Dear Students and Families,
This week, I’d like to take a moment to recognize the feelings of frustration and sorrow that many members of our community are experiencing. The impacts of COVID-19 have left some feeling isolated and confused. At the same time, the pain of bearing witness to the visual resurgence of racial violence against African Americans has become exhausting and traumatizing. Collectively, we are grieving.
As we attempt to navigate these challenging times, please know that what you are feeling and experiencing are both valid and real. During a time where we need each other the most, we must recognize how we show up for and affirm each other. To our Black students, faculty, staff, alumni, and families, please know we see you, and we are here for you.
The tragic killings of Black Americans like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and Nina Pop are a result of racism and hate, which have no place in our society. As many seek and fight for justice, we must all recognize that apathy is not an option. And it is vital we advocate for humanity, care for one another and continue important action to challenge such violence and injustice.
In a message shared by President Fuchs today, he encourages our entire campus community to reflect on our own biases and spheres of influence, taking ownership to make positive change in our environments. I encourage everyone to watch his message online.
As a reminder to all students, if you find yourself in need of support or impacted by current events and wish to connect with a counselor, please contact the Counseling and Wellness Center.
Sending you my best, Gators.
Dr. D’Andra Mull
Vice President for Student Affairs
UPDATES:
Hurricane Season
Monday marks the start of hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30. Preparation is key to as we brace for what meteorologists predict to be a very active season. Due to the pandemic, items you would typically stock up on may be more difficult to find. Please take the time to start planning and purchasing supplies. Do not wait until August to get ready!
Financial Support for Students
The University of Florida has been allocated funds from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). The CARES Act established and funded the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) to provide emergency financial aid grants. These critical funds will help eligible UF students cover expenses related to unanticipated travel, additional technology requirements, or other needs related to an emergency situation. Graduate assistants (this includes medical and veterinary residents), post-doctoral fellows and associates must apply as employees via the Faculty and Staff Aid-a-Gator program. UF Online, International, and DACA students are not eligible to receive CARES Act funding, but emergency funding for these students may be available through the UF Aid-a-Gator program.
UF Health Launches Screen, Test & Protect
The Screen, Test & Protect initiative builds a culture of care for our community while taking steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 as the University of Florida gradually returns faculty, staff and students to campus. Learn more at https://coronavirus.ufhealth.org/
Lake Wauburg Re-Opens
Lake Wauburg North Shore re-opened today, Friday, May 29 for park operations. While activities are still limited in accordance with public health guidelines, students can reconnect outside. Learn more at https://recsports.ufl.edu/
Virtual Student Union
Keeping you connected to the Gator Student Experience is important. The Virtual Student Union was designed as a resource for students and will be updated on a regular basis.
This new digital hub is here to make life a bit easier by collecting all your need-to-know programs, services, and even student events in one place!
Amid quarantine, you can engage with campus by:
· Participating in a virtual fitness class with RecSports
· Attending the virtual wellness coaching program with GatorWell
· Getting your resume edited virtually with the Career Connections Center
· Finding community through student organizations, leadership development and student events