University of Missouri expels 2 students, suspends 3 for violating COVID-19 rules
The University of Missouri has expelled two students and suspended three others for “flagrant violations” of the university’s rules about the coronavirus pandemic.
Those violations included requirements that those who test positive for COVID-19 isolate and comply with social distancing. The students’ actions, Mizzou said in a news release, threatened the safety of the Columbia and campus communities.
“When we see those who willfully violate (our) expectations, we will take disciplinary action — up to expulsion,” Mun Choi, UM system president and MU chancellor, said in a statement. “It is unfortunate that we had to take these actions, but we felt it was necessary.”
The disciplined students were not identified. The university usually does not release disciplinary information, but “given the seriousness of these offenses and implications for public health,” MU officials decided to do so in this case.
Since Aug. 16, at least 470 “student cases” have been referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Accountability for potential violations of the university’s COVID-19 rules.
On top of that, 11 student organizations are under investigation for violations of virus-related policies.
University officials also noted that their “active case load” of the virus fell by about half during the last 10 days, from 683 to 332. Still, they called on people to act responsibly to protect the general public.
“We need everyone’s help to beat this virus,” Bill Stackman, vice chancellor for student affairs, said in the statement.
As of Tuesday, 4,182 people have contracted the virus in Boone County, home to the university’s campus in Columbia. Six have died, according to state data.
Earlier this month, the university announced stricter face mask requirements, calling for all students, faculty, staff and visitors on campus to wear a face covering, including outdoors.
