Message from the President | Return to campus updates for leaders

This message is sent on behalf of Joy Johnson, president and vice-chancellor. It has been sent to all people leaders at SFU.

Hi everyone,

As we start another unusual year, I am providing some information for leaders to ensure you have what you need to support your team.

Learning & research continuity planning

SFU is an essential service and our services must continue, even in complex times. As we are all now aware, the Omicron variant moves quickly. We know that cases will rise and we expect an impact for our faculty and staff. As leaders we are asking you to ensure you have a plan in place to maintain our work in the event that you have absent faculty and staff in the coming weeks. Update your departmental Business Continuity Plan to ensure it considers the current potential scenarios. Consult with your team members to review, revise or update strategies and processes.

As part of your planning, put serving the needs of students and one another first, and provide flexibility on other priorities. If you need support with your Business Continuity Plan, reach out to: srs_bcp@sfu.ca. 

Safety measures

Please schedule time to talk with your team to reinforce safety measures. Remind your team members to perform a daily self-assessment each morning and to stay home if they have any symptoms. We are waiving the need for medical notes for respiratory illnesses past five days for the short term, however, a note may be requested where appropriate. Encourage your team to get their booster as soon as possible, and remind them they are provided up to three hours of paid leave to get each dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

The layers of protection will continue to keep us safe. Remind your team of the importance of properly fitted three-layer masks, physical distancing and hand washing. We are paying close attention to public health guidance regarding masks and discourage cloth masks. Disposable masks that meet public health guidance are available from central stores.

Case management and contract tracing has changed and will now be self-managed in most cases. See updated guidance from BCCDC.

Flexibility and compassion

As an essential service, much is asked of us. Your team, and you, are likely feeling the stress of more change and renewed needs to adapt. Please know you are supported to do what you feel is required to continue to deliver critical services during this period. If you have questions or ideas, I encourage you to speak with your supervisor.

A summary of this email will be shared with all faculty and staff on Monday, January 10.

Take care and stay safe,

Joy Johnson

Pronouns: she/her/hers
President and Vice-Chancellor
Simon Fraser University