Chancellor Sandeen recaps COVID-19 developments (April 5–10)
by Cathy Sandeen |
Dear UAA Community,
As the third week of alternate course delivery comes to a close, I want to thank you for your continued flexibility. As a university community, we’ve adapted well to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Your cooperation has been critical to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.
Yesterday, Gov. Dunleavy announced he is extending existing mandates for intrastate travel and social distancing until April 21. He also announced K-12 schools will remain closed through the end of the school year but will continue to educate students through distance learning. We know this means many of you are pulling double duty as you work and learn at home while facilitating learning for your children. Hang in there! We’re in the home stretch of the spring semester.
There are two communications the statewide office sent to employees this week that you should be aware of. The first is President Johnsen’s communication on Tuesday regarding temporary furloughs related to COVID-19 and the shortened notice period of 30 days for these due to an emergency regulation change. Our UAA leadership team is working with supervisors to identify employees who will receive a notice because our limited campus operations have reduced available work. I will be in touch next week with more information about temporary COVID-19 furloughs.
The second is Chief Human Resource Officer Steve Patin’s guidance regarding the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and how it affects time tracking. Depending on your situation, you may need to input several leave codes into your timesheet for this pay period. Please consult HR’s recent guidance, review the employee FAQs on the statewide coronavirus website and talk with your supervisor before submitting.
If you have a few moments this weekend, please read my recent op-ed, UAA: Here when you need us. Be encouraged and proud of all the ways UAA is contributing to the municipality and state’s COVID-19 response.
Stay safe and healthy!
Sincerely,
Cathy Sandeen
UAA Chancellor
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