One year of COVID: Looking back on changes at Bucknell University One year ago, Bucknell announced what seemed to be a drastic measure at that time, canceling in-person classes and transitioning to virtual learning. Author: Carolyn Blackburne Updated: 10:02 PM EST March 11, 2021 UNION COUNTY, Pa. — Students are on campus at Bucknell University. Classes are in-person, masks are mandated, and campus life has adjusted to a "new normal." This time last year, things were much more uncertain. The school just announced during spring break that students would be returning, but not for classes, instead to pack up their belongings and head home.