Trinity College of Florida responds to the Corona Virus

In the past week, we have seen extraordinary measures taken to combat the spread of COVID-19. This measure in part is to protect the most vulnerable among us from contracting the virus that would have devastating consequences. While most in the college family does not fall into this category, we should be aware of those who do and do our part to ensure that they have a chance of not contracting the virus. The state of Florida and the federal government have made recommendations and taken measures that we, as a private institution, should take seriously.

It is in that spirit that we are taking several measures to reduce our physical contact with our college family and our community:

• First, we are moving all classes to an online format for the rest of the spring semester following spring break. Classes will resume on 3/25. There will be a follow-up communication from Dr. Dennis Cox, Vice President for Academic Affairs, regarding the specifics about classes.

• Second, the dorm will be closed and remain closed to all students through the end of the spring semester. All dorm students must return to campus the week following spring break (3/23-3/27) to retrieve their belongings from the dorm. Student Development will communicate with you and schedule a time for you to return.

• Third, campus staff will continue normal work hours and will be ready to assist you with academic, business, and student development questions. In addition, academic services will remain open which includes the student tutoring support and library services. Students are welcome to come to campus to access all these services or contact the needed service electronically.

• Fourth, there are other scheduled college events. As we have more clarity about the future advisories for government agencies, we will make decisions about them and quickly communicate them to you.

We should not look on these times in fear, “for God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). We should look at this disruption to our normal routine as an opportunity for us to demonstrate love for our neighbor that the gospel has empowered us to do. One way we show this love is by not contributing to the spread of the virus. We have many other opportunities to love our neighbor through sharing the reason for the hope that is within us (1 Peter 3:15). Be encouraged that our God is bigger than this occasion. I am reminded of this encouragement found in Lamentations 3:22-23, “Because of the LORD’s faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!” Look for the Lord’s mercies during this time and rejoice in them. Let us pray for each other’s physical and spiritual wellness. Even in the midst of this occasion, let us persevere to finish this semester strong.

With great confidence in Him,

Mark T. O’Farrell, President
and Trinity College Leadership Team