The University of Nevada, Reno has been closely following Nevada state directives and public health recommendations surrounding COVID-19. The safety and health of students, faculty, staff and guests remain the highest priority, which is why the decision was made to cancel the 2020 NevadaFIT academic bootcamp. 

“After careful consideration, the University has made the difficult decision to cancel the NevadaFIT program, which was scheduled to run August 16-21, 2020,” University Executive Vice President and Provost Kevin Carman, said. “The health and safety of our students is our top priority, and this decision allows campus the time and opportunity to ensure a safe and effective transition to an in-person fall semester with modifications to meet state guidelines.” 

“There is no doubt 2020 will be remembered as one of the strangest and most challenging years in modern history."

NevadaFIT is a one-credit, academic program for first year students designed to help ease the transition from high school to college. The NevadaFIT program brings more than 3,500 new students and about 500 student mentors to campus the week before the fall semester begins. Most NevadaFIT camps operate in large groups of more than 100 students and mentors. 

The decision was made because there wasn’t a feasible way to offer an effective program while maintaining proper social distancing. 

“There is no doubt 2020 will be remembered as one of the strangest and most challenging years in modern history,” Provost Carman said. “While news of this cancelation may not be pleasant, we believe it is the right thing to do and is necessary in our commitment to manage the coronavirus outbreak. Here at the University, we are working diligently to make adjustments to our normal operations in order to assure we can provide an environment you can safely live and learn.”   

In early April, the Nevada System of Higher Education gave the directive to move all summer classes with start dates in May and June, online. Coupled with Nevada Governor Sisolak’s Stay at Home order and his plan to gradually open state operations, which was revealed the week of April 20, the University felt the program cancelation was in everyone’s best interest. 

“There will still be many opportunities for you to learn about campus prior to the start of the fall semester,” Felicia DeWald, director of NevadaFIT, said in a letter to incoming students. “Our faculty and students have found innovative ways of connecting and educating. You are now a part of the Wolf Pack family and we will do all in our power to ensure you are aware of the resources available to you in order to help you succeed during your four years at the University.” 

The inaugural TransferFIT program is much smaller, and will continue as planned for Aug. 15 and 16. 

Admissions and Records will automatically drop the NevadaFIT course from students’ schedules and will drop or reimburse the one-credit course fee. Additional updates will be shared on the NevadaFIT website. 

Details about Residence Hall Move-In and Welcome Week will also be shared with students soon. 

“With the nature of this pandemic impacting all facets of our lives, we are asking for your patience and flexibility as we prioritize students' health and safety – and that of their parents and families – in the move-in process,” Dean Kennedy, executive director of Residential Life, Housing and Dining Services, said. 

Please continue to reference the Coronavirus Updates page for the latest updates on University operations and delivery of services.