The University of Pittsburgh is a community of students, staff, faculty, administrators and partners. As an institution of higher education, the health and safety of our community is vital to our mission. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the lives of us all. College campuses are typically denser and more diverse than other communities, and because of that, we must take additional precautions. While the circumstances that result from the pandemic may change over time, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to keep our community safe and healthy. To help foster this environment for all, we present the following principles—drafted by Pitt undergraduate, graduate and professional students—to uphold the health and safety of our community.
Because my actions not only affect my own health and wellbeing, but the health and wellbeing of all those around me:
- I will wear a mask or face covering over my mouth and nose when in public spaces such as University buildings, classrooms, workspaces, residence halls and dining areas (except while eating), as required by Pitt.
- If I am feeling unwell or if I have been exposed to someone who is ill or who has tested positive for COVID-19, I will stay in my residence, seek appropriate medical attention, contact Student Health Service (students) or MyHealth@Work (faculty/staff) and cooperate with medical guidance and contact tracing efforts.
- I will practice proper personal hygiene, such as washing my hands frequently and covering my mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing in all settings.
- I will practice the recommended physical distancing in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Pitt guidelines.
- I will follow guidelines for in-person gatherings including parties and large social gatherings.
- I will follow the University’s guidelines for Safe Mobility and refrain from unnecessary travel during the semester in order to prevent the possible transmission of COVID-19 back to the campus and community upon my return.
Because the COVID-19 pandemic remains an ever-evolving public health crisis that impacts each individual and community differently:
- I acknowledge that my adherence to personal safety measures directly impacts the health and safety of the community.
- I acknowledge that, while I may be asymptomatic or healthy, there are others who may be at risk, and that my behavior on and off campus directly impacts their health and safety.
- I acknowledge that our campus is home to many beyond the University community, and those families and communities are impacted by my actions and decisions.
Because this is a challenging time for us all, I will work to hold both myself and others accountable for keeping our community safe by:
- Remaining informed about COVID-19 and the safety measures needed as guidelines change.
- Refraining from stigmatizing any race, ethnic, or nationality group as the cause of the pandemic.
- Upholding the policies that the University puts in place and understanding it takes precedence over state guidelines.
- Practicing these safety measures beyond the campus setting, such as off-campus activities, social spaces, and local businesses.
- Encouraging my peers to also uphold these standards.
- Respecting my peers who choose to take additional measures to ensure their personal safety.
- Serving as an active bystander by stepping in and speaking up when appropriate to make our campus a healthier, safer place for everyone.
We acknowledge how unique and challenging this situation is for us all. It is important to have patience for yourself and for others as we navigate our new normal. Amidst these challenging times, please know that you are supported by your loved ones, your peers, and the University community. No matter your affiliation, we are all members of the same community. We are all in this together, and we will get through this together.
If you have any specific questions regarding the items presented in this document, please contact deanofstudents@pitt.edu.
Resources
While the fall term is uncertain and is likely to change due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, please review the following resources to help support you in fulfilling the Pitt Community Compact:
For information on what Pitt is doing: Pitt COVID-19 Updates and Resources
For information on recommended guidelines: CDC Guidelines
For data and latest news: PA Department of Health Resources
For information on how to seek care as a student: Student Health Services; University Counseling Center
For information if you must travel: CDC Tips to Travel More Safely
For more information on Pitt Student Code of Conduct standards: Student Code of Conduct
Student Committee Members
Nourhan Abubaker, President, College of General Studies
Malena Hirsch, President, Graduate & Professional Student Government
Eric Macadangdang, President, Student Government Board
Amir Areej Ali, School of Medicine & Graduate School of Public Health
Kathryn Fleisher, Co-founder, Leading Women of Tomorrow; Executive Director, Not My Generation; Board Member, Student Government Board
Umeka Ganjoo, President, Graduate School of Public Health
Cassandra Hom, Executive Director, Pitt Program Council
Cedric Humphrey, Executive Vice President, Student Government Board
Amanda Leifson, Executive Administrator, Graduate & Professional Student Government
Danielle Obisie-Orlu, President, Resident Student Association
Bianca Payton, President, Katz Graduate School of Business Full-Time Student Executive Board
Cynthia Truong, President, Asian Student Alliance
Tyler Viljaste, Vice President and Chief of Cabinet, Student Government Board