Graduate Student COVID-19 Resources
We are writing in an effort to provide an abundance of communication to complement the primary information provided by the President’s office the University of Louisville COVID-19 site. University administration, staff, and faculty continue ongoing communications as we try to be agile, helpful, and make decisions about an ever-changing situation.
As you know, the President’s Office has shared that the University of Louisville will extend spring break until Tuesday, March 17. Beginning Wednesday, March 18, through Sunday, April 5, classes will move to a virtual format. The Provost’s Office and the Delphi Center for Teaching and Learning have provided some guidance in how to best transition to an online format. Moreover, the Executive Vice Provost for Research and Innovation has provided updates regarding the status of research at the University. Finally, the Dean of Students’ and Provosts’ Offices have sent out information regarding resources and communication for students.
While we know additional information regarding student services and other University functions will be ongoing, we wanted to share with you communication specific to graduate students.
Acting Vice Provost of Graduate Affairs and Dean of the Graduate School, Dr. Paul DeMarco, has shared this information with Directors of Graduate Studies regarding our response to COVID-19 and the impact on graduate students.
Other key information relevant to graduate students:
The Graduate School remains operational, although under working conditions. While we are following social distancing and preventative hygiene practices, including conducting most of our work remotely, we will continue to provide services to our graduate students.
Additionally,
- Graduate students currently retain access to the University campuses, including libraries, for now.
- Dissertation and thesis defenses may continue to be held, but should be restricted to the candidate and the committee (e.g., without an audience, for those disciplines that have such a practice). Candidacy and qualifying exams may continue as scheduled, with encouragement for doing as much as possible through remove access (resources available here).
- Deadlines for graduation will continue to be honored as published. At this point in time, the Academic Calendar remains unchanged. Please contact your graduate program or the graduate school in the case of extenuating hardship for guidance.
- At this time, the Graduate School Doctoral Hooding and University Commencement Ceremonies remain scheduled as planned. Any changes will be communicated in a timely manner.
- Opportunities for professional development will continue yet move to a virtual format. More information will be forthcoming.
We know that this may be a stressful time and would like to encourage you to practice self-care, and reach out for support as needed. The University Counseling Center is also operational. Please contact their office for specific resources and appointments.
Of course, we hope that you will practice the recommended suggestions from the CDC:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray
- or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the
- bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60%
- alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
Resources
Graduate School Emergency Fund
Student Affairs Emergency Fund
We wish you the best,
University of Louisville Graduate School