Resources for Learning and Life

A message from Provost Barbara A. Bichelmeyer and Vice Provost for Student Affairs Tammara Durham

Dear Jayhawks,

The last two weeks have challenged our university community. As stated in Tuesday’s message to campus, the University of Kansas is not closed. Work and research are still taking place. Services are being provided. And, most important, you and your classmates are still earning credit toward completion of your programs. Please know we are making decisions with you in mind. As we transition to online learning, we want you to know that faculty and staff members are here to support you.

By now, instructors should have shared their plans for remote delivery of your courses. Faculty members will also work directly with each of you regarding concerns you may have.

The transition away from the physical spaces of campus raises new questions for many of you. The services you knew how to access are still available, although the method of delivery may be different.

Key Resources

• Academic: If you need assistance transitioning to an online learning environment, wireless networking, access to technology or academic support resources visit Online Learning website. If reliable Internet access is a concern, multiple providers are offering no-cost, low-cost or waived fees for service.
• Advising: Advising activities will take place remotely. Undergraduates should begin with Jayhawk GPS. Graduate students should reach out to their department.
• KU Libraries: Even though county order has temporarily closed the physical spaces of KU Libraries to the public, many services and collections are still available remotely or online.
• Wellbeing: If you are struggling emotionally you can connect remotely with Counseling and Psychological Services. Those who need support or who want to initiate support with a provider in their home community can contact CAPS at 785-864-2277. And of course students still in the Lawrence region will find that Watkins Health Services is open for in-person care of immediate needs. Go to the main entrance where you will be screened and checked in. If you have a respiratory illness, you will be evaluated at the main entrance. Additionally, the pharmacy remains open.
• Food, Finances and Shelter: If you are concerned about housing, food or financial issues, Gov. Laura Kelly enacted an executive order this week that temporarily prohibits evictions and foreclosures – a measure advocated by your Student Senate leadership.  Student Money Management Services is available remotely to help figure out next steps if your income has been impacted. Our Campus Cupboard partner Just Food has developed new distribution methods to serve the Lawrence community and our Lawrence-based students while maintaining social distancing practices.
• General Support: If you encounter difficulty, whether it is related to health, technology needs, or other life circumstances, submit a care referral to Student Support and Case Management for individualized support and connection to campus and community resources.

Please get into a habit of checking your email regularly. The information you need to succeed is more than we can fit into a text, tweet or snap. The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing us to adapt in real time. We can expect there may be new challenges we will need to address. The world has changed. Our mission to provide a quality education has not. Learning must continue.

It’s during times of crisis that we often see the best of human nature. Our response to COVID-19 can be both cathartic and restorative. Remember, staff and faculty are committed to your success during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Barb and Tammara

Barbara A. Bichelmeyer
Provost & Executive Vice Chancellor

Tammara Durham
Vice Provost for Student Affairs