Campus Update - Planning for the Future
April 16, 2020
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Dear UAlbany Community:
Now that we are getting into a rhythm with our new systems of remote teaching, learning and working, this is an important time to provide an update about how the University is planning for the future.
As you know, we are dealing with a fundamental uncertainty about the impacts of COVID-19 in the coming months. While we do not yet know the trajectory of the pandemic, clearly it will not be “business as usual” anytime soon. However, we must continue planning for the next few months and for our long-term future.
For every aspect of our operations, our planning will be based on a firm commitment to continuity and the most realistic projections possible. For example, given what we know today, we determined that our Summer Sessions will be fully remote and our new student summer orientation will be conducted virtually. However, as we look toward fall 2020, we do not yet know what conditions will prevail in terms of COVID-19. Therefore, we are preparing for multiple scenarios, including:
- All academic programs and University services will be back on our campuses and in-person (excluding programs that were previously online);
- All academic programs and University services will continue to be offered remotely, but with a transition to more traditional online programs; or
- Based on continuing physical distancing parameters, we develop a hybrid model where some academic programs and University services will be in-person while others will be offered remotely.
The same multi-scenario approach to academic continuity will apply to financial planning, research, residential life, facilities, student services, events, and many other programs and initiatives. To accomplish this, we will convene several working groups that will develop different scenarios—and engage the University community to participate in the planning process.
As you know, our hard work is not over, and we will have to remain nimble. However, I am confident that we will be able to navigate these uncertain waters. Why? Because I know that our community is resilient, strongly committed, and working incredibly hard to ensure UAlbany’s success.
I truly believe that we will come out of this stronger than before. One critical way to make sure we achieve this is by documenting the lessons learned from this experience—some of which will help us be even more successful in the future. So, let us build on what we learn throughout this crisis to ensure that our planning is informed by these unprecedented circumstances.
Again, muchísimas gracias—thank you for everything you are doing and will continue to do to support each other. And, as always, please stay safe, stay healthy, and stay connected.
Sincerely,
Havidán Rodríguez
President
