CALIFORNIA, PA. (Feb. 18, 2021) — Robert Thorn, interim president at California University of Pennsylvania, announced today that Cal U is planning for more on-campus classes and activities this fall.

“Cal U is planning to ‘level up’ and return to full on-campus operations this fall,” Thorn said in an email to Cal U students, faculty and staff.

“Because our spring semester has gotten off to a strong start, we are optimistic that we can offer more in-person classes and a campus experience that allows us to work, live and learn together” in the Fall 2021 semester.

Cal U currently offers about 50% of classes on campus; students have the option to attend either in person or through real-time remote learning technology. The remainder of classes are offered via remote learning or online.

In-person classes resumed at Cal U on Jan. 25 after a Fall 2020 semester of entirely remote operations for students, faculty and all but a handful of university staff. On-campus residence halls reopened in January at about 50% occupancy, with most students housed in single rooms.

Thorn stressed that health and safety will remain a priority as the university plans for the upcoming fall semester.

“We will continue to monitor conditions on our campus and in the broader community, to mitigate the risk of COVID-19, and to follow CDC and state Health Department guidelines,” he said.

Cal U’s Guide to Operations describes how the campus operates at various levels – from all-remote Level 4 to Level 1, which resembles pre-pandemic conditions.

Currently, Cal U is operating at Level 3, with a variety of health and safety protocols in place. Thorn said the Guide to Operations “will continue to serve as a blueprint as we progress toward our goal of returning to Level 1 for Fall 2021. Should conditions change, it will guide us as we adjust our University’s plans.”

“Since our return to campus operations in January, your shared commitment to the well-being of your fellow Vulcans has been commendable,” Thorn told the Cal U community.

“Please continue to stay positive, stay connected, and stay vigilant as we all look ahead to brighter days.”