Stony Brook students protest lack of communication over SUNY, CUNY coronavirus protocol

SUNY and CUNY schools are closing down amid coronavirus concerns.

The announcement followed a protest at Stony Brook University from students who felt left in the dark about what their school was doing about the coronavirus. Around 1 p.m. Wednesday, hundreds of students at Stony Brook ignored emails advising them to stay away from large gatherings and demanded answers from administration officials.

"They sent us an email saying we should stay 6 feet apart from one another. Meanwhile we have midterms that we're required to attend so it's literally impossible," one student said.

Students said they were getting mixed messages from professors regarding plans for classes after spring break next week.

The dean of students did address the crowd, encouraging them to watch Gov. Andrew Cuomo's afternoon news conference. At that conference, Cuomo announced SUNY and CUNY schools would move to a "distance learning model" on March 19.

Several other colleges and universities had already switched to online classes earlier this week.

Cuomo said students are being encouraged to stay home after spring break for the rest of the semester, but that accommodations will be made for students who have nowhere to go or who are taking labs.

"I definitely think that's the best option," says sophomore Nickolas Pavon. "I think maybe closing campus might be a little too far."

Statement from Stony Brook:

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