In response to the ongoing threat of COVID-19, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is continuing facility closures through May 31, limiting campus activity and extending travel prohibitions.

In a May 1 message to campus, Chancellor Ronnie Green said facility closures and reduced campus activity will continue through May 31. This is an extension of an April 21 announcement that all institutions in the University of Nebraska system would move toward opening after May 4.

Under the extended guidance, university buildings are closed with access limited to designated personnel.

“As June 1 approaches, we will communicate further about the approach our university will be taking,” Chancellor Ronnie Green said in a May 1 message. “And always, we will be guided by local health conditions and will adjust accordingly if more restrictions are necessary.”

Unless designated to be on campus, all faculty and staff will continue to work remotely through May 31. Between May 11 and June 1, additional employees (particularly those involved with research and creative activity) can be designated for access. Employee requests for building access must be submitted to supervisors and approved by the appropriate vice chancellor.

A ban on university-sponsored international and domestic travel has been extended to June 30. Travel within the state continues, but must be approved by a supervisor.

Employees who do travel in Nebraska must observe social distancing and use personal protection, especially when in areas where COVID-19 is more prevalent. If other university personnel are working at or near an in-state travel destination, consider using them to complete necessary work.

Green also announced that university leaders continue to develop plans to offer in-person instruction for the fall semester. Those plans include the formation of a Forward to Fall subgroup within the university’s COVID-19 task force.

The Forward to Fall group will be led by Bob Wilhelm, vice chancellor for research and economic development, and Amy Goodburn, senior associate vice chancellor and dean of undergraduate education.

“I am confident we can tap the ingenuity of our UNL community — and the insights of our colleagues at UNMC — to safely return to campus and deliver on our academic, research and engagement missions,” Green said. “As we approach the final week of this historic semester, I want to express my incredible pride in how this community has rallied to lead through the unprecedented levels of change brought quickly by COVID-19. Your innovation, grit and ‘can do’ spirit are truly inspiring.”