Hello, Colgate Community.
As I reviewed the items we need to discuss today, I thought, “That’s quite a laundry list.” Then I wondered, who makes a list of laundry? It’s one thing. Ok, maybe lights and darks. Then I had to go to the OED and look it up. Needless to say, you should have received this message sooner, but here we are.
Graduating seniors. Although we cannot make a final determination until we have New York State guidance for commencement gatherings, we are planning a version of commencement with two guests. Therefore, you have been asked to provide two names. This should not be considered an invitation, given the dynamic COVID situation around the country. But it is an exciting thought.
In other exciting news, test results we have received so far this week have all been negative, and we hope that our adherence to Gate 4 guidelines will help that trend continue. Thank you.
We also hope that our access to vaccines, whether on campus or nearby, will continue. Knowing that it is becoming harder for students to commit to two-dose scenarios with finals and departures approaching, our campus health experts are doing everything they can to obtain J&J single-dose vaccines. We are, however, at the mercy of complex supply chains — processes that also keep you from obtaining a first shot here and a second dose somewhere else. (If you multiply that request by the millions of college students across the country, you can see the potential nightmare for departments of health.)
We will still ask students, faculty, and staff to commit to obtaining both shots at the same location in order to participate in clinics on campus or in Madison County. If you cannot, please make it a first priority when you arrive at home for summer break. Vaccinations, though not currently required, are the key to returning to a safe new normal next fall.
Once you have your vaccination, consider downloading the Excelsior Pass Wallet app. This secure app simply provides proof of a recent negative test or vaccination as required for travel or event attendance. Put it on your phone right next to your laundry list app.
Thank you, and I’ll talk to you on Monday.
Laura H. Jack
Vice President for Communications
Take Note
Due to the potential volume, risks, and support-staff demands of year-end events, food will not be allowed at University events at this time, with limited exemptions for religious observances. Offices and departments may not spend operating budgets on food. Previous exceptions, including the use of BAC funds, to purchase food will only apply to grab-and-go or takeout meals during the moratorium. The Event Safety Group will work with groups who have already been approved for food at in-person gatherings to alter plans to switch to grab-and-go or takeout. Offices and departments are permitted to spend operating budgets on small pre-packaged, grab-and-go snacks (e.g., pastries, cookies, scones) to distribute after end-of-semester celebrations. The Event Safety Group and budget office will review these requests and issue approvals where appropriate.
Employees, a special election/change period for 2021 health care and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) is underway through April 9. Forms must be submitted by April 9. Changes take effect in the April 23 paycheck for all employees. Health Care FSA: This is the only opportunity in 2021 outside of open enrollment or a qualifying event to make any changes. Please complete the health care election form. Dependent Care FSA: To see new limits, enroll, increase, decrease or cancel coverage, please visit the dependent care election form.
Join alumni and fellow students for a weeklong series of conversations, beginning April 12, connecting women with shared professional interests. This series is part of the yearlong celebration of 50 years of coeducation at Colgate. It is brought to you by the Office of Alumni Relations, the Women’s Leadership Council, and the Colgate Professional Networks.
ITS will be applying a Banner Finance upgrade and an Oracle database patch on April 7, 5–7 a.m. During that time, a number of Portal services and Tableau dashboards will be unavailable. These include the ability to view HR information, time cards, purchase orders and approvals, grade reports, and course registration information. In addition, those who normally use Banner directly will not have access to their administrative functions. If you experience any issues with Banner after these changes, please contact the service desk at 315-228-7111 or email itshelp@colgate.edu.
Should I believe everything I read about COVID-19 vaccines?
No. Colgate and the CDC recommend that you check that the information comes from a credible, updated source. Read the CDC’s guide on this topic for more information, including links to additional vetting resources. As you read information online, the Immunization Action Coalition suggests that you ask yourself some questions, such as: Who manages this information? What is the original source of the information that they have posted? And how is information reviewed before it gets posted?
A Closing Thought
Colgate between winter and spring can look like an empty canvas. Check out this gallery of campus beauty to remind yourself how it will look in the weeks and months ahead as we move toward that new normal.
Upcoming Events
Coop Connections
April 3
8 p.m.
Interested in meeting new people? Come to the Coop to connect with others. Crafts and games are provided. Physical distancing is required and masks must be worn at all times.
Virtual Venture Showcase, Part of Entrepreneur Weekend 2021
April 5
Visit the Virtual Venture Showcase to learn about innovative businesses and inspiring nonprofits being created by Colgate students, alumni, and community members in the TIA Incubator. Watch video pitches for each venture, meet the founders, and connect with them to support their work.