We can’t wait to see you.
Washington State University.
JUNE 26, 2020
TO OUR WSU PULLMAN COUGS
The coming academic year will be different. We know you want to be here on the Pullman campus, and we want you here too.
If you cannot adhere to the rules for living on the Pullman campus outlined below, there are non-residential options at WSU you can explore, such as enrolling at WSU Everett, WSU Global Campus, WSU Tri-Cities, or WSU Vancouver. Students enrolled in health sciences programs may also explore options at WSU Spokane. All of our physical campuses will be taking similar health and safety measures. We are all Cougs and we need to take care of each other.
While we are planning for a different kind of Coug Experience, it will still be an experience filled with communities of support and resources to promote your academic and personal success.
We also know that you and your families have a lot of questions. We will answer some of those here.
Health and Safety
We start with health and safety, because that is what’s most important. In order for Cougs to return to campus, excel in their classes, and build their Coug community, we must all abide by recommendations from local health authorities and the most recent guidelines provided by Governor Inslee.
We are focused on maintaining a vibrant campus with:
  • increased cleaning and sanitization of touch points per CDC guidelines,
  • availability of hand sanitizing stations across campus,
  • a mandatory training for all students, faculty, and staff to ensure public health guidelines are practiced, and
  • wellness checks as opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to report symptoms and to find the care they need.
We are also relying on YOU to make healthy decisions.
  • You, along with all faculty and staff, will be required to wear an appropriate face covering in indoor public spaces and outdoors when you can’t stay 6 feet apart from others. Review exemptions and best practices for face coverings.
  • You should continue to regularly wash your hands or use hand sanitizer and not touch your face, nose, and eyes.
  • You must limit group activities and the sharing of personal items.
  • Know the signs of COVID and stay home if you are sick. Through Cougar Health Services, students have access to testing and medical care. Students must call first for all appointments.
Housing Options
WSU Residence Halls
Our WSU residence halls will be open, but with reduced capacity. We are honoring the requests of students who are concerned about returning to Pullman for medical or financial reasons as well as students who would like to request a roommate. Otherwise, most residence hall rooms will have single occupancy.
When it can be done safely, we will phase in the use of community spaces such as kitchens, lounges, and study spaces. Initially visitors/guests will be prohibited. Once allowed, we will log and track visitor/guest information.
We are still finalizing procedures for residence hall placements and move-in. More information and next steps will be sent to students the week of June 29.
WSU-Owned Campus Apartments
Our WSU-owned campus apartments will also be available and range from 2 to 4 bedrooms and either house families or 1 single student per bedroom. Each apartment will be considered a “household” for CDC purposes and students should review guidelines for households.
Off-Campus Housing Including Fraternity and Sorority Life
We are collaborating with local landlords and property owners to discuss expected public health guidelines and CDC congregate housing recommendations. Fraternity and sorority housing will operate with reduced occupancy due to expected public health guidelines.
Dining Services
Our dining centers, espresso locations, and food services across campus will be open with reduced capacities, wellness checks, physical distancing, no-touch payment options, and increased cleaning protocols. Our goal is that you have access to a delicious and healthy menu, so we plan to provide a mix of hot and cold options and a robust grab-and-go selection. Students are encouraged to download the GETFood app or order online to utilize food pick-up.
Cougs Feeding Cougs and food pantries will still be available for those needing assistance.
University Recreation, Compton Union (CUB), and Cultural and Student Centers
Our recreation facilities and programming, as well as other student spaces, will be open with reduced capacities, wellness checks, physical distancing, and increased cleaning protocols. Some activities may have a reservation system to ensure occupancy limits. We will continue to provide remote programming as well as some in-person options to enhance your Coug Experience.

Our plans can and will change if needed to ensure the health and safety of our WSU community. We will rely on each Coug—on YOU—to reduce the spread of COVID and to keep all students, faculty, staff, and our community healthy.
We are excited to see you on campus again and as always, Go Cougs!
Mary Jo Gonzales | Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Jill Creighton | Associate Vice President and Dean of Students, Division of Student Affairs
Sean Greene | Interim Associate Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Kim Holapa | Associate Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Linda McDermott | Assistant Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Jaime Nolan | Associate Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Ellen Taylor | Associate Vice President, Division of Student Affairs

Washington State University.


Division of Student Affairs | Washington State University
PO Box 641066, Pullman WA 99164-1066 | 509-335-4531