We’re through another week and I continue to be impressed with the UNBC community’s response. We received a couple of thank-you notes from staff at Northern Health who said they were brought to tears by our Personal Protective Equipment donation yesterday. Please know that the work you are all doing is having an impact in Prince George and across the North!

In today’s update:

• Supporting our International Students
• Flattening the Curve
• The Role of Post-Secondary Institutions

Supporting our International Students

We know there are a number of international students still in our community who are unable to get home. We also know that the usual supports from family may be difficult at this time, so we have provided some additional information for international students on our website. Please visit that site often as updates are added regularly. In the meantime, if you are an international student who has questions or concerns regarding your visa, medical coverage, or financial supports, reach out to the international department at ie@unbc.ca

Flattening the Curve

I watched with interest the news conference highlights from our Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry. She shared some modelling information that indicated that physical distancing efforts are helping in our quest to flatten the curve. That said, it’s critical to reinforce that we can’t be complacent. We must continue to adhere to her directions and do all we can to promote public health. I appreciate all you do to share factual information on social media and in your personal networks. It is having a positive impact. Stay home, continue to practice physical distancing, and be supportive of one another!

The Role of Post-Secondary Institutions

I know there has been much discussion as to why we are not closed, given our adherence to guidance from the Provincial Health Officer. Post-secondary institutions play a critical role for our communities; we have been asked by the provincial government to be ready to respond while ensuring the essential nature of the work of our institution is maintained. I take the health and safety of our community seriously and am committed to working with each and every one of you as we continue to operate while adhering to physical distancing. I appreciate the efforts of everyone across our University community on this.

All of my updates are being posted on our website, so if you feel you missed one, you can always go back and read them. I do not plan to send updates over the weekend, but we will continue to monitor issues and I will be in touch should the need arise. I hope you enjoy some downtime over the weekend. Thank you!

Geoff Payne,
UNBC Interim President and Vice-Chancellor