Officials Intend to Resume In-Person Classes, Activities at All Locations

Saint Leo University Announces Fall Semester Plans

Saint Leo University officials announced this week that they fully intend to resume in-person classes for the Fall 2021 Semester at University Campus in Pasco County, and at all education center locations. At this time, the university plans to discontinue hybrid and Connected Classroom learning options following the completion of summer courses.

“With the increased availability of COVID-19 vaccines and the decline in the overall number of cases, we believe we can safely bring our community together again in the ways we have traditionally done prior to the pandemic,” said Saint Leo University President Jeffrey Senese. “There is no replacement for the learning that happens when we are physically and socially engaged together, and it is time that we get back to that.”

In the months ahead, the university will develop plans that will allow the community to safely begin the new academic year in person at its University Campus and education center locations. This will include updates on many of the university’s traditional activities, Dining Services, student events, athletics, as well as opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine on-site.

Saint Leo University will issue new, updated guidelines for its “Return to the Pride.”  Some changes may go into effect during the summer for students studying at education centers.

“On behalf of the COVID-19 Incident Command Team, we are grateful for the support and commitment that faculty, staff, and students demonstrated during this past year to keep our community healthy and safe,” said Dr. Melanie Storms, senior vice president. “We remain optimistic that next academic year will be one in which we can be together again and engage in many of the activities that we have traditionally enjoyed at the university.”

Updates will be posted in the months ahead to the university’s Protect the Pride (https://www.saintleo.edu/protect-the-pride) website to provide information about the start of the new year.

About Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is one of the largest Catholic universities in the nation, offering 57 undergraduate and graduate-level degree programs to more than 18,200 students each year. Founded in 1889 by Benedictine monks, the private, nonprofit university is known for providing a values-based education to learners of all backgrounds and ages in the liberal arts tradition. Saint Leo is regionally accredited and offers a residential campus in the Tampa Bay region of Florida, 16 education centers in five states, and an online program for students anywhere. The university is home to more than 98,000 alumni. Learn more at saintleo.edu.

Media Contact: Mary McCoy, University Writer & Media Relations, mary.mccoy02@saintleo.edu, (352) 588-7118 or cell (813) 610-8416