Joanna Orban - Copy Editor

A Q&A with Stuart Summers: COVID-19 and the ISU Campus

Cleaning supplies sit on a table in the PSUB
Photo Credit: Brandon Oram, Photo Editor

Joanna Orban

Staff Writer

Bengal: What is ISU doing to keep campus clean for the employees and students that are still around?

Summers: Our facilities staff are taking extra precautions to clean and sanitize all buildings and common areas. Computer labs are regularly sanitized. Our team of professionals are wiping down door handles, entry ways, and other commonly touched surfaces repeatedly during the day. We’ve installed hand sanitizer stations in the doorways of most buildings. Some buildings are now closed to public access, so we can better utilize our facilities staff elsewhere. The safety and well-being of the entire Bengal community is our top priority.

B: What has facility services been doing differently in their cleaning routines?

S: They are wiping down door handles, entry ways and other commonly touched surfaces repeatedly during the day. We’ve installed hand sanitizer stations in the doorways of most buildings. Some buildings are now closed to the public, so we can better utilize facilities staff elsewhere.

B: What has ISU Dining Services been doing differently in their cleaning/service routines?

S: The small number of students who remain in residence halls receive their on-campus meals through a pick-up or delivery option. We are limiting contact between students and food service employees. All CDC guidelines and best practices have been implemented for cleaning related facilities.

B: Is the PSUB still open for students who are on campus?

  • The Post Office entrance will be open from 8 a.m. – Noon for mail pick-up only.
  • Textbook returns are available by appointment only. Call the Bookstore at (208) 282-3237 to make an appointment.
  • Benny’s Pantry is open during regular hours by appointment only.  Call 208-282-2794
  • Some offices, like the Craft Shop, are closed.

In general, many offices are still offering services, but students should call ahead to get information over the phone, make an appointment, or arrange a virtual meeting. Use the Campus Directory to find appropriate numbers.

B: How many students are still living on campus?

S: There are 32 students in residence halls and 274 still living in campus apartments. All on-campus students have received instructions about best practices and guidelines for social distancing.

B: What can students do to help minimize the spread of germs during this time?

Most importantly, wash your hands and stay home if you are sick. Practice physical distancing (remain 6 feet away from others) and follow the guidelines set forth by the CDC and Governor Little’s stay-home order. 

B: How many employees are working from home?

S: All non-essential personnel have transitioned to working from home. Last month, Idaho State started working with department managers to create and implement remote work plans. We still have some employees, who we identify as essential personnel, working on campus to meet student and facilities needs. Employees who remain on campus are using best practices and guidelines to ensure their safety and well-being is a top priority.

B: Has ISU decided to close because of Governor Little’s recent announcement?

S: Idaho State remains open, and we are working hard to keep services running, even if they have to be offered remotely. Our decision to transition classes to distance-based instruction was based on recommendations and guidelines from the Governor’s office, the CDC, and local public health officials.