News

Dear CUE Community,

I hope you are all continuing to keep safe and well, and that you are managing to enjoy time with those close to you, either in-person or virtually. I’ve been taking advantage of this nice weather, taking my dog Max (pictured here) out on some longer walks in the neighbourhood. Getting outside can be good for mental health, especially when the sun is shining.

Last week I announced that classes at CUE in fall 2020 will be predominantly delivered remotely, with a small selection of on-campus opportunities. Since then we have been busy making preparations and are in the process of identifying exactly which courses will be delivered face-to-face. These will likely be some of the very small senior lab classes, and small classes in other areas when the face-to-face experience is essential. I hope to have some news for you about this within the next couple of weeks. Meanwhile our faculty and sessional instructors are busy preparing for the reality of remote course delivery in the fall.

Although most CUE classes will be delivered virtually, we do want to work towards relaunching our dynamic on-campus experience, bearing in mind the necessary health regulations in force. Our offices and services will be open for online and in-person interaction, including but not limited to our Library, International Office, Student Services (including counselling and learning support), IT Services, Bookstore, Admissions and Registration, and our various other business and administrative offices. There will be a designated and safe on-campus study space for students who do not want to study at home (although if able, please do study at home). The various clubs and societies operating within the CSA and GSA may also run some small-scale events, and our athletics teams may practice together if they are able to do so safely.

This all requires careful management of our physical space. To that end I issued some broad guidance to our supervisors last week that asks them to consider how they will reopen their areas safely and consistent with Alberta health regulations. This will likely include scheduling work times and locations differently, considering the need for 2 meters of physical distancing, and enhanced sanitation techniques and frequency. This planning is best done collaboratively with the staff who work in the various areas. I have provided them with plan for the reopening of the President’s Office to use as an example.

Finally, CUE has launched a student relief fund to support students who are facing financial challenges. Please consider offering your financial support to help our students navigate this difficult period. Your contribution could make the difference between a student attending university and dropping out.

We will continue to work together throughout the summer to ensure a robust educational experience in the fall.

Stay safe, stay home, stay healthy.

Tim Loreman, PhD.
President and Vice Chancellor.