October 26, 2020
Dear Pitt Faculty Members,
We are nearing the end of the fall term. Thank you for making it possible to reach this point at an exceptionally challenging time. I know you are inspiring and supporting the students you teach and mentor every step of the way.
Earlier today, the COVID-19 Medical Response Office shared suggested shelter-in-place guidance for students as they prepare to leave our campuses to celebrate Thanksgiving. November 12 is the date when it is suggested that undergraduate students begin sheltering in place to maximize safety for themselves, their families, and friends in advance of the Thanksgiving holiday. I wanted to reach out to make sure that there is a clear understanding about those guidelines in relation to classes and final exams.
Contrary to published reports, today’s guidance makes clear that students are permitted to continue to engage in academic activities in person during the shelter-in-place period. As a result in-person and remote classroom experiences—and all Flex@Pitt teaching and learning options—will continue on all campuses. Classes will proceed uninterrupted. The same is true for graduate classes. The shelter-in-place guidance does not limit in-class or lab experiences. Field and clinical work will also continue uninterrupted.
The University Library System will remain open and accessible during shelter-in-place also.
As well, final exams, whether they are scheduled to occur in-person or remotely, will take place as planned.
Please continue to reach out to your school and departmental leadership and take advantage of resources offered by the University Center for Teaching and Learning and Pitt IT as you continue to navigate the balance of the term—and do not hesitate to reach out to me with questions or concerns: provost@pitt.edu.
I deeply appreciate your tireless efforts as we work together to provide the best options and safest possible educational environment for every member of the Pitt community.
Hail to Pitt!
Ann
Ann E. Cudd
Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor