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COVID-19 Update March 15

Dear members of the Saint Louis University community,

Yesterday, I shared with you that two SLU students who live off-campus are being tested for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Their results are still pending, but I want to briefly share my vision for transparency as we move forward.

Since yesterday’s update, we have received information about two more members of the Saint Louis University community who await test results, one in St. Louis and one out of state. Unfortunately, I expect these won't be the last, for us or for most institutions of higher education.

And I remind you, there are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at Saint Louis University. Missouri’s Department of Health & Senior Services is also sharing statewide testing information.

Moving forward, I hope to share only the major updates so as not to add unnecessary fear to our community. Fear will never play a role in the considerations and decisions we make about our health and the health of our community. Instead, we will focus on critical and actionable information.

I have faith in the public health officials who are guiding us through this and I ask that you do, too. I also have faith in those who are making sure these Billikens are cared for with the kind of compassion that is emblematic of SLU.

March 15

I am inspired by the outpouring of support from members of the Billiken community. Whether it’s three generations of a family helping distribute packages in the mailroom to students as they move out, or the families offering to contribute to help other students in need. I am deeply touched. My heart may be heavy as we face these difficulties, but it remains full of the love you show Saint Louis University.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers, and please keep monitoring SLU’s COVID-19 website for more information and updates.

Sincerely,

Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D.
President

Previous Updates to the SLU Community