Dear Colleagues,
As we approach the end of another successful semester, I continue to be encouraged by the relatively low number of positive cases that have been reported among faculty, staff, and students. I feel these results are directly related to our joint efforts with the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), the on-campus protocols that we have put in place, and the continuing efforts of everyone on campus adhering to social distancing guidelines and wearing face coverings. I applaud your diligence and perseverance in these difficult times.
On Monday, January 11, 2021, we will begin our Spring semester in much the same manner as the current one including the following:
- We will continue with the gate screening procedures, including the use of the Healthcheck app.
- Sentinel testing will resume after the holiday break.
- As opposed to re-entry testing, we will do enhanced sentinel testing at the beginning of the Spring semester based on advice from UAB.
Recent news concerning the effectiveness and safety of new vaccines is encouraging. We are hopeful that distribution will begin soon and that everyone takes advantage of a vaccine. Then we can finally put COVID-19 behind us and move forward with an optimal mix of online and in-person education.
In closing, keep up the good work, and I wish you all a safe and happy Spring semester.
Sincerely,
Philip Way
