To the EACC Community,

Earlier today the College was informed that a member of our campus community has tested positive for COVID-19. This is the first confirmed case within the EACC community that has been reported to us.

The person was on campus briefly on Tuesday, April 21. The person was asymptomatic while on campus and only developed symptoms later. Out of respect for privacy and in compliance with federal regulations, we are not revealing identifying information. We are contacting anyone who may have been at risk for exposure. We are deep-cleaning and disinfecting the relevant area of the College.

I have been in contact with the health department and have been assured that we are doing everything we should do in this situation.

Out of an abundance of caution, I am notifying all of you and using this moment to remind everyone of the need to maintain social distancing at all times and to wear a face covering while in public.

EACC has been preparing for this moment. We had screening measures in place on the date the now-positive person came to campus and the screening yielded no indications of a likelihood of infection.

I recognize that this news may heighten your anxiety at an already anxious time. I assure you that we have been taking all necessary precautions by following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and our local and state health departments, and in keeping with all federal and state directives.

Please stay at home as much as possible, maintain six feet of social distance when in proximity of others, and wear a cloth face covering. The CDC has indicated these precautions slow the spread of the virus and protect everyone. 

If you think you  have come into contact with someone with the coronavirus or if you are experiencing symptoms, please get tested. UAMS will be at the Forrest City Civic Center on Friday from 10-2 conducting free screening and testing.

We will inform you of any further developments that might impact the campus as a whole.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns. I am missing all of you terribly, but we must remain vigilant in social distancing, handwashing, covering our faces, and staying home as much as possible.

Sincerely,

Cathie Cline, Ed. D.

President

East Arkansas Community College

EACC has been engaging in alternative methods of instruction since March 16 with limited exceptions for critical programs only under strict guidelines. We have been working remotely as much as possible since March 20, and all EACC buildings have been closed since March 20 except for the Computer Education Center, the Betty Jo Hodges Building, and the Wynne Center. The campus has been closed to the general public since that date.