In response to ongoing developments in the COVID-19 pandemic, West Liberty University is extending spring break for face-to-face classes through March 20, 2020.

        “West Liberty University is committed to student safety and has been taking every precaution to respond to the threat of coronavirus. We have decided to extend spring break and are asking students to stay home at this time,” said President Stephen Greiner. “We will continue to monitor COVID-19 and update campus as necessary.”

        All employees are to report to work unless sick. In cases of illness, all staff are asked to stay home and report off as usual.

        Additionally, the university has canceled the Hughes Lecture, which was to take place on March 26 and featured Sarah Vowell, and the Annual Florida Alumni Chapter Reunion planned for March 27-29, 2020 in Daytona Beach.

        Community University, which meets at the Highlands Center campus, also is canceled until further notice.

        Additionally, the NCAA has canceled all winter and spring championships which impacts Hilltopper Athletics.

        The decision was made as part of the NCAA’s ongoing response to the growing concerns surrounding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

        Events canceled include the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Atlantic Regional Tournament, set to be hosted by West Liberty University on Friday and Saturday, along with this weekend’s NCAA Division II National Wrestling Championships at Sioux Falls, S.D., which also featured multiple WLU participants.

       Here is the text of the statement issued late Thursday afternoon by the NCAA’s Board of Governors:

        “Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.”

        All tickets purchased in advance will be refunded in full at the WLU Athletic Department next week, beginning Monday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Individuals must present their tickets to receive their refund. Contact WLU Athletic Secretary Robin Brunner (304.336.8046) for information.