Jan. 4, 2022
Good afternoon,
We are writing to provide our community with an update in the aftermath of the most destructive wildfire in 欧美口爆视频 history. Though the Marshall Fire鈥檚 flames did not impinge on our campus, more than 700 employees and more than 600 students lived in the evacuation zones, and dozens of our friends and colleagues now face the daunting task of rebuilding their homes and their lives. The fire occurred in the midst of a massive surge in local COVID-19 cases and accompanied a severe wind event that caused damage across our campus and affected the housing of additional 欧美口爆视频 Boulder students, faculty and staff.
This is a disaster that directly impacts 欧美口爆视频 Boulder. We are proud of how our campus community has quickly mobilized to support our students, faculty and staff through these challenges, and we appreciate the flexibility and understanding from the vast majority of our Buff community as we navigate these unprecedented issues. This 欧美口爆视频 Boulder Today story from yesterday is a detailed look at where things stand post-fire.
Marshall Fire resources and support
For the latest updates and resources on the Marshall Fire recovery efforts, please visit the Fire Resources page for updates and FAQs on topics including:
- Available financial assistance
- How those affected by the fire can get WiFi hotspots or laptops
- Food assistance through the Buff Pantry
- Discount lodging through local hotels
- Residential rentals
- Resources for residence hall students who need to return to campus before Jan. 21
- Hours and operations of campus hubs, including University Libraries, the Teaching and Learning Center, study spaces and the 欧美口爆视频 Book Store
Update on academic instruction for spring 2022
Academic Affairs has provided updated Academic Instruction Guidance for the spring term, and we urge instructors to be as flexible as possible with students navigating these ongoing challenges, which may include the inability to pick up required course materials until the Jan. 21 return to campus. Students should be aware that we have advised instructors to maintain course modality until Jan. 24 in order to preserve consistency across curricula. Any specific questions or concerns should be directed to the Provost鈥檚 Office.
Emergency Administrative Leave
Chancellor DiStefano has authorized up to 160 hours of emergency administrative leave for employees impacted by the fire who need the additional time for recovery efforts. We urge department heads and supervisors to act with compassion and empathy during this time. For details on emergency leave and criteria for faculty, staff, and students, visit Leave Options in Event of Natural Disaster or Local Emergency.
Finally, thank you all for your continued support, flexibility and dedication to 欧美口爆视频 Boulder鈥檚 mission during these uncertain times. An organization is only as good as its people, and ours have once again risen to these challenges and beyond.
Thank you,
Ann Schmiesing, Executive Vice Provost and Patrick O鈥橰ourke, Chief Operating Officer