COVID-19: State orders most employees to stay home

Dear Members of the Skidmore Community,

This afternoon, New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued an executive order that requires all "non-essential" workers to stay home, beginning at 8 p.m. Sunday, March 22, and extending through April 17. The order does not apply to "essential businesses," including grocery stores, banks, pharmacies and other companies critical to public health and safety. It is part of the state's efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. 

In compliance with the order, except for certain functions, all Skidmore faculty and staff will be required to stay home and work remotely, if possible, for the duration of the order. The College will continue paying faculty and staff through that period, regardless of their ability to work remotely. To the extent possible, we encourage faculty, staff and supervisors to think creatively about work, such as special projects that may be done remotely. Individuals should check with their supervisors if they have questions about how they should proceed under this new order. 

We will continue to support our students on campus and provide necessary services and resources. Preparations for remote learning beginning March 23 should continue. 

We understand that this new requirement will raise questions and possibly cause confusion. We are seeking further guidance and clarification from the Governor's Office and will provide more information as soon as it becomes available.  

Thank you for your understanding, patience and continued work for the College.  

Sincerely yours, 
Philip A. Glotzbach 
President