STORRS, CT – The University of Connecticut (UConn) was recently in the headlines after students partied on campus without wearing masks. According to a video released on social media, 25 students attended parties in the dormitories without observing the required social distancing or wearing masks.

The 25 came in contact with five other students who tested positive for the virus on August 18 and are staying in isolation areas at the University.

Greek-American Dr. Thomas C. Katsouleas, UConn President, spoke with The National Herald about the incident. "It's very serious. Although we understand them, they are young, they did not do anything wrong, we must point out the seriousness of the situation. This behavior is not safe now. We cannot allow this," said President Katsouleas.

According to Katsouleas, the party started on Monday night around 12:30 AM. He told TNH, "This is normal for students, this is not a problem. We do not condemn it. However, no one wore a mask and did not observe social distancing."

In the standard investigation that took place at the University premises, the students were identified. "By 7:30 PM, they had left for their homes where they will stay for self-isolation. I feel sorry for the students, but I repeat, we must take everything concerning the pandemic seriously," added Katsouleas.

The University investigation continues into how the party was organized and by whom.

UConn Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Eleanor Daugherty told TNH, "These actions do not represent the 5,000-member student community, which follows an admirable commitment to safety measures. The students endangered the health not only of themselves but also of others."

The University facilities opened on August 14 and according to the institution's regulations all students must wear masks when they are not in their homes or in their cars.