To continue efforts to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, Rowan University will offer free coronavirus testing to all students and employees before Thanksgiving Day.

“We know that the virus spreads most often among people who know each other—family members and friends,” says Rowan President Ali A. Houshmand. “By offering testing, we can do our part to keep all members of our extended Rowan University family safe.”

Saliva and nasal tests are scheduled to be available to all students starting the week of November 16. Currently, 4,100 students live on Rowan’s campus and approximately 2,000 students live nearby in Glassboro. Employees will be able to request home test kits.

Details about registering for the free screening will be announced soon, according to Scott Woodside, director for the Wellness Center.

“Members of our campus community, particularly our students, have done a great job in taking measures to limit transmission of the virus at Rowan,” says Woodside. “By offering testing before Thanksgiving, we hope to continue to help them and their families stay well. They must, however, be vigilant about maintaining good health and safety practices when they are around family and friends,” says Woodside.

Students who test positive for the virus will be offered the opportunity to isolate on campus in Triad Hall, the residence building set aside for isolation throughout the semester. The University will continue to provide health monitoring and meals for students in Triad, according to Woodside.

Students who choose to remain on campus or nearby over the long Thanksgiving weekend will be able to enjoy activities the Division of Student Life is hosting, including a Thanksgiving Day meal and outdoor, in-person programs, as appropriate based on public health considerations. Dining services also will be available throughout the weekend.