UW System President Ray Cross warned Thursday the coronavirus pandemic could force changes to the fall semester, scheduled to begin in late August.
Cross addressed the university’s Board of Regents, stating the university system is working on various scenarios based on the novel virus’ ever-changing conditions. Plans for the fall will be made based on the next 60 days.
UW-Madison announced it will suspend all in-person instruction for the summer term, which is scheduled to begin in May.
The university has approximately 45,000 students and has projected a $100 million financial hit due to the closures. Cross stated the university will receive $47 million for institutional support for immediate needs.
Cross predicts more financial aid will be necessary in the coming months as the university continues to face loss of revenue and increased operating costs.
The university system, a major employer in the state, will be critical in helping restart the economy as shelter-in-place orders are lifted.
