March 2020
- All WSU campuses move to distance learning and remote work as COVID-19 pandemic sweeps across the globe
- Instructors adapt classes, with training and support from WSU Global Campus
- WSU asks students not to return to the Pullman campus following spring break
- Faculty and researchers receive guidelines for research activities during the pandemic
- WSU partners with University of Washington to combat coronavirus misinformation with tools to promote an informed society
April 2020
- Food pantries system-wide step up deliveries to students facing food insecurity
- Pullman campus celebrates Coug Moms virtually and announces “Mom of the Year” awardee Rebecca Kallman, presented by BECU
- WSU donors support a “Cougs Help Cougs” relief fund for students experiencing financial emergencies related to the pandemic
- WSU begins brewing batches of FDA-approved “Cougar Clean” hand sanitizer
May 2020
- Graduates and friends attend a virtual celebration to recognize the class of 2020
- WSU announces limited occupancy in residence halls for Fall 2020
- Contact tracing expands to contain COVID-19 infections on campuses
July 2020
- Fall 2020 semester moves to a distance delivery model
- WSU urges students not to return to campus for Fall 2020
August 2020
- Students who need equipment receive WiFi hotspots and Chromebooks
- WSU Pullman sees a rapid increase in COVID-19 cases
September 2020
- WSU expands COVID-19 testing of students and employees with support from the National Guard
October 2020
- WSU holds first Family Weekend. It’s a virtual event due to the pandemic
- WSU cancels spring break 2021
November 2020
- Cougar football games begin for a short, seven-game season without fans in the stands. Three games are cancelled due to COVID-19
January 2021
- Spring 2021 semester continues distance learning
- WSU announces a return to in-person student experience for Fall 2021
- National Guard ends its COVID testing in Pullman
March 2021
- WSU Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art reopens its galleries to the public
- Students begin receiving vaccinations at Cougar Health Services
April 2021
- Vaccinations required for students, faculty, and staff
- WSU holds second Family Weekend. It’s also a virtual event
May 2021
- WSU holds a virtual celebration and commencement for the class of 2021
- WSU discontinues mask mandate for people who are fully vaccinated
June 2021
- WSU joins White House’s COVID-19 College Vaccination Challenge
July 2021
- Campuses start a phased reopening for employees and begin preparing for students to return for Fall 2021 semester