Dear members of the UBC community.
As the fall term begins, students, staff and faculty are preparing hard for the start of term, and we greatly appreciate all of your efforts.
I would like to assure all students and their families that robust safety measures are in place to ensure a smooth and safe move in process.
Whether you’re in residence or living off campus, I know that you are eager to reconnect with old friends and to meet new classmates. But this is not the time to relax our vigilance. COVID-19 is still very much with us.
We must follow the provincial guidelines as well as UBC’s own COVID-19 rules. These guidelines include frequent hand washing and using hand sanitizer when you can’t wash your hands.
You must wear a mask in shared indoor spaces within UBC buildings, such as hallways, stairways, building entryways, washrooms and study spaces, classrooms, common areas in residences and other high-traffic areas.
It’s also important to stay home if you’re sick. And, most importantly, get vaccinated if you haven’t already done so.
It’s easy to get vaccinated. There are clinics available on both campuses, and at many other locations across the province. You’ll find everything you need to know at immunizebc.ca. Remember, you must be vaccinated to live in residence. Vaccination also allows you to participate in activities such as going to see a movie, going to a party, a nightclub or restaurant, or attending an indoor sporting event. The BC vaccination passport will make it easy to access these activities.
In closing, I would like to thank our faculty members who have been working so hard to prepare for the coming semester. I know that you place the best interests of our students at the centre of your decisions about teaching, and I trust you to do the right thing, for your students, for yourselves, and for the university.
I know that many of you have felt frustrated and uncertain about the start of the semester. I understand your frustration and I look forward to working with you to ensure a safe and productive learning environment. Rest assured, I will continue to listen and advocate for you in the days ahead. Thank you for all that you have done, and will continue to do.
All the best, UBC.
Santa J. Ono
President and Vice-Chancellor