four changes to the published Spring 2021 academic calendar for the undergraduate colleges of the consortium.  We wish to recognize that our institutions and our faculties approached the Spring academic calendar with diverse viewpoints and concerns before reaching these decisions.

To ensure that opportunities for cross-registration are preserved, this calendar has been adopted by all of the undergraduate colleges—CMC, HMC, Pitzer, Pomona, and Scripps— and will be utilized whether or not students are able to return to residences on any or all of our campuses.  This schedule also represents our best judgments at this time regarding the path of the pandemic and its implications for academic work and life in our community. 

The following four changes to the spring academic calendar include:

  • In anticipation of continuing pandemic challenges, the start date of the spring semester for CMC, HMC, Pitzer, Pomona, and Scripps colleges will be delayed from Tuesday, January 19, to Monday, January 25.
  • The last day of classes for the semester will be Thursday, May 6, followed by one Reading Day on May 7. 
  • Final exams, for all students including seniors, will begin on Monday, May 10, and conclude on Friday, May 14. 
  • The spring semester will have three days of break, spread across the semester, rather than our conventional weeklong break at mid-semester. These periodic breaks, which allow for some rest and rejuvenation, will accommodate the later semester start without extending into the summer months and negatively impacting student internships, employment, and/or research experiences or faculty research opportunities nor impinging on current dates for commencement. In addition, given the possibility of in-person residential life, a redistributed break will encourage students to remain close to campus and minimize both the risks and undue effects of travel during this pandemic. This recommendation about spring break, in particular, was made with input from faculty from the different undergraduate colleges and after consultation with our colleagues from Student Affairs. 

Claremont Graduate University and Keck Graduate Institute will preserve their previously published catalogues and work with any undergraduates enrolled in their courses around differences between undergraduate and graduate schedules. 

We appreciate your continued understanding and flexibility as we move forward together into spring.

Mid-Semester Updates - 10.06.20

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Dear Pitzer Community,

I write to update you on several matters as we are at the mid-point of a most unusual semester at Pitzer.

It has been heartening to hear so many positive comments from members of our community regarding the virtual teaching and learning environment at Pitzer this fall. This is a testament to the thought put in by our innovative faculty as they planned their courses this summer, the care with which they are delivering them now, and the adaptability and perseverance of our students.

Nevertheless, we know that virtual teaching and learning presents many challenges, and that we are all being affected by stress from the pandemic and world events. We will gather information about faculty and student experiences this semester using multiple formats and at different levels. This information will be carefully reviewed and used to help improve our online academic environment in the future, if needed.

I know that many of you are interested in the current thinking and planning for spring 2021. Pitzer’s COVID-19 Task Force, which has active representation of faculty, staff, and students, has been meeting regularly and will continue to meet throughout the semester. Currently the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) is not allowing higher education institutions to house students on-campus, unless it is specifically for housing insecurity reasons. LACDPH is indicating the soonest this will be reassessed is toward the end of November. 

Obviously, we need to be authorized by LACDPH in order to bring students back to campus. Recently our Task Force identified and discussed principles for re-opening in-person, which will be a basis for discussion with our Board of Trustees at their meeting later this week, to identify a path to decision. In the meantime, we are preparing to meet the existing public health protocols and safety requirements, and anticipating possible future requirements for on-campus living and in-person instruction. Returning to a residential academic experience safely is my priority. We expect to make a determination about the spring semester in early December at the soonest due to our dependence on LACDPH.

Many in our community have asked about my response to last month’s letter from Pitzer’s Black Student Union (BSU) – which included a thoughtful list of recommendations that the College can enact to “support and foster a successful and well-rounded college experience for our Black Students.” I am proud of BSU for the care and attention they put into this document, and I agree with them that Pitzer College’s record on Black student support has not been what it should be. Soon after receiving the letter I informed BSU of this and my belief that now is the time to dedicate ourselves to making significant progress in these areas.

With that in mind, last month I met with BSU leaders to learn more about the concerns and issues they raised, and subsequent to that the vice presidents for admission/financial aid, student affairs, and academic affairs had separate meetings with BSU members. While there are some issues that we can address immediately, there are several that will require institutional reflection and commitment through our shared governance structure. BSU is aware of this and our interest in working with them and the wider campus community to act on those recommendations that are feasible and financially sustainable at this time.

I will continue to update our community on progress on this important front. In the meantime, BSU representatives will meet with Pitzer’s Board later this week so our trustees can better understand and support the needs of our Black students at the highest level.

I am pleased to note that our ongoing virtual programming around important and timely issues, such as racial justice and the upcoming election, has been meet with very positive responses and high rates of participation. More than 265 individuals watched the inaugural Racial Justice Initiative (RJI) event live last month, and many more have viewed it since.

The next RJI event will be held on October 15. Associate Dean of Faculty Adrian Pantoja will lead a panel discussion on the election featuring other national political experts. The panel will be followed by group discussions facilitated by members of the RJI organizing committee.

Finally, I want to recognize the good work of our Community Engagement Center (CEC) and Office of College Advancement. CEC has developed the People’s Pitzer: Civic Engagement 2020, which offers programming around public policy and social justice issues in our communities. Advancement has introduced Pitzer@Home, a series of virtual lectures, workshops, tutorials and more, which consistently produces interesting and engaging programs featuring members of the Pitzer community.

I look forward to providing additional information and updates in the coming weeks. Until then, best wishes for continued good health.

Provida Futuri,

Melvin L. Oliver
President

Welcome Message from President Melvin L. Oliver - 08.24.20

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August 24, 2020

Dear Pitzer Students:

Greetings and welcome to Pitzer College Fall 2020. 

Over the summer, our faculty worked with great passion and creativity to develop an enriching set of online courses that will challenge and engage you. I am excited and optimistic about how much we can collectively accomplish through our faculty’s dedication to presenting a curriculum that takes advantage of technology in the most effective and meaningful ways.

This year promises new discoveries, intellectual enrichment and personal growth for you. Let’s embrace this extraordinary moment. With a spirit of generosity and shared commitment, I know we will come together and expand our knowledge and wisdom, while growing and strengthening our community in new ways.

I urge you to take advantage of the robust opportunities and programs that are taking place in the next few weeks and throughout the fall semester. For our new students, please plan to attend Convocation on Thursday, August 27 at 3:00 p.m. Convocation serves to welcome you to Pitzer College’s academic and intellectual community. 

The following week, on September 2, please attend the Student Resource Fair where you will have the chance to learn about the many different offices and programs at Pitzer and The Claremont Colleges.

Provida Futuri – mindful of the future – is the motto for Pitzer College. It is now more urgent than ever. Please be mindful of each other, and the broader community, wherever you may be living and studying this semester. Please adhere to the safety and well-being guidelines developed by the Office of Student Affairs at Pitzer.

As well, please familiarize and avail yourself of the Student Success Support and Resources that are here to assist you both personally and academically during your time at Pitzer College.

Your opportunities for intellectual, social and ethical growth are boundless. I look forward to meeting and getting to know you as we embark on a transformative and fulfilling year at the College.

Provida Futuri,

Melvin L. Oliver
President

Mindful of Each Other: Safety and Well-Being Guidelines - 08.20.20

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August 20, 2020

Dear Students,

As we prepare for the start of our online Fall 2020 semester, we appreciate your continued practice of “Mindful of Each Other” by following the important safety and well-being guidelines noted below:

Restricted Student Access to The Claremont Colleges & Pitzer Colleges

Due to COVID-19 related health and safety concerns, and until further notice from the College, the Pitzer College campus and all of the Claremont Colleges will be physically closed during this time to the community, including to all students. The sign above is posted at main entrances to campus. For the safety and well-being of everyone in our community, students who are living in the local Claremont area will not have access to campus and should not plan to utilize any campus resources or outdoor areas at Pitzer during this time.

The following are the only student exceptions where access will be granted:

Students can only visit the Claremont Colleges to:

Students can only visit Pitzer’s campus to:

  • Pick up items left in residential storage in March 2020 by emailing [email protected] to receive specific instructions and written approval to come to campus to retrieve these items.

This fall semester, the Pitzer community will continue to fulfill our mission to “produce engaged, socially responsible citizens of the world” while protecting the health and safety of our students, staff and faculty. While the COVID-19 public health crisis has impacted our ability to be physically together on-campus this fall, it will not impact our ability to still build a strong Pitzer family.  We ask all students to consider how you can remotely contribute to the greater good in the multiple communities we are a part of, and continue to invest in our community values, traditions, and connections in new ways.

Students living in the local Claremont community will be critical partners in upholding our commitment to social responsibility, our Student Code of Conduct, and the greater wellbeing of our Pitzer and local communities. This includes, but is not limited to, being “Mindful of Each Other” in preventing surges of COVID-19 by doing our part to not host large gatherings (which are strictly prohibited) and limit guests and contacts within households, while complying with any directives from health officials for any student who becomes impacted by COVID-19.

Together, at home across the world, we are mindful of our communities, therefore we commit to:  

Follow CDC guidance in response to COVID-19

Face Coverings

  • Wear face coverings in accordance with CDC recommendations
  • Los Angeles County’s face-covering order requires “All persons* wear a cloth face covering over both the nose and mouth whenever they leave their place of residence and are, or can be, in contact with or walking near or past others who are non-household members in both public and private places, whether indoors or outdoors.” Guidance about exceptions can be found on the website.
  • Claremont City Council’s emergency face-covering ordinance was implemented to help slow the spread of the virus granting the ability to enforce fines ($100 first fine, $200 second in one year, and $500 for a third) for those not in compliance.
  • Students experiencing insecurity needs related to face coverings may submit a request through the student emergency fund.

Physical Distancing

  • Practice physical distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart) 
  • Do not share objects with others, when possible, to limit transmission.

Education, Updates and Proactive Guidance

  • Review important health announcements and engage in ongoing education on the issue of prevention and response to COVID-19.
  • Follow health and safety laws, orders, ordinances, regulations and health and safety guidance as it relates to public health crises, including COVID-19 

Safety Upgrades

  • In compliance with LA County, California and CDC reopening protocols, Pitzer’s Facilities staff, the COVID-19 Task Force, several intercollegiate committees, and other groups have been working diligently to develop, implement and provide necessary and required safety protocols, including: cleaning and disinfecting protocols, training of staff, purchasing of supplies and personal protective equipment, and modifications to our physical facilities.

Be “Mindful of Each Other”

  • Take care of each other, build and maintain connections, and reach out to support resources.
  • Practice “calling each other in” around these important health and safety measures, empathy, compassion and an ethos of “I am because we are”, whereby we honor the “principle of ubuntu: a concept in which being itself is a relational category of recognition, rights, and responsibilities” (Ogude, Paulson, & Srainchan, 2019)
  • Support Pitzer, and local, community members who are impacted by COVID-19 and connect them with appropriate resources.
  • Combat bias, discrimination, xenophobia and stigma related to COVID-19 by resisting any attempts to discriminate against others based on COVID-19 status or association and commit to learning from others’ experiences as part of our ever-changing global community. 

Be Mindful of Your Own Self Care

Illustrations by Natalie Ayala ’21

This can be a challenging time for many given the added stressors of the current situation. We remind you to be vigilant in your own self -awareness. If you begin to feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or other similar symptoms please know that you are not alone and we encourage you to reach out to any of the resources below designed to support you at any time you are struggling.

24/7 On-Call and Student Support Resources:

  • To reach our 24/7 On-Call team, please contact Campus Safety at 909-607-8000
  •  Crisis Mental Health Support can be reached by contacting Campus Safety at 909-607-8000 who will connect you with the on-call therapist.
  • To access 24/7 telehealth for students seeking mental health counseling or medical care. Pitzer students should visit the 24/7 7C TeleHealth for Students website or visit the Apple or Android stores to download the free TimelyMD app. You will need to create a profile and, at checkout, enter the customized coupon code (Pitzer 2020).
  • Your online Fall 2020 success and transition is important to us. Please visit our Fall 2020 Student Success Support Services and Resources website for more information.
  • For daily self-care inspiration, support and community subscribe to PZStrive2Thrive
  • Reach out and connect with Assistant Dean and Case Manager Stephanie Hannant at [email protected]
  • Check in with a student affairs dean via virtual office hours on Google hangouts where you can connect by a call, video, or text/chat (weekly schedule and how to connect is available here)

Student Emergency & Missing Persons Contact Information

As you log onto your Pitzer student portal, you will be receiving a reminder notification to submit and/or update your current emergency and missing persons contact information. You, your safety, and well-being, matter, especially in the event of an unforeseen natural disaster or emergency. While federal compliance mandates that all students living on campus (including those at CCA) complete this information, all students living off-campus are also required to complete the information in light of health and safety measures related to COVID-19.  Below you will find step-by-step instructions on how to submit and/or update your information by logging into the Pitzer student portal:

  1. Go to the Student tab
  2. At the far left, click on Pitzer Student Info
  3. You will find Missing Persons/Emergency Contacts Information at the bottom
  4. You can click on the plus sign button to add a new contact
  5. There are two types of records: Missing Persons and Emergency; selecting Both will use one record for both types
  6. To delete a record, click on the trash can to delete it.
  7. To edit a record, click on the pencil to edit it.

Pitzer College 2020-2021 Student Handbook

The 2020-2021 Student Handbook includes easy access links to campus resources, departments, and student academic and non-academic responsibilities found within the Code of Student Conduct and campus policies.

We at Pitzer take pride in the residential liberal arts experience created by students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the College. It is an experience always centered on our Core Values and the health and safety of all members of our community. Even during this unprecedented time of physical separation, we are still a community of learners and together we will find innovative, effective and thoughtful ways of equipping you, our students, to live healthy and thriving lives; and be the citizens and leaders our global society needs more than ever. Mindful of Each Other, we remain committed to supporting student success and engaging students remotely, for now, and in-person in the not-too-distant future. 

This past week in preparation for engaging with you, our Community Assistants participated in training that included creating a virtual and living solidarity tree. At Pitzer the roots within our community are deep, ground us to our Core Values, our community action rises above hate, and together, we are Pitzer strong! 

Mindful of Each Other,

Mike Segawa 
Vice President for Student Affairs 

Sandra Vasquez
Assistant Vice President & Dean of Students         

An important message from Mike Segawa, Vice President for Student Affairs - 07.24.20

This post has been archived. The information below may be outdated.

July 24, 2020

Dear Pitzer Students,

We tried, we really did. For the past four months, literally dozens upon dozens of staff, faculty, and students worked relentlessly to prepare for a physical return to our beautiful Pitzer campus this fall. For many of us, almost every waking hour since March was devoted to finding a safe and educationally meaningful way to re-open our classrooms, laboratories, studios, residence halls, offices, dining hall, recreational facilities, and grounds. Recently though, it became abundantly clear that in spite of the challenges and financial pain, the wisest and most responsible action was to shift our focus and devote all of our energy into creating the most robust and engaging on-line learning communities possible.

Like you, we are disappointed to not be returning to campus this fall. However, while we may be separated by miles, we all remain devoted to and part of the Pitzer community, one that is known for being innovative, flexible, and resilient. This is a remarkable opportunity for us to tap into our collective creativity and develop new and interesting ways to teach, to learn and to stay connected. This fall, Pitzer classes and co-curricular activities will cut to the heart of the issues and challenges we are facing nationally and globally – from the pandemic to the racial and social injustices that are occurring. We are witnessing an important societal awakening and experiencing cultural changes as a result of political and social action.

In the midst of all of this, Pitzer will be providing opportunities for learning and engagement like you’ve never experienced before. We are establishing new approaches to teaching, learning and student engagement that will be a model for other liberal arts colleges while honoring the core values upon which Pitzer was founded and will continue to operate. There is no doubt that we will emerge from the twin viruses of COVID-19 and systemic racism a stronger, healthier, smarter and more active learning community.

Our team in Student Affairs has developed co-curricular programs that are designed to interest all students. These programs will focus on wellness, social connections, academic support, civic engagement, mentorship, career pathways, traditions, leadership and fun! You can still participate in the student resource fair, virtual fitness classes, time management workshops and many other programs that will help us stay connected to each other. Our academic and co-curricular life will be engaging in a new way, complete with original and re-envisioned programs and a multitude of ways to get involved.

It is our hope and invitation that many of you will choose to embark on this most challenging, and in so many ways creative, journey with us, trusting that together we will find a truly Pitzer way of prevailing and thriving in spite of the current circumstances.

Our collective ability to achieve this rich Pitzer experience depends on your willingness to be a part of our virtual community this fall. We hope you join us, as we are Pitzer Now more than ever.

Please remember to review the fall 2020 student success support services and resources website for regular important updates, including academic support resources, financial aid, access to limited loaner WiFi hot spots and laptops for students who need them, well-being, housing, basic needs, and more, to assist with your planning and transition. 

Provida Futuri,
Mike Segawa

Vice President for Student Affairs

Fall 2020 Plans - 07.14.20

This post has been archived. The information below may be outdated.

July 14, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community:

This is a critical time as COVID-19 continues to spread nationally and in Southern California. New infections and hospitalizations have reached alarming levels across the country and in this region over the past few weeks.

Since spring break, when students left campus and we transitioned to a remote learning environment at Pitzer, we have worked diligently across the consortium and within the College to develop comprehensive plans for a safe return to campus this fall. Our COVID-19 Task Force comprising students, faculty and staff has dedicated countless hours to information-gathering, problem-solving and action-planning as we prepared for the fall semester. The health and safety of our students and our community has always been our highest priority.

Despite our best efforts, the current public health conditions are such that the Pitzer Board of Trustees and I have determined that the responsible decision is to not bring students back to campus for the fall semester. Instead we will deliver a remote educational experience in fall 2020 and continue planning for an in-person residential experience for spring 2021.

I understand how disappointing this will be for many of you and acknowledge the difficulties we have all faced over the past four months. Please know that the College made every effort to find a way to return to campus this fall and resume normal operations with appropriate safety measures in place.

However, under the current conditions, we believe that we can provide a better learning opportunity and better experience for our students remotely than we would be able to deliver on campus. The on-campus experience would be radically altered, without many of the activities we consider a normal part of college life, and would include significant safety restrictions, strictly enforced, not only on our students but on our faculty and staff. We would need to be prepared for the possibility of quarantining and isolating many students, as well as an outbreak, which could interfere dramatically with our goal of bringing the best possible Pitzer experience to our students.  

Rather than constantly worrying about, and reacting to, the pandemic, we chose to bring the best possible Pitzer experience directly to our students. In this way we can focus on the educational experience rather than the virus and the environment. Accordingly, this fall, Pitzer is committed to providing 1) a robust, enriching and meaningful learning environment; 2) academic, personal and financial support to help our students succeed; and 3) continued planning and preparations for a safe return to campus – hopefully in the spring.

I know this announcement will engender many questions about the fall semester, and we will be sharing more information about our plans as they continue to solidify. In the meantime, I want to address as many subjects as I can below.

Teaching and Learning

In contrast to last semester, when we go online this fall, it will be after several months of intense pedagogical preparation. We are fortunate to have experienced, highly motivated faculty who taught online this spring and many again during our summer session. They want our students’ experience to be as rich and engaging as possible, and have spent the past several months re-envisioning and redesigning their courses, with an appropriate mix of synchronous and asynchronous material that will facilitate student learning and involvement.

I have no doubt that, this fall, Pitzer faculty will continue to be innovative, accessible and committed to the success of our students. And, I am confident they will be more creative and flexible than ever, and with a clear commitment to:

  • provide students with the highest quality educational experiences
  • offer personalized approaches to teaching and advising students
  • support students by being available through office hours, consultations, tutorials and meetings
  • ensure that all students can make academic progress toward graduation
  • work collaboratively to coordinate academic plans and curricular offerings for our students

Many faculty members have received glowing feedback from students on their thoughtful delivery and dynamic approach to remote teaching recently and are actively sharing ideas and collaborating with their faculty colleagues. We plan to hold information sessions over the next several weeks in which students can learn first-hand about some of the innovations and plans that our faculty have for their courses.    

Beyond individual courses, some initiatives and themes will be highlighted this fall and facilitated by our online format. For example, I have announced a special initiative on racial violence and injustice that will be rooted primarily in the curriculum and include co-curricular programming. Our community engagement work, and also activities connected to the fall election, will have broader and deeper reach using online tools and pedagogies. 

In short, although we will not have our traditional in-person classes, Pitzer faculty and the College as a whole are redoubling our efforts to ensure what you have come to expect and deserve: a rigorous academic experience that is distinctive and that addresses the most pressing issues of the day.

Juice will be featuring many interesting academic programs and is one example of the new ways the College will be engaging with you.

Supporting Students

We will support our students academically, personally, emotionally, and in some cases financially, while helping them navigate the remote environment and their course work with confidence and a sense of accomplishment. We will address the needs of low-income students to the best of our ability by providing the appropriate technology and access to other resources as needed.

Even during this unprecedented time of physical separation, we are still a community of learners and together we will find innovative, effective and thoughtful ways of equipping our students to live healthy and thriving lives; and be the citizens and leaders our global society needs more than ever. We remain committed to supporting student success and engaging students remotely, for now, and in-person when it becomes possible. Additional information related to student success support services and resources is available here.

In addition, we will provide co-curricular programs that generate a sense of connection to Pitzer and our core values. A faculty-led working group has been focusing on eliminating barriers to planning activities in a physically distant or remote environment, and developing avenues for student groups, clubs and organizations to thrive. Fostering community and creating opportunities for student engagement are fundamental to student success, wherever students gather – in Claremont or in the virtual world. More information about co-curricular plans and programming is forthcoming.

International Students/ICE Guidance

Last week, I wrote to the community about the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency’s regrettable directive for international students who are pursuing their degrees at institutions like Pitzer. This short-sighted and divisive action was at odds with Pitzer’s core values, and threatened the future of our international students.

Thankfully there is positive news. Yesterday, Pitzer and 19 other colleges and universities in the western region filed a lawsuit against the federal government to block ICE from implementing this policy. Our alumna and former trustee, Debra Wong Yang ’81, is a lead counsel for the case. And today, at a hearing in a suit filed by Harvard and MIT, the government agreed to rescind the new rule, forgo any related enforcement action and continue to follow the guidance issued in March that accommodated international students whose institutions transitioned to online learning. We are delighted by this development and relieved for our international students who are so important to our community.

Tuition and Financial Aid

On June 25, Pitzer announced a modest 2.2% tuition increase for the 2020-2021 academic year. Based on the decision to pivot to a fully online fall semester, the Pitzer Board of Trustees has decided to roll back that tuition increase and hold it constant at the 2019-2020 level. There will be no increase to tuition and fees for the coming year. Nor will there be any room and board charges in the fall.

I know that you have many questions about how Pitzer will respond to the financial needs of our students and I can assure you that Pitzer staff members in financial aid and student affairs are meeting daily to determine how best to package financial aid in these unusual circumstances. Your patience is appreciated as we finalize the details of our financial aid awards for the coming year.


Financial Impact

An online semester could result in significant loss of revenue for the College if enrollment numbers decline. Pitzer is tuition dependent, with almost 90% of our operating costs covered by tuition and fee revenue, 70% of which is compensation for our employees. If we are faced with a significant budget shortfall, we are prepared to utilize some savings to cover a portion of the deficit, savings that we had planned to use for capital reinvestment. While we are prepared to sacrifice these funds, it will be important that we consider measures to address the deficit without risking the long-term financial viability of the College.

Every student who remains enrolled with us online will have a direct impact on the cost reductions we need to make, our ability to provide financial support to students in need and our ability to retain our employees. Pitzer will make every effort to protect the most vulnerable in our community while addressing the significant financial challenges we face.

We are providing our initial FAQs to begin to answer many of the questions not covered here. We will continue developing and refining these FAQs in the days and weeks to come.

Final Thoughts

When I accepted the offer to become Pitzer College’s sixth president in 2016, it was the proudest moment of my career. I could not have imagined that four short years later, I would be writing this letter to you. Together with the Board of Trustees, the COVID-19 Task Force and my leadership team, I have agonized over this decision and its impact on our students, staff and faculty. While I am concerned about how an online semester will disrupt the Pitzer experience for so many of us, I am also inspired by the tireless efforts of our community and our collective resolve to make this transition smoothly and effectively.

In making this decision, I thought carefully about our core values, especially social responsibility, which includes the responsibility to elevate the interests of those among us who are most vulnerable to the virus and its effects. I am convinced that an in-person fall semester at Pitzer compromises those interests to an extent that we cannot abide. But I am also convinced that in these times of crisis, liberal arts colleges like Pitzer must look forward and engage the immense challenges before us.

In the words of one of Pitzer’s longest-tenured faculty members, “In the midst of this pandemic, a liberal arts education will be essential to addressing our most daunting future challenges: racial injustice, mass incarceration, health inequality, environmental degradation. A Pitzer education is much more than 32 courses of 45 contact hours. It is a community, nested in a consortium of such communities, in which students have the space and support to figure out what social problems they want to address, what tools they need to address them, and how to convert passion and skills into action.”

Despite the challenges we face, I view the future with optimism and hope because I know that Pitzer will embrace the problems before us in a way that is thoughtful, inclusive, compassionate and mindful of the future. I encourage all of you to join us as we move forward at a distance, but always together.

We will be sharing additional information and regular updates with you via email and on our website at: Pitzer Fall 2020. A town hall meeting for Pitzer faculty and staff will be held on Tuesday, July 21, at 1 p.m. followed by other forums for students and families later in the week. More details are forthcoming.

Provida Futuri,

Melvin L. Oliver
President


Traducción – Translation

UN MENSAJE DE

LA OFICINA DEL PRESIDENTE

14 de julio, 2020

Estimada Comunidad de Pitzer,

Este es un momento crítico ya que el coronavirus continúa extendiéndose a nivel nacional y en el sur de California. Nuevas infecciones y hospitalizaciones han alcanzado niveles alarmantes en todo el país y en esta región en las últimas semanas.

Desde las vacaciones de primavera, cuando los estudiantes salieron del campus y pasamos a un entorno de aprendizaje remoto en Pitzer, hemos trabajado diligentemente en todo el consorcio y dentro del Colegio para desarrollar planes integrales para un regreso seguro al campus este otoño. Nuestra Fuerza Especial de Coronavirus compuesto por estudiantes, profesores y personal ha dedicado innumerables horas a la recopilación de información, la resolución de problemas, y la planificación de la acción mientras nos preparamos para el semestre de otoño. La salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes y de nuestra comunidad siempre ha sido nuestra máxima prioridad.

A pesar de nuestros mejores esfuerzos, las condiciones de salud pública actuales son tales que el Consejo Directivo de Pitzer y yo hemos determinado que la decisión responsable es no traer a los estudiantes de vuelta al campus para el semestre de otoño. En su lugar, ofreceremos una experiencia educativa remota en el otoño de 2020 y continuaremos planeando una experiencia residencial en persona para la primavera de 2021.

Entiendo lo decepcionante que será esto para muchos de ustedes y reconozco las dificultades que todos hemos enfrentado en los últimos cuatro meses. Por favor, sepa que el Colegio hizo todo lo posible para encontrar una manera de regresar al campus este otoño y reanudar las operaciones normales con las medidas de seguridad apropiadas en su lugar.

Sin embargo, bajo las condiciones actuales, creemos que podemos proporcionar una mejor oportunidad de aprendizaje y una mejor experiencia para nuestros estudiantes de forma remota de lo que podríamos ofrecer en el campus. La experiencia en el campus se alteraría radicalmente, sin muchas de las actividades que consideramos una parte normal de la vida universitaria, e incluiría restricciones de seguridad significativas, estrictamente aplicadas, no sólo en nuestros estudiantes, sino en nuestra facultad y personal. Tendríamos que estar preparados para la posibilidad de poner en cuarentena y aislar a muchos estudiantes, así como un brote, que podría interferir dramáticamente con nuestro objetivo de llevar la mejor experiencia de Pitzer posible a nuestros estudiantes.

En lugar de preocuparnos constantemente y reaccionar a la pandemia, elegimos llevar la mejor experiencia de Pitzer posible directamente a nuestros estudiantes. De esta manera podemos centrarnos en la experiencia educativa en lugar del virus y el medio ambiente. En consecuencia, este otoño, Pitzer se compromete a proporcionar 1) un entorno de aprendizaje sólido, enriquecedor y significativo; 2) apoyo académico, personal y financiero para ayudar a nuestros estudiantes a tener éxito; y 3) la planificación y los preparativos continuos para un regreso seguro al campus, con suerte en la primavera.

Sé que este anuncio engendrará muchas preguntas sobre el semestre de otoño, y compartiremos más información sobre nuestros planes a medida que continúen solidificándose. Mientras tanto, quiero abordar tantos temas como pueda a continuación.

Enseñanza y Aprendizaje

A diferencia del semestre pasado, cuando nos pongamos en línea este otoño, será después de varios meses de intensa preparación pedagógica. Tenemos la suerte de tener profesores experimentados y altamente motivados que enseñaron en línea esta primavera y muchos lo hicieron de nuevo durante nuestra sesión de verano. Quieren que la experiencia de nuestros estudiantes sea lo más rica y atractiva posible, y han pasado los últimos meses re-concibiendo y rediseñando sus cursos, con una mezcla adecuada de material síncrono y asincrónico que facilitará el aprendizaje y la participación de los estudiantes.

No tengo ninguna duda de que, este otoño, la facultad de Pitzer seguirá siendo innovadora, accesible y comprometida con el éxito de nuestros estudiantes. Y, estoy seguro de que serán más creativos y flexibles que nunca, y con un compromiso claro de:

  • proporcionar a los estudiantes experiencias educativas de la más alta calidad
  • ofrecer enfoques personalizados para enseñar y asesorar a los estudiantes
  • apoyar a los estudiantes estando disponibles a través de horas de oficina, consultas, tutoriales y reuniones
  • asegurar que todos los estudiantes pueden hacer progreso académico hacia la graduación
  • trabajar colaborativamente para coordinar planes académicos y ofertas para nuestros estudiantes

Muchos miembros de la facultad han recibido comentarios brillantes de los estudiantes sobre su entrega reflexiva y método dinámico a la enseñanza remota recientemente y están compartiendo activamente ideas y colaborando con sus colegas de la facultad. Planeamos realizar sesiones de información durante las próximas semanas en las que los estudiantes puedan conocer de primera mano algunas de las innovaciones y los planes que nuestros profesores tienen para sus cursos.

Más allá de los cursos individuales, algunas iniciativas y temas serán destacados este otoño y facilitados por nuestro formato en línea. Por ejemplo, he anunciado una iniciativa especial sobre la violencia racial y la injusticia que se enraizará principalmente en el plan de estudios e incluirá la programación cocurricular. Nuestro trabajo de involucramiento de la comunidad, y también las actividades relacionadas con la elección de otoño, tendrán un alcance más amplio y profundo utilizando herramientas y pedagogías en línea.

En resumen, aunque no tendremos nuestras clases tradicionales en persona, los profesores de Pitzer y el Colegio en su conjunto están redoblendo nuestros esfuerzos para asegurar lo que usted ha llegado a esperar y merecer: una experiencia académica rigurosa que es distintiva y que aborde los temas más apremiantes del día.

Juice presentará muchos programas académicos interesantes y es un ejemplo de las nuevas maneras en que el Colegio participará con usted.

Apoyando a los Estudiantes
Apoyaremos a nuestros estudiantes académicamente, personalmente, emocionalmente y, en algunos casos, financieramente, mientras les ayudamos a navegar el entorno remoto y su trabajo académico con confianza y un sentido de logro. Abordaremos las necesidades de los estudiantes de bajos ingresos lo mejor que podamos proporcionando la tecnología adecuada y el acceso a otros recursos según sea necesario.

Incluso durante este tiempo sin precedentes de separación física, seguimos siendo una comunidad de estudiantes y juntos encontraremos formas innovadoras, eficaces y reflexivas de equipar a nuestros estudiantes para vivir vidas saludables y prósperas; y ser los ciudadanos y líderes que nuestra sociedad global necesita más que nunca. Seguimos comprometidos a apoyar el éxito de los estudiantes e involucrar a los estudiantes de forma remota, por ahora y en persona cuando sea posible. Aquí encontrará información adicional relacionada con los servicios y recursos de apoyo al éxito de los estudiantes.

Además, proporcionaremos programas co-curriculares que generan una sensación de conexión con Pitzer y nuestros valores fundamentales. Un grupo de trabajo dirigido por profesores se ha centrado en eliminar las barreras a la planificación de actividades en un entorno físicamente distante o remoto, y en desarrollar vías para que los grupos de estudiantes, los clubes y las organizaciones prosperen. Fomentar la comunidad y crear oportunidades para la participación de los estudiantes son fundamentales para el éxito de los estudiantes, dondequiera que los estudiantes se reúnan, en Claremont o en el mundo virtual. Se ofrecerá más información sobre los planes y la programación cocurriculares próximamente.

Estudiantes Internacionales/Dirección de ICE

La semana pasada, escribí a la comunidad sobre la lamentable directiva de la agencia de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas de los Estados Unidos (ICE, por sus siglas en ingles) para estudiantes internacionales que cursan sus títulos en instituciones como PItzer. Esta acción miope y divisiva estaba en desacuerdo con los valores fundamentales de Pitzer, y amenazó el futuro de nuestros estudiantes internacionales.

Afortunadamente hay noticias positivas. Ayer, Pitzer y otros 19 colegios y universidades de la región occidental presentaron una demanda contra el gobierno federal para impedir que ICE implementara esta política. Nuestra alumna y ex miembro de nuestro Consejo Directivo, Debra Wong Yang ’81, es un abogado principal del caso. Y hoy, en una audiencia en una demanda presentada por Harvard y el MIT, el gobierno acordó rescindir la nueva regla, renunciar a cualquier acción de aplicación relacionada, y seguir las directrices emitidas en marzo que acomodaron a estudiantes internacionales cuyas instituciones pasaron al aprendizaje en línea. Estamos encantados con este desarrollo y aliviados por nuestros estudiantes internacionales que son tan importantes para nuestra comunidad.

Matrícula y Ayuda Financiera

El 25 de junio, Pitzer anunció un modesto aumento de matrícula del 2,2% para el año académico 2020-2021. Sobre la base de la decisión de girar hacia un semestre de otoño totalmente en línea, el Consejo Directivo de Pitzer ha decidido revertir ese aumento de matrícula y mantenerlo constante en el nivel de 2019-2020. No habrá aumento en la matrícula y las tarifas para el próximo año. Tampoco habrá cargos de alojamiento y comida en el otoño.

Sé que tiene muchas preguntas sobre cómo Pitzer responderá a las necesidades financieras de nuestros estudiantes y puedo asegurarles que los miembros del personal de Pitzer en los departamentos de ayuda financiera y asuntos estudiantiles se reúnen diariamente para determinar la mejor manera de empaquetar la ayuda financiera en estas circunstancias inusuales. Su paciencia es apreciada al finalizar los detalles de nuestros premios de ayuda financiera para el próximo año.

Impacto Financiero

Un semestre en línea podría resultar en una pérdida significativa de ingresos para el Colegio si el número de inscritos disminuye. Pitzer depende de la matrícula, con casi el 90% de nuestros costos de operación cubiertos por los ingresos por matrícula y tarifas, el 70% de los cuales es una compensación para nuestros empleados. Si nos enfrentamos a un déficit presupuestario significativo, estamos preparados para utilizar algunos ahorros para cubrir una parte del déficit, ahorros que habíamos planeado utilizar para la reinversión de capital. Si bien estamos dispuestos a sacrificar estos fondos, será importante que consideremos medidas para hacer frente al déficit sin arriesgar la viabilidad financiera a largo plazo del Colegio.

Cada estudiante que permanezca inscrito con nosotros en línea tendrá un impacto directo en las reducciones de costos que necesitamos hacer, nuestra capacidad de proporcionar apoyo financiero a los estudiantes necesitados, y nuestra capacidad para retener a nuestros empleados. Pitzer hará todo lo posible para proteger a los más vulnerables de nuestra comunidad mientras aborda los importantes desafíos financieros que enfrentamos.

Estamos proporcionando nuestras preguntas frecuentes iniciales para comenzar a responder a muchas de las preguntas no cubiertas aquí. Continuaremos desarrollando y perfeccionando estas preguntas frecuentes en los días y semanas venideros.

Últimos Comentarios

Cuando acepté la oferta de convertirme en el sexto presidente de Pitzer College en 2016, fue el momento más orgulloso de mi carrera. No podría haber imaginado que cuatro años después, les escribiría esta carta. Junto con el Consejo Directivo, la Fuerza Especial de Coronavirus, y mi equipo de liderazgo, he agonizado por esta decisión y su impacto en nuestros estudiantes, personal y facultad. Si bien me preocupa cómo un semestre en línea interrumpirá la experiencia de Pitzer para muchos de nosotros, también me inspiran los esfuerzos incansables de nuestra comunidad y nuestra determinación colectiva de hacer esta transición fluidamente y de manera efectiva.

Al tomar esta decisión, pensé cuidadosamente en nuestros valores fundamentales, especialmente en la responsabilidad social, que incluye la responsabilidad de elevar los intereses de aquellos entre nosotros que son más vulnerables al virus y sus efectos. Estoy convencido de que un semestre de otoño en persona en Pitzer compromete esos intereses hasta un punto al que no podemos atenernos. Pero también estoy convencido de que en estos tiempos de crisis, los colegios de artes liberales como Pitzer deben mirar hacia adelante y enfrentar los inmensos desafíos que tenemos ante nosotros.

En palabras de uno de los profesores con la más larga titularidad de Pitzer, “En medio de esta pandemia, una educación en artes liberales será esencial para abordar nuestros desafíos futuros más desalentadores: injusticia racial, encarcelamiento masivo, desigualdad de salud, degradación ambiental. Una educación de Pitzer es mucho más que 32 cursos de 45 horas de contacto. Es una comunidad, anidada en un consorcio de tales comunidades, en la que los estudiantes tienen el espacio y el apoyo para averiguar qué problemas sociales quieren abordar, qué herramientas necesitan para abordarlos, y cómo convertir la pasión y las habilidades en acción”.

A pesar de los desafíos a los que nos enfrentamos, veo el futuro con optimismo y esperanza porque sé que Pitzer abrazará los problemas que tenemos ante nosotros de una manera reflexiva, inclusiva, compasiva, y consciente del futuro. Los animo a todos a que se unan a nosotros a medida que avanzamos a distancia, pero siempre juntos.

Compartiremos información adicional y actualizaciones periódicas con usted por correo electrónico y en nuestro sitio web en: Pitzer Fall 2020. El martes 21 de julio, a la 1 p.m. se llevará a cabo una reunión para los profesores y el personal de Pitzer, seguida de otros foros para estudiantes y familias más adelante en la semana. Más detalles están por llegar.

Provida Futuri,

Melvin L. Oliver
Presidente

New International Student Guidelines - 07.08.20

This post has been archived. The information below may be outdated.

July 8, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community,

On July 6, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued new guidance that affects the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. Implementing such a directive during a global health crisis is a travesty that creates tremendous barriers for international students pursuing their education in the US. This guidance is at direct odds with our core values, and Pitzer College is committed to supporting our international students through this unfortunate and challenging situation.

International students enrich the college experience on campuses and classrooms across the country. This new ICE guidance concerning international student visas is onerous and blatantly unfair to millions of students striving to achieve their educational goals. It also serves to divide our country and the world even further.

Over the last several days, Pitzer’s International Programs staff have been in contact with our new and returning international students to provide support and counsel. The College’s chief legal counsel, dean of faculty, international programs staff and an outside immigration attorney are actively evaluating options for our students.

I am also working with the other presidents of The Claremont Colleges on a collaborative solution for our international students. Additionally, we hope that the entire higher education community and the public can provide needed pressure on ICE to revise the rules to provide greater flexibility to allow our international students the rich educational experience they deserve to advance towards their degrees.

Provida Futuri,

Melvin L. Oliver
President

CARES Act Required Reports and Disclosures - 06.26.20

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) Required Reports and Disclosures

This website serves as public disclosure required under Section 18004(e) of the CARES Act for Pitzer College regarding the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF). This website will be updated every 45 days with any required changes.

  1. Pitzer College signed and returned to the Department the Certification and Agreement and the assurance that the institution has used, or intends to use, no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students.
  2. Pitzer College will receive $312,931 from the Department pursuant to the institution’s Certification and Agreement [for] Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students.
  3. As of June 12, 2020, Pitzer College had not disbursed any funds to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
  4. Pitzer College estimates that 391 students at the college are eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.
  5. Pitzer College will determine student eligibility based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.  Students who met Title IV eligibility requirements for the 2019-20 academic year and received need-based aid will be considered eligible for funds.

REPORT UPDATES – April 28, 2021

On January 14, 2021, the U.S. Department of Education announced the availability of additional emergency funding through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) for institutions of higher education to serve students and ensure learning continues during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pitzer College has received funding from the recently approved Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA). Unlike the CARES Act, the CRRSAA requires that institutions prioritize students with exceptional need, such as students who receive Pell Grants, in awarding financial aid grants to students. However, students do not need to be only Pell recipients or students who are eligible for Pell grants.1

Per federal guidelines, $312,931 has been allocated to go directly to students in the form of CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grants. More than half the funds have been distributed already since March 2020 to provide direct support during the pandemic to students with exceptional need and considered housing insecure. The remainder of the funds will be disbursed as quickly as possible to provide students with the support they need to continue their educational pursuits via additional CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grants.

CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grants are intended to assist students with expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to the ongoing nation-wide pandemic (including eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and childcare). If you have experienced any difficulties due to the disruption of campus operations, we strongly encourage you to apply for a CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant.

Unfortunately, the current legislation limits eligibility for funds only to students eligible to receive federal financial aid, excluding assistance to non-U.S. citizens. However, just as we did with CARES Act, Pitzer College will use its own funds to cover grants in cases where students are ineligible to receive CRRSAA funds.

  • To be eligible to receive a CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant, students should be currently enrolled with consideration to students on leave of absence
  • The CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant is limited to $500 and a one-time request. While $500 is the maximum, we ask that you only request what you need, being mindful of other students also impacted by the pandemic. Pending resource availability, we may consider allocating additional support based on exceptional student need.
  • The request must be costs incurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. 
  • The U.S. Department of Education has prioritized students with the greatest demonstrated financial need for immediate disbursement of funds.
  • With your consent, the funds can be applied toward student account balances.
  • Students must complete the CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant form.

CRRSAA Emergency Relief Grant funding is limited. Applicants will be awarded grants as long as funds remain available.

1 https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/updatedfaqsfora1crrssaheerfii.pdf

REPORT UPDATES – July 10, 2020

Update 4. Pitzer College estimated 971 students were potentially eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act.

Update 5. Effective June 18, 2020 Pitzer College processed check disbursements to 391 students who were determined eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants.  The total amount disbursed was $309,850.

Update 6. Pitzer College included students who meet the following criteria as eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants under Section 18004(a)(1):

  • Students enrolled in a degree granting program of study as of March 13, 2020, the date of the President’s Proclamation, “Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)”
  • Students who are making Satisfactory Academic Progress toward their degree
  • Students who had completed a 2019-20 FAFSA to confirm their Title IV eligibility requirements of Higher Education Act.

Pitzer College excluded from the larger population of potentially eligible students:

  • those individuals it knew to be foreign nationals who were not US permanent residents or other eligible non-citizens under Title IV of HEA;
  • those students in the US without a lawful immigration status; and
  • those students whose Title IV eligibility requirements could not be confirmed due to a missing or incomplete FASFA application.

Grant amounts of $200 – $1,000 were issued to students based on an evaluation of the student’s demonstrated level of financial need. Larger grants were provided to students with the higher demonstrated levels of financial need.  Funds were distributed as broadly as possible to eligible students.

Update 7. More information can be found at https://www.pitzer.edu/emergency/2020/06/01/cares-frequently-asked-questions/

REPORT UPDATES – August 12, 2020

No additional disbursements have been made since June 2020. 

QUARTERLY REPORT UPDATE – October 10, 2020

No additional disbursements have been made since June 2020.

QUARTERLY REPORT UPDATE – January 10, 2021 – FINAL REPORT

November 2020 the remaining $3,081 of CARES Student Funds was deposited into the Student Affairs Emergency Fund to reimburse Fund expenditures outlined below:

  • The Emergency Fund provided support exceeding $4,400 for travel expenses for students required to leave campus due to COVID 19 campus shut down.
    • These expenses occurred between April 4 and April 10
    • Students who received travel expenses support were CARES Act eligible
      • Students enrolled in a degree granting program of study as of March 13, 2020, the date of the President’s Proclamation, “Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)”
      • Students who are making Satisfactory Academic Progress toward their degree
      • Students who had completed a 2019-20 FAFSA to confirm their Title IV eligibility requirements of Higher Education Act

At the close of 4th quarter 2020, all CARES Student Funds were distributed in accordance with Department of Education guidance.

CARES Act Message to the Pitzer Community - 06.05.20

June 5, 2020

Dear Pitzer Community,

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Congress passed the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act on March 27, 2020. The CARES Act includes funds for emergency grants to institutions and students due to the disruption of the spring 2020 semester by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Consistent with the intent of the new law and in consultation with student and faculty representatives on the COVID Task Force, Pitzer determined that CARES Act funds should be distributed to students according to financial need. In partnership with the Task Force, the College developed a tiered system where the higher-need students will receive higher value grants. To be considered eligible, students had to have been enrolled as of March 13, 2020, and receiving need-based financial aid.

Students receiving CARES Act funds will soon receive an email notifying them of their award and checks will be mailed to students by mid- to late June. All CARES Act student awards are grants. There is no repayment obligation.

For questions regarding the CARES Act, please visit our FAQs found on our COVID 19 webpage.

CARES Act Frequently Asked Questions - 06.01.20

Q1: What is the CARES Act?

The CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act: Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF)-IHE/Student Aid Act provides funding to institutions to provide emergency financial aid grants to students whose lives were disrupted during the spring 2020 semester due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

CARES Act/HEERF is temporary, short-term, emergency financial assistance for eligible students who were enrolled in the spring 2020 semester on or after March 13, 2020 and experienced unforeseen hardship that adversely affected their educational success.

Guidelines for the CARES Act/HEERF and the distribution of funds comes from the US Department of Education. More information is available on the Department of Education’s website.

Q2: How is Pitzer College handling CARES Act funds?

Pitzer College has received emergency funds of $312,930 from the Department of Education to distribute directly to students as emergency grants.

The College will distribute funds to eligible students (see questions 4 – 6 below for eligible student criteria) based on their financial aid eligibility. Grant assistance will range from $200 – $1000 and will be tiered based on the student’s financial need; the highest need students will receive the most grant assistance.

Q3: When will I know my eligibility and receive funding?

This is a top priority for the College, and we are currently working to finalize all information. Anyone who was enrolled in the spring 2020 semester on or after March 13, 2020 are eligible for funding. We are working to notify and disburse funds to all eligible students before June 15.

Q4: How is Pitzer determining who should receive CARES Act grants?

Pitzer is distributing these funds according to financial need. Students with the highest need will receive the largest grants.

Q5: Do undocumented and international students qualify for the CARES Act Grant?

Although undocumented and international students do not qualify for federal funding, Pitzer College has committed institutional student emergency COVID-19 relief funding for undocumented and low-income international students who applied for and received need-based aid during the spring 2020 semester (on or after March 13, 2020). This grant assistance will match the grant levels and payment timeline as domestic students.

Q6: I am a graduating senior this semester, will I still receive assistance?

Yes. We will be offering CARES Act Grants to graduating seniors whose studies were also interrupted this spring.

Q7: Do I have to apply for the CARES Act Grant?

No. Students who are eligible will automatically receive assistance and will not need to apply for funding.

Q8: If eligible, how will I receive this money? 

Funds will be distributed by check made payable to the student.  Checks will be mailed to the address the college has on file.  

Q9: How can this relief fund help students? 

This relief grant is available for students to use at their discretion for any expenses they incurred due to the interruption in their studies as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in spring 2020. This can include, but is not limited to food, housing, technology, health care and course related materials.

Q10: Does the CARES Act Grant have to be repaid?

No. The CARES Act Grant does not have to be repaid.

Q11: I have a balance on my Student Account, will my CARES Act Grant be applied to my account?

No. CARES Act Grants will be paid directly to eligible students regardless of financial holds or campus bills, fees or fines. Funds will not pass through your Pitzer student account.

Q12: Does the CARES Act Grant affect my financial aid?

No. The CARES Act Grant does not affect other aid students are receiving this year or the aid they may receive next year.

Q13: Do I have to report the CARES Act Grant to the IRS as income? 

No. Emergency financial aid grants under the CARES Act are qualified disaster relief payments under section 139 of the Internal Revenue Code and do not have to be included as part of your gross income or reported on your taxes.

Q14: Who do I contact if I have questions about the CARES Act?

At this time, all information available has been published in this FAQ. If you have questions that were not addressed, you may email the Office of the Treasurer at [email protected].