January Campus Update: December 20, 2021

To the Campus Community,

As cases of COVID-19 surge across the province, it is critical that we act together as a community to help keep each other healthy and safe, especially in light of the newest and highly contagious Omicron variant. With the holidays quickly approaching it is important that you know we at CBU are monitoring the situation and continue to make science-backed decisions with guidance from Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Robert Strang. These decisions are always made with the health, safety and well-being of our community in mind.

The CBU Campus will reopen as scheduled on Tuesday, January 4, 2022. However, considering what we know about the situation right now, we have made the following decisions ahead of the return to campus in January and will operate at a modified level 4 of the Return to Campus Plan. This means:

  • The first day of classes will be delayed by one week and will now begin on January 17 instead of January 10. The only exception to this delay may be in the Bachelor of Science, Nursing program. The Dean and faculty members will reach out to Nursing students directly with more information.
  • Employees will still return to work on January 4 and all student support services will be offered in person. As was the case in Fall, many services will be offered virtually as well.
  • A note on masks: In keeping with updated public health regulations, please note that masks must be worn at all times unless eating or drinking while seated. This means masks are required in classrooms, meetings, office discussions, study groups, in the library and all other public areas.

 

This slow and controlled approach will allow us to decrease the population density on campus as we return from the break, while also allowing us to maintain important business operations and provide an exceptional student experience. More information regarding registration deadlines and any additional changes will follow in the new year.

During this holiday season, please remember:

  • Informal gatherings are limited to 20 people, and should be consistent.
  • Vaccinations are the key to returning to normalcy. Please ensure you are fully vaccinated and book your booster as they become available to more age groups.
  • Stay home if you are sick or feeling unwell. With many vulnerable populations, it is simply not worth the risk to potentially spread any illness, including colds and flus.
  • Remember the importance of wearing masks and washing your hands frequently.

As always, we are prepared to pivot should we need to at any time. Please continue to protect each other and be kind. I wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Sincerely,

 

Dr. Tanya Brann-Barrett

Chair of the Return to Campus Committee

Associate Vice-President, Academic & Research