Chancellor Li: It's Our Time

Read Chancellor Li's message on the importance of vaccinations and masks

Good morning, Mavericks!

And welcome to the Fall 2021 semester! What I love the most about the new academic year is that it’s a fresh start for everyone.

Whether you are a new student, faculty, or staff member, or if you have been part of our university community for years, it’s a new day filled with endless possibilities.

As you know, this semester we will have more opportunities for on-campus operations and activities. We are confident that our Fall 2021 semester guidance will keep campus healthy and safe – but we need your help. The first step in preventing the spread of COVID-19 is by staying informed, so visit the Maverick COVID Response page regularly for the latest information and check your email for updates. You can also stay connected by signing up to receive The Maverick Daily newsletter for faculty and staff and The Bullseye newsletter for students.

Also, if you haven’t received a COVID-19 vaccine, please visit one of the Douglas County Health Department mobile vaccination clinics we are hosting on our campus this week. Vaccines aren’t required for students, faculty, and staff, but it is our most effective tool in our effort to prevent the spread of the virus and I cannot encourage it enough. Please remember this is a fluid situation and UNO may change its policy on masking to tackle the pandemic. We will keep you up to date on all the latest guidance, information, and resources.

Our work to keep campus healthy and safe is ongoing, but here are some things every student, faculty and staff can do today to stay connected with university life and tap into the Maverick Spirit.

• Kick off the semester with some Maverick Spirit and check out the Durango Days calendar. There’s something for everyone!

• Let’s connect in-person, too! All students, faculty, and staff are welcome to join me for a Cup With Jo from 2-4 P.M. on Wednesday at Criss Library. Students are invited to attend a student town hall on Monday, Aug. 30.

• If you haven’t yet, visit the New Semester Guide for helpful tips, information, and resources.

• Visit the Omaha Athletics calendar and pick a game support our Maverick student-athletes. Volleyball, Women’s Soccer, Men’s Soccer, and Cross Country are all in action this fall.

• Follow UNO on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn at @unomaha as well as on Spotify. You can also follow me on Twitter at @UNO_Chancellor!

• Explore our available campus wellness options. Students can visit the Student Life Wellness page for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) information, Campus Recreation resources, the Accessibility Services Center, and more. Faculty and staff can also explore the Faculty and Staff Employee Assistance Program.

Sincerely,

Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA

UNO Chancellor