Effective immediately, Tulane is mandating all members in the Tulane community — students, faculty, staff and administration — practice social distancing, according to an email sent out by  Robin Forman, senior vice president for Academic Affairs and provost, and Patrick Norton, senior vice president and chief operating officer. 

According to Forman and Norton, a student that hosts or attends house parties will face student conduct charges and may be suspended.

“Social distancing means you should not be in close proximity to others; you should maintain at least a six-foot distance from other individuals. Whenever possible you should be at home,” Forman and Norton said. 

Within this policy, no events, meetings or gatherings are permitted that have more than 10 individuals, and all individuals must maintain a six-foot distance from one another. Additionally, all non-essential university-related travel is cancelled. 

This policy change comes in light of the rapid spread of COVID-19 in Louisiana — cases have more than tripled since March 13 — and Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards’ decision to close all bars, movie theaters and casinos and limit restaurants to take-out, delivery and drive-thru only at least until April 13.