March 13, 2020
Dear DePaul faculty and staff,
With the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), we find ourselves in a fast-moving situation that requires focus, flexibility and compassion. Our DePaul community has exhibited all these things and more in response to this global pandemic, and for that I thank you.
The City of Chicago has issued new guidance promoting social distance practices to residents and businesses to prevent further spread of COVID-19. Among these new precautionary measures, organizations are being encouraged to take advantage of teleworking capabilities. Toward that end, whenever possible, university departments and divisions will operate remotely beginning Monday, March 16, 2020. Further information will be shared in the coming week regarding the duration of the teleworking period.
For guidance on handling telework effectively, click here.
In order to support our students and successfully conclude the winter quarter, some functions will continue to operate from campus locations. You should expect a follow-up communication from your division leader on which student-facing, public-facing and campus-essential functions will be conducted on campus and which will be completed remotely. We will continue to encourage employees working on campus to take proper precautions to safeguard their health. This includes staying home when sick or with a fever and observing robust mitigation approaches, such as hand washing, cleaning, and using hand sanitizer.
In the next few weeks, disruption will be the norm. I ask for your continued patience and resourcefulness as we take further steps to guard the health and safety of our community and continue our students' progress toward degree completion.
Sincerely,
A. Gabriel Esteban, Ph.D.
President