I began sending daily updates to you regarding UNBC’s response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic a little more than a month ago with my first update on March 11. In that time I have covered a wide range of topics – from moving to online learning/assessments to working remotely, from virtual social events to financial aid questions. With each update has come comments, criticism, and thanks, and I deeply value all of that feedback, as it has helped provide me with guidance and reassurance regarding the University’s response.

As the days and weeks go by, however, I am finding the need for a daily update related to our response to have subsided. Moving forward, I plan to send at least one update each week and more if needed. I will of course reach out in a timely fashion as major issues arise. Although I am moving away from daily updates please do not hesitate to contact me if questions arise.

Please continue to monitor our website for ongoing information updates, and follow UNBC’s social media channels for interesting stories, links and more as there is a wealth of valuable information on our website for everyone and please send questions to unbccommand@unbc.ca.

We continue to follow the guidance and direction from public health authorities as they are all worth repeating today to practice physical distancing, wash your hands and stay inside where possible; it is the only way to “flatten the curve”.

Yet the most important message I have to repeat is one of thanks and appreciation. I am awestruck by our UNBC community’s adaptability and receptiveness to significant change. I am inspired by the collaborative spirit you show in developing solutions to urgent issues. I am grateful for your efforts to advance the mission of this great University. And, to our students, I am thankful that you have chosen UNBC as the place to pursue your post-secondary endeavours.

Until my next update, thank you, and stay safe!

Geoff Payne
UNBC Interim President and Vice-Chancellor