COTC Events and Gatherings

Effective immediately, college in-person meetings and events are permitted at all Central Ohio Technical College campuses (Newark, Coshocton, Mount Vernon and Pataskala).

In addition, all campus venues, including at the shared Newark campus and all COTC campus locations, may consider third-party events that want to use campus spaces.

An event is defined as a planned activity, other than academic classes scheduled as part of the university/college curriculum, that is held in a university/college building or outdoor space on a university/college campus or with a community partner. A gathering is defined as a formal or informal assembly of people that is either planned or spontaneous.

All events must follow these guidelines:

  • All events and gatherings must follow state, local and university protocols to protect all involved. Note that all guidance is subject to change based on health guidance.
  • Daily activities are permitted. Overnight activities are not permitted at this time.
  • In response to the updated guidelines and a current lower level of infection in our service area, beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 11, masks will no longer be required for any faculty, staff, students or visitors at any of COTC’s four campus locations (Newark, Coshocton, Knox and Pataskala) regardless of vaccination status. Public events, such as those that take place at the John Gilbert Reese Center, are mask optional, effective immediately.
  • Indoor venues may operate at full capacity.
  • Hands should be washed frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after touching common surfaces. If soap and water are not available, 70% alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be used. Events should allow for regular hand washing.
  • Event leaders must be educated on proper masking requirements, sanitation, cleaning and social distancing and have a plan in place to ensure appropriate distancing for participant registration, drop-off, pick-up and other aspects of the event.
  • Event organizers who want to hold an event at a university/college-approved venue should work directly with the venue contact.
  • Event organizers should appoint one staff member/event organizer who is responsible for the ongoing monitoring of safety protocols. Pre-packaged meals are preferred when possible. Self-serve options should be limited and serving utensils must be regularly cleaned.

For university/college events:

  • University/college event organizers who want to hold an event at an off-campus (third-party) venue should work with their director to obtain approvals.

 

New Student Orientation

All orientation and admissions events are offered remotely. Admitted students can contact COTC Gateway admissions at cotcadmissions@mail.cotc.edu, or call any of COTC’s four campus locations with questions or concerns:

  • Newark campus: 740-366-9222
  • Coshocton campus: 740-622-1408
  • Knox campus: 740-392-2526
  • Pataskala campus: 740-755-7090

 

Information Meetings

Program information meetings are being held remotely. Check the schedule and register online for the program you are interested in.

Healthcare Careers:

Public Services and Safety Careers:

 

COTC Visit Days

Take a virtual tour online at cotc.edu/visit and learn about specific programs at cotc.edu/academics. COTC Gateway admissions can be contacted at cotcadmissions@mail.cotc.edu, or call any of COTC’s four campus locations with questions or concerns:

  • Newark campus: 740-366-9222
  • Coshocton campus: 740-622-1408
  • Knox campus: 740-392-2526
  • Pataskala campus: 740-755-7090

 

Commencement

Spring 2020 Commencement: COTC was unable to hold a traditional commencement ceremony on May 1. Still, the college is committed to celebrating with our spring semester graduates in person when it is safe to gather in large groups. Students who have successfully completed their associate degree or certificate will be mailed their diploma or certificate after the end of the semester.

Summer 2020 Graduates: COTC announced in 2019 the elimination of the summer commencement ceremony. Summer graduates are invited to participate in commencement exercises with autumn semester graduates. Due to the ongoing pandemic, COTC will continue to assess guidance from the state and CDC on large gatherings to determine our final plans for spring, summer and autumn commencement.

Autumn 2020 and Spring 2021 Graduates: COTC held an in-person, modified commencement ceremony on Friday, May 7, 2021.

Summer 2021 and Autumn 2021 Graduates: COTC held an in-person ceremony on Friday, December 17, 2021.