June 1, 2020
President Fuchs asks Gator Nation to come together against racism and hate, in support of justice
Last Friday, President Fuchs posted a video to Twitter condemning the killing of George Floyd and other killings around the country due to ignorance, racism and hate.
“I ask everyone at UF and throughout the Gator Nation to consider their actions, sphere of influence and how they can personally be part of positive change,” Fuchs said.
Racism and violence directed at African Americans must stop. My video request to the Gator Nation following the killing of George Floyd. pic.twitter.com/39eyx9xAJT
— W. Kent Fuchs (@PresidentFuchs) May 29, 2020
Downloadable signs and guidance for workspace layouts now available for departments preparing to return
As departments throughout campus prepare to bring more faculty and staff back to the workplace, the communications team at UF Health has developed signage for you to download and post in areas near entrances, elevators and other high traffic areas. These signs will help promote physical distancing and provide guidance on hand washing, masks/face coverings and more. You can visit the UFHR website to download some today, and watch for additional signage to come.
In partnership with UF Health, UFHR has also posted cubicle guidelines for departments to help them determine when masks or face coverings are needed, depending on workstation layouts. Find photo examples like the ones below that illustrate best practices (or “dos”) as well as some examples of workstations that may require modification (or “don’ts”). For assistance in modifying your area’s workspace, please contact UF Planning, Design & Construction.
Have you updated Zoom on your devices?
On May 30, all Zoom clients and Zoom Rooms were required to be updated to version 5.0 or greater to join any meetings, as new encryption will be fully enabled for all meetings.
If you haven’t already done so, be sure to update your devices today. More information is available on the Zoom website.
Glasses fogging up while wearing a mask?
Wearing a mask has become the new normal, but how do you keep your glasses from fogging up while wearing one? This NPR post offers some good advice on steps you can take to reduce the fog.
In case you missed it, we’re also pleased to share this encore presentation of UF Health Chief Epidemiologist Nicole Iovine’s excellent instructions on how to put on and remove your mask. Her advice for those wearing glasses? Be sure to give the mask a good pinch around the bridge of your nose when you are putting on the mask to ensure a tighter seal.
Alachua County Schools providing Free Summer Meals program
Beginning June 1 and continuing throughout the summer, the Alachua County School District’s Food and Nutrition Department will distribute free grab-and-go meals Monday through Thursday. Meals for all seven days of the week will be provided, with distribution spread throughout the week.
Any child 18 years old and younger can receive free breakfast and lunch at one of 70 locations, including bus stops, through the Free Summer Meals program. The department’s food truck will also visit three neighborhoods this summer.
Students do not have to be enrolled at the location to participate, and the program is open to any child regardless of family income. For more details on free meal sites, serving dates and times, please call (352) 955-7539 or visit the Food & Nutrition website.
Upcoming Wellness Wednesday will provide introduction to mindfulness
Mindfulness practices can serve as an anchor during turbulent times, strengthening us through a deeper sense of connection to ourselves and what we most value. Tune in for this week’s Wellness Wednesday presentation to learn more about the difference between mindfulness and meditation and to explore some ways to apply the principles of mindfulness to our daily lives.
For more information and to register, visit the UFHR Wellness website.
“Back working in the Florida Planets Lab for the first time in months after testing negative and getting approved, and it feels great!”
Faculty and staff who work in labs were among the first to return to campus over the last few weeks. Congratulations and welcome home to Dr. Steve Elardo, director of the Florida Planets Lab, and the many others who have returned!