Update: COVID-19 follow-up

Sent to all students on March 16, 2020

Dear Students,

I am writing to follow up on my message from Friday, March 13, regarding the shift to remote and alternate instruction beginning March 23. We continue to respond to this ever-evolving situation, which is impacting how we live our lives in every way, in both our nation and abroad. Every institution of Higher Learning is now affected. It is raising questions for us as individuals and as institutions like never before.

Some of you have posed questions, including "how can my studio courses be delivered remotely?'.  This is certainly a fair and reasonable question.  It is also one that visual and performing arts programs across our region, the country and the globe are now addressing in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The response to this challenge requires a high level of creativity, innovation and passion -- all traits that your faculty at UArts possess.  The faculty in your programs are working diligently with their program heads and school deans this week to re-envision the curriculum and modes of delivery in ways that will support your successful completion of the Spring 2020 semester.

Once the programs and schools complete this work, you will receive instructions as to how each of your courses will be delivered in a remote and/or alternate mode of instruction.  I ask for your continued patience and support at this time, that you give your faculty the time needed to prepare for this shift and that you reserve your questions and concerns regarding your coursework until you receive your course information at the end of the week.  In the meantime, please use this time to practice social distancing and encourage you to do all you can to help keep yourself, your family and friends, and your community safe and healthy.

With open hearts and creative minds, we will get through these challenging days together.

With best wishes,

- David