As Spring Break week continues, I'd like to thank everyone in the College of Engineering for the quick action, collaboration, flexibility and focus on the health and safety of our entire community - students, faculty and staff. The many stories I have already heard of the community coming together are reassuring that we will be stronger and better together in the face of this unprecedented challenge.
The Schools are working on many issues and we are grateful for all the good work that is going on. Much work is happening, and happening fast. We've seen staff members working long hours to assist students with specific needs, faculty rapidly developing online lesson plans and finding ways to deploy their expertise in this crisis, and caring alumni who've stepped forward to volunteer their help.
It is understandable that many are feeling anxious. We may not have all the answers now, but we will get them. Your first point of contact is the Georgia Tech COVID-19 resource page.
Some reminders in addition to all the other emails you have been receiving:
-
GT is trying to minimize the number of people coming to campus. Many of you are already working remotely. For those that are on campus but can work remotely, working from home protects you and the entire GT community.
-
Late yesterday USG informed all universities that we will be moving to online instruction for the remainder of the semester. Course instructors should already be prepared. If you are not, you need to use the continuity resources available and contact your School Chair to let them know you need assistance.
-
Many research groups have gone to remote/online operations - thank you. If you have not already moved research group to entirely online, please begin to think about the possibility that a ramp down of all on-campus research activities research may be needed. Many other institutions have already done so. You can stay updated on the Institute's Research Continuity Plan.
-
Finally, as before, for anyone feeling ill, stay home. For those believing they have symptoms of the COVID-19 please follow the CDC guidelines.
-
The OneUSG Connect transition is moving ahead as planned. The transition involves changes to many of our policies, processes, and roles for all GT employees. OneUSG Connect training is available.
I have already seen how resilient and determined members of the College community are. There is hard work ahead of us. I am confident we will come through this together as an even better community. Thank you for all you are doing during this difficult time, and don't ever hesitate to reach out to me directly.
All the best
Steve
********
Steve McLaughlin
Dean and Southern Company Chair
College of Engineering
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA 30332
********