Updates for employees, students, researchers

March 27, 5:00 p.m. - Here are today's updates for the U of A community including new measures from the Government of Alberta, message from President Turpin, locker access, and questions & answers regarding CR/NC grading system.

27 March 2020

Posted March 27, 5:00 p.m.

Here are today's updates for the U of A community:

Government of Alberta further restrictions to stop spread of COVID-19

Effective immediately, people are prohibited from attending gatherings of more than 15, and must observe two metres of physical distancing.  This includes in open spaces or at public or private gatherings.

Learn more by visiting the Government of Alberta Website.

From the President's Desk: Two Weeks into COVID-19 Response

A message from President Turpin on the university’s response to COVID-19 since classes were suspended two weeks ago. 

Read the message here

What Would a Move to Essential Services Mean for the U of A?

Andrew Sharman, Executive Lead of the U of A’s Public Health Response Team, outlines what this measure might look like should the province enact it.

Dean of Students Office services still available remotely

Although classes are now remote, the Office of the Dean of Students (DOS) services and supports are open and available. Please visit DOS service websites for the most current information on accessing our services, as some are now being provided remotely—including Counselling & Clinical Services.

Requests for locker access

If you have belongings in a locker on campus and would like to collect them, please fill out your details in this form. Please note that submitting this form does not grant building access and someone will be in touch with you. 

Registrar and Dean of Students answer questions about the CR/NCR grading system

U of A Registrar Melissa Padfield and Dean of Students Andre Costopoulos answer questions about the CR/NCR grading from Student Union President Akanksha Bhatnagar.

Update from the Public Health Response Team regarding cases of COVID-19 in our community

Many of us are now working and studying remotely, greatly decreasing our risk of coming into contact with COVID-19 on our campuses. The Public Health Response Team remains in close contact with Alberta Health Services, and they are continuing to advise us about preventative steps to keep us safe.

It is expected that more Albertans will contract COVID-19 in the coming days and weeks—and some of them will no doubt be members of our community. AHS will continue to be in direct contact with any individuals who may be impacted. Out of respect for affected individuals, as well as adhering to privacy laws, we will not widely report every case that involves a member of our university community. Following the lead of AHS, we will provide support and guidance to the relevant individuals as and when these increasing events occur.

Partnership with AHS and Butterdome as Assessment Centre

Added: March 27, 6:00 p.m.

On March 24, Alberta Health Services temporarily took over the care and management of the Universiade Pavillion (Butterdome) to create a secondary assessment and treatment centre facility. The University of Alberta is proud to be able to contribute to our province’s growing response to fight the spread of COVID-19.  AHS safety protocols are in place to ensure the health and welfare of the U of A community. Medical assessment and treatment at this facility will be available only by appointment as referred by Health Link and booked by Public Health. Drop-in visits will not be permitted.

Updated: March 27, 9:00 p.m.

Folio: U of A Butterdome to house AHS assessment and treatment centre