Once again, it’s worth starting this message with a thank you to the entire University community. When we made the decision to move to alternate modes of course delivery and assessments, I recognized the burden this places on our faculty, students and staff. Yet the response has been inspirational. I’m hearing from faculty who are challenging themselves to find new ways to provide instruction, and I’m hearing from students who understand we are doing this in the interest of public health. Many of our classes have transitioned already and I am fully supportive of not waiting until Thursday where appropriate. Our administrative staff have responded wonderfully to support this process as well. The way our community has come together to support one another is what makes UNBC so special.

The world around us is changing rapidly. We’re seeing heightened travel restrictions, changes to service levels and a very real impact on our daily lives.

Here at UNBC we are no different. We continue to be in contact with and follow guidance provided by Northern Health, the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), and the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training in our decision making. We continue to assess the situation and make decisions as needed for our University.

So on that front, a few updates for you:

• Our campuses remain open. Services such as the library, food services, and student housing remain open. Some service levels may need to be changed, or have already changed (such as food services) in order to support public health.
• Although our students are encouraged to move out of residences if possible, many students are unable to, so our residences remain open.
• Human Resources is working on updates regarding working from home. At this stage, we are not requiring that people work from home, but we are looking into accommodations for the immunocompromised, people who care for the immunocompromised, and those who are returning from travel who need to self-isolate.
• In addition, the Northern Sport Centre Ltd. Board of Directors (a partnership between the City of Prince George and UNBC) has decided it is in the public interest to close that facility given the nature of activities that take place there and to promote social distancing. This decision aligns with the closure of other recreational facilities in Prince George.

In closing, I thank our students who are demonstrating leadership and understanding as we navigate uncharted waters. We know this has been a challenging year, but we are forever grateful that you are part of the UNBC community.

Please reference our website often as we are making regular updates.

Thank you again for your continued support and collaboration.

Geoff Payne,
President and Vice-Chancellor