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

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 

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  

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 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

Modification to the Transfer Credit Policy for Academic Year 2020-2021 - 01.28.21

(updated January 28, 2021)

Policy Modification. On July 17, 2020, the Pitzer College Faculty Executive Committee approved a modification to the current transfer credit policy that applies to all current students regardless of the College Catalog language in place at the time of their original matriculation.  Specifically, a student will be allowed to transfer up to a total of 2.0 Pitzer credits (i.e., 8 semester units or 12 quarter units) from an institution of higher education for coursework completed during the fall and spring semesters (or fall, winter, and spring quarters) of academic year 2020-21.  This modification was adopted to facilitate academic continuity for students while also serving to maintain the academic quality and integrity of the Pitzer College educational program and degree. 

On December 3, 2020, the FEC voted to amend this transfer credit policy modification so that the cap on transfer credits also covers any courses completed in summer 2021.  This amendment was approved by the Pitzer College faculty on January 28, 2021.

Implementation. Students who intend to transfer course credits to Pitzer should seek pre-approval from the relevant field group(s) before enrolling in courses at another institution.  The Pitzer field group will determine the criteria for approval of transfer credit but all requests for transfer credit (pre-approvals and requests for transfer credits) received in the Registrar’s Office after July 17, 2020 will be considered under this policy modification.  However, any student who had fall 2020 or winter/spring 2021 courses pre-approved for transfer credit by the relevant field group and had this approval on file in the Pitzer Registrar’s Office prior to July 17, 2020 will be allowed to transfer the approved credits (i.e., the approved credits, even if greater than two, will be “grandfathered” for acceptance as long as the classes are successfully completed with grades of C or above).

Background & Rationale. The modification does not change overall flexibility in the current policy that permits up to 16 Pitzer equivalent courses be accepted for transfer credit, except for New Resources students who may transfer up to 24 Pitzer equivalent course credits (see https://pitzer.catalog.acalog.com/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=1152#Transfer%20Credits).  The modification also does not change procedures in the current policy that specify that a faculty member representing the appropriate discipline (field group) must approve each transferred course, and that field groups may apply additional and more stringent criteria to determine whether a course can be accepted for transfer credit or count toward major/minor requirements or other graduation requirements.  Transfer credit does not calculate into a student’s Pitzer GPA.  Furthermore, the Leave of Absence request and approval process is separate from the Transfer Credit approval process.  Students take leaves of absence for a variety of reasons that have nothing to do with attempting to transfer course credits (see https://pitzer.catalog.acalog.com/content.php?catoid=14&navoid=1152#loa). 

To support the transfer credit policy and signal to students the stringent requirements for transfer credit pre-approval for courses taken outside of Pitzer, field groups are encouraged to insert the following or similar language into field group descriptions: “Pitzer College field groups have a responsibility to preserve the academic integrity of the Pitzer educational program and degree. All courses proposed for transfer credit to Pitzer College require pre-approval by the appropriate disciplinary field group before the course is taken and transfer credit requested.”

To support the transfer credit policy and signal to students the stringent requirements for transfer credit pre-approval for courses taken outside of Pitzer, field groups are encouraged to insert the following or similar language into field group descriptions: “Pitzer College field groups have a responsibility to preserve the academic integrity of the Pitzer educational program and degree. All courses proposed for transfer credit to Pitzer College require pre-approval by the appropriate disciplinary field group before the course is taken and transfer credit requested.”

Is off-campus housing available in Claremont and the surrounding areas? - 11.24.20

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

Some students may still intend to live in Claremont or the surrounding areas, even though instruction will only be online and on-campus housing will not be open. The College discourages students from moving to Claremont this spring due to the ongoing pandemic. Students living off-campus will not have physical access to campus, except for pre-scheduled medical appointments with Student Health Services (SHS).  

Pitzer will not be responsible for providing access to dining services, quarantine or isolation housing, or any medical services beyond those provided by SHS.  

Pitzer students may direct lease with the Claremont Collegiate Apartments (CCA) for the Spring 2021 semester. 

Does my financial aid package cover off-campus housing? - 11.24.20

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

Most financial aid packages will have a room-and-board budget based on a scenario where students are living at home with their families. The Office of Financial Aid continues to work closely with Student Affairs, Residence Life and Finance to address the needs of students who are unable to live at home with family. Students who were approved for off-campus housing in the fall semester will have an off-campus budget for the spring semester.

For any more questions or for more information, contact [email protected]

Will I receive a tuition refund if I withdraw or take a leave of absence? - 11.24.20

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

The last day to add/drop for a tuition or financial aid adjustment is Friday, February 5. Only students that officially withdraw or take a leave of absence before the first day of classes, Monday, January 25, are eligible for a full refund. 

Please visit the Academic Calendar for more information: https://www.pitzer.edu/registrar/academic-calendar/

For any more questions or for more information, contact [email protected]

If we remain virtual, how does this impact my financial aid package? - 11.24.20

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

Students who have received a financial aid notification for the spring semester with on-campus room/board charges will receive an updated financial aid package reflecting an “at home budget” due to virtual learning. Students who have not received their initial notification will receive a financial aid package based on the new cost of attendance for virtual learning. These notifications will be released by December 4.

For any more questions or for more information, contact [email protected]

Will student employment be available in the spring 2021 semester? - 11.24.20

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

Plans for student employment in spring 2021 are currently in process. We are assessing job opportunities in a virtual environment at this point in time. Our goal is to continue to employ students in the spring semester through non-work-study positions.

Will there be campus housing in the spring? - 11.24.20

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

In compliance with LA County guidance, the College is not able to offer any campus housing or dining services for the spring 2021 semester. Students may choose to stay at home with family, lease elsewhere, or contact the Claremont Collegiate Apartments (CCA) to sign a direct lease with them for the spring semester (details below). At this time, students are not recommended to travel to Los Angeles to lease in the local Claremont area. 

Students currently living at CCA are encouraged to reach out to CCA staff to confirm continuation of their lease through Spring semester | Email: [email protected] 

We recognize that not having on-campus housing to offer, and the continuation of a remote mode of instruction, may continue additional hardships for students. Students who are housing insecure and do not have housing options for the spring as a result, should reach out to [email protected] by December 7 to initiate connecting with the Housing Insecurity Working Group to explore circumstances and options available. More information on Financial Aid can be found on this website. 

What is the modified P/NC policy for the fall 2020 semester? - 11.19.20

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

Pitzer College faculty voted on 11/12/20 to modify our P/NC grade policy for this semester (Fall 2020).  The modifications permit students to take up to three-fourths of their courses P/NC, extends the deadline for the submission of signed P/NC forms to December 7, 2020, and requires students to consult with their advisor – and to document this consultation – in making decisions about taking courses P/NC. The P/NC grading option is subject to instructor approval, and applies to all courses, including courses required to meet Pitzer major/minor or other graduation requirements.  Some parts of the current policy are unchanged. Specifically, a P grade is given for work equivalent to a “C” letter grade or better, and P/NC grades do not impact a student’s GPA.  Also, please be aware that off campus (non Pitzer) majors have their own restrictions and may not permit courses graded P/NC to count toward requirements.   

For any classes that students wish to take a P/NC grading option, they should submit to the Registrar 1) a completed P/NC form approved by the course instructor and 2) a copy of an email from their advisor confirming that they have consulted with the student.  These materials should be compiled and submitted together no later than December 7, 2020.  The Revised P/NC Policy for Fall 2020 is shown below and is posted on the Registrar’s website

“Students may, with instructor’s approval, take no more than three-fourths of their courses on a P/NC basis in the fall 2020 semester, including courses that are required for a student’s major, minor, and graduation. To do so, students must obtain the instructor’s signature on a P/NC form available from the Registrar’s website.  The deadline to elect to be graded for a course on a P/NC basis, done by submitting a form to the registrar, is December 7, 2020. Courses that instructors have already designated as P/NC do not count towards the three-fourths of course credits students may designate this semester as P/NC. Students must also have their advisor email the registrar letting them know that they have discussed with their students the possibility of an Incomplete, Pass/No Credit, Withdrawal, or leaving their grading policy for the course(s) as it currently stands. This policy will have no effect on students’ ability to take courses P/NC in future semesters.” 

Information About Spring Semester 2021 - 10.28.20

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

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

I am an international student and would like to take courses in my home country this year. Will I be able to transfer credits from these classes to Pitzer? - 07.29.20

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

Pitzer’s transfer credit policy permits international students to take courses in their home country and transfer them to Pitzer. However, students are allowed to transfer a total of 2.0 credits for classes they take anywhere during this academic year. Students should consult with their academic advisers in developing a plan that makes the most sense for them in terms of taking a leave of absence or pursuing coursework elsewhere. Students should seek pre-approval from the relevant field group for any courses they plan to take and transfer to Pitzer. Field groups decide which courses can be transferred to Pitzer as well as counted toward major/minor requirements.

For more information, read the current transfer policy.

The Claremont Colleges & TimelyMD - 03.23.20

Availability of Campus.Health for The Claremont Colleges Students

The Claremont Colleges have contracted with TimelyMD, a provider of online medical and counseling services, to offer a telehealth option to all TCC students — undergraduate as well as graduate — to expand and supplement services currently available at Student Health Services and Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services. Campus.Health makes it easy for students to get quality medical and mental health care online or from their phone, anytime they need it.

Students now have access to Campus.Health, which provides 24/7 medical and mental telehealth care for all students, at no cost! To get started, visit Campus.Health. Register now and use the service when you need it.

Campus.Health offers the following unlimited free visits with student-focused, licensed physicians and counselors:

  • 24/7 access to on-demand medical care
  • 24/7 access to TalkNow emotional support
  • Accessible from any location within the United States on any smartphone or web-enabled device
  • This is a pilot project that will be available to students until mid-June 2020

To use Campus.Health services, students should:

  • Visit the Campus.Health website or
  • Visit the Apple or Android stores to download the free TimelyMD app
  • Set up profile and at checkout, enter institution’s customized coupon code: PITZER2020

Other notes and features:

  • Students will see the name, picture, location (by state) and credentials of the provider
  • An average medical visit will have a 5 minute wait to speak with a provider; the consultation will average 5-10 minutes
  • An average TalkNow counseling visit may have a 5 minute wait time; 30 minute consultation
  • Students may invite a parent or trusted advisor to participate
  • Follow up notes will be sent by the provider to the student when the visit is complete
  • All federally-protected rights to privacy will be observed. However, in the case of a life-threatening mental health crisis, a student’s dean may be notified.
  • This service is live now, and students may access it at any time.

FAQs

Q. Who can use Campus.Health?
A: Any enrolled, full-time student in The Claremont Colleges.

Q. What services are available?
A. 24/7 medical or immediate therapy (talk to a mental health provider about anything, after-hours or on weekends).

Q. How much does a visit cost?
A. It’s free! There is no cost to full-time students.

Q: Can Campus.Health diagnose COVID-19?
A: Campus.Health will virtually assess symptoms and administer frontline care in a contained environment to limit the spread of illness. They will also give recommendations on need for testing vs. self-quarantine, and where to go if testing or further care is needed.