Dear Students and Families,
The first week of fall classes is in our rearview mirror, and the opportunities and energy of the semester are ahead. Collectively this week, we began to adjust to the new policies, new learning platforms and new schedules.
It may take a little time to find your rhythm, especially amid change. Please know you are not alone, and that Student Affairs has resources and staff available to support you in finding balance, no matter where you are taking classes.
The university’s preparation for fall semester in managing COVID-19 cases is now in full swing. As President Fuchs has previously mentioned, COVID will certainly be with us throughout the fall semester and we should be prepared for many cases, quarantines, and isolation. UF Health experts, administrators and staff are working around the clock to continue to support our campus community and provide you with the information we can, being mindful of FERPA and HIPPA laws.
Walking around campus this week, I’m extremely heartened to see how mindful and caring you all, our students, are being by wearing masks, staying physical distant, utilizing your QuaranTeam and not gathering in large groups. Thank you, and please keep it up!
For those in Gainesville in the coming weeks, we will be significantly expanding our testing capabilities. I encourage you to watch this video message from Dr. Michael Lauzardo, director of UF Health Screen, Test & Protect and deputy director of UF Emerging Pathogens Institute. In the video, he provides an outline of what to expect this fall as well as some important tips for Labor Day Weekend.
With the long weekend in mind, you must continue to stay vigilant in doing your part to support the health of our community. This weekend is a great time to explore campus, Gainesville, and Alachua County with numerous fun events and activities. Whether you like to adventure outdoors, or you prefer air conditioning, I hope you take advantage of the extra day to relax and get engaged in student life.
We have a whole semester ahead and much to look forward to – So let’s stay masked and stay in small groups.
Be safe, be well, and as always – Go Gators!
Dr. D’Andra Mull
Vice President for Student Affairs
Quick Links:
https://gatorwell.ufsa.ufl.edu/services/wellness-coaching/
https://president.ufl.edu/updates/2020/07/state-of-the-university.html
http://www.ufl.edu/articles/2020/09/covid-data.html
https://www.dropbox.com/s/7woq69nq530jqhw/GW_FindingYourQuaranTeam.pdf?dl=0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjJb7DH1RWA
https://ufsa.ufl.edu/great-gator-welcome/
https://coronavirus.ufl.edu/university-updates/september-3-gators-announce-stadium-capacity.html