Dear Colleagues,
As you may have seen, over the weekend, the Governor of New York issued a State of Emergency so he could deploy more resources to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This declaration of emergency does not require that we modify any of our current protocols to maintain campus operations. However, it is important for each of us to be prepared and do our part. The Human Resources Department is taking proactive steps to support you. To that purpose, I thought it would be helpful to remind you about the following Pace University policies and resources.
University Sick Leave Policy
It is absolutely critical that employees do not report to work while they are experiencing a fever (100.4° F or 37.8° C) or respiratory symptoms, such as cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, or fatigue. In ordinary times, it is not unusual for employees (with the best of intentions), to report to work even though they feel ill. To do so now would be contrary to Department of Health guidance. Pace provides sick time to compensate employees who are unable to work due to illness. Questions regarding sick time should be directed to
Human Resources
. Employees who report to work ill, can be sent home in accordance with health guidelines. If you are concerned you may have been exposed to COVID-19 contact your supervisor and
University Health Care
via the
Patient Portal
.
Reporting to Work
While we understand that employees are concerned, the University is monitoring the situation with the New York State and local departments of health and we expect that employees will make every reasonable attempt to report to work daily. If you feel that reporting to work puts your health in jeopardy, or that of someone you live with who is in the
high risk category
, please speak to your supervisor to discuss your extenuating circumstances. Alternative accommodations may be approved such as working from a different campus, remotely or staggering your work schedule.
Potential Campus Closure
Please ensure that should the University close any campus location, you are prepared to
work remotely
and implement your department’s business continuity plan (BCP). You should confirm your ability to work remotely and implement your BCP with your direct supervisor immediately and not wait until a campus closure occurs.
Continuation of Pay
The University is taking every measure to ensure that employees continue to be paid, whether or not the campus facilities are open. To ensure that you receive payment, electronic payment via direct deposit is the best option. If you have not already
enrolled in direct deposit
via the Pace Portal, please do so immediately. It’s quick and easy and you’ll get paid more quickly than you would via paper check.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
The Cigna
Employee Assistance Program
(EAP)
provides confidential, cost-free professional consultation and referral services for University staff and faculty to assist employees and their family members with the challenges of daily living. Spouses/partners and immediate family members (living in your household) are also eligible for EAP services. We encourage you to take advantage of this service.
Telemedicine
For employees enrolled in one of the University’s Cigna health plans, consider enrolling in one of the
two telemedicine options
available by the plan. You must enroll in the plan to use it, so now is a great time to do so. Telemedicine gives you 24/7 access to health care providers from your phone, tablet, or computer without having to leave your home.
While University officials continue to monitor the situation, it is important that we all remain calm, flexible, and work together as one strong Pace. If you have any questions, please contact
University Health Care
or
Human Resources
.
Thank you all for your patience and cooperation, and as always, remember to check
www.pace.edu/coronavirus
for additional information and regular updates from the University.
Sincerely,
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Matt Renna
Vice President, Human Resources
Pace University
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