Coronavirus Update: March 19, 2020 - 6:00 p.m.

March 19, 2020

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to have an impact around the world and we are coming together as a community to address the situation. Be sure to visit our website frequently for the most recent updates.

In today’s update:

Social distancing

I must stress the importance of social distancing. We all need to heed the guidance provided by the Provincial Health Officer. Give yourselves that two-metre buffer between people, and if you are ill, I strongly encourage not meeting with people or coming to work to respect people’s health and safety. We can slow the spread and help flatten the curve.

Working remotely

Many of our employees are now working remotely. I thank you for developing plans so quickly and enacting them.

For those who remain on campus, if you are working alone or in isolation, I encourage you to follow our working alone procedures: check in with security when you arrive and your estimated duration of work. They will check in on you. We must know where you are in case of an emergency.

A Herculean effort!

I am overwhelmed by the transition we have made to alternative modes of course delivery and assessments. Our faculty have done a tremendous amount of work in a very short timeframe in order to ensure our students finish the semester successfully. I am seeing active conversations around campus and online in which our faculty are sharing advice, tips, and tricks to further enhance our students’ experience online. Our faculty have demonstrated undeniable leadership in putting students first, for which our community is grateful.

I also commend our Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology. From webinars to tailored solutions, the team has outdone themselves in providing exceptional support and service to our faculty and students.

Please send your questions to unbccommand@unbc.ca so we can coordinate our efforts as we focus on maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

Remember, let’s all be kind to one another, patient as we pursue solutions to challenges, and charitable in our thanks for those who are striving each day to meet the challenges we are faced with. 

Thank you,

Geoff Payne
UNBC Interim President and Vice-Chancellor

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