Information about college operations sent via email

From: Vincent, Catherine
Sent: Tuesday, June 7, 2022 12:15 PM
Subject: COVID safety

As many of you know, we are seeing many positive cases of COVID among students, faculty, and staff in the College of Nursing.

• If you are experiencing symptoms, please get tested immediately
• If you test positive (+), you must report this to the University and may not return to class/clinical/work until you are cleared by UHS. Please see COVID guidelines at link below and in the attached syllabus addendum.

Due to the increase in cases, the UIH contact tracing service has been delayed in following up with individuals who have been reported to be in close contact with someone who tested +. Therefore, we have been provided these instructions.

• If in close contact with individual(s) found to be COVID + and all individuals were masked:
  • If symptomatic, follow directions above
  • If asymptomatic—monitor for symptoms and COVID test at UIC between 3 and 5 days after contact with COVID+  individual

From the Syllabus Addendum:

COVID-19 Infection Procedures, Testing and Tracing:  ​

Please follow this link to be directed to the COVID Reporting Decision Tool to report any of the following:

1. Having been exposed to a COVID-positive individual
2. Experiencing COVID-19 symptoms
3. Testing positive for COVID-19 anywhere but at UIC campus saliva testing, University Health Services, or Student Health Services

Using this tool, you will be asked a few questions, and will then be directed to the appropriate resource. This tool is meant to streamline and simplify COVID-related reporting to ensure rapid initiation of contact tracing.  If you do not receive a response within 24 hours after entering all of your information in the online tool above, please call the COVID Hotline at 312-996-6250. Please inform the representative that you have completed a COVID Intake questionnaire and have not been contacted.  Please do not call this number unless it has been > 24 hours since you completed the online tool and still have not received a response or unless you are experiencing severe symptoms and require an urgent response.

Students and or/faculty/staff may not return to lab, in-person class, or clinical rotations until cleared by University Health Service.

From: Collins, Eileen
Sent: Monday, December 27, 2021 12:44 PM
Subject: FW: Health sciences guidance for the beginning of spring semester

Dr. Barish asked that the following email be forward to all in the Health Sciences Colleges. Please enjoy the rest of your break and stay safe.

LINK TO FORWARDED EMAIL

From: Collins, Eileen
Sent: Thursday, December 23, 2021 7:41 PM
Subject: Information about COVID campus safety and return after the holidays

We received information earlier today from Dr. Bleasdale about the Omicron Variant Surge and implications for returning to campus after the holidays. Please read the important information below.

We are in the midst of the Omicron Variant surge of COVID-19. There are significant increases in cases in the community.  It is important for our health science students and faculty be aware of the risk of infection and what to do to mitigate. Vaccination and boosting does NOT provide a guarantee against COVID-19 infection.  Based on early data and experience it does appear to prevent hospitalization and death.

The return to spring semester testing required for the campus is an additional measure of protection.  The clinical operations of UI Health continue without pause and many of the health science colleges continue activities.  The health science students and faculty are encouraged to seek testing outside prior to their return but this is not reasonably possible for those who resume some activities the week of January 3^rd. Testing at Student Center West opens on January 5^th.

Those health science activities can resume without testing in advance, but are required to test within the week of return. We ask that those resuming activities the week of January 3^rd test during the week at available times at Student Center West January 5-8^th.

Important information:

• Do not come to campus or the hospital and clinics if any symptoms
  • A cold can be COVID, symptoms in the vaccinated may be mild
• Be diligent about wearing your mask in all classrooms and clinical activities
• Do not gather with others outside your household at breaks or meals
• Ensure you complete required testing during your first week back to campus (vaccinated and unvaccinated)
• Those with an approved vaccination exemption must resume twice weekly testing
• We encourage you to continue to test at regular intervals during this latest surge even if fully vaccinated and boosted
• Read emails and communications about addition required testing if needed

It is important for all of us, particularly those of us in the health science colleges to recognize our individual responsibility to ensure a safe environment for fellow students, patients, visitors, and faculty we interact with.

From: Collins, Eileen
Sent: Tuesday, December 21, 2021 3:40 PM
Subject: College of Nursing Spring Semester update

As I am sure you know, the Spring semester will be beginning online (please see the official announcement below).  I am aware that this is not how we wanted to start the spring semester.  I too am disappointed.  It feels very much like we’re starting all over again.  I want to assure you, we do envision being online for only two weeks.  We do not see this to be lasting into the semester.  This time is different than the spring of 2020.  We have vaccines, we have COVID treatments, we know a lot more than we knew in the spring of 2020.  What we do know, is that gathering, specifically now for the holidays, is fueling the spread of the virus.  By allowing additional time between the holidays and full campus instruction/activities, we will afford a chance for the number of cases to come down and consequently reduce the spread of the virus. The safety of everyone is our number one concern. As always, we appreciate your patience, your flexibility, your understanding and your tenacity during this time.

I’m writing to provide you some additional specifics about the College of Nursing. Please note that the plans below may need to be tweaked over the next couple of weeks so please check your email and the campus website before the start of the semester.

Classes:  All didactic courses will begin online for the first two weeks, Monday, January 10 through Sunday, Jan 23. Most classes will be conducted synchronously during this time. Faculty will be sending out zoom links and more specifics closer to the start of classes.

In-person simulation laboratory experiences will continue in person as scheduled during this time.  We will follow all appropriate safety guidelines.  All clinical experiences will move forward as scheduled.  This will only change if the clinical sites change their protocols. Please check your course Blackboard site for further course specific information.

Research: Research may continue as planned using appropriate safety precautions. Social distancing and masking should continue. Team meetings should be held online during this time.

Building access and services: The Chicago building will be open using swipe card access as is the case now.

Staff:  Staff should plan on resuming their normal work schedules following the winter break. Any changes to work schedules or work locations will be communicated separately by supervisors.

Meetings: All meetings should be conducted online.

Dissertation defenses:  Dissertation defenses may be conducted online during this time.

Eating/drinking:  Eating or drinking in the college is only allowed when you are alone in a room.  There can be no shared meals or drinks until further notice.

Regional campuses: Region-specific information will be forthcoming for students, faculty and staff located at the regional campuses.

PCR Testing:  A negative PCR test is required within 72 hours before returning to campus.  Saliva testing (this is PCR testing) will be available on campus starting January 5^th.  You can find the hours posted online.  PCR testing is also required prior to the start of clinical rotations.  All employees (faculty, staff and students) will need a negative test before resuming campus/clinical activities. Additional information related to the logistics and monitoring of this requirement will be forthcoming.  These requirements are slightly different based on the location you are at. Please follow your campus-specific requirements.

Thank you again for your patience. Best wishes for a happy and safe holiday!

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 2021 1:21 PM
Subject: Campus guidance update regarding eating and drinking with others

Campus mandated signage will be installed this week through the common areas in the building.  Campus has updated guidance regarding COVID-19 with respect to eating and drinking while unmasked or dropping your mask.  We must adhere to social distancing guidelines—6 feet apart—while doing so in the presence of others.

Thank you.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 5:35 PM
Subject: IMPORTANT – Updated Travel Guidance

Per the  updated guidance regarding travel, the university requires faculty, staff and students traveling for essential university business domestically and internationally to obtain prior approval from their unit head. A new form is available to be used for documenting advance approval from the unit head. A copy of the approved form is required for submission of TEM reimbursements. The employee is responsible for maintaining the approved form and providing it to the person submitting the TEM transaction.

Employees are required to inform the university of their travel by using the UIC COVID-19 reporting decision tool and following the instructions provided. UIC contact tracing will then be in touch to provide guidance on required testing and quarantine. Employees should complete this reporting prior to departure.  If you are a faculty member assigned to a clinical rotation, please be sure to select “yes” for the question “Do you have any patient-facing or research participant-facing duties?” as your information will be routed to University Health Service for review (non-patient facing employee information is routed differently for review).

Please review the updated university travel guidance and resulting travel procedures here and please note the section on Personal Travel as well.

Please let me know if you have questions.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Wednesday, September 15, 2021 9:26 AM
Subject: IMPORTANT – Checking compliance for students in clinical

NOTE: CHECK ORIGINAL EMAIL FOR ATTACHMENTS.

This email is for those of you supervising students in any clinical rotation (pre-licensure or DNP) to clarify the process of monitoring UIC healthcheck and saliva testing for students who are:

1. partially vaccinated
2. have submitted a request for medical/religious exemption and are awaiting decision from University Health Service (UHS)
3. who have an approved exemption

As a reminder, exemption requests are reviewed and approved or denied by UHS.  Upon review, UHS informs Kate Vincent and me of the decision (approved or denied).  We are still awaiting decisions for some students.  For DNP students, Kate is sending the names of students with approved exemptions to Lauren Vacek and the appropriate campus director (if the student is in a regional campus).  Lauren will then provide student names to the appropriate specialty director.  For pre-licensure students, Kate is sending any regional students in these categories to Krista Jones and Sara McPherson, and in Chicago, is  communicating directly with the clinical faculty overseeing a student in one of these categories.

Students in one of the 3 categories above MUST complete the UIC healthcheck questions and be in compliance with saliva testing (twice per 7-day period, 48 or more hours apart).  Links to: UIC Healthcheck and UIC Daily Pass

PLEASE by certain that faculty following students in clinical confirms that the student is in compliance BEFORE entering a clinical agency.  Students who are fully vaccinated will have a green “cleared” pass and this pass will only need to be seen one time.  Students who are in one of the 3 categories above (partially vaccinated, have submitted a request for medical/religious exemption, or who have an approved exemption) need to be checked daily BEFORE going into the clinical area and must have a green pass for both UIC healthcheck questions and saliva testing.  For DNP students or precepted clinical rotations where a faculty member is not onsite, please have the students send a screenshot to you BEFORE they enter the clinical agency.   Students who are partially vaccinated will need to show proof of green “cleared” pass once they complete the vaccination series (2 weeks post final vaccination).

Students may NOT enter the clinical agency with a yellow or red pass.  (Examples of passes attached above). Please remind your students of this.  Of note, as students in the regional campuses do saliva testing at a non-UIC location, faculty will need to check UIC daily pass healthcheck (top of pass above) and separate saliva test results. 

We will notify you if you are overseeing students who have applied for a medical or religious exemption and are denied as they will NOT be allowed to attend class or clinical.

Please let me know if you have questions.  Thanks so much for all you do!  We recognize this is (yet another!) step in our ever-evolving Covid process.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Wednesday, September 1, 2021 3:37 PM
Subject: UIC Campus Visitor Policy

Just a reminder to please review and follow the UIC visitor policy:  https://emails.uofi.uic.edu/newsletter/1110305453.html

Please note that if you invite a visitor to campus, you (as their sponsor) need to have them complete health screening questions (in campus email above).

Please let me know if you have any questions.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Thursday, August 26, 2021 2:28 PM
Subject: Masking Policy

We’ve received several questions about the masking policy when lecturing.  Masks need to remain on unless the person presenting is behind a plexiglass divider and as far away as possible (6 feet or more) from others.  We have 3 plexiglass dividers in the CON and all are on wheels.  One is “housed” in 158 and should remain in this room.   For those teaching in person in the CON in a room other than 158 who would like to use a plexiglass divider, please feel free to get one (they are on wheels and easy to roll) outside of room 138S (south corridor, first floor).  As always, please wipe down before and after use and please also put back outside 138S.

Please let me know if you have questions.

From: Lecrone, Nita
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2021 4:22 PM
Subject: Employee COVID Vaccination Disclosure Policy – deadline August 23

NOTE: CHECK ORIGINAL EMAIL FOR ATTACHED POLICY.

This week the UIC Campus has formalized the COVID Vaccination Policy (attached), including a deadline for vaccination disclosure by Monday, August 23, 2021.  Deans, Directors, and Department Heads listened in to a Chancellor’s Town Hall yesterday to understand more about this new policy and implementation for students and employees.

Takeaways for employees from this Town Hall, and the Q&A session following, included:

• Disciplinary warnings will begin to be distributed to all Faculty, Civil Service, and Academic Professional employees who have not complied with the vaccination disclosure by Monday, August 23, 2021
• Campus remote work policy and College guidelines are in effect; employees may be approved by College manager to work remotely, but all employees still need to comply with Campus vaccination requirements
• Two types of vaccination exemptions are available:  medical and religious; these are vetted, reviewed, approved, and confirmed by appropriate Campus resources
• Employees who work in both College and UIHealth must abide by the more stringent UIH policy

If you have not yet disclosed your vaccination status, please do so ASAP via UIC Healthcheck link.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Friday, August 13, 2021 3:25 PM
Subject: Fall Building Access Update

Please see updated information regarding access to campus buildings in Chicago for fall semester:  Fall semester building access (uic.edu)

For the College of Nursing, doors will remain locked at all times and anyone with an i-card can access via swipe from 7 am to 6pm (both north and south doors). Outside of those hours, i-card access remains how it has been in the past, which is based on who we allow per our usual restrictions to the College of Nursing.

Please let me know if you have questions.

From: Darwell, Jason E.
Sent: Thursday, July 15, 2021 4:47 PM
Subject: Reminder: Complete Step 2 of Proof of Vaccination Process

Please remember to complete the proof of vaccination submission via the tool which can be accessed on a computer or mobile device at https://go.uic.edu/vaccinetool.

Also please remember the building is now open to access and it is no longer necessary to schedule time to access and occupy your workspace in the College of Nursing Building. The building will remain icard access only.

Masks continue to be required indoors when not in your office however updates will be sent as more guidance is provided from campus prior to fall semester.

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Wednesday, July 14, 2021 11:21 AM
Subject: Building Access Schedule

All – it is no longer necessary to schedule time to access and occupy your work space in the College of Nursing Building.

From: Lecrone, Nita
Sent: Tuesday, July 13, 2021 12:20 PM
Subject: UPDATE / NEXT STEPS FOR FALL SEMESTER REMOTE WORK

NOTE: CHECK ORIGINAL EMAIL FOR ATTACHMENTS.

We hope that you have begun to discuss the University Remote Work Policy and the CON Guidelines with your unit, so that you have a plan for returning to campus.  As you know, the policy becomes effective July 15, 2021.  Our expectation is that some units will begin to return to offices in July, and others will schedule their return in August to align with the fall semester.  These decisions are made by unit management, based on the nature of the work and the appropriateness of the return date.

At this time, we are asking that units begin to complete the Telecommuting / Remote Work Agreement to submit to the HR / Dean’s Office task force for review (see attached form).  To be clear, if an employee is working remotely at all after July 15, 2021, a new Telecommuting / Remote Work Agreement is required.  Please note that the form asks for the following terms:

• Name
• Title
• Start date of remote work
• End date of remote work (maximum of one year, as the agreement must be renewed annually)
• Supervisor name
• Supervisor title
• Alternate worksite address (home address)
• Assigned daily business hours
• Attached JD
• Specific communication methods – (cell phone number, alternate email address, etc)

Managers also please complete the attached “Weekly Unit Coverage” grid to upload along with your employees’ telework agreements.

Once completed, the employee and manager sign Teleworking Agreements, then Managers / Directors / DH forward all Agreements and Weekly Unit Coverage grids to https://uofi.box.com/s/xa8pxe6zma3vz9yfh7gdu3kt8jvm508d  Box folder for review and Dean’s Office signature.  We recommend beginning to send these later this week, providing at least one week for review by Dean’s Office before effective date of your unit’s fall semester schedule.

Any requests outside of the three day per week on campus guidelines will be evaluated by HR & Dean’s Office with the manager for unit coverage and essential duties, as well as for consistency with other similar units.

As stated in the agreement, if accountability, performance issue, or operational need arises while working remotely, the remote work arrangement is subject to modification by management.

Please see recent Campus updates for more information:  https://today.uic.edu/update-vaccination-and-saliva-testing-exemption?utm_source=mailpoet&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=circleback%2B07.08.21

From: Vincent, Catherine
Sent: Monday, June 28, 2021 8:44 PM
Subject: FW: [OFFICIAL_FACULTY] Update: Vaccination and Saliva Testing Exemption

Based on the Announcement made here, we are able to apply these same changes for faculty and students in the clinical setting.

Once students disclose on the UIC Healthcheck app that they are fully vaccinated (at least 14 days since final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine) and show their faculty the green/ exempt survey status, they no longer will be required to complete the UIC Healthcheck app to attend clinical.

Students who have not been vaccinated, or choose not to disclose, must continue to participate in mandatory health screening with the UIC Healthcheck app and present this information to their clinical faculty prior to each clinical day as described in the Addendum to Syllabus_Summer 2021, distributed previously.

Students attending clinical must still comply with institutional policies for mandatory COVID-19 screening at healthcare facilities and use of PPE and appropriate infection control as required by each agency.

If you have questions, please let me know.

From: Vincent, Catherine
Sent: Thursday, March 4, 2021 2:25 PM
Subject: change in the COVID screening procedure for clinical

Good evening, colleagues.

Beginning Monday, March 15, we will be making a change in the COVID screening procedure for pre-licensure and DNP students in clinical area.

Based on the decreased numbers of COVID infections and recent vaccination of most of our students and faculty, we are able to decrease the frequency of our COVID screenings.

As of March 15, students and faculty in the clinical area can begin completing the Healthcheck on their campus app only on the day(s) prior to each day they will be in the clinical area. Faculty, please instruct your students to report to you immediately any possible exposure and/or symptoms. And, then follow the directions for notification of their campus and clinical area.

Students entering college/campus buildings for labs or other activities must continue to follow all guidelines for saliva testing and Healthcheck screening specific to their campus.

Please inform your students.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Friday, February 19, 2021 8:06 AM
Subject: Saliva Testing – UPDATED information! Please READ!

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

As a follow up to my email last week (below), this is a reminder that all students, faculty and staff coming to campus are required to:

• Have on-campus saliva testing at least every 14 days
• Participate in the UIC Healthcheck to record their health status before coming to campus each day (download app)
• Show their UIC Daily Pass upon request.

In addition to the saliva testing, CON students and faculty who are coming to campus for lab will continue the daily UIC safe app – COVID 19 Healthcheck screening through the end of the semester.

Saliva testing is for individuals who are not displaying symptoms of COVID-19 and may be scheduled online in advance.  Testing is done on the 2nd floor of Student Center West.  Walk-in testing is available based on availability around existing appointments.  You may also schedule via the link here:  COVID-19 and UIC Nursing | College of Nursing | University of Illinois at Chicago

Additional Information: 

How do I know if I am in compliance? The UIC Daily Pass will display a color-coded badge. If your badge is green you are in compliance. Yellow indicates you need to be tested in the next 7 days. Red means you need to be tested immediately.

Is compliance with testing linked to building access? Yes. You may be asked to show your Daily Pass badge on your cell phone to access some academic buildings. Failure to comply with testing, or with symptom and temperature checks, may result in loss of access.

Will compliance be monitored? Yes. The college will be notified if you enter the College of Nursing without being in compliance with the saliva testing requirement (just as has been the case for the symptom/temperature checks).

• If you are a student, your course coordinator will be notified.  You will be asked to immediately obtain a saliva test. Repeated non-compliance could result in loss of building access.
• If you are a faculty or staff member, your direct supervisor will be notified.  You will be asked to immediately obtain a saliva test. Repeated non-compliance could result in loss of building access and referral to Human Resources.

What if I test positive? If you test positive you should not be on campus. You should complete the UIC contact tracing online reporting tool, and follow up with University Health Services for further guidance.

What if I have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 90 days?  Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 90 days do not need to do the saliva test and will have a green badge.   If you tested positive for COVID-19 outside of the UIC saliva-based testing program, make sure to report it using the online reporting tool, to keep your badge/status current.

What if I am in a clinical rotation?  All students will continue the daily UIC safe app – COVID 19 Healthcheck through the end of the semester.  In addition, students who are in clinical rotations at UI Health sites are required to complete saliva testing at least every 14 days.

How do I know if students in my class or on rotation are in compliance? The college and course coordinator will monitor student compliance with the testing requirement, and follow-up with those not compliant. Faculty may choose to also request students to show their compliance on the UIC Daily Pass badge.  If you are coming to campus for lab or class, saliva testing can be done on the same day and you do NOT need to do it before class (you can do it on your lunch break or at the end of the day). As results may not be posted to MyChart and the UIC Daily Pass for 4 or 5 hours, if you are testing on the same day you will be in lab or class, please ask for paper confirmation of testing when you complete the saliva test so you have proof of testing that day if asked.

Saliva testing is also required for students/faculty/staff who will be on campus in Peoria, QC, Rockford, Springfield and Urbana.  Separate guidance was provided to faculty, staff and students at those locations.  If you need addional information, please contact the appropriate campus director:  Dr. Krista Jones (Urbana) – kjones29@illinois.edu; Dr. Kathy Sparbel (Peoria & Quad Cities) – ksparbel@uic.edu; Dr. Cindy Reese (Springfield) – creese1@uic.edu; Dr. Kelly Rosenberger (Rockford) – kellyr@uic.edu.

Staying safe requires everyone to work together. Saliva testing is another tool that we should all use to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Thank you for your compliance with this new campus policy.

Good evening

You should all have received the message from the Chancellor indicating that “beginning Monday, Feb. 8, instructors who had planned to offer on-campus or hybrid classes, labs, etc. during spring semester may now proceed with those classes, as long as they adhere to social distancing and other public health precautions as outlined in COVID-19 Classroom Safety Guidance.” And, that regular on-campus saliva testing, participation in the UIC Healthcheck, and showing UIC Daily Pass upon request will be required.

We will be waiting to initiate this change in the College of Nursing until the week of February 15 so that we can carefully incorporate the new saliva testing requirement into our current COVID screening practices and determine if and how we can adjust current screening practices for lab and for PhD classes.

Susan Corbridge and I are working on guidelines now and hope to have to you the end of this week.

From: Lecrone, Juanita
Sent: Monday, February 1, 2021 6:20 AM
Subject: COVID Safety Protocol Training – Reminder from Campus

I’m sending another reminder to complete the required COVID-19 Safety Protocol Training as soon as possible, if not completed:

COVID-19 Safety Training

All students, faculty and staff will be required to complete the online COVID-19 Safety Training (https://uillinois.abilitylms.com/UIllinois/Programs/Standard/Control/elmLearner.wml?PTM=1)

using their University NetID and password to log in. This short self-study course includes guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and takes approximately 15 minutes.

All UIC employees who are currently working on campus or who are currently working remotely must complete the training.

Questions about the COVID-19 Safety Training should be directed to UIC Human Resources at uichrwelcomecenter@uic.edu or 312-996-0840.

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Saturday, January 30, 2021 3:17 PM
Subject: UIC Safe App Health Screening – Please read if you are having issues using the app for entry to the College of Nursing

I have received several reports that the UIC Safe App is not performing all of the time for the health survey screening prior to entering the building.  If the app freezes or doesn’t provide you with access, please use the link below as an alternative means to record your information in order to enter the College of Nursing.

https://healthcheck.uic.edu

Thank you,

From: Reising, Virginia Anne
Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2021 12:24 PM
Subject: COVID vaccine clinic information and IM injection refresher sessions!

I hope you are well! For those of you who have already volunteered with UIC’s COVID vaccination efforts, THANK YOU!

I know many people have questions about the UIC vaccine efforts. Next week I will host zoom sessions to answer any questions you might have about the faculty role at the UIC vaccine clinics and give a refresher on IM injections. I know this is an old skill that many of us must dust off!

I will offer one session on Tuesday, February 2^nd at 2:00 and another session on Wednesday, February 3^rd at 7:00.

If you are interested in attending one of these sessions please email me back and I will send you the zoom link.

I also wanted to send everyone the current materials that people are asked to review prior to attending: https://uofi.box.com/s/c9n618nspg6j1k7itf25uyr4fcwewint You may find the answers to some of your questions there.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Monday, January 25, 2021 8:14 AM
Subject: Please Volunteer in the COVID vaccine clinic!!

Please see attached information sheet and sign-up links (at right) regarding specific ways we can all help in the COVID vaccine efforts at both UI Health vaccine locations!

If you are faculty who can oversee student vaccinations, we are in particular need of this role on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Thanks so much!

Embedded links:

• UI Health Vaccine Administration Clinic sign-up sheet
• Monday UIC Credit Union One Arena Vaccine Clinic sign-up sheet
• Questions? Email Angel Griffin

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Saturday, January 23, 2021 10:17 AM
Subject: REMINDER – UIC SAFE APP – DAILY HEALTH SCREENING PRIOR TO ENTERING CON – PLEASE READ

Please remind your students to complete the UIC Daily Health Screening each time they swipe in for access to the College of Nursing. A gentle reminder to all faculty and staff to use the UIC Safe App for our daily health check prior to swiping your I-card for access to the tunnel and employee entrance otherwise I receive an email notification of non-compliance from Campus. UIC Safe App can also be utilized for monitored walks to your vehicles or another option is to request an escort to your cars, public transportation and ride shares from our Campus police.  All good reminders for our students working in our research labs off hours as the building continues to be lightly populated.  UIC Safe App is a great tool not only for the health screening but for our daily safety and security.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

From:Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Tuesday, January 19, 2021 5:34 PM
Subject: WE NEED YOU!! Please consider volunteering!!

Dear Colleagues,

We are continuing efforts to assist with vaccination at UI Health for UI Health clinicians, staff and the health science college’s students, staff and faculty. We need student and RN faculty assistance at this site which runs from 6am-6pm M-F and 630a-12p on Saturday. Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0845afad22abf49-uihealth

Additionally, on February 1st we will begin assisting with the UIC vaccination clinic at the Credit One Arena on the East Campus for those in Tier 1B (people 65+ and essential workers). We need both non clinical staff/faculty assistance and clinical faculty assistance at this site which runs from 730a-6p M-F. Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0845afad22abf49-uiccredit Help is most needed early in February!!!

At either site you will be offered the chance to be vaccinated if you have not already received it.

Please direct any questions to Virginia Reising at vmontg2@uic.edu or message me.

Thanks in advance for serving to ensure more people are vaccinated!  Vaccination of as many people as possible is key to ending the pandemic!

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2021 1:27 PM
Subject: STUDENT ACCESS TO College of Nursing – PLEASE READ

Today, I have received two requests for access to the College of Nursing Building directly from Students.  One of the students said her professor directed her to me for access.  Respectfully, please do not send students to me directly for access.  I need approval and direction for all student access to come from faculty directly, department head or Erika Boyko who provides me with all of the registered students for each semester.

I greatly appreciate your cooperation so that we can continue to keep the building safe and secure until the University allows students back in our building for in person instruction.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 3:21 PM
Subject: FW: REGISTER: Operation Vaccine Town Hall — Wednesday, Jan. 13, 8 am

Dear all,

Please see vaccine update townhall for this week if you are interested in attending.  I will forward the recording later in the week if you are unable to attend.

___

From: Gonzalez, Maria Isabel <mmurillo@uic.edu> On Behalf Of Message from Hospital Administration
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 2:29 PM
To: UIH *UIHealth All <UIHealth-All@UIC.EDU>
Subject: REGISTER: Operation Vaccine Town Hall — Wednesday, Jan. 13, 8 am

Dear Colleagues—

Last week we began administering the second dose of the COVID-19 to UI Health staff. As we continue staff vaccinations and work toward expanding vaccine distribution to outside groups, we will be hosting another town hall this week to provide you with the most up-to-date vaccine news and information.

Operation Vaccine Town Hall — Wednesday, Jan. 13, 8 am

Register in advance: https://uic.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aG6XdRjiQ9iTQacRAo8YUg

 Passcode: 38148369

This Town Hall will provide updates on several important parts of our vaccine operations, including current status, scheduling/tiers, and our planned transition to Phase 1b (patients and high-risk populations). Panelists also will address several questions and topics of concern, including:

• Symptoms after second dose
• Allergic reactions
• Vaccine scheduling if you’ve had COVID-19
• Vaccine scheduling if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Continuing safety measures

Please note, if you are unable to join the meeting live, it will be recorded and distributed later this week.

REMINDER: If you have not yet received your email invitation, please email covidvaccine@uic.edu or call the COVID-19 Scheduling Line at 312.996.6565 to schedule your appointment. Of course, scheduling also can be done in MyChart.

Sincerely,

COVID-19 Vaccine Project Team

From: Vincent, Catherine
Sent: Friday, January 8, 2021 11:26 AM
Subject: Re: NO in-person didactic classes for first 2 weeks

My sincere apologies. I misspoke [in message below]. There will be no in-person lab for any students and no in-person clinical for prelicensure students during the first 2 weeks of the semester.

—

From: Vincent, Catherine
Sent: Friday, January 8, 2021 8:21 AM
Subject: NO in-person didactic classes for first 2 weeks

I am writing to clarify in–person attendance for the spring semester.

Per an earlier message from the Chancellor, there are to be no in-person classes for the first two weeks of the spring semester. He will provide updates as the situation changes. The healthcare colleges were allowed to request exceptions to this requirement for lab and clinical experiences. The College of Nursing has been approved to conduct lab and clinical but no other classes can be in person until January 25 or we get further direction from the Chancellor.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

From: Delaney, Clare
Sent: Thursday, January 7, 2021 1:15 PM
Subject: Student Email-Covid Vaccine

Hello Students,

Please see message [below] from Dr. Corbridge and Dr. Vincent.

—

Dear all,

[We are] writing to give you an update on the COVID vaccination process for the health science colleges as of today.  The UIH COVID vaccine team has vaccinated 4300 individuals since 12/18/20 and the first 2^nd doses are scheduled for this week.  All of the vaccine scheduling at UI Health is being done through MyChart.   Please check your email (the subject line states “MyChart Activation Code for Your Name”; the sender is UI Health MyChart team and was likely sent the week of December 15^th or the following week).   If you are already a patient at UI Health, this email may have gone to your personal email.   As the COVID vaccinations at UI Health are scheduled through MyChart, please activate this account if you wish to schedule a vaccination when you are notified.  We have been told that students should be receiving an invite within the next two weeks.  Please watch for an email stating that you have an appointment to schedule in MyChart.  You can then go into MyChart and select a day/time for the vaccination.  Currently, UIH is giving the Pfizer vaccine, which has the second dose 21 days after the first, and it is important that you are available on that date as well, so please consider that when making the initial scheduling appointment.

If you cannot find the activation email or did not receive it, please be patient through the end of next week as the COVID vaccine team continues to work on invites for our college.  We will update you when we have more information from the COVID team.

For regional students:  The process is different in each campus and likely will continue to evolve a bit; we are still awaiting an update regarding Springfield.  You will receive specific information regarding vaccination from your regional director:   Dr. Krista Jones (Urbana), Dr. Kathy Sparbel (Peoria and QC), Dr. Kelly Rosenberger (Rockford) or Dr. Cindy Reese (Springfield).

A few additional items:

• The vaccine is not mandatory, however please keep a copy of the card you are given.  Some clinical agencies may require this in the future.
• If you get the vaccine elsewhere, please disregard the email invite for MyChart.
• Please get both doses of vaccine in the same location (e.g. here at UIH or elsewhere).
• If you receive a vaccine schedule invitation more than once, please disregard the duplicate.

Please be patient as this continues to be an evolving process.  The COVID vaccine team is doing a great job and as the second doses are beginning this week, the complexity with scheduling increases.  Again, please be patient and rest assured, if you want to be vaccinated, you will have the opportunity soon.

And…..THANK YOU to our wonderful College of Nursing faculty and student volunteers in the UI Health Covid Vaccine clinic!  Between 12/18 and 1/4 we filled 155 volunteer slots at the COVID vaccine clinic for UI Health, which is over 1000 hours of service over the holiday break!  Urbana students and faculty are also volunteering with the local health department and we will soon be working with CDPH to provide immunizations as well.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Wednesday, January 6, 2021 9:22 PM
Subject: Re: COVID vaccination – MyChart ActivationClarification

Just an update on MyChart activation email as I did hear from some of you that you did not receive the initial email.  If you cannot locate the email, please look back in your email on or close to the date of December 15^th.  The subject line states “MyChart Activation Code for Your Name”; the sender is UI Health MyChart team.  If you are already a patient at UI Health, this email may have gone to your personal email.  Please let me know if you have any questions; I likely will have more information before the weekend and will keep you updated.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2021 4:09 PM
Subject: Re: COVID vaccination update 1.5.21

A few additional items I neglected to mention [in email below]:

• The vaccine is not mandatory, however please keep a copy of the card you are given.  For faculty and students, some clinical agencies may require this in the future and we will need to track compliance
• If you get the vaccine elsewhere, please disregard the email invite for MyChart

——

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2021 4:05 PM
Subject: COVID vaccination update 1.5.21

I am writing to give you an update on the COVID vaccination process for the health science colleges as of today.  The UIH COVID vaccine team has vaccinated 4300 individuals since 12/18/20 and the first 2^nd doses are scheduled for this week.  All of the vaccine scheduling at UI Health is being done through MyChart.

All current UIC faculty, staff and students should have received a MyChart activation message in their UIC email account the week of December 21^st as saliva testing moved to MyChart at that time as well (please review this University email: Updated COVID-19 guidance | UIC Today).  As the COVID vaccinations at UI Health are scheduled through MyChart, please activate this account if you wish to schedule a vaccination when you are notified.  Faculty, students and staff are being invited to schedule their vaccinations in batches (patient facing students and faculty in first batches, followed by staff invitations).  High risk patients at UIH are also beginning to be scheduled.  We have been told that students and faculty should be receiving an invite within the next two weeks.  Please watch for an email stating that you have an appointment to schedule in MyChart.  You can then go into MyChart and select a day/time for the vaccination.  Currently, UIH is giving the Pfizer vaccine, which has the second dose 21 days after the first, and it is important that you are available on that date as well, so please consider that when making the initial scheduling appointment.

For regional faculty/staff/students:  The process is different in each campus and likely will continue to evolve a bit; we are still awaiting an update regarding Springfield.  If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Krista Jones (Urbana), Dr. Kathy Sparbel (Peoria and QC),  Dr. Kelly Rosenberger (Rockford) or Dr. Cindy Reese (Springfield).   Regional faculty/students/staff could also be vaccinated here in Chicago.

I have also been asked by the COVID vaccine team to provide the following information:  1)  please get both doses of vaccine in the same place, 2) if you receive a vaccine schedule invitation more than once, please disregard the duplicate.  Also, if you have a chance to receive the vaccine elsewhere and want to do so, please do what is best for you (just please plan to get both doses in the same place).

Please be patient as this continues to be an evolving process.  The COVID vaccine team is doing a great job and as the second doses are beginning this week, the complexity with scheduling increases.  Again, please be patient and rest assured, if you want to be vaccinated, you will have the opportunity soon.

Again, a BIG shout-out to our wonderful faculty and student volunteers who have stepped up to give vaccinations!  Thanks to Virginia Reising who is the CON volunteer coordinator here in Chicago and since 12/18 through yesterday we have filled 155 volunteer slots at the COVID vaccine clinic for UI Health. Considering each shift is at least 6 hours this is equivalent to nearly 1,000 hours of service over break!!  And thank you to Krista Jones, who is coordinating our volunteer vaccination with the department of public health in Urbana!  We are also working with CDPH as they roll out vaccination to the city; will keep you all updated for additional volunteer opportunities.

Please message me if you have any questions.  I will keep you updated as I learn more.

From: Weaver, Terri E
Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2020 2:09 PM
Subject: FW: Operation Vaccine Update: Dec. 29

Dear Colleagues, please see the email that some of you may have received [today] … as I want to be sure that you have established a MyChart account in case vaccination of faculty commences as UI Health has rapidly moved through the tiers outlined in the video from UI Health that was sent to you previously.  Communication regarding appointments for vaccination will be via MyChart.  You may have previously received an email instructing you to establish MyChart if you do not already have an account.  Please be on the lookout for these updates and communications.

From: Reising, Virginia Anne
Sent: Saturday, December 19, 2020 8:59 AM
Subject: Faculty volunteers needed for UI Health COVID vaccination efforts

Thank you to everyone who has already signed up to help with the efforts to vaccinate UI staff. I am looking faculty to assist on the below days.

TUESDAY (12/22) from 12p-6p

TUESDAY (12/29) from 6a-12p

Please sign up here if you can help: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0845afad22abf49-uihealth

There will be a UHS site coordinator on site with you but a brief overview on your duties are below.

1. Welcoming students and helping them get setup
2. Help students rotate the vaccine station, hallway station and break.
3. Co-sign students who are not already licensed. CON faculty will do this for nursing students and COP faculty will do this for pharmacy students. Any questions on consent forms should be answered by faculty or UHS staff
4. Help with flow of the vaccine room.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Tuesday, December 15, 2020 3:39 PM
Subject: COVID-19 vaccination volunteers needed

We are working with University Health Service to begin providing immunizations at UI Health and they are in need of student and faculty volunteers starting this Friday.  Virginia Reising has created the sign-up genius and is coordinating the pre-licensure student volunteers; Sue Walsh has reached out to the DNP students so all of our students with clinical experience have been notified of this volunteer opportunity.

Faculty volunteers are welcome and please sign up here:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0845AFAD22ABF49-uihealth

Everyone who signs up will receive training information, including EPIC training, after signing up. A summary of the training requirements and day of information is here: https://uofi.box.com/s/rma5k9pujxh8g50unj13sizsvuyexgoq

We are also working with the CDPH as they begin to plan for vaccination distribution in the city and are planning to have some of our students complete clinical rotations at various locations in the spring (we will keep you updated as we have more specifics).  We have also been contacted by IDPH regarding possible help through the state, however have no specific information on this yet.

We will continue to update you as we learn more.  A big thanks to Virginia Reising for her great work and coordination with UHS and to Sue Walsh for DNP student coordination.

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Sunday, November 8, 2020 7:08 PM
Subject: DOCK PARKING – Please Read

Just a reminder if you need to reserve dock parking you must schedule it through me so I can alert the UIC Police so no one gets a ticket/tow.

NO DOCK PARKING on the following days for any reason for any period of time:

• Thursday, November 12
• Friday, November 13

We have vendors who need access to dock both days/all day.

As always, thank you very much for your cooperation.

From: Vincent, Catherine
Sent: Monday, November 2, 2020 11:18 PM
Subject: COVID follow up Update
Importance: High

If faculty or students have a possible exposure in the CLINICAL setting or on site (lab, classroom, etc.), they should call University Health Service 312-996-7420 and select option #9.

Students who have a possible exposure—outside of the College of Nursing (e.g. wedding, personal event, etc.); through travel to an area designated as a COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.; or through travel outside of the U.S.—or who report symptoms of COVID-19 or who test positive should call Student Health Services at 312-996-2901.

Faculty who have a possible exposure—outside of the College of Nursing (e.g. wedding, personal event, etc.); through travel to an area designated as a COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.; or through travel outside of the U.S.—or who report symptoms of COVID-19 or who test positive should call call University Health Service 312-996-7420 and select option #9.

Faculty and students must be cleared by University Health Service before returning to the clinical setting, lab, classroom settings

Please continue to follow the recommended Health, Wellness and Prevention guidelines for reporting and follow up before returning to the clinical and lab. Students should pay particular attention to the question: “I am a UIC graduate or professional student and have been exposed to COVID-19, tested positive for COVID-19, or feeling ill and currently work or interact closely with patients/public/colleagues for training and/or research. What should I do?”

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Monday, October 19, 2020 3:52 PM
Subject: Building Access Requests to College of Nursing – PLEASE READ

Lately, I have been receiving random email requests for building access from individuals I do not know. Please do not send individuals needing building access directly to me for fulfillment of these requests, building access must be requested by a supervisor, Faculty or designated manager of your Department.  We are able to provide access same business day provided we receive the request from an authorized party.

Send building access requests to con-facilities@uic.edu with the following information.

• Name of person requiring access
• UIN number of individual who needs access
• Days/Hours individual is authorized to be in CON – Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Mon-Friday 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. or Mon-Sun 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. etc.
• Students are being given restricted access Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm through December 11, 2020.  We will establish a new schedule for the Spring term.

If anyone is requesting after-hours access/working after hours please use your UIC Safe App. I highly recommend that you notify UIC Police if you would like to be checked on while working after hours and request escorts to your car, UBER and public transportation which are also offered and often times under-utilized.  Building access is not only for your convenience but for your security.

If you have any further questions please contact me directly for further assistance.

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Monday, October 5, 2020 3:23 PM
To: CON-STAFF@LISTSERV.UIC.EDU
Subject: Warehouse Dock Delivery Hours of Operation – 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. please notify vendors prior to delivery

The warehouse dock [1515 S. Laflin, Chicago] hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Be sure to notify your vendors when requesting delivery to the warehouse.

Thank you again for your continued patience.

From: Vincent, Catherine
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2020 9:26 PM
To: CON-FACULTY
Subject: Questions about exposure, symptoms, positive test

I have had a number of questions from faculty and students recently about what to do if one tests positive or has symptoms.

You received the Addendum to the Syllabus from Susan Corbridge earlier in the semester. There is a section on how to advise students if these issues occur.

If Exposed, Travel outside US or to US “Hotspot”, Experience Symptoms, Test Positive

• Any student or faculty who a) reports an exposure to a person with COVID-19, travels to an area designated as a COVID-19 hotspot in the United States (U.S.), or travels outside of the U.S; b) reports symptoms of COVID-19; or c) tests positive is required to contact University Health Services at 312-996-2901 and to follow the recommended Health, Wellness and Prevention guidelines https://today.uic.edu/frequently-asked-questions for reporting and follow up before returning to the lab. Students should pay particular attention to the question: “I am a UIC graduate or professional student and have been exposed to COVID-19, tested positive for COVID-19, or feeling ill and currently work or interact closely with patients/public/colleagues for training and/or research. What should I do?”

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2020 2:48 PM
To: CON-FACULTY
Subject: Portable Plexiglass Instructor Safety Shields – PLEASE READ

The portable safety shields we ordered have arrived!  The College of Nursing purchased three (3) portable instructor safety shields for your use.  If you would like utilize this equipment for your classroom please contact Laura Castillo (lcasti2@uic.edu) to reserve.  The equipment is currently stored in the Dean’s office multi-purpose Room 103.

From: Collins, Eileen
Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2020 1:40 PM
To: CON-FACULTY
Subject: Delivery procedures for items that need to be frozen on receipt

Ron McKinney from RRC has been kind enough to work with us on delivery of frozen items until we get back to full operations at the College of Nursing. Please follow these procedures.  This email will be archived under the COVID emails on the College of Nursing website.

For deliveries that need to be frozen on receipt, please follow the instructions below.

Items should be shipped to:

PI Name
RC-Scientific Store
835 S. Wolcott, Room A305
Chicago, IL 60612

The room number is important for FedEx and UPS.

Please email Ron McKinney (mckinney@uic.edu) when you place an order and include your contact number so he has multiple ways to reach out to you (email, phone). Also, please let Ron know which company you ordered from and the details of the order.

Please track your shipments and  arrange to pick up from Ron on the day of delivery.  They close at 4:30. This is especially important for anything on dry ice as his storage is limited for -80 items.  If you cannot pick up, please contact Ron so he can work with you to make arrangements for your items.

From: Corbridge, Susan J
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2020 7:55 PM
To: CON-FACULTY
Subject: Chicago Quarantine Guidelines

Dear all,

As a reminder, if you are scheduled to teach an in person clinical rotation, lab, or course in Chicago, travel to one of the states that requires quarantine by the City of Chicago will prohibit your ability to attend in-person sessions without a 14-day quarantine.  If you plan to travel, please refer to the Chicago Department of Public Health website for the list of required states, which is updated every Tuesday:  https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/covid-19/home/emergency-travel-order.html

We will be sending a similar message to the student listserv, but it wouldn’t hurt to remind the students in your courses.

Thanks much.

• Return to COVID-19 information page

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Friday, August 21, 2020 2:32 PM
To: CON-FACULTY
Subject: CON Chicago Campus Kitchens & Conference Rooms – Availability/Closures

Based on the recommendations of the Environmental Health and Safety office, we are closing all of the building conference rooms and limiting the availability of some of our kitchens for the fall semester. Campus has added a third shift of building service workers from 5:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. each night to help with the deep cleaning requirements due to Covid-19.

With your patience and cooperation, I would like to attempt to utilize only three (3) kitchens in the building for the Fall Semester. Kitchens on floors 5,7 and 9 will be open for general use and the balance of our kitchens will remain closed for the fall semester.  We hope to maximize the cleaning efforts of our building service workers by limiting the number of kitchens that need to be serviced daily so they can focus on public areas.

We are requesting that you eat in your offices, bring disposable flatware and limit your time in the kitchen as much as possible. If your copier is located in the kitchen area, I would just ask that you use the copier, wipe it down before and after use, and close the door.

I realize this is a huge inconvenience to many of you. I just ask that we give it a try, if we find it to be too restrictive we will adjust immediately.  Please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss. Thank you,

• Return to COVID-19 information page

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Friday, August 21, 2020 2:11 PM
To: CON-FACULTY
Subject: Disinfecting wipes supply and distribution

We have a supply of disinfecting wipes to be used before/after using copiers and other high touch surfaces in the building (including all campuses). If you are going to be working in the building and need a package of wipes, please send me or Laura (lcasti2@uic.edu) an email and we can arrange a time for you to come to the facilities office in Room 138S to sign out a supply of wipes for your use.

Thank you for your cooperation.

• Return to COVID-19 information page

From: Galante, Gina L
Sent: Monday, June 22, 2020 9:17 PM
To: CON-FACULTY; CON-STAFF
Subject: UPS/FED EX Deliveries, etc.

Thank you all for your continued patience while we work to ensure the delivery of mail and packages to CON.

Per campus, please have any UPS, FedEx or other carrier packages delivered to the UIC Laflin Warehouse. The shipping label should be addressed like the example below.

YOUR NAME/RECEIPENT
UIC COLLEGE OF NURSING
c/o Laflin Warehouse
1515 W. 15th Street
Chicago, IL 60608

The warehouse will let me know when there are packages and I will make sure they are delivered to CON. Thank you.

• Return to COVID-19 information page