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Pitt moves to guarded posture May 20


Dear Pitt Public Health colleagues,

Earlier today, the University announced the plan to move to the “Guarded” operational risk posture on Thursday 5/20. The purpose of this message is to elaborate on what that means for Pitt Public Health. 

 Is everything back to normal?

No. The university is still operating within the Guarded/Elevated/High system, and has not gone back to “normal” operations. While in-person instruction will begin, most other activities will remain remote. Each of us needs to continue to do our part to safeguard the health of our community. Social/physical distancing, mask wearing and hand washing remain essential to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect yourself and others from the virus.  

What happens with classes?

Classes that are designated as “web based” will remain fully remote. Other classes may begin in-person meetings on or soon after 5/20 as described in syllabi and class schedules. Instructors should communicate with students over the next few days to clarify plans for each course. If you have any question about the status or plans for a specific class, please contact the instructor. In keeping with the Flex@Pitt model, all classes will continue to have the option of remote attendance. 

What about other academic activities?

Activities such as thesis defenses, committee meetings and advising meetings may be done in person, but must include the option of remote attendance. Internship and practicum experiences must still be approved in order to be done in person. The form for requesting approval is available on the Pitt Public Health Forms page.

Does this change anything for research?

No. Lab research will continue in the building as before, clinical research will continue in appropriate facilities, and other research should continue to be performed remotely as per university guidelines for the Guarded posture.

How will building access work?

Faculty, staff, and students may be in the building as needed to engage in or support the in-person teaching and lab research. Other activities should continue to be remote. Facutly and staff who are not on the ATO list (basically anyone who is not lab staff) need to request access ideally 24 hours before entering the building. The 5th avenue entrance is open from 7 am to 10 pm. Tap your ID, have your temperature scanned, and proceed through the double doors into the ground floor corridor. (The stairs to the commons are only to be used as an exit from the G23 auditorium). Individuals with swipe/tap access may use other building entrances as well. 

 

Eleanor Feingold, Executive Associate Dean

feingold@pitt.edu


Jessie Burke, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
jgburke@pitt.edu

Renae Brinza, Associate Dean for Administration and Finance
brinza@pitt.edu

 

 



5/18/2021
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