Since the Dec. 17 @Rochester update, there have been 60 new cases of COVID-19: 38 River Campus students, 15 River Campus employees, 1 Eastman Campus student, and 6 Medical Campus students. Please note that the University’s COVID-19 Dashboard is updated when a new case is reported. Find the latest COVID-19 messages and updates here.
A reminder on face masks: they must be worn properly, covering the nose and mouth, indoors on the University’s campuses and properties. Visit the face mask FAQ page for full information. Face masks with air valves are not permitted, nor are face shields alone without a proper face mask underneath.
Spring 2022 updates
In a message to all students, faculty, and staff on December 23, President Sarah Mangelsdorf and Provost Sarah Peyre shared preliminary plans and new requirements for the spring 2022 semester. Further updates will be shared as more information is available.
Lauren Di Monte named interim vice provost and dean of the University of Rochester Libraries
Lauren Di Monte, associate dean of learning, research, and digital strategies at the River Campus Libraries has been named interim vice provost and dean of University of Rochester Libraries [link]. She will serve in the interim capacity from January 8–February 13, after which Kevin Garewal will begin his tenure. Garewal succeeds Mary Ann Mavrinac, who has served in this leadership role since 2012. Mavrinac is retiring and will officially step down this month.
Security Tip: The worst passwords of 2021
Passwords are the primary vulnerabilities to cause data breaches within companies because employees continue to use easy-to-guess credentials. Hackers pay attention to highly used pop culture or sports terms, knowing users will often resort to those easy-to-remember words. Even if your password did not make the list of Top 200 Most Common Passwords of the year 2021, think about better practices for your New Year’s Resolution. Never re-use your passwords and visit University IT’s Password page for tips on creating strong credentials and keeping your data safe.
Undergraduate finds room to explore business, computer science, and an American music icon
Effective January 1, the standard mileage rate is 58.5 cents per mile. The change has been updated in the Business Expense and Travel Reimbursements policy and mileage form. The mileage rate increased because of changes in fuel prices, fuel economy, and insurance costs.
Spring 2022 online learning workshops
A series of one-hour “how-to” workshops can help get you started with some basic online learning activities. The series covers everything from giving live or recorded lectures, using various discussion board tools, giving an online test, and providing a platform for asynchronous student presentations. Find the list of workshops and registration links here. Open to all University faculty and staff.
Enjoy the next selection from the University’s virtual book club: Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. Set in Constantinople in the 15th century, in a small town in present-day Idaho, and on an interstellar ship decades from now, the New York Times bestseller and finalist for the 2021 National Book Award has been called a triumph of imagination and compassion. Discover an uplifting and redemptive story about what ultimately connects us with each other, with those who lived before us, and with those who will be here after we’re gone. The reading period will begin on Thursday, January 6, but join in at any time.
Toastmasters guest day
Get a jump start on your New Year’s resolutions by attending the University’s Daybreakers Toastmasters Club guest day on Thursday, January 6, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. EST via Zoom. Toastmasters is not just about public speaking, it is also about gaining confidence speaking in any situation, improving your leadership skills, having fun, and growing in a supportive environment.
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