Duke investigates students’ ‘flagrant misconduct’ and COVID-19 safety violations
Duke University is investigating seven cases of “flagrant misconduct and persistent non-compliance” of COVID-19 safety rules, according to an email sent to undergraduates Tuesday.
The Office of Student Conduct is looking into the “flagrant” violations, and the students, or groups of students, could face “disciplinary probation, suspension to be served in an upcoming term, immediate suspension or removal from campus, or permanent dismissal from Duke.”
At least 24 other students have been “referred for formal educational interventions and training” for less serious violations, the email said.
The email came from Gary Bennett, vice provost for undergraduate education, and Mary Pat McMahon, vice provost and vice president for student affairs, and addressed other back-to-school matters like social distancing, case updates and expectations.
On Monday, the university reported 11 student cases out of 5,765 tests since Aug. 2, The News & Observer reported. The week before, Duke announced four positive cases among students from 3,116 initial tests. The students are in mandatory isolation, Duke said.
Seven students are being quarantined on-campus for having contact with someone who has the coronavirus, according to the email. An additional 66 are placed in quarantine off-campus, the administrators said.
Students, faculty and staff are expected to sign a pledge called The Duke Compact, in which they promise to wear masks, social distance, avoid crowds and follow general health guidelines.
The Office of Student Conduct has received nearly 100 reports of students breaking coronavirus safety rules on campus and off, according to the email, though some reports all stem from the same incidents.
“We are following up with all cases on and off-campus, working closely with Durham Police, community leaders, and local property managers to respond to the off-campus reports.”
Duke, a private institution, required mass coronavirus testing before students could move into dormitories or attend classes, The News & Observer reported. Testing will continue with graduate and professional students along with asymptomatic students.
On-campus housing is limited to first- and second-year students, The N&O reported. The majority of classes for students will be taught online.
Despite the violations, officials said they’ve been pleased with the student body as a whole.
“The collective effort you’re making for yourselves, your peers, and our broader Duke and Durham community is precisely what we’d expect from every member of the Blue Devil team.”
This story was originally published August 18, 2020 at 7:41 PM.