UBC strongly recommends the use of medical masks as a face covering when possible
Starting this week, UBC will be providing a supply of medical grade masks to all students, faculty, and staff. Facilities staff can request medical masks through their Stores warehouse. UBC representatives will also be in University Commons (outside the UBC Bookstore) handing out packages of medical grade masks. You can recognize these representatives by their colourful vests.
The mask or face covering page on the SRS website has been updated with new information to reflect UBC's latest recommendation.
Learn more on the Safety & Risk Services website
Rapid Antigen Test Kits available for symptomatic students, faculty and staff
In an effort to support the continuity of on-campus learning, instruction and research, Rapid Antigen Test kits are available for UBC students, faculty, and staff who display symptoms of COVID-19 and attend in-person with the presentation of a UBC identification card beginning this week.
On the UBC Vancouver Campus, the Rapid Antigen Test kits will be distributed at University Commons outside the UBC Bookstore.
Visit the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing Kits page on the SRS website for updated information.
Preparing for the UBC Triathlon/Duathlon
UBC’s first outdoor triathlon of the year in BC is kicking off on Saturday, March 5, 2022 from 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. We are expecting 850 participants, 120 event staff, and 200 spectators!
Road closures:
- East Mall closure: Both directions – University Blvd to 16th Ave
- 16th Ave closure: Westbound – Wesbrook Mall to SW Marine Drive.
- SW Marine Drive:
- Closure Northbound 16th Ave to Stadium Road.
- Traffic pattern change on16th Ave to Kullahun Dr)
- Access to hospice: Unobstructed via Stadium Road access from West Mall
- Access to Botanical Gardens: Unobstructed via southbound NW/SW Marine or Stadium Road
- UNA/permit designated parking: Vehicles parked in these areas will not be impounded. Vehicles may be moved across the street to northbound lane of East Mall
- Emergency vehicle: Access will be maintained at all times in University Campus core
Event details:
- Set up date/time: Thursday, March 3 at 10:00 a.m.
- Takedown: Until Saturday, March 5 at 7:00 p.m.
- University Commons (Outside the AMS Nest): Used for Event Operations Hub/Registration, Check-in and Registration, Transition Zone (participant bicycle park), Start of run and cycle routes, Finish Line
- Light refreshments and snacks for participants
- PA system will be used
- Alcohol may be served at licensed venue
All events will have a safety perimeter. Once all event details are finalized, details will be shared via normal outdoor event communications. For more details, please visit UBC Recreation.
Preparing for UBC Storm the Wall
UBC Storm the Wall will take place from Saturday, March 19, 2022 (7 am) to Wednesday, March 23, 2022 (7 pm):
- Set up: From March 7 to March 11 (7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
- Takedown: Immediately after the event
- Clinics: March 14–18 (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
- Races: March 20–23 (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
For more information, please visit UBC Recreation
Join the UBC Facilities Sun Run Team
Kick off 2022 with a healthy and fun start by joining the UBC Facilities Sun Run Team and taking part in the 37th Annual Vancouver Sun Run on April 24, 2022.
Whether you walk, jog, or run, you are sure to feel amazing when you cross the finish line and celebrate your achievement as part of the Facilities Sun Run Team — and you get a team t-shirt!
Registration Deadlines & Fees:
Early Bird Pricing until February 18:
- In-Person: $25.00
- Virtual Experience: $15.00
- Hybrid: $35.00
To register, please complete the attached registration form and email it to Linda Roseborough at linda.roseborough@ubc.ca
Job Openings
All positions at UBC are available on the UBC HR Careers website, or through the career application in your Workday account. Please note that applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on the day prior to the posting end date. The following VPFO positions are currently open:
- Subhead Trades 2 – Plumber (JR6101) – closes Feb 11
- Trades 2 – Plumber (JR6094) – closes Feb 11
- Project Manager II (JR5779) – closing Feb 15
Please remember to apply as an internal candidate. This ISC Knowledge Base article shows how: How do I apply for an internal job posting?.
In case you've missed it
Here is a quick recap of key events and information that you may have missed. For more details, please click on the links below or refer to our weekly portfolio newsletter, VPFO Update.
If you do not currently receive the VPFO Update in your inbox, please contact Samantha Tsui, Communications Coordinator.
EDI: February is Black History Month
What is Black History Month
Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities.
The 2022 theme for Black History Month is: “February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day,” which focuses on recognizing the daily contributions that Black Canadians make to Canada.
Celebrating Black History Month at UBC
From events, online webinars to features written by and about our UBC Black scholars, learn about the ways you can celebrate BHM.
Sarah Nurse in Winter Olympics
There’s a palpable excitement across the nation as Canadians watch the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games. We are also excited to see more diversity on the Canadian Olympic team this year.
For Sarah Nurse, growing up she had no role models to look up to while pursuing her hockey dreams. She’s looking to change that by being a role model for the next generation of female hockey players.
Read more
Workplace Strategies for Mental Health: Pronouns
They/ Them, She/Her, He/Him, Ze/ Zir, etc.
It's not unusual to hear folks assuming which pronouns (they/ them, she/ her, he/ him, ze/ zir) are referred or appropriate for others but making incorrect assumptions can be awkward for everyone. Whenever you're connecting with someone and you're unsure of their gender identity, being inclusive in your language is prudent. It's also respectful and allows everyone involved to feel like they're welcome in the conversation.
Here are some steps that can help support the use of gender-neutral and more inclusive pronouns:
- If you aren't certain of the pronouns someone prefers, just ask, "Which pronouns do your prefer?"
- If you don't want to ask which pronouns someone prefers, or you're sending written communication, you can use gender-neutral pronouns instead, including the person's name or role.
- When asking for a round of introductions, invite participants to also share their preferred pronouns.
- Share your pronouns on communications to signal you're open to others sharing theirs.
- Instead of using gendered greetings such as "ladies and gentlemen", try non-gendered greetings such as "folks, participants, friends, and everyone."
We're constantly using new lingo and phrases, so take up the challenge to incorporate more non-gendered language into your dialogue. It may take practice, but you can bet you'll make someone feel more included with this simple act.
Managing your mental health
Human Resources has collected mental health resources to help you manage your ups and downs. To view more workshops, webinars and events visit the HR event listing.
Our HR representatives are always available for a confidential conversation:
- Monica Haab (monica.haab@ubc.ca): Customer Services, Energy & Water Services, Customer Services & Informatics, Municipal Services, and Trades
- Alena Martin (almarti@mail.ubc.ca): Custodial Services and Infrastructure Development.
Understanding the Employee and Family Assistance Program
The UBC Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) is a voluntary and confidential counselling support service that provides employees at all levels and their family members (dependents) with the help needed to resolve a wide range of personal, work, health, or life issues. This expert information and immediate support resources are available in-person and by phone, video, web or mobile app 24/7, 365 days per year.
Login to the new LifeWorks Wellbeing Platform and explore their resources and content.
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