Rev. President of the University of Notre Dame. John I. Jenkins tested positive for coronavirus on Friday, according to a letter written to students.
Letter to the Notre Dame Campus:
During a self-immolation this week, the president of the University of Notre Dame, Rev. John I. Jenkins, CSC, learned that a colleague with whom he has been in regular contact has tested positive for COVID-19. F. Jenkins was tested and was also found to be positive for COVID-19. As a result, it is entering an extended period of isolation suggested by the university’s medical staff and county health officials. “My symptoms are mild and I will continue to work from home.” Jenkins said. “Positive testing is a good reminder to me and maybe to all of us how vigilant we need to be.
The president sent a letter to the campus community on Monday apologizing for not wearing a mask and social distance during Supreme Court Justice Nomination Ceremony of Judge Amy Connie Barrett at the White House.
Jenkins was not wearing a mask at the event on Saturday and photos and videos showing him shaking hands with others surfaced on social media, which drew criticism on social media.
In his letter sent to students, staff and faculty Monday evening, Jenkins said he believes it is important to represent Notre Dame at the ceremony, as Barrett attended Notre Dame Law School and is a professor at the university.
Jenkins explained that when she arrived at the White House, she and others had a quick COVID-19 test, and once they had all tested negative, they were told it was safe to remove their masks.
“I failed to lead by giving an example, when I asked everyone else in the Notre Dame community to do the same,” he said. “I especially regret my mistake in adjusting to their health protocols in the light of the sacrifices made on a daily basis by many, especially by our students.”
Upon returning to campus, Jenkins said he contacted the Notre Dame Wellness Center, and with great caution and in accordance with university protocol, he decided to separate.
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