Excitement builds as UM’s return to campus begins
The path back to UM has begun with a gradual return of staff to campus, from September 2021 to January 2022, in a phased plan that supports a safe and healthy return and accommodates the needs of UM’s diverse community.
Dieter J. Schönwetter, Director of Student Affairs and Academic Services and Professor in the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, is especially looking forward to seeing colleagues and students in the hallways and classrooms. “The synergy that is emitted from being together in the same space is something I have longed for since the COVID restrictions. Being surrounded by others in a workspace adds to the ‘team’ spirit and is very motivating as we interact, solve problems, and find new ways of leading, teaching and learning,” he says.
As of September 1, all UM senior leadership returned to campus full-time. Units will be welcoming more staff members in a phased return to campus. Fall 2021 classes resumed on September 8, with some students attending in-person classes and labs at limited capacities.
The Return-to-Campus FAQs addresses common questions that staff, students and the public may have about our plans for a safe and long-awaited return to campus.
While unifying the UM community is our end goal, your health, wellness and safety is our top priority. Leadership will continue to consider and make accommodations in special circumstances, including health matters. Exact rules and processes are still being determined, and will be communicated with the public as details are confirmed. Anyone with questions or concerns about the transition back to campus are encouraged to speak to their supervisors or instructors; building respectful dialogue around COVID is the best way to help and support each other.
“We have a positive and supportive team atmosphere on campus which helps me to do my job to the best of my ability,” adds Kristen Stefanson, Admissions/Recruitment Officer in the College of Rehabilitation Sciences .
As we continue to monitor the situation around the pandemic, UM community members can review up-to-date resources such as the latest UM health and safety protocols as well as COVID updates on UM Today shared through Week At A Glance. Information about UM’s vaccine requirement is being posted on this page as it is determined.
We will continue to work towards the collective goal of making the path back in the best and safest ways possible, and celebrate everyone’s hard work and efforts over the last 18 months.