UWM takes proactive approach to curbing student parties

MILWAUKEE_The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is taking a comprehensive and multilayered approach to limit the spread of COVID-19 on campus and in the near-campus neighborhoods. That includes being proactive in educating students on health and safety impacts and responding to parties and other social gatherings as needed.

UWM strongly discourages in-person social gatherings with others who are not members of the same household if social distancing cannot be maintained and face coverings cannot be worn.

While many universities across the country are facing sizable numbers of positive COVID-19 cases, the number of cases at UWM remains low. “It’s a fluid situation,” said UWM Dean of Students Adam Jussel, “and we are constantly reminding everyone – including students – to adhere to guidelines designed to protect everyone’s health.”

Measures include proactively educating students on the importance of following health and safety guidelines, monitoring and patrolling near-campus neighborhoods by UWM and Milwaukee police, as well as constant evaluation of student behavior by the Dean of Students Office.

The university began communication with students through email, printed material and social media posts before classes began this semester. The Panthers Protect Panthers campaign reinforces the main messages of frequent hand-washing, social distancing and wearing a cloth face covering for students, faculty and staff. The university also required all students to engage in a health and safety training and sign a pledge to abide by health and safety rules.

In addition to the usual health and safety information provided during a typical school year, the university makes regular contact with students and employees about the importance of adhering to health behavior guidelines.

In a video distributed to students last week, Student Association President Emma Mae Weber reinforced the key messages and reiterated the consequences of unsafe behavior.

Most students are following the university’s protocols to protect the health of the campus community, said Alyssa Conrardy, neighborhood housing and relations coordinator.

“Many students are frustrated when they see peers who are not following guidance and are causing disruptions in the neighborhood,” Conrardy said.

The UWM Police Department has added extra patrol teams who contact students to remind them of applicable laws and policies in the neighborhoods. Milwaukee police may make similar contact or intervene when social gatherings become large.

The Dean of Students Office evaluates reports of misconduct from UWM Police, MPD and community members, said Jussel, and tracks the houses where infringements have occurred. His office meets regularly with both police departments to discuss how and when behavior should be addressed with students. Outcomes range from educational meetings to help students understand why guidelines are in place to disciplinary action that goes on students’ records.

Students and other members of the UWM community also are encouraged to review current City of Milwaukee COVID-19 orders and mitigation strategies. The City of Milwaukee may have future orders requiring updates to campus guidance, and students are expected to comply with changes as they occur.

For the latest numbers related to COVID-19 tests at UWM, consult our dashboard.