The rate of COVID-19 cases connected to MSU has started to flatten with a percent positivity rate beginning to trend downward.

In the week of Sept. 28, MSU reported a total of 27 cases connected to the university. In the week prior, they saw nearly four times that amount with 103 cases the week of Sept. 21.

Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail said that she does not feel comfortable lifting bar and restaurant capacity limitations at this moment, though it is not off the table for the future.

Vail stated the thought process behind capacity limitations in the first place was to let bar and restaurant owners ease into  handling crowds of different capacity.

The Big Ten announced Tuesday afternoon that men’s ice hockey will return as early as Nov. 13 with a 24-game season against conference opponents and an additional four games vs. Arizona State. Hockey players and staff will be subject to the same testing protocols that Big Ten football will face.

Hockey athletes and staff alike will be subject to daily testing, enhanced cardiac screening, and distinct guidelines for what would cause a cancellation or postponement of games. Arizona State will be subject to these testing guidelines as well.

Michigan State University has selected Jabbar Bennett as the university’s inaugural vice president and chief diversity officer. He will take office Dec. 1, and his selection is 0 approval at the Oct. 30 Board of Trustees meeting.

Bennett was one of four final candidates who virtually visited the university in August and September. More than 70 potential candidates were considered during the national search.