January 6th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
The University of the Nations, Kona is excited to announce that we will be welcoming a new group of students on January 7, 2021.
We are committed to maintaining the safest environment possible for both our campus and our Kailua-Kona community. We have been in close communication with the Department of Health and Civil Defense and worked together to further refine our COVID 19 protocol. All incoming students will be placed in quarantine and COVID tested twice before joining the general campus population.
As mandated by the State of Hawaii, all arriving students will complete Hawaii Safe Travels approved COVID testing within 72 hours prior to arrival. All transpacific travellers complete a Rapid Antigen test on arrival at the Kona airport. After arrival, students will be shuttled directly to campus, where they will enter a modified 5 day quarantine at designated quarantine facilities.
Students will stay in their rooms and classes will be conducted online for the duration of the quarantine. They will remain in fixed groups of 5 or less and will have designated times to leave their rooms for laundry and meal pick ups.
After quarantine, all students will be tested once more with the Rapid Antigen test before being released to attend in person classes. Any individual with a positive test result will have a follow up PCR test and will be moved to the Campus Hospitality Center. There they will be in isolation until cleared by the Department of Health (DOH). Any roommates or close contacts will be moved into quarantine rooms until released by DOH.
We expect that any cases picked up in travel from the mainland will be quickly identified and isolated, thus preventing any potential virus spread.
Our concern for the Kailua-Kona Community and our Campus Ohana is paramount. We look forward to serving our community and island again soon!
October 19th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
This evening, UofN Kona is pleased to report that we now have zero active cases of COVID-19 in our staff community or student body.
All affected persons have now been cleared by the Department of Health and have been released from isolation. No persons have been hospitalized.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mayor Harry Kim, his administration, the Department of Health, and our UofN Kona medical staff for their hard work, swift action, and ongoing support throughout these recent weeks. It is due to their vigilance, diligence, and teamwork that we have come through this without additional cases or spreading the virus further.
We continue to be vigilant and have strong safety protocols in place, including mask wearing, social distancing, and disinfecting of communal spaces. As always, the safety of our staff, students, and the residents of the Big Island remains our top priority.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 16th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
This evening, UofN Kona is pleased again to report no new cases on Friday, October 16. We are now down to 12 active cases. All remain in isolation under close supervision. To date, no one has been hospitalized.
Our Campus Medical Team and the Department of Health have been extremely swift and vigilant in dealing with the spread of this virus, for which we are very grateful. We would like to also thank our staff and student body for their cooperation in slowing the spread and doing their part to protect the wider island community.
While we had been expecting an additional round of testing to be performed yesterday, the testing was cancelled by the Mayor’s office. We are thankful that the Mayor’s office has given permission for all individuals who tested negative to be out of quarantine, and that our campus no longer has to be on voluntary lockdown. We continue to have a heightened state of preventative measures in place to prevent any further spread and remain vigilant.
The Mayor’s office offered praise to our medical team and their commitment to completely control the spread of this virus in the University and cooperate with his initiatives to make Kona a safer place.
As always, the safety of our staff, students, and the residents of the Big Island remains our top priority.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 13th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
This evening UofN Kona is pleased again to report no new cases on Tuesday, October 13. We are now down to 18 active cases. All remain in isolation under close supervision and only minor symptoms have been reported. To date no one has been hospitalized.
We remain committed and vigilant in wearing masks, social distancing, digital learning and digital meetings. We are grateful for our Campus Medical Team and the Department of Health for all the guidance as we continue to understand the science of this virus.
As an additional level of protection for our surrounding community, the Mayor’s office has asked for a second round of testing for our staff and students at the University. This testing will be accomplished on Thursday, October 15th. The safety and care of our campus and the community of the Big Island is our utmost concern.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 12th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
In a collaborative effort to curb the spread of COVID, 955 individuals were tested on our campus this past week. All results from the widespread testing have now come back. Today we are reporting 6 new cases from the balance of the results. All these individuals had been in travel quarantine since September 24th, and continue to be in isolation.
We are encouraged by the results of the widespread testing, as a total of 9 cases from this group represents less than a 1% positive rate.
Today 10 individuals were cleared by the Department of Health and released from isolation. This brings our total active cases to 24. All individuals have mild symptoms and to date no one has been hospitalized.
The Mayor’s office has given permission for all individuals with negative results to be released from lockdown for which we are very grateful. We honor our medical team and the Department of Health, who have worked together to contain the spread of COVID-19 in our community. We remain vigilant and committed the safety of our staff, students, and the people of Hawaii County.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 11th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
In a collaborative effort to curb the spread of COVID, 955 individuals were tested on our campus this past week. All results from the widespread testing have now come back. Today we are reporting 6 new cases from the balance of the results. All these individuals had been in travel quarantine since September 24th, and continue to be in isolation.
We are encouraged by the results of the widespread testing, as a total of 9 cases from this group represents less than a 1% positive rate.
Today 10 individuals were cleared by the Department of Health and released from isolation. This brings our total active cases to 24. All individuals have mild symptoms and to date no one has been hospitalized.
The Mayor’s office has given permission for all individuals with negative results to be released from lockdown for which we are very grateful. We honor our medical team and the Department of Health, who have worked together to contain the spread of COVID-19 in our community. We remain vigilant and committed the safety of our staff, students, and the people of Hawaii County.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 10th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
West Hawaii Today reported this morning that Mayor Kim said even though the original numbers for UofN Kona were concerning, as soon as the university was informed of the cluster, it’s cooperation was exemplary.
“They had a potential of having a real problem. When we requested the quarantine, it was immediately done.” said Kim. “It is now a very controlled situation.”
In a collaborative effort to curb the spread of COVID, 955 individuals were tested on campus this past week. As of 8am this morning, two additional individuals tested positive. We are eagerly awaiting the balance of the results as they come in throughout the day. We want to thank Premier Health and Clinical Labs of Hawaii for their hard work to get us all our results as quickly as possible.
We are pleased that today the Department of Health has cleared 14 individuals and released them from isolation. This brings our total of active cases down to 28. All active cases have mild or negligible symptoms and no cases have been hospitalized to date.
We will continue to provide updates and want to thank the community for your prayer and support.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 9th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
A statement from the UofN Kona leadership to our local Kailua-Kona community has been released this evening. The campus leadership wishes to express their heartfelt thanks for all the support and prayer we have received, as well as share a message with the wider community.
For the video please go to ywamkona.org/covid-19. This week 955 individuals were tested in an initiative to curb the spread of COVID-19. We are awaiting all the results to come back, and expect them all back by tomorrow afternoon. We are thankful that all our active cases are experiencing minor symptoms. All active cases continue to be isolated. To date, no individuals have been hospitalized. We continue to cooperate fully with the Department of Health. As always, the safety of our staff, students, and the Kona community remain our highest priority.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA || YWAM KONA
October 8th, 2020
Media Contact:
Johnny Gillespie +1 808 345 4117
mediarelations@uofnkona.edu
University of the Nations Kona Completes Testing for All
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy,
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
As of 2:00 PM today, all Staff and Students have completed COVID-19 testing by the
Department of Health (DOH). This was initiated by Mayor Harry Kim’s Office and UofN Kona
Leadership as a safety measure to protect the Kona Community.
There were 463 tests completed today – this number combined with Tuesday testing totals 955
individuals. We are awaiting the full results of this testing.
Three positive cases have been reported, all of which have already been in quarantine for six
days when identified through previous contact tracing.
We are also pleased to announce two more individuals have been released from quarantine by
DOH. All those that have tested positive are reporting good health and recovering well. We
appreciate the outpouring of prayers and concern for our community.
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COVID 19 Updates at https://ywamkona.org/covid-19/
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline
workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN
Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and
society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing
healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona
is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and
the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 8th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
As of 2:00 PM today, all Staff and Students have completed COVID-19 testing by the Department of Health (DOH). This was initiated by Mayor Harry Kim’s Office and UofN Kona Leadership as a safety measure to protect the Kona Community.
There were 463 tests completed today – this number combined with Tuesday testing totals 955 individuals. We are awaiting the full results of this testing.
Three positive cases have been reported, all of which have already been in quarantine for six days when identified through previous contact tracing.
We are also pleased to announce two more individuals have been released from quarantine by DOH. All those that have tested positive are reporting good health and recovering well. We appreciate the outpouring of prayers and concern for our community.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 7th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
No new cases were reported today Wednesday, Oct 7th while one individual was released from isolation.
UofN Kona was praised for their cooperation with authorities on yesterday’s drive through testing for campus personnel. In a collaborative effort with the Department of Health (DOH) and National Guard, 492 tests were completed.
The Hawaii District Health Office agreed in a statement to West Hawaii Today:
“Jason DelaCruz, with the Hawaii District Health Office, had commended the University’s response to the cases, adding that UofN Kona’s medical team, security, and administration had met and reviewed plans with the DOH prior to arrival of students from outside the state. ‘I think that they should be recognized for their aggressive stance in their Trans-Pacific travel for students and faculty. They had a very robust response,’ he said.”
Testing will continue on Thursday, Oct 8th when it will be expected that all remaining staff and students will have completed testing, including staff living off campus.
We wish to continue to thank the outpouring of support from our community
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 6th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
Four additional people from UofN Kona, already identified through contact tracing and in quarantine, have today tested positive for COVID-19. Before testing positive, this group had already been in isolation for more than five days. All continue to be isolated, monitored, and are reporting only minor symptoms. There were no new cases reported on Sunday or Monday, October 4-5. UofN Kona continues to cooperate with government agencies in the process of testing all of our staff and students.
Today, 492 tests were completed. More testing will take place this week that includes off-campus personnel. We appreciate the outpouring of support from the community. The UofN Kona has lived and served in the community of Kona since 1978 and we continue to work together with authorities to ensure the public safety and well-being of the greater Kona community. UofN Kona provides free of charge, over 30,000 hours of Kona based community service a year which includes providing food, shelter, education and counseling services to the vulnerable population of Kona. UofN Kona also operates internationally through it’s compassionate Christian service all over the world.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 6th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
UofN Kona would like to announce that in cooperation with Mayor Harry Kim and the Department of Health (DoH) we expect to test 500 staff and students today, October 6, 2020. More testing will be conducted on Thursday to ensure all off-campus personnel have also been tested.
There were no new cases on Sunday or Monday, October 4-5. UofN Kona remains closed to the public with online classes only. All campus residents (staff, students, and families) have been in voluntary self quarantine since Saturday, and off campus staff are at “Stay-at-home” level. We are committed to completing the testing process as soon as possible.
We wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to Mayor Harry Kim, State Officials, and DoH for their assistance to quickly and efficiently test our entire community. We are committed to caring for our Island Ohana by collaborating closely with all authorities.
UofN Kona has lived and served in the community of Kona for 50 years and we continue to work together with authorities to ensure the public safety and wellbeing of the greater Kona community. UofN Kona provides free of charge, over 30,000 hours of Kona based community service a year. In addition to providing food, shelter, education, and counselling services to the vulnerable population of Kona, UofN Kona also operates internationally through it’s compassionate Christian service all over the world.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 5th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
UofN Kona would like to announce that Mayor Harry Kim has asked the Department of Health (DoH) to test all of our campus staff and students tomorrow, October 6, 2020. In addition to the safety standards we have already been operating under, we’ve taken the added step of operating at a stay-at-home level with only essential workers allowed on campus. We are working together with the DoH to review all of our safety protocols and procedures.
There were no new cases on Sunday or Monday, October 4-5. However, due to a record discrepancy over the weekend we would like to update the cases we reported on Saturday, October 3. There are 22 active cases on campus and 8 active cases off campus. All of these individuals remain in quarantine and are being closely monitored and only minor symptoms have been reported.
We wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to Mayor Harry Kim, State Officials, and DoH for their assistance to quickly and efficiently test our entire community. We are committed to caring for our Island Ohana by collaborating closely with all authorities.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 4th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
UofN Kona would like to confirm that ongoing testing has revealed no new cases reported on Sunday, October 4. Additionally, we are happy to report one individual has been cleared by the Department of Health (DOH) and released from Quarantine.
We continue to monitor the health and safety of all in quarantine with the utmost diligence.
UofN Kona has implemented strict operational procedures since our phased reopening over the summer. These operational procedures were submitted to and reviewed by the Department of Health in August of 2020. We continue to adhere to Mayor Harry Kim’s request for stay-at-home until the DOH confirms all appropriate procedures are in place.
None of the 16 cases reported yesterday are connected to the September Quarter student body who arrived recently. These students have remained in quarantine since their arrival, as mandated by the State.
UofN Kona leadership is in close communication with the Department of Health and local County authorities. We continue to strictly adhere to CDC guidelines including mask wearing, social distancing, and all measures to mitigate the risk of infection. We are happy to report that everyone is doing well and only minor symptoms are reported.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 4th, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
Out of the 43 cases reported yesterday on the Big Island, we can confirm that 16 of them are from UofNK in West Hawaii. We are happy to report that our frontline workers, who initially contracted the virus while serving the community, are all doing well in quarantine and only minor symptoms are reported. We continue to monitor the situation carefully in cooperation with the Department of Health.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 3rd, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
Four of these cases are travel related and 22 are due to the local Kona community spread. Travel related cases were tested and isolated immediately upon arrival.
Targeted contact tracing has shown UofNK staff contracted COVID-19 from the ongoing community spread in Kailua-Kona. Once aware of possible exposure, the University immediately isolated all related individuals, rapid and PCR tested, and suspended all in person activities except for essential services.
Since September, the UofNK has been operating at a Safer at Home level. All classes and operational activities have been conducted through digital platforms. Mayor Harry Kim’s Office has requested today that we increase our internal alert level to Stay at Home, with all campus residents (staff and students) voluntarily self isolating. Only essential workers such as food service and security will be allowed on campus.
DOH has been advising the Campus Medical Team since August and will conduct an additional review of UofNK quarantine measures at the request of the Mayor’s Office. This review will take place early next week between October 5th-7th. Although 80% of our campus body has already been tested, the Mayor has requested for all campus residents to be retested as a precautionary measure. We will immediately implement this next step and value the Mayor’s assistance and support.
UofNK has been operating at below 40% capacity which is well below CDC Guidelines for Universities and Colleges. We believe this increased step of self isolation in addition to our temporary suspension of activities is prudent and appropriate. We know that the virus is an unseen threat and we wish to assure our Island Community that we are treating the current rise in cases with the highest level of attention.
The University is doing everything to assist individuals in isolation and quarantine. We are happy to report everyone is doing well with minor symptoms. We want everyone on campus and our friends in Kailua-Kona to be confident of our protocols. We are committed to caring for our Island Ohana.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 2nd, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
The University of the Nations Kona (UofNK) is continuing precautions to prevent COVID-19 cases. Preventive measures have been in place since August. These measures have enabled quick identification of cases through contact tracing, targeted testing, and the immediate isolation of individuals. With the utmost care and concern for our campus community and our Local Kona community, UofNK has suspended all in person classes and business as a precautionary measure.
All campus activities are being conducted through digital platforms and only essential workers are present on campus.
In response to this situation, UofNK members are undergoing widespread testing and we are treating this with the highest level of attention. UofNK has been serving the communities of the Big Island through delivering food, counseling services, and helping vulnerable populations within our community for the past 50 years. Some of our long term residential staff have been providing assistance in the community since the onset of the pandemic. We are taking every precaution available to protect and care for our Kupuna and other at-risk members of our Big Island Community.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
October 1st, 2020
The University of the Nations Kona (UofN Kona) campus, located at 75-5851 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
The Campus Medical Team and the Department of Health (DoH) are in communication and have put in place appropriate quarantine measures pre-approved by the DoH.
Throughout the pandemic, the heartbeat of YWAM has been to reach out and help those who are hurting as a result of the loss of income and family members. Staff have taken upon themselves to serve many of our local communities on the Big Island with food, counseling services, transportation, and other care at great risk to themselves. Since the arrival of COVID-19 to our island, YWAM staff have been diligent to follow DoH protocols closely as they served in the community, yet despite our best efforts some of our workers have now contracted the virus.
The University is doing everything to assist these individuals as they now battle the virus themselves. Thankfully, so far, everyone is stable and doing well. We remain in close contact with the DoH, following all State guidelines and protocols with everyone isolated and being cared for with all precautions available.
Additionally, four travel related cases have been recently detected. These earlier cases were isolated immediately, contact tracing performed, and no further spread has occurred. As an added measure of precaution, all incoming personnel before being permitted on to the campus are all rapid tested.
CDC guidelines for colleges and universities are regularly reviewed and protocols updated accordingly. UofNK operational procedures dealing with Covid-19 were submitted to the Department of Health in August of 2020. UofNK leadership has carefully followed these protocols.
The UofNK places the utmost importance on the safety and care of our Kona Community. We are committed to ensuring a safe and healthy learning environment for everyone.
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE NATIONS KONA
University of the Nations, Kona (UofN Kona) specializes in Christian education and training programs for frontline workers in the nations of the earth. Pioneered in 1978, and now operating in 1,200 locations and 180 nations, UofN Kona empowers thousands of young people to be change-makers and godly influencers in all spheres of culture and society. UofN Kona equips young people to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in both word and deed, providing healthcare, education and basic necessities to communities in need around the world. In addition to this, UofN Kona is actively engaged in Kailua-Kona and West Hawaii through community development, local outreach programs, and the foster care system – touching countless lives every year.
The University of the Nations has implemented a number of protocols in order to maintain a healthy and virus free campus this Fall Quarter. Our COVID-19 Response Team is deeply committed to ongoing collaboration with Department of Health officials and local Hawai’i County agencies to ensure the health and safety of our campus and local West Hawai’i Community.
* All University of the Nations Staff, Students, and volunteers who have arrived or returned to the campus will quarantine in dorm rooms on Campus.
* They will be COVID Tested on arrival before they enter quarantine. If a student returns a positive COVID test they are moved immediately to designated isolation rooms.
* Our Quarantine procedures have been communicated to the Department of Health and our Security, Medical, and Operational staff are in regular contact with them.
* University of the Nations Kona has limited the capacity of our dorm living to 50% or less.
* The University has created a 4 level internal Alert Level system to help students and staff to understand current threat levels of COVID both on campus and in the community.
* Changes in Masking expectations, symptom and temperature monitoring, and use of indoor spaces are reflected in these alert protocols.
* All University students and staff are expected to wear masks when moving between classes, dorms, cafeteria and other campus activities. Students are not required to wear masks in their dorm rooms.
* In the case of rising Alert Levels, students and staff will be required to wear their masks at all times outside their dorm rooms except while eating.
* During quarantine all students and staff are asked to monitor their temperatures twice per day and report any fever or other COVID symptoms to Campus Health immediately.
* Depending on the alert level this may be reduced to once per day.
* All gathering spaces and classrooms have been assessed and the maximum number of participants designated to ensure 6 foot distance between chairs. Students and staff will maintain social distancing guidelines for the duration of the Quarter.
* All students and staff have been asked to limit interactions with large groups and will remain within smaller groupings designated by their course leaders.
* The majority of classes will be held outdoors with 6 feet between chairs.
* Where space or the course material limit this, students will use indoor classrooms with 6 foot distance seating and open windows for strong airflow in accordance with CDC and DOH guidelines.
* Any staff or students with Covid19 symptoms will communicate these immediately to Campus Health who will arrange rapid testing.
* In the event of a COVID positive test, students or on campus staff will be moved to a designated isolation room on campus until cleared by the Department of Health.
* Campus Staff who live off campus, will be isolated at their home and will be monitored by both Campus Health Services and the Department of health.
* All positive individuals will regularly be monitored by the Department of Health and Campus Health Services staff.
* All students and staff with whom the COVID positive individual had contact with will be quarantined for 14 days to ensure any potential spread is mitigated.
Aloha from University of the Nations-YWAM Kona!We’re so excited to see you very soon here in Kona, Hawaii! We’ve been praying for you for months and anticipate God working powerfully in you and through you during your time with us!
We wanted to communicate important recent changes to the vaccination laws here in Hawaii. Beginning July 1st, 2020, there are now several Hawaii State mandated vaccinations that you must prove in order to attend schools from Preschool to University level. Please see the vaccination requirements below.
Childcare and Preschool | Kindergarten to Grade 6 | Grade 7-12 Students | Post Secondary |
---|---|---|---|
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP) |
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP) |
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP) |
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP) |
Hepatitis A (Hep A) |
Hepatitis A (Hep A) |
Hepatitis A (Hep A) |
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) |
Hepatitis B (Hep B) |
Hepatitis B (Hep B) |
Hepatitis B (Hep B) |
Meningococcal Conjugate (MCV) |
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) |
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) |
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) |
Varicella (Chickenpox) |
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) |
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) |
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) |
|
Polio (IPV) | Polio (IPV) | Polio (IPV) | |
Varicella (Chickenpox) |
Varicella (Chickenpox) |
Varicella (Chickenpox) |
|
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) |
Meningococcal Conjugate (MCV) |
Meningococcal Conjugate (MCV) |
|
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) |
The State of Hawaii requires that the University ensure all students have the necessary vaccinations in order to attend class. Official medical record documentation is observed. Please find more information regarding the vaccination requirements at www.vaxtoschoolhawaii.com.
We encourage you to enroll with your full schedule of childhood vaccinations completed, in addition to the minimum required for post secondary schooling here in Hawaii. However, if you have never had any vaccinations, you will need to arrive with the minimum vaccinations listed above.
These vaccination requirements also apply to non-attending spouses, nannies, and children.
Our campus travel clinic will additionally recommend appropriate medication and/or vaccinations for almost all international outreach locations. Students must also receive the recommended medication and/or vaccinations for the specific outreach locations they will attend. A list of suggested travel vaccinations is in the Student Health Record in the application system.
If a student chooses not to receive additional travel medication and/or vaccinations, they must transfer to an outreach location that does not require any or only limited vaccinations.
In the midst of an ongoing global pandemic, we are not able to grant religious or medical exemptions to the state’s required vaccinations. The health and safety of our students, staff, and local community is vital in this season. If you are included in one of these groups, please contact itt@uofnkona.edu in order to discuss your options further.
We will send out further instructions and official forms within the next two weeks. These will require a healthcare provider’s signature, so please do not visit your healthcare provider before receiving our paperwork.
If you have questions regarding required vaccinations or anything related this process, please email campushealth@uofnkona.edu.
With the Warmest Aloha,
The Campus Training Team
(Edited 3/20/2020)