Nicholls has announced that it is suspending face-to-face meetings for lecture-based classes beginning on Monday.

Jay Clune stated in an email to students that lecture-based classes will move to an online format, while labs will continue to meet as scheduled.

Technology labs will be available for students in need of access to computers or the internet.

Faculty and staff are expected to remain on campus during regular operational hours.

The University Counseling Center will also be open for students in need of assistance.

The decision comes in response to John Bel Edwards’ announcement of the first case of COVID-19 in Lafourche Parish and follows similar decisions by other universities around the state.

In addition, all sport-related events are postponed. This includes intramurals.

Lindsey McKaskle, interim athletics director, provided The Nicholls Worth with a statement on the future of Nicholls  athletics for this semester.

“Due to the ongoing concerns regarding COVID-19, the Southland Conference and its member institutions made the decision to cancel the men’s and women’s Southland Conference basketball tournament today.  This decision was not made lightly, but was necessary given the current climate.  We are incredibly disappointed for all of our student-athletes, but especially our seniors.  This was a difficult way to end their careers, and we will forever be grateful to their contributions to Nicholls State University athletics.

“Additionally, the Southland Conference member institutions made the decision to cancel all conference and non conference competitions through the end of March.  As of right now, our teams will continue practice activities.  Again, this was not an easy decision, but we have to put the well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans first.  Their health will always be our number one priority.  We will reassess the situation in the coming days.”

We will update this story as more information becomes available.