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UT Chancellor warns expulsion possible for irresponsible parties

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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The University of Tennessee at Knoxville chancellor says students could face punishments as stiff as expulsion if they are "irresponsible" in hosting big parties, or if they won't cooperate with COVID-19 contact tracing or forms documenting their self-isolation.

Chancellor Donde Plowman issued the warning in a video conference Tuesday as she noted a cluster of five cases linked to an off-campus party last week. Plowman said the university will hold party hosts accountable for large gatherings that don't meet mask or social distancing requirements.

Wednesday is the first day of classes at the flagship Knoxville campus. School officials have confirmed 75 active COVID-19 cases on campus.