Stockton University Cancels Spring Break, Delays Semester Start

GALLOWAY, NJ — Stockton University canceled their mid-semester spring break in March due to coronavirus concerns. The Board of Trustees approved a new schedule Wednesday, which delays the start of the spring semester from Jan. 19 to Jan. 25.

The schedule was revised due to the increasing number of positive coronavirus cases statewide and nationally, and uncertainty about the timeline for vaccine distribution, said Susan Davenport, Stockton Interim Provost and Executive Vice President.

“This is the safest route going forward,” Davenport said.

During the meeting, the majority of students in attendance understood the reason for the change. Students also expressed concerns about eliminating a mid-semester break, especially during the year of a pandemic when students may be dealing with more stress than in previous semesters.

Students requested to receive more communication from the board about potential changes. In response, President Harvey Kesselman said the university would schedule a town hall with students to discuss their concerns.

“We would have preferred to have a traditional spring semester but our primary concern is the ongoing health and safety of our faculty, staff and students,” said Board Chair Raymond Ciccone.

Most spring semester classes are being held online. The last day of classes is still scheduled on May 7 and the spring 2021 commencement celebration is still being planned.

The full spring 2021 academic calendar is posted online.

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