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Before We Break for the Holidays

Re: Before We Break for the Holidays
To: All students
November 17, 2020
 
Dear Students,
 
As we quickly approach the end of the semester and all that comes with this time of year, we want to reach out with encouragement, support and updates.
 
We continue to hear amazing stories of your efforts during this pandemic. From adjusting to online learning, to managing multiple commitments, to reaching out to members of your community, you are demonstrating the Bobcat spirit. Your resiliency, tenacity and compassion shine through. We have been able to recognize some of our Big Cat Heroes for their contributions – thank you! It will be that spirit that guides us all through the next few weeks.
 
UC Merced continues to update resources to support you, no matter where you are or how you are accessing campus resources. Our Success Anywhere site will keep you updated on campus information, provide you quick access to academic support and involvement opportunities, and guide you to resources for your overall wellbeing and basic needs assistance. During the weeks ahead, these thoughtfully designed services can provide that additional support to assist you as you accomplish your goals.
 
The ongoing need to Do Your Part as we mitigate the spread of COVID 19 remains a part of our routine. Many of you have taken the Bobcat Pledge. Thank you!
 
Recently, Merced County returned to the most restrictive operational tier as cases start to surge. Similar restrictions have been reinstituted in counties across the state. As we move into cooler weather and holiday season, it will be important to practice public health guidelines to minimize the impact of the virus.
 
As a reminder: If you visit family and friends for Thanksgiving, please employ best practices such as minimizing the size of the engagement, engage outdoors, physically distance, wash hands frequently and utilize a face covering. When we return from Thanksgiving break, all courses will be offered remotely. All residential students who traveled will be required to take two additional COVID-19 tests when they return to campus.
 
We understand that 2020 has been a difficult year and that gathering with family and friends would be a supportive way to have some sense of normalcy. However, we are still in the middle of a pandemic and infections are growing rapidly throughout California. Please remember that we are all in this together, and as you make choices, do so with a commitment to the greater good of our communities.
 
Thank you,
 
Charles Nies, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
 
Jonathan Grady, Ph.D.
Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students