6/4/2020

TO: Faculty and Staff
SUBJECT: President’s Communication: Session One Update

Dear Faculty and Staff:

The purpose of this message is to provide an update regarding Fall 2020 planning. First, I want to thank you for your continued hard work and support as we navigate a challenging time in higher education. Migrating all of our educational offerings to the online platform for Sessions 4, 5 and 6 has been no easy task, and I am proud that we have done so in a way that has consistently supported our students and their educational goals. I have heard from many students about how helpful faculty and staff have been during this transition, and I thank you for all of your efforts!

Upper Iowa University is planning to welcome back Fayette campus and Center location students as regularly scheduled this Fall with face-to-face classes beginning Monday, August 31. UIU is working closely with local and state public health officials to create a safe learning environment for students, faculty, and staff while still providing the student-centered education that is an important and long-standing element of our culture. Please take time now to review important updates below and be alert for future communications about a return to face-to-face learning.

Academic Calendar:

The University will follow the regularly scheduled academic calendar, as outlined on the website. However, Fayette Campus courses will be transitioned to online learning beginning on Monday, November 30 thru the end of final exams on Thursday, December 17. This decision has been made to lessen face-to-face interaction between Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks, a time when sickness can be commonly spread. Students will have the option to stay in residence during this period, but classes will not meet face-to-face during this period on the Fayette Campus

Department, Location and Operations Planning:

Units and personnel are currently working on detailed plans for several University operations, including academics, athletics, dining services, facilities, student housing, and events. Plans are also being developed for our non-Fayette locations, at which UIU may need to adhere to a variety of State or military guidelines. Lastly, a plan is being developed to ensure that a return to work for personnel is completed safely and thoughtfully. More information on these specific plans will be provided in the weeks ahead and posted to myUIU.

Fayette Campus Visits:

Face-to-face visits with prospective students will restart on June 8th. Initially, campus visits will be limited to one student and no more than two additional guests. No group visits are planned for the month of June. Virtual visits will continue to be conducted as well, and campus visits may also include a virtual component.

OAR Days:

The Orientation, Advising and Registration (OAR) Day scheduled for Saturday, June 27 was recently transitioned to two virtual events taking place on Thursday, June 25 and Friday, June 26. The OAR day previously scheduled for July 17 will now also occur in a virtual format, taking place on Friday, July 17 and Monday, July 20. More information about these changes will be communicated to those involved with OAR Days soon. At this time, the August OAR Dates have not been changed.

Social Distancing, Face Coverings and Temperature Monitoring:

UIU has worked with public health to adopt new strategies to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please note that these guidelines are subject to change as more discussion occurs and stakeholder input is received.

UIU personnel, students, and visitors should maintain at least six feet of social distancing when interacting with others. In situations where social distancing is not possible, individuals are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings per CDC guidelines. Masks have been ordered and will be distributed when received.

UIU employees who are physically reporting to a UIU workplace are to self-check temperatures and record daily. Employees who have a temperature over 100.3 should contact their supervisor and not report to work.

Future Updates:

Over the next several weeks, various new policies, procedures and preparations will be communicated as we move toward a return to face-to-face learning. As we all know, the circumstances surrounding the pandemic evolve on a daily basis, creating uncertainty and disruption. In order for UIU to continue to effectively achieve our mission of inspiring success and empowering lives, a commitment to adapt to these changes will be critical. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding.

Thank you,

Bill

William R. Duffy II, Ed.D., Ed.S.
President
Upper Iowa University