Dr. Bill Thierfelder, president of Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C., recorded a Nov. 20 message explaining why he has not been seen on campus lately.

Thierfelder announced he was in quarantine after his wife's mother died and his son tested positive for COVID-19, a video announcement posted on the college's website said.

"Obviously, I'm following our protocol," Thierfelder said in the video. "I'm doing what I've asked you to do, and so I quarantined myself and my family. We've been here and it ends this Sunday. Thank goodness. I know all of you can relate to quarantine. You're really happy when it's over."

Thierfelder explained that this is why he has been absent from campus. He stated that he normally films his video announcements around campus but had to do this one by himself virtually. 

He also noted a recent slight increase in the number of students testing positive for the coronavirus and asked everyone to take care.