UMKC has suspended in-person classes and will move to online-only instruction starting next week due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The decision comes after three new cases of coronavirus were announced in neighboring Johnson County, Kansas. There are still no known cases of the virus on campus. 

“While coronavirus cases continue to be on the uptick locally and nationwide, we are doing our part to limit exposure to our campus family and to limit the spread of the disease,” said Chancellor Agrawal in a statement. “We are working closely with our University of Missouri System colleagues and our local health department to implement policies and practices that promote the well-being of our community.

Spring and summer study abroad programs are canceled. All university-related international travel, as well as non-essential university events, are also canceled. 

It is currently unknown how long classes will remain online. UMKC campus will remain open, including dining and residence halls. Faculty and staff are expected to report to work as usual. 

Mayor Quinton Lucas has declared a state of emergency in Kansas City for the next three weeks and has canceled all events with more than 1,000 attendees.