Antonio D. Tillis, Ph.D.

Dear Faculty and Staff,

I hope you and your families are in good health and that your semester is off to a good start.

Last week, classes started in virtual modalities as our region experiences a spike of COVID-19 cases. To ensure the UHD Community's safety, all classes will remain 100 percent online until March 1. This includes face-to-face, hybrid, and online interactive courses.

I, along with the COVID-19 Response Task Force, UHD Department of Emergency Management, and others, will continue to monitor public health officials' data to make a determination on whether to begin resuming on-campus instruction after March 1.

Further communications on the status of classes are forthcoming, but as requested in previous messages, you are encouraged to notify your students that they should not report to campus for classes. Also, let them know that UHD and all student-facing offices are open. Campus safety protocols (face coverings, designated entrances, distancing, self-reporting) remain in place.

I recognize that this extension may affect some of your plans for the semester, but your health and safety are the top priorities as we continue to navigate the pandemic.

Your commitment to our students is without question, and I know everyone is working hard for them at this time. Thank you for your continued dedication to the success of our Gators. As you respond to their questions, remind them that resources are in place to ensure their success this semester, including the Keep on Teaching & Learning website. Most importantly, let them know you're available to provide guidance and support.

A New Year and a new semester have begun, but UHD and other higher education institutions continue to adapt to the challenges presented by COVID-19. As a community, however, we will continue to respond with caution, courage, and the commitment to ensure a safe and successful semester.

Thank you all for everything you're doing to support both UHD and its students.

Sincerely,

Antonio D. Tillis, Ph.D.
Interim President
University of Houston-Downtown