Thirteen State University of New York at Fredonia students have been suspended, effective Tuesday, for violating the Student Code of Conduct relating to COVID-19 and off-campus gatherings.

Those disciplinary actions were announced in an e-mail to campus in the afternoon by University President Stephen H. Kolison, Jr. and Dr. Cedric B. Howard, vice president of enrollment and student services.

“Throughout the preparations for — and start of — the Fall 2020 semester, Fredonia encouraged wearing facial coverings and social distancing. We also talked honestly about repercussions for not following the rules,” the administrators said. “Any Fredonia student who endangers others by disregarding public health precautions will face serious penalties. Those who fail to respect their responsibility to our community during the pandemic will find that the Student Code of Conduct and local governmental restrictions will be enforced.”

The suspensions that were handed out today are pending a review by the Office of Student Conduct, the statement noted. It also praised those students who are following proper protocols.

“Thank you for being vigilant and for being leaders among your peers. We need that behavior and leadership amongst students now, more than ever, if we are to continue having a successful semester.”