The University of Iowa has canceled the CIMBA program in Italy after the CDC raised their warning for Italy to a Level 3-Avoid Nonessential Travel.

The below was sent to CIMBA students on Friday, Feb. 28th, 2020 at approximately 10 p.m. The message was also sent to their emergency contact.

Dear CIMBA Students,  

We have been closely monitoring the progression of the COVID-19 virus in Italy.  As of February 28th the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised their warning for Italy to a Level 3- Avoid Nonessential Travel. On that date the Department of State also raised their Travel Advisory to Reconsider Travel. Due to the risk elevation from both agencies, the University of Iowa administration has made the decision to cancel the CIMBA program in Italy for the remainder of the spring semester.   

Program closure will be official at 9PM (Paderno del Grappa time) on Monday March 2nd.  Students should make immediate plans to depart Italy no later than Friday March 6th. Most major airlines are waiving change fees, so we encourage you to make travel plans as soon as possible. If necessary, the University of Iowa will reimburse you for change fees incurred to return to the United States. The CIMBA staff will work with you to arrange transportation to airports, when possible, and are available to answer other questions regarding travel options.     

We will work to ensure that students can complete their coursework and earn full academic credit for the Spring semester. Classes will be suspended temporarily as individual instructors determine how best to complete the semester’s instruction. A detailed plan for the continuation of classes will be forthcoming.  

We are deeply saddened by this disruption of the semester and know that it causes hardship on students and families.  We are following the protocols outlined by the CDC and the US Department of State, in the best interest for the health and safety of all students. We will continue to communicate with you as updates become available, and we encourage you to speak with the CIMBA staff as you formalize your plans.      

 

Sincerely,  

 

Amy Kristof-Brown                                                                       Russ Ganim  

Interim Dean                                                                                  Associate Provost & Dean 

Tippie College of Business                                                            International Programs 

University of Iowa                                                                         University of Iowa