The fall semester at Appalachian State University has started amid fears about the potential threat of COVID-19, and the university's administration is working to reassure students and faculty after UNC-Chapel Hill begins its move to shut down in-person classes.
Appalachian State's faculty this week made a rare vote of no confidence in Chancellor Sheri Everts, in part because of the decision to re-open the Boone campus during the pandemic. The move doesn't change her status as chancellor and is largely symbolic.
It comes, though, at a time when schools are struggling with how and if to bring college students back. The no-confidence vote occurred as UNC-Chapel Hill's reopening plans collapsed. Officials there decided to shift to remote learning after a cluster of outbreaks hit the campus community.
Everts addressed concerns in a message to students, faculty, and staff in response to UNC's decision. She says Appalachian officials are meeting regularly with health experts and there are no immediate plans to change course.
Student health has tested more than 2,000 students, with about 1 percent testing positive.
Everts says a fraternity has been suspended for violating rules for off-campus gatherings.
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