The University of Georgia plans to resume classes on campus this fall, President Jere Morehead said in a message today to students, faculty and staff.

"We are anticipating a resumption of in-person instruction for the Fall Semester beginning in August 2020 for all USG institutions," Morehead said. "However, I would emphasize that this situation remains a fluid one, as the USG monitors developments related to COVID-19 and receives counsel from state public health officials. Guidance could be subject to change, even after our plans are put in place. We will need to remain flexible and patient as we move forward."

UGA has been closed since sprink break in mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic, with students taking classes online and most employees working from home. Earlier this month, the university rescheduled spring commencement ceremonies for next fall.  Maymester and summer classes will also be online.

Morehead said that University System of Georgia Chancellor Steve Wrigley accepted his recommendation to form nine working groups across USG's 26 institutions  to consider how to gradually reopen this summer, using a staggered approach. Those groups will look at workplace and health safety, instruction, research, public service and outreach, student life, enrollment management, athletics, communications and fiscal impact. 

Read Morehead's full message here.