Flexibility During Weather-Related Events

Dear U.S. Faculty Members,

The recent severe storms, including snow, ice and cold temperatures in many parts of the country have caused power outages, water scarcity and other dangerous conditions many of which could continue for some time. This situation may adversely affect a significant population of our students who are studying remotely in those respective areas.

We have posted the following message on Canvas, encouraging impacted students to communicate with their faculty and advisors to seek flexibility as needed.

We care about all of our affected students and their family members and are aware that many of you could be experiencing sustained power, internet outages and other severe conditions due to weather emergencies. Accordingly, we have reached out to faculty members with a request to remain flexible with assignments. If you have missed coursework, please do not hesitate to connect with faculty and advisors to create a plan for resuming your studies once you are able to do so safely.

Please remain as flexible as possible with regard to assignment deadlines and attendance requirements for students in this situation and as they continue their academic journeys through an already tense pandemic.

Sincerely,

Jim Garrett
Provost and Chief Academic Officer