UAH Faculty, Staff, and Students,
After completing the first couple of weeks of remote delivery before Spring Break, I am proud to be able to share that our faculty, staff, and students have really risen to the challenge presented by this transition. Our faculty have proven extremely resourceful with regard to delivering content remotely, and our information technology group is working closely with our academic programs to ensure that issues are addressed as they arise.
I am convinced that our students’ academic progress will not be hindered as a result of an unprecedented situation.
We also continue to work through the transition to limited business operations for employees who can work remotely, and thereby, limit on-premises work to essential employees only. As a result, many of our employees are adjusting to the new telework situation as well as can be expected.
We have closed our on-campus housing to all but those students with a demonstrated need to remain. These students have access to limited dining services on-campus and other essential services. While many students returned home for the duration of the semester, some students returned to their off-campus residences in the area, and we continue to send the necessary communications regarding hygiene practices and social distancing.
As to be expected, we have received a number of questions from students and parents about whether UAH plans to issue refunds for unused housing and dining services. We are exploring options, including being actively engaged with the University of Alabama System staff, concerning how to proceed with this important issue. We hope to be able to share the details in the coming weeks.
As previously announced, we have postponed our spring graduation ceremonies. We are working on ways to ensure that our graduates are recognized in a meaningful way, even if it has to happen later in the year. We hope to share more details as we have them.
Times of adversity can often bring out the best in people. During the last three weeks, I have been gratified to see how our faculty, staff, and students have come together to keep our educational programs and research enterprise moving forward. Together, we will continue to work through an unprecedented situation. Your willingness to accept and meet the challenges inspires the entire UAH community.
And to all our parents, alumni, donors and friends of the University, our success is not possible without your support. We are eternally grateful.
Please, take care of yourselves and your loved ones.
All my best,
Darren Dawson
