Mavericks,
The Thanksgiving holiday is a time for us to reflect on what is important to us: Our loved ones, our friends, and, as we continue to navigate this pandemic, our health.
Many of us no doubt have plans for the break that could involve travel; gatherings; holiday shopping; entertainment events; and other scenarios where we will be around people we don’t often see and may not have seen in a long time.
As we spend this important time resting and recharging, I also want us to stay vigilant in keeping up the important work we’ve all done to stay healthy and well so that our loves ones remain safe.
Here are just a few reminders as you make your holiday plans:
• One of the most effective ways to limit the spread of viruses like COVID-19 and the flu is to avoid these three Cs: crowded places, close contact, and confined spaces.
• If you are unable to avoid the Three Cs, be sure to wear a mask, even if you are vaccinated. You can also increase your changes of avoiding illness by regularly washing your hands or using hand sanitizer any time you touch a common surface.
• Vaccines for both COVID-19 and the flu are readily available across the country and are covered under most insurance plans, including our employee insurance and student insurance. Visit our website for COVID-19 and flu vaccine resources and reminders.
• If you test positive for COVID-19 or show symptoms in the days leading up to your return to campus, please fill out this form as soon as possible to report a positive case to the Office of Health Security team. Our campus COVID testing center will be closed next Wednesday through Friday for the holiday and reopen on Monday, Nov. 29, with updated hours: Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3 P.M. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 A.M. – Noon.
• If you plan on traveling for the holiday, please review these important travel reminders, including guidance for domestic and international travel.
• Food insecurity can touch the lives of anyone at any time and Thanksgiving is a time of year where that need is greatly felt. If you need help finding food during the break – or at any time of year – please make use of our Maverick Food Pantry, which is available to use for all students, faculty, and staff in need.
• Finally, this time of year means shorter days and colder temperatures. Not only do we need to keep safe from illness, but also from other physical and mental risk. Our campus experts have compiled a collection of safety and mental wellness tips for you to use as a resource.
I hope everyone enjoys a wonderful upcoming holiday break, spending time with those who matter most to you and enjoying time to rest and reflect on the hard work and accomplishments you have all achieved this semester and throughout this year.
Happy Thanksgiving, Mavericks!
Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA
Chancellor
