As of August 5, 2021, Briar Cliff University plans to begin the academic year with normal operations, at an operational level of green.            

While we may start at a green level, it is imperative to continue to be aware of potential changes as the academic year progresses. We will continue to follow guidance provided by the Governor’s Office, the Iowa Department of Education, and Siouxland District Health, and are prepared to adjust operations if needed.    

More information about our COVID status can be found on the Portal.

If you develop any COVID-19 symptoms, you must:

• Stay home/in your residence hall room (do not report to class or, if in class, go home/to your residence hall room immediately)
• Immediately inform your professor(s) and academic advisor(s)
• Contact the Charger Health office.

If you receive a positive test, contact the Charger Health office and they will guide you through the next course of action.

• Cell phone charger
• List of allergies
• 2 weeks worth of clothes
• Blanket 
• Thermometer
• Hygiene products
• Cough drops
• Tylenol
• Prescription medications
• Tissues 
• Fans
• Masks
• Distractions

According to recent peer-reviewed research, the Delta variant is more contagious, with roughly a 2.5 times higher transmission rate in age groups of 5-49. It has also resulted in a 1.58 times higher hospitalization rate. Those who are vaccinated have a lower chance of infection with a significantly lower chance of hospitalization. Should you get ill with COVID or the Delta variant, symptoms are also greatly reduced if you have been vaccinated.

It is important to know that, while you may not be ill, you can still be a carrier of COVID; please be aware some of your peers or faculty may not be vaccinated or their household members may not be vaccinated. As a caring community, we are each responsible for protecting ourselves and others.

Vaccines are offered at several locations near Briar Cliff University. For a complete listing, please click here.

For women who have concerns about blood clots, the medical community recommends the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. For men who have concerns about endocarditis, the medical community recommends the J&J vaccine or to delay the Pfizer or Moderna second dose for 8-12 weeks.

Vaccinations are not mandated but are strongly encouraged. More information about vaccines can be found by clicking here

Please remember to wash or sanitize your hands frequently and take additional precautions as needed or required.

Face coverings/masks are recommended, not required. However, for athletics or academic travel, you may visit a site requiring masks. Please bring a personal supply of masks in the event you need them for travel or for future operation level changes.

Due to the uncertainty of the Delta variant and the impact on the Siouxland community, we do recommend bringing your face masks to campus to be prepared if our operation level changes.

Limited protective equipment packets will be available at Charger Check In.

When in green status, we do not have limits for events or mass; full capacity is permitted. However, the university may take advance precautions on some special events and postpone or cancel as needed.

Daily Charger Health Checks are not currently required. You are encouraged to monitor your health by assessing any symptoms you may have and taking a daily reading of your temperature.

Should the operational level change for Briar Cliff, daily Charger Health Checks may be reinstated.

Should you have any concerns with your health in relation to COVID, please email ChargerHealth@briarcliff.edu for guidance on next steps.

Please refer to your Briar Cliff University email to see the policy created in response to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s COVID--19 Vaccination & Testing Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) issued in November, 2021. As previously communicated to you, the University is adopting a policy allowing for testing and masking for unvaccinated employees should the ETS be judicially upheld.

At this time, it is anticipated the validity of the ETS will be examined by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) on January 7, 2022. It is unknown whether the Court will issue a ruling that same day or thereafter. In the event the ETS is deemed valid by SCOTUS, employers have until January 10, 2022 to demonstrate compliance with the ETS, as long as reasonable efforts are being undertaken by the employer to comply with the ETS in the meantime.

At this time, I draw your attention specifically to pages 5 & 6 wherein you can immediately verify your vaccine status with the University in compliance with this policy.

We will keep you updated regarding the status of the Supreme Court case and its applicability to the University and our employees.

COVID-19 vaccines and vaccinations have been a hot topic over the past year and with the most recent news of potential federal mandates, we know you likely have questions. As such, we wanted to bring our in-house experts to you to share some general information to help you make decisions that are best for you and those around you.

Tune in to learn more about the following:

• 01:42 – Why COVID Vaccines are Recommended
• 02:50 – COVID Re-Infections
• 04:30 – Differences of Vaccines, Side Effects, & Precautions
• 08:16 – Choosing Your Vaccine
• 08:52 – Ingredients Within the COVID Vaccine
• 10:42 – COVID in Young Adults
• 12:56 – When to Get a Booster & What Brand
• 14:37 – Antibodies & Vaccines
• 15:30 – COVID Vaccines & Flu Vaccines
• 16:58 – When to Get Your Flu Vaccine
• 17:31 – Latest Date to Get the Flu Vaccine
• 17:48 – Travel
• 19:30 – Vaccine Locations
• 21:20 – Vaccine Safety
• 25:38 – COVID Symptoms & Precautions
• 26:22 – COVID Testing & Cost
• 28:04 – At Home Testing
• 29:46 – OSHA Vaccine Mandate

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) COVID vaccine requirements remain suspended until further notice. The judicial case is pending review by the United States Court of Appeals, currently anticipated for no earlier than December 10, 2021.

However, if/when this suspension is lifted, Briar Cliff University must be prepared to implement our vaccine/mask/test policy in accordance with the mandate. Some important information to know:

• Our policy is not currently active.
• If the OSHA federal vaccine requirements become enforceable, you will be promptly notified. We are currently finalizing our policy in the event the requirements become enforceable. If that happens, all Briar Cliff University employees, including student, adjunct, part-time and full-time employees, will be required to comply with the policy. Here are some elements of the policy which is not currently active.

• If not fully vaccinated or you do not submit proof of vaccination, you must wear your face covering in the workplace while indoors and in vehicles with others while working until fully vaccinated.
• Face coverings are not required when employees are not in the workplace, as Briar Cliff is in a green operational status (i.e., students within their residence, classroom, etc.).
• Briar Cliff will be collecting vaccine cards in compliance with this mandate. More information on this process will be provided, if/when warranted.
• Some employees may qualify for medical or religious exemptions. Please contact Human Resources for more information.
• Training and vaccine informational webinars and videos will be provided in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more information.

We will continue to provide updates as they become available. Should you have additional, immediate questions, please contact your supervisor or email them to Human Resources.

As always, thank you for being a caring community.

Briar Cliff University continues to evaluate and prepare for the upcoming Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) COVID vaccine mandate as outlined in the OSHA emergency temporary standard (ETS) issued November 5, 2021. As a caring community, we have carried our Franciscan values into and through the pandemic. We continue to request this of you as we continue to navigate this pandemic.

This mandate does apply to all Briar Cliff University employees (both full-time and part-time), as we have more than 100 employees. Through further review and confirmation with higher education officials, the mandate does include all student employees as well.

Unvaccinated employees:

• Face Covering Mandate. Any employee who is not fully vaccinated by December 5, 2021, must begin wearing face coverings at all times in the workplace while indoors and when in vehicles with others for work purposes until fully vaccinated.
• Weekly Covid Test Mandate. The mandate specifies that employers must ensure each such employee completes (at said employee’s expense) and provides to the employer a negative COVID test result each week or a negative COVID test result within 7 days before returning to work (if away from the workplace for a week or longer).
• Deadlines. Employees have until January 4, 2022, to be fully vaccinated.
1. At that time, the weekly COVID test requirement described above commences.
2. Unvaccinated employees (including those who are not yet fully vaccinated) must continue wearing face coverings at all times in the workplace while indoors and when in vehicles with others for work purposes until fully vaccinated, even if said unvaccinated employee presents a negative COVID test that week. 

Federal Judicial Stay Regarding the Mandate:

It is important to know that, at this time, a federal court has suspended the enforcement of the vaccine mandate. However, we continue to prepare for implementation should this suspension be lifted.

Upcoming University Policy:

The following is what we know at this time and what we currently plan to do, in accordance with requirements of the mandate:

• Briar Cliff University will develop, implement, and enforce a mandatory policy requiring unvaccinated employees to undergo weekly testing for COVID-19 and to wear a face mask in the workplace and when in vehicles with others for work purposes.
• We are required to begin gathering information about each employee’s vaccination status. We are developing processes and internal systems to comply with this law.

• We have provided free vaccination clinics on campus and will continue to do so as appropriate. If you are planning to get vaccinated and have not yet done so, I urge you to do so now. 
• The term “fully vaccinated” includes 2 doses of either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine or 1 dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

We know many of you will have questions regarding this mandate. We will forward the required policy to you as soon as possible and will also notify you immediately if the judicial stay is lifted and the mandate becomes enforceable.

We appreciate your patience as we continue to navigate this ever-evolving pandemic. Thank you for your continued resilience and compassion as we aim to protect ourselves and others.

Stay tuned and stay safe.

Rooted in our Catholic, Franciscan values and mission, we each have a responsibility to care for and to demonstrate reverence for each other as God’s creation. As a caring community, we have carried our Franciscan values into and through the pandemic. We continue to request this of you as we navigate the fight against COVID-19.

You are likely aware the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued an “emergency temporary standard (ETS) to protect unvaccinated employees of large employers (100 or more employees) from the risk of contracting COVID-19 by strongly encouraging vaccination” (note this is language quoted from the 11/05/2021 interim final rule and request for comments regarding President Biden’s vaccine mandate). This mandate impacts Briar Cliff University, as we have more than 100 employees. Despite OSHA’s nearly 500-page document, many questions remain.

Here is what we know at this time and what we currently plan to do.

What the mandate says:

• Employers with at least 100 employees must

(1) OPTION #1: develop, implement, and enforce a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy, OR

(2) OPTION #2: develop, implement, and enforce a mandatory policy for unvaccinated employees to undergo weekly testing for COVID-19 and wear a face mask in the workplace and when in vehicles with others.

              (NOTE: Briar Cliff is developing a policy for OPTION #2. Please watch your email for further information.)

Employers must do the following regarding employee vaccination status:

1. determine each individual employee’s vaccination status;
2. obtain acceptable proof of vaccination for all vaccinated employees;
3. maintain records of each employee’s vaccination status (separate from their personnel file); and
4. maintain a roster of each employee’s vaccination status. 
• For employees who are not fully vaccinated (i.e., 2 doses of either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine or 1 dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine), employers must ensure each such employee completes (at said employee’s expense) and provides to the employer a negative COVID test result each week or a negative COVID test result within 7 days before returning to work (if away from the workplace for a week or longer).  
1. Employees have until January 4, 2022, to be fully vaccinated. At that time, the weekly COVID test requirement commences, and employees who are not fully vaccinated must begin wearing face coverings at all times in the workplace while indoors and when in vehicles with others until fully vaccinated, even if said employee presents a negative COVID test that week. 
2. Any employee who is not fully vaccinated by December 5, 2021, must begin wearing face coverings at all times in the workplace while indoors and when in vehicles with others until fully vaccinated.

What we know (at this time):  

• Numerous lawsuits have been filed by states (26 states, including Iowa, have joined in the challenge) attempting to stop or delay this mandate.
• The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on Saturday to halt the order, effectively putting the mandate on hold until pending litigation can be heard.
• We will continue to monitor this situation.

What are we doing (at this time): 

• Unless the law changes, we must plan to comply with this mandate.  
• We have provided free vaccination clinics on campus and will continue to do so as appropriate. If you are planning to get vaccinated and have not yet done so, I urge you to do so now. 
• As set forth above, we are developing a policy for OPTION #2.
• As stated above, we are required to begin gathering information about each employee’s vaccination status. We are developing processes and internal systems to comply with this law.

A webinar specific to higher education stakeholders is being presented directly by OSHA late this week. Please be patient as we work through these regulations and requirements.

From the beginning of this pandemic, we have carefully monitored the situation and collaborated to make the best decisions we could with the information we had at the time, and we will continue to do so. As I have said many times throughout these last 21 months, I am so proud of and grateful for each of you for living out our Catholic, Franciscan values.

Stay tuned and stay safe.

We are so excited to welcome all of you to the Cliff this fall. Going into this new academic year, we hope to bring back some normalcy after a year of unknowns. There is no place I'd rather be to move forward than here at Briar Cliff University.

As a reminder, if you are not feeling well, do not attend class, come to work, attend a campus event, or even come to campus if you can avoid it. We highly recommend wearing face masks and being vaccinated for COVID if at all possible. We will continue to monitor the guidance from state and local agencies to ensure the health and safety of our campus. We are prepared to adjust operations as needed. Thank you for being a caring community.

Our word for this year is: Inspire. It’s not hard to already feel inspired by the innovation and perseverance I witnessed last school year and throughout the summer.

From our students walking across the stage to receive their degree they worked hard for during a global pandemic; to our faculty who made the transition to block scheduling and online learning; and to our staff who made it a priority for our students to have as normal of a year as possible through events and services, all of you serve as inspirational exemplars of resilience.

As a university, we will continue to strive to “inspire” throughout this academic year. This year will offer growth and opportunity for our entire campus community and I am certain we will all be inspired by the innovation and inspiration to come for The Cliff.

Welcome Back Message from the President

As we commence the first day of classes, questions have arisen regarding requirements to wear masks in offices, classrooms, meeting spaces, etc. While we are not requiring masks campus-wide, please respect mask requirements where encountered. As a caring community we recognize that there are many individual situations. For example, employees and/or their family members may be at enhanced risk as a result of health issues or age, preventing them from receiving a vaccination.

As a reminder, if you experience any symptoms that may be related to COVID-19, please avoid coming to campus if at all possible. If you are an employee, contact your supervisor regarding your work arrangements. If you are a student, please email the Compass at compass@briarcliff.edu for assistance with next steps regarding classes. Additionally, for both students and employees, please email chargerhealth@briarcliff.edu.

Thank you for being a caring community.

August 3, 2021

Your Personal Relief Amount

To further support the alleviation of financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Department of Education expanded their higher education emergency relief offerings. Briar Cliff applied for and received funding for our students through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF III), authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP). These relief funds are based on Title IV and Pell Grant eligibility.

Your personal HEERF III amount is available.

Your relief funds can be applied directly to your current student account to cover existing balances. They can also be applied to your new 2021-2022 school year charges.

Please verify your information in Charger STABLE and select the option that works best for you.

• Login to Charger STABLE
• Access the Agreement for your funds by clicking here

If you choose to receive your funds electronically, via your student account or direct deposit, you will receive the amount on September 10. Otherwise, checks will be mailed on that date. Note, these relief funds will not need to be paid back. The funding is intended to help support you during your higher education journey.

We are happy to help answer any questions you may have and further review your options. Please contact Student Financial Services.

August 4, 2021

Please Update Your Information in Charger STABLE

We are preparing to disburse your relief funds obtained through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF III), authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP). We see that your information is missing or incomplete within Charger STABLE. 

As a reminder, please complete the following required actions to validate your relief fund eligibility and prepare for your anticipated amount. Ensuring updated and current information will facilitate the timely receipt of your funds. 

Please verify your information in Charger STABLE and select the option that works best for you.

• Verify, add, or update your personal bank information in Charger STABLE
  • Your relief funds may be applied to your student account or direct deposited into your personal bank account.
  • For more information on how to set up direct deposit, please click here.
• Verify, add, or update your home address (including mailing address) information in Charger STABLE. 
  

Please let us know if you have any questions.

August 9, 2021

Action Needed to for Relief Funds

As Briar Cliff prepares to disburse your relief funds obtained through HEERF III, we wanted to remind you to select how you would like to receive your funds. We see this has not been completed.

Your personal HEERF III amount is available.

Your relief funds can be applied directly to your current student account to cover existing balances. They can also be applied to your new 2021-2022 school year charges. 

Please verify your information in Charger STABLE and select the option that works best for you.

• Login to Charger STABLE

• Access the Agreement for your funds by clicking here

  • ACCEPT if you would like to apply the funds to your student account balance

  • DECLINE if you would like the funds direct deposited into your personal account

If you choose to receive your funds electronically, via your student account or direct deposit, you will receive the amount on September 10. Otherwise, checks will be mailed on that date. Note, these relief funds will not need to be paid back. The funding is intended to help support you during your higher education journey.

We are happy to help answer any questions you may have and further review your options. Please contact Student Financial Services.

August 19, 2021

Action Needed to for Relief Funds 

We see that you need to select how you would like to receive your funds through the HEERF III disbursement. Your personal HEERF III amount is available.

Your relief funds can be applied directly to your current student account to cover existing balances. They can also be applied to your new 2021-2022 school year charges. 

Please verify your information in Charger STABLE and select the option that works best for you.

• Login to Charger STABLE
• Access the Agreement for your funds by clicking here

You must make this selection by or before August 24. If you do not indicate your preference, we will assume a “DECLINE” and direct deposit the funds to your personal account.

If you choose to receive your funds electronically, via your student account or direct deposit, you will receive the amount on September 10. Otherwise, checks will be mailed on that date. Note, these relief funds will not need to be paid back. The funding is intended to help support you during your higher education journey.

We are happy to help answer any questions you may have and further review your options. Please contact Student Financial Services.

Thank you, all, for your continued diligence and compliance with the COVID safety protocols implemented across campus in response to the pandemic. I am tremendously proud of our community for protecting each other and those beyond The Cliff. We have kept our positive COVID rates low, for which we are all grateful.

With these low rates, wide accessibility to COVID vaccinations, many of our community being fully vaccinated, and the reduction in our campus population with the commencement of summer, Briar Cliff University will be moving to a probationary green operational status beginning today, May 10. This update applies to protocols on Briar Cliff University’s campus as follows:

• Face Masks - Use of face masks is encouraged. However, the on-campus requirement is lifted. I encourage everyone to continue to support your colleagues and peers if they ask you to wear a mask. We are all in this together – please be mindful and respectful of others’ wishes and personal health needs.
• Personal Hygiene & Physical Therapy - Employees should continue to practice good personal hygiene. Continue to wash and sanitize your hands frequently while also being mindful of your distance from others.
• Charger Health Check - The notifications for completing a Charger Health Check have been suspended during this probationary period. The weekly report of quarantine and positive cases will also be suspended during this time.
• Employee Illness - If you are ill, do not report to work. Please notify your supervisor immediately to make arrangements (e.g., sick leave, vacation time, or remote work if appropriate). If you are exhibiting COVID symptoms, or you tested positive for COVID, please email ChargerHealth@briarcliff.edu.
• Meetings - Meetings may be held on-campus with all participants following current public health guidelines. Remote attendance will be accommodated for identified and/or verified high-risk employees.
• Events - Community events may be held so long as public health guidelines are followed. These guidelines will be communicated through the event information.

March 15, 2021

You May be Eligible to Receive Relief Funds

In support of our students, Briar Cliff University applied for and received funding through the US Department of Education’s Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA). We see you may be eligible to receive relief funds.

We ask that you verify, add, or update your information in Charger STABLE. Your relief funds may be applied to your student account or sent to your personal bank account. Having updated and current information will allow for you to receive these funds as quickly as possible.

• Verify, add, or update your personal bank information in Charger STABLE. 
• Your relief funds may be applied to your student account or direct deposited into your personal bank account.
• For more information on how to set up direct deposit, please click here.
• Verify, add, or update your home address information in Charger STABLE.
• Currently, we have your home address as: 
  No Address, No City, No State, No Zip

Note, these relief funds will not need to be paid back. The money is intended to help support you during your higher education journey.

More information about your individual amount will be shared on March 18.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

March 17, 2021

Please Update Your Information in Charger STABLE

We are preparing for relief fund disbursements through the US Department of Education’s Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA). We see that your information is missing or incomplete within Charger STABLE.

As a reminder, please take the appropriate actions required to validate your eligibility and prepare for your anticipated amount. Having updated and current information will allow for you to receive these funds as quickly as possible. 

• Verify, add, or update your personal bank information in Charger STABLE. 
• Your relief funds may be applied to your student account or direct deposited into your personal bank account.
• For more information on how to set up direct deposit, please click here.
• Verify, add, or update your home address information in Charger STABLE.
• Currently, we have your home address as: 
  No Address, No City, No State, No Zip

More information about your individual amount will be shared on March 18.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

March 18, 2021

Your Personal Relief Amount

To further support financial hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Department of Education has expanded their higher education emergency relief offerings. Briar Cliff applied for and received funding through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) in support of our students. Briar Cliff relief funds are based on Title IV and Pell Grant eligibility.

Your personal CRSAA amount is available.

This relief fund can be applied to your student account balance or be direct deposited in your personal bank account. If you are not enrolled in direct deposit, a check will be mailed to your home address on file.

As a general reminder, to remain eligible for registration or to graduate this spring, all account balances must be resolved. We see that your balance is currently available. If your relief fund is greater than the amount owed, the remaining amount will be direct deposited into your personal bank account.

Please verify your information in Charger STABLE and select the option that works best for you.

• Login to Charger STABLE
• Access the Agreement for your funds by clicking here
• ACCEPT if you would like to apply the funds to your student account balance
• DECLINE if you would like the funds direct deposited to your personal account

If you choose to receive your funds electronically, via your student account or direct deposit, you will receive the amount on March 30. Checks will be mailed on this date. 

We are happy to help answer any questions you may have and further review your options. Please contact Student Financial Services.

March 23, 2021

Action Needed to for Relief Funds

Briar Cliff is preparing your Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) funds. We see that you need to select how you would like to receive your funds.

This relief fund can be applied to your student account balance or be direct deposited in your personal bank account. If you are not enrolled in direct deposit, a check will be mailed to your home address on file.

The deadline to indicate your preferred option is by end of day Wednesday, March 24. If you do not take action, we will automatically enroll you to recieve the funds via direct deposit to your personal account. Please verify your information in Charger STABLE and select the option that works best for you.

• Login to Charger STABLE
• Visit your agreement page
• ACCEPT if you would like to apply the funds to your student account balance
• DECLINE if you would like the funds direct deposited to your personal account

If you choose to receive your funds electronically, via your student account or direct deposit, you will receive the amount on March 30. Checks will be mailed on this date.

We are happy to help answer any questions you may have and further review your options. Please contact Student Financial Services.

March 24, 2021

Action Needed for Relief Funds

Briar Cliff is preparing your Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) funds. We see that you need to add your direct deposit information.

For instructions on how to set up direct deposit within Charger STABLE please click here. Adding this information will allow for you to receive these funds as quickly as possible.

If you choose to receive your funds electronically, via your student account or direct deposit, you will receive the amount on March 30. Checks will be mailed on this date.

We are happy to help answer any questions you may have. Please contact Student Financial Services.

As shared in our most recent Town Hall meetings, Briar Cliff’s leadership team continues to advocate for university access to the COVID-19 vaccine. While this work is ongoing, we have received the following updates:

• Woodbury County is getting a limited number of vaccines in, which is far less than the demand. The next vaccine phase, Phase 1B (which includes K-12 educators and residents aged 65+), will start early February and take approximately two months to administer, contingent upon vaccine availability and other factors that may impact the timing of the vaccine rollout. We have been working with our industry organizations to obtain college and university access to the vaccine in Iowa. Iowa DHS has recently shared that the current vaccine supply simply cannot meet demand at this time.
• Information related to accessing the vaccine will be available on Siouxland District Health’s website. They will post the clinics that will be administering the vaccines. Each eligible individual will need to make an appointment online (e.g., age 65+). Even when available to the general public, vaccines will likely not be administered on campus anytime in the future due to the temperature storage and precautions required.

A yellow status still requires our collective diligence to mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19. We have kept positive COVID-19 cases low on campus – and we want to continue to do all we can to keep it this way, to keep you safe and healthy, and to ensure our University remains in-person as much as and as long as possible.  

It remains imperative that we continue to be diligent in keeping our community safe with the following protocols:  

• Wear a face mask.
• Physically distance from others.
• Wash and sanitize hands frequently.
• Sanitize frequently-touched items throughout the day.
• Continue to complete a Charger Health Check every day (even if not on campus that day).
• If feeling ill, do not come to campus.
• The University continues to have a “no visitors” policy in place.
  • No unapproved and no unaccompanied visitors are allowed on campus at this time.

Thank you for continuing to #TakeCharge of your health and help keep our community safe.

Thank you for your enhanced diligence in protecting our campus community the past two weeks, following our precautionary elevation to orange for our COVID operation status. As we continue to see high positive cases in the Siouxland area and increased hospitalizations, we want to continue to do our part in helping mitigate the potential spread. We will continue operating under an orange status until further notice.You can find more information about our operational levels on the portal.

As a reminder, it is important to increase our diligence in following COVID safety protocols to ensure our University remains in-person as much as and as long as possible. 

The following safety precautions remain a priority for all:

• Wear a face mask.
• Physically distance from others.
• Wash and sanitize hands frequently.
• Sanitize frequently-touched items throughout the day.
• Continue to complete a Charger Health Check every day (even if not on campus that day).
• If feeling ill, do not come to campus.
• The University continues to have a “no visitors” policy in place.
• No unapproved and no unaccompanied visitors are allowed on campus at this time.

The following enhanced safety measures will continue:

• Faculty members will continue to communicate their hybrid learning model for class with their students. In-class contact hours have been reduced by 50%.
• No spectators are allowed at any athletic events. Only student-athletes, coaches, and essential game workers may attend.
• Masks are required in residence halls in all common spaces, hallways, and shared bathrooms.
• If a student lives within 250 miles of campus, we strongly encourage them to quarantine at home.
• This is for their comfort and to allow for on-campus resources to be utilized by those who may not have the option to return home.
• All campus meetings will move to virtual meetings, unless it is a group of less than 10 and physical distancing is implemented.

University officials will continue to evaluate and assess our operational needs daily and implement necessary precautions to help keep our campus as safe as possible. 

Thank you for continuing to join together to help keep our community safe.

Briar Cliff University is elevating the COVID operation level from yellow to orange as a precautionary measure relating to recent events as well as the increasing positive case trends being reported in Woodbury County. 

At operation level orange, risk is considered moderate to elevated for all but high-risk individuals. Students and employees are present on campus but will utilize more options to learn and work remotely to limit in-person contact.  

University officials will continue to evaluate, assess, and make changes as needed. Currently, the operation level is elevated through October 18. 

 Please see the below update issued from Siouxland District Health late yesterday outlining important information on contact tracing and new health safety measures for schools. Specifically, note the update regarding face coverings: “a face shield is not considered a face covering.” As such, Briar Cliff’s face covering requirement is now changed to require the use of masks, covering both the mouth and nose. Face shields will no longer be acceptable as a “face covering” on Briar Cliff’s campus. 

As a reminder, for all health related questions, concerns, or appointment needs, please email ChargerHealth@briarcliff.edu.

Thank you for your agility in adjusting throughout this pandemic and for being a caring community.

"The Iowa Department of Public Health notified local public health departments that it is making a change to the Iowa quarantine recommendations for people that have been exposed to a positive case of COVID-19, and Siouxland District Health Department (SDHD) is implementing this change, effective immediately. 

• Close contacts of COVID-positive cases will no longer need to quarantine for 14 days if a face covering was consistently worn by both people during the exposure. 
• Household/residential contacts and contacts in health care settings will still have the 14-day quarantine recommendation. 
• Any type of face covering is acceptable; however, a face shield is not considered a face covering and quarantine is still required if one or both people were wearing a face shield only. 
• People currently in quarantine may discontinue that quarantine if both people were wearing a face covering during the time of exposure. 
• This is not a replacement for social distancing, but it should reduce the number of quarantines in school and work settings. This does NOT change the isolation requirements for people that are actually sick or COVID-positive to isolate from others until:
  • They have had no fever for at least 24 hours (that is one full day of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers) and their other symptoms have improved, AND 
  • At least 10 days have passed since their symptoms first appeared OR since they had a positive COVID test if they are asymptomatic. 

This decision was made by the Iowa Department of Public Health based on observations within Iowa and some other states that when the COVID-positive case and close contacts were both wearing face coverings at the time of exposure, the contacts were much less likely to develop illness or later test positive. SDHD wants to emphasize the importance of wearing face coverings consistently and correctly, with it covering both the nose and the mouth. Other recommendations such as social distancing, staying home when you are sick, and frequently washing or disinfecting hands continue to be important practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19."

The health and safety of our students and employees remains our top priority at The Cliff. To help monitor the health of our campus community, we are excited to introduce Charger Health Check. This new service will provide our Health Office an overview of our general on-campus health status, help mitigate potential spread of illnesses, and allow BCU to meet NAIA guidelines for athletes.

How It Works: You will receive a text message with a link to take you to fill out a simple health screening. You will answer questions like: 

• “How are you feeling today?” 
• “Have you any COVID-19 symptoms?” 
• “Have you been exposed to anyone who has been tested?”
• “What is your temperature?”
  • Thermometers will be given to all employees and students on campus. 

Access Pass: Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll receive a score and your color-coded pass. Think of it as your all-access pass to work, class, practice, and on-campus activities. 

• Green – allows you unrestricted access to class and activities
• Yellow – further action is needed before going to work or class
  • Students must visit the Health Office for clearance (Alverno G4) 
  • Employees must contact their supervisor
• Red – please stay home
  • Students must contact the Health Office via email
  • Employees must contact their supervisor

Please note, you will receive a new link every morning. Your access pass must be noted with the current date in order to be valid. Please input your cell phone number in to Charger Stable if you have not already.

Students without access to SMS messaging will receive a link via email that will need to be completed each day. 

If you do not receive a text message or email by the end of the day please see text-in instructions:

• Students (not student-athletes): Text "The Cliff" to 58052
• Athletes/Athletics Staff: Text "Chargers" to 58052 (Athletes/Athletic staff will receive a slightly different survey to comply with NAIA standards.)
• Employees: Text "BCU" to 58052 

For other technical difficulties please fill out this survey and someone will follow up with you when available. 

Health Support: Campus Health Clinic and Counseling Center, located in Alverno Hall - Room G4, is open for the following hours:

Please call (712) 279-5436 or email prior to visiting. For after hours support, please call 211 or email ChargerHealth@briarcliff.edu. If an emergency, please go to the Emergency Department at a local hospital (such as UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s or MercyOne – Siouxland). 

We are aware that this is a confusing time and want to reiterate that we are here to support you however we can. As we all adapt and navigate through this semester and pandemic, please do not hesitate to reach out to our leadership team. It is essential our community is united in our actions to stay healthy and safe. 

Hello Chargers,

I hope you and your families are healthy and well. We miss you here on The Cliff. 

Federal guidelines for international students are continually evolving along with the circumstances of the global pandemic, with an update as recent as this week. We understand the circumstances and precautions of this guidance may be difficult or may impact your plans for returning to campus. As a university, we continue to advocate for each of you to inspire the very best outcome possible.

As policies currently stand, we wanted to provide you with more information pertaining to international student visas and traveling into the US this summer for Fall 2020 classes at Briar Cliff University. However, please continue to watch your Briar Cliff email for ongoing updates.

Travel:

• Due to Executive Order of the President of the United States, travel from many areas of the world have been suspended/halted. Those areas include:Brazil, China, Iran, Ireland, United Kingdom and the European countries of: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. F-1 visa students who have been in these countries are unable to travel to the US for educational purposes if they have been in any of these countries for 14 days prior to entry into the US.  Students traveling for education are not considered “essential” from these countries and are therefore unable to travel into the US.

• Canada and Mexico: Restrictions have been placed on air entry into the US, however land ports of entry and ferry terminals along the US Canada and US Mexico borders are open to essential travel. Essential travel for the land and ferry ports of entry include “individuals traveling to attend education institutions,” therefore, F-1 visa students should be able to enter the US from land ports of entry. We do not encourage students who are not residents of Canada or Mexico to travel to Canada and Mexico and try to enter the US through a land port. It is risky, as the student still may still be denied entry at US at the port of entry. The immigration officer at the port of entry has final say as to entry or denial of entry regardless of visa approval. Also, students can endanger themselves by staying in low cost/dangerous locations to save money. Additionally, if they spend their funds trying to get into the US which were meant for their education, it does not constitute a financial hardship according to the Federal Government and if they do not have the funds to pay for their education, their visa/I20 can be terminated. Student Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and US Immigration and Customs are aware students are eager to get into the US to save their visa status and receive an education and/or play sports, however, the safety and well-being of the student and stewardship of their finances is the primary concern. Since COVID-19 is a fluid situation, students could be denied at the port of entry even after spending 14 days in Canada or Mexico.  Students are encouraged to check the US Embassy website in their country for updates on when travel may become available.
• Visa Services Visa Services are suspended until further notice, therefore any student who does not have a visa at this time may not be able to obtain a visa until further notice, per a statement from the US Department of State: 

“In response to worldwide challenges related to the outbreak of COVID-19, the Department of State is suspending routine visa services at all U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Embassies and consulates will cancel all routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments as of March 20, 2020. As resources allow, embassies and consulates will continue to provide emergency and mission critical visa services. Our overseas missions will resume routine visa services as soon as possible but are unable to provide a specific date at this time.”

Students are encouraged to check the US Embassy website in their country for updates on when visa appointments may become available.

Guidance for Fall Term

On July 6, 2020, Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) released guidelines for the Fall 2020 semester. These include how mode of course delivery will impact nonimmigrant status. 

For Fall 2020, Briar Cliff University will be reporting to SEVP that we are adopting a hybrid model to allow for the flexibility of the block scheduling, adhering to safety measures (such as physical distancing in the classroom), and the agility if a second wave does impact learning. Click here to review the update on course delivery visit.

For Fall 2020, Briar Cliff University will be issuing new I-20s to all students with this language in the remarks section for the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection to see our mode of instruction. 

Guidance for Returning Students

Institution operating under Normal Operations:

If students cannot or will not return to school when in-person instruction resumes, the school’s Designated SEVIS Officer/Primary Designated SEVIS Officer (DSO/PDSO) should terminate the student’s records and I-20 in SEVIS, meaning they are no longer able to continue on their F-1 visa. 

If a student cannot return during the Fall 2020 and BCU is operating under normal operations, they may continue their education as an online student in Nursing, Social Work, and Business at BCU, not as an F-1 student. Their visa will still be terminated, and they would have to reapply for a visa to come back into the US.  However, they can at least continue their education and complete it online from their home country.

Guidance for New Students

Institution operating under Normal Operations:

If a new F-1 visa student has not arrived to campus at the start of normal operations for the Fall 2020 term, deferment of their I-20 to the next term is an option. New F-1 visa students may not study online and remain in F-1 visa status.  

Arrival to Campus

Upon your arrival to campus, you will be required to do a medical check with the health office on campus. There will be nominal $25 charge for the health check, which will have to be paid at time of the health check. If asymptomatic, then you will be required to do daily temperature checks for the next 3 days. If you are symptomatic, you will be required to follow the policies related to COVID-19 quarantine for BCU.

Athletic Eligibility  

If a returning student is unable to arrive for the start of the semester and they choose online/remote learning from their country. Remote/online learning will not impact your ability to meet NAIA academic progress rules for athletics eligibility. If you have previously redshirted or deferred athletics participation while being a full time student, please contact us.

Briar Cliff University announces the fall start date will continue as planned for the 2020-2021 academic year. The University will be moving to a block schedule with mixed modalities (in-classroom, a combination of in-classroom and online, and completely online), to allow for flexibility throughout the academic year.

“Our goal is to provide a safe yet flexible learning environment for our students,” says Dr. Rachelle Karstens, Briar Cliff University President. “Faculty and Administration came together to determine how to best keep campus safe while also providing exceptional educational opportunities for our students.”

The new block scheduling will have Monday through Thursday class days and Friday as a non-class day. Most classes will be taught in four-week blocks, although some courses will be eight or 16 weeks in length. The mixed modality learning model allows for some classes to be taught in-person, online, or a mixture of the two, dependent upon the course content, the classroom, and course population.

“Block scheduling is not a new concept to higher education. However, this is new to Briar Cliff University. Data demonstrates students learn more and retain more with this type of schedule. It will also allow our students more flexibility for other time commitments,” adds Dr. Todd Knealing, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. “Many students participate in activities and campus organizations, have jobs and internships, volunteer, and more.”

Dr. Knealing also shares this class structure will allow for a smoother transition to online learning if necessary. Block scheduling also provides the option for smaller class sizes resulting in less exposure for students and faculty at any given time, providing a safer environment overall.

Physical distancing and health safety precautions will be utilized, including required face masks and hand sanitizer, which will be provided to all students and employees. The University is prepared to adjust campus protocols, depending on guidance provided by local, state, and national officials.

• 0:29 – Strategic Plan
• 2:17 – All-Campus Institute
• 2:57 – Return to Campus Update
• 3:35 – Academic Updates
• 4:40 – Housing Updates
• 5:10 – Town Hall Meetings
• 5:43 – NAIA Announcement
• 6:28 – Board of Trustees
• 7:50 – BCUpdate Frequency
• 8:32 – Closing Prayer

Thank you for joining us for the 7th BCUpdate, hosted by Dr. Todd Knealing, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. Today’s update covers a variety of important topics and helps answer questions provided by each of you.

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 05/11/2022
• Covering Quarter Ending: 12/31/2022

View Full Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 05/11/2022
• Covering Quarter Ending: 09/30/2022

View Full Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 05/11/2022
• Covering Quarter Ending: 06/30/2022

View Full Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 03/22/2022
• Covering Quarter Ending: 03/31/2022

View Full Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 01/06/2022
• Covering Quarter Ending: 12/31/2021

View Full Report

Revised Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 10/01/2021
• Covering Quarter Ending: 09/30/2021

View Full Report

Revised Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 07/01/2021
• Covering Quarter Ending: 06/30/2021

 View Full Report

Revised Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 04/07/2021
• Covering Quarter Ending: 03/21/2021

View Full Report

Revised Report

Student Emergency Grant Report

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 01/05/2021
• Covering Quarter Ending: 12/31/2020

View Full Report

Revised Report

Briar Cliff University Department of Education has updated their reporting requirements for the CARES Act. Briar Cliff will transition to providing quarterly reporting updates until our final report.

Quarterly Budget and Expenditure Reporting for HEERF I, II, and III (a)(1) Institutional Portion, (a)(2), and (a)(3), if applicable.

• Institution Name: Briar Cliff University
• Date of Report: 10/08/2020
• Covering Quarter Ending:09/30/2020

View Full Report

Revised Report

 On May 6, 2020, the Office of Postsecondary Education published requirements for Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) reporting. Reporting for HEERF funds distributed to Briar Cliff University will begin 30 days from the U.S. Department of Education awarded grant documents and then each quarter thereafter.

1. On April 28, 2020, the Certification and Agreement were signed and returned to the Department of Education. Briar Cliff University intends to use no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act for the Institutional Portion of the Higher education Emergency Relief Fund. The college’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding Institutional Portion was awarded on May 7, 2020.
2. The total amount of funds that the institution received from the Department pursuant to the institution’s Certification and Agreement [for] the Institutional Portion of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund is $426,647.
3. As of August 1, 2020, the total amount of the Institutional Portion under Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act unspent is $147,922.
4. The recipient retains discretion in determining how to allocate and use the funds provided hereunder, provided funds will be spent only on those costs for which Briar Cliff University has a reasoned basis for concluding such costs have a clear nexus to significant changes to the delivery of instruction due to coronavirus including reimbursement to itself for costs related to refunds made to students for housing, food, or other services the University could no longer provide, or for hardware, software, or internet connectivity that the University may have purchased on behalf of students or provided to students.
5. As of August 1, 2020, the total amount of Emergency Financial Aid Grants distributed to students under Institutional Portion under Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act is $246,696.04.
6. Briar Cliff University has paid its employees and contractors during the period of disruptions or closures related to coronavirus. In accordance with the Certification and Agreement with the Department of Education, Briar Cliff University has not expended any funds on unallowable expenditures which would include senior administrator or executive salaries, benefits, bonuses, contracts, incentives; stock buybacks, shareholder dividends, capital distributions, and stock options; and any other cash or other benefit for a senior administrator or executive.
7. The total number of students who have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569 as of August 1, 2020.

On May 6, 2020, the Office of Postsecondary Education published requirements for Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) reporting. Reporting for HEERF funds distributed to Briar Cliff University will begin 30 days from the U.S. Department of Education awarded grant documents and then each quarter thereafter.

1. On April 10, 2020, the Certification and Agreement were signed and returned to the Department of Education. Briar Cliff University intends to use no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students. The college’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding was awarded on April 29, 2020.
2. The total amount of funds that the institution received from the Department pursuant to the institution’s Certification and Agreement [for] Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students is $426,646.
3. As of August 1, 2020, the total amount of Emergency Financial Aid Grants distributed to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is $426,646.
4. The estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569. This number may change.
5. The total number of students who have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569 as of August 1, 2020.
6. Briar Cliff University determined eligible students must be Title IV eligible, have filed a 2019-20 FAFSA, have been enrolled as a full-time, in-person as of March 13, 2020 (Date Federal Disaster was declared), and must certify that they have qualifying expenses due to the disruption of campus operations as a result of the coronavirus. Pell Grant recipients can receive either $1,019 (EFC below 5577) and students who are not Pell eligible can receive $562.
7. Eligible students received the following email on May 14, 2020:

Hello BCU Charger, Thank you for your patience and understanding as we have diligently worked to coordinate refunds precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Your individual total refund is ready to be announced. This total is determined in accordance with the following factors: This amount through the CARES Act: This amount is determined by your Title IV and Pell Grant eligibility. Briar Cliff University applied for and received funding in support of our students. The CARES Act refund distribution is determined by the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund as administered by the US Department of Education. If you receive this refund, it will be direct deposited into your personal bank account or sent by check. Please note, by accepting this money you are verifying that you have experienced financial disruption or hardship due to COVID-19 in order to continue your education. (Eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance may include food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and childcare.) If you have any questions, please contact Student Financial Services.

On May 6, 2020, the Office of Postsecondary Education published requirements for Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) reporting. Reporting for HEERF funds distributed to Briar Cliff University will begin 30 days from the U.S. Department of Education awarded grant documents and each 45 days thereafter.

1. On April 28, 2020, the Certification and Agreement were signed and returned to the Department of Education. Briar Cliff University intends to use no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act for the Institutional Portion of the Higher education Emergency Relief Fund.  The college’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding Institutional Portion was awarded on May 7, 2020.
2. The total amount of funds that the institution will receive from the Department pursuant to the institution’s Certification and Agreement [for] the Institutional Portion of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund is $426,647.
3. As of June 22, 2020, the total amount of the Institutional Portion under Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act unspent is $426,647.
4. The recipient retains discretion in determining how to allocate and use the funds provided hereunder, provided funds will be spent only on those costs for which Briar Cliff University has a reasoned basis for concluding such costs have a clear nexus to significant changes to the delivery of instruction due to coronavirus including reimbursement to itself for costs related to refunds made to students for housing, food, or other services the University could no longer provide, or for hardware, software, or internet connectivity that the University may have purchased on behalf of students or provided to students.
5. Briar Cliff University has paid its employees and contractors during the period of disruptions or closures related to coronavirus.  In accordance with the Certification and Agreement with the Department of Education, Briar Cliff University has not expended any funds on unallowable expenditures which would include senior administrator or executive salaries, benefits, bonuses, contracts, incentives; stock buybacks, shareholder dividends, capital distributions, and stock options; and any other cash or other benefit for a senior administrator or executive.
6. The total number of students who have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569 as of May 15, 2020.

On May 6, 2020, the Office of Postsecondary Education published requirements for Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) reporting. Reporting for HEERF funds distributed to Briar Cliff University will begin 30 days from the U.S. Department of Education awarded grant documents and each 45 days thereafter.

1. On April 10, 2020, the Certification and Agreement were signed and returned to the Department of Education. Briar Cliff University intends to use no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students. The college’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding was awarded on April 29, 2020.
2. The total amount of funds that the institution will receive from the Department pursuant to the institution’s Certification and Agreement [for] Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students is $426,646.
3. As of May 15, 2020, the total amount of Emergency Financial Aid Grants distributed to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is $426,716.
4. The estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569. This number may change.
5. The total number of students who have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569 as of May 15, 2020.
6. Briar Cliff University determined eligible students must be Title IV eligible, have filed a 2019-20 FAFSA, have been enrolled as a full-time, in-person as of March 13, 2020 (Date Federal Disaster was declared), and must certify that they have qualifying expenses due to the disruption of campus operations as a result of the coronavirus. Pell Grant recipients can receive either $1,019 (EFC below 5577) and students who are not Pell eligible can receive $562.
7. Eligible students received the following email on May 14, 2020:

Hello BCU Charger,

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we have diligently worked to coordinate refunds precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Your individual total refund is ready to be announced. This total is determined in accordance with the following factors:

This amount through the CARES Act: This amount is determined by your Title IV and Pell Grant eligibility. Briar Cliff University applied for and received funding in support of our students. The CARES Act refund distribution is determined by the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund as administered by the US Department of Education. If you receive this refund, it will be direct deposited into your personal bank account or sent by check. Please note, by accepting this money you are verifying that you have experienced financial disruption or hardship due to COVID-19 in order to continue your education. (Eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance may include food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and childcare.)If you have any questions, please contact Student Financial Services.

On May 6, 2020, the Office of Postsecondary Education published requirements for Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) reporting. Reporting for HEERF funds distributed to Briar Cliff University will begin 30 days from the U.S. Department of Education awarded grant documents and each 45 days thereafter.

1. On April 28, 2020, the Certification and Agreement were signed and returned to the Department of Education. Briar Cliff University intends to use no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act for the Institutional Portion of the Higher education Emergency Relief Fund. The college’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding Institutional Portion was awarded on May 7, 2020.
2. The total amount of funds that the institution will receive from the Department pursuant to the institution’s Certification and Agreement [for] the Institutional Portion of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund is $426,647.
3. As of June 7, 2020, the total amount of the Institutional Portion under Section 18004(c) of the CARES Act unspent is $426,647.
4. The recipient retains discretion in determining how to allocate and use the funds provided hereunder, provided funds will be spent only on those costs for which Briar Cliff University has a reasoned basis for concluding such costs have a clear nexus to significant changes to the delivery of instruction due to coronavirus including reimbursement to itself for costs related to refunds made to students for housing, food, or other services the University could no longer provide, or for hardware, software, or internet connectivity that the University may have purchased on behalf of students or provided to students.
5. Briar Cliff University has paid its employees and contractors during the period of disruptions or closures related to coronavirus. In accordance with the Certification and Agreement with the Department of Education, Briar Cliff University has not expended any funds on unallowable expenditures which would include senior administrator or executive salaries, benefits, bonuses, contracts, incentives; stock buybacks, shareholder dividends, capital distributions, and stock options; and any other cash or other benefit for a senior administrator or executive.
6. The total number of students who have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569 as of May 15, 2020.

On May 6, 2020, the Office of Postsecondary Education published requirements for Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) reporting. Reporting for HEERF funds distributed to Briar Cliff University will begin 30 days from the U.S. Department of Education awarded grant documents and each 45 days thereafter.

1. On April 10, 2020, the Certification and Agreement were signed and returned to the Department of Education. Briar Cliff University intends to use no less than 50 percent of the funds received under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act to provide Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students. The college’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding was awarded on April 29, 2020.
2. The total amount of funds that the institution will receive from the Department pursuant to the institution’s Certification and Agreement [for] Emergency Financial Aid Grants to Students is $426,646.
3. As of May 15, 2020, the total amount of Emergency Financial Aid Grants distributed to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is $426,716.
4. The estimated total number of students at the institution eligible to participate in programs under Section 484 in Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and thus eligible to receive Emergency Financial Aid Grants to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569. This number may change.
5. The total number of students who have received an Emergency Financial Aid Grant to students under Section 18004(a)(1) of the CARES Act is 569 as of May 15, 2020.
6. Briar Cliff University determined eligible students must be Title IV eligible, have filed a 2019-20 FAFSA, have been enrolled as a full-time, in-person as of March 13, 2020 (Date Federal Disaster was declared), and must certify that they have qualifying expenses due to the disruption of campus operations as a result of the coronavirus.  Pell Grant recipients can receive either $1,019 (EFC below 5577) and students who are not Pell eligible can receive $562.
7. Eligible students received the following email on May 14, 2020: 

Hello BCU Charger,

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we have diligently worked to coordinate refunds precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Your individual total refund is ready to be announced. This total is determined in accordance with the following factors:

This amount through the CARES Act: This amount is determined by your Title IV and Pell Grant eligibility. Briar Cliff University applied for and received funding in support of our students. The CARES Act refund distribution is determined by the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund as administered by the US Department of Education. If you receive this refund, it will be direct deposited into your personal bank account or sent by check. Please note, by accepting this money you are verifying that you have experienced financial disruption or hardship due to COVID-19 in order to continue your education. (Eligible expenses under a student’s cost of attendance may include food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and childcare.)If you have any questions, please contact Student Financial Services.