Dear members of the U of G community,
As we continue to navigate these uncertain times, I have been heartened to watch teams of people come together with a powerful sense of common purpose. We have seen this dynamic emerge among our political leaders, our colleagues at work, and in our own neighbourhoods. In moments like this when we are all truly “stress tested,” it is so very inspiring to experience the power of our people and our communities as we come together. Whether it’s just checking in with each other or offering help where we can, it really is inspiring to witness this sense of common purpose in action in our community. 
Below are two important recent developments I want to highlight and that you may have heard about.
Today, our Board of Governors made the unanimous decision to appoint Dr. Charlotte Yates, provost and vice-president (academic), to lead the University as our next president. As I wrap up my term this August, Dr. Yates will begin a two-year appointment beginning August 2, 2020. This decision was made in the context of our global pandemic that led to the suspension of the presidential search. This appointment will help the University maintain consistency and stability during these unprecedented times. Please join me in congratulating Dr. Yates, who I know will be a terrific leader at this defining juncture for our community and our world. More information on this announcement can be found online.
As follow-up to yesterday’s announcement from the Government of Ontario on the closure of all non-essential businesses, we continue to monitor and evaluate the University’s activities. In keeping with this directive, we have wound down several research projects, moved classes to alternative delivery formats and have many employees working from home. We will continue to update our community with new information as details emerge. More information is available on the U of G intranet.
In closing, I want to again recognize all the individuals and teams who are working so hard, both on campus and at home, to keep our University strong and healthy.
Thank you for all you’re doing to support our students, staff and faculty during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
Franco Vaccarino
President and Vice-Chancellor
Daily Updates: March 24, 2020
Supporting Our Campus Family
It is more important now than ever before, that we continue to maintain a culture of equity, inclusion and support in our campus community. The Office of Diversity and Human Rights has compiled suggestions for how to best support one another through this difficult time and act as strong and effective allies to others in the University of Guelph community.
Staying Connected While Social Distancing
Social distancing does not need to mean social isolation. Wellness@Work offers tips to help you stay connected while social distancing.
The University of Guelph’s COVID-19 website is your best source of information about the University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.