UCalgary to return to campus this fall

I am pleased to share that the University of Calgary will be returning to campus this fall. More classes will be held in-person, more labs will be open for research activities, and more student and public services will operate on campus than we have seen since the start of COVID-19.

It's time for us to finally be together again.

Safety remains our top priority

Our decision to move forward with returning to campus this fall is grounded in the latest health guidelines and scientific research. Vaccinations are critical to enabling us to resume in-person operations.

Right now, all Albertans over the age of 12 are able to access a COVID-19 vaccine. More than 60 per cent of Alberta's eligible population have already received their first dose, and supply remains strong to provide remaining first and second doses over the summer for those who still need it. These are significant milestones.

As the number of vaccinated people grows, health guidelines around physical distancing and public gatherings can finally ease. This is what enables us to safely begin moving back to campus for the fall.

Return to campus won't happen overnight

Returning to campus doesn't mean we expect everyone to be in their office, lab or classroom tomorrow. UCalgary is planning a graduated return that will take place in the summer and build throughout the fall.

Flexibility is key as we move forward. Our guiding principles remain focused on ensuring safety for our campus community, providing the best learning experience for our students and supporting innovative research.

Faculties and instructors have already been working together to chart how individual classes will be offered this fall. Over the summer, academic leaders, managers and team leads will also map out exactly how individual employees will be returning.

From the various working groups, committees and leaders you will learn more about how our return to campus will impact your studies and your work. Details are still emerging. We will share everything about what happens next as soon as we can.

For now, I wanted you to know that UCalgary will be returning this fall.

I can't wait to welcome you back.
 

Dr. Ed McCauley, PhD
President and Vice-Chancellor
University of Calgary