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CALS COVID-19 Staff Updates

March 16, 2020
Dear colleagues:

Together we are facing uncharted territory with rapidly evolving conditions and responses to COVID-19. As we head into a week that will bring unprecedented changes to how we do our work for Cornell and CALS, I want to acknowledge the stress and emotional impact that such disruptions may create.

While the steps the university and CALS are taking to respond to COVID-19 are to ensure the health, safety and well-being of our community, many of you are being impacted profoundly, both personally and in your professional roles. Cornell CALS is part of a global community with relationships that span the globe. This makes temporary protocols to create distance deeply unsettling.

On behalf of CALS leadership team, I want to express my appreciation for all that you are doing to support those around you at this critical time. I know that each new phase of campus and community response brings many questions.

In response, the university continues to update a robust COVID-19 website with answers to many questions and links to resources. These include:

  • Guidelines and considerations to help you begin to work remotely between now and Friday, March 20.
  • Steps Cornell announced on Friday, March 13 to adjust Health and Personal (HAP) leave policies to give staff additional support, especially with the temporary closure of schools in Tompkins County.
  • Guidance on pay practices that would apply to staff and faculty in the event of a change to campus operating status or if a colleague is quarantined or isolated due to illness.
  • And information to address the move to virtual instruction and how to support our students as they leave campus.

During this time, few things can feel normal. But you inspire me with your unshakable commitment to our CALS community. Should you have questions, please raise them with your supervisor or your HR representative.

Please take care of yourself and others. Your emotional and mental well-being are just as important as your physical health. Support services are available.

Thank you for all you are doing and will do in the days and weeks to come.

Sincerely,
KJB