January 1, 2021
Dear Trojan Community,
Happy New Year. I hope you and your families had a peaceful holiday and are staying safe and well. Here in Southern California COVID-19 continues to rage and I want to express my gratitude to those selfless frontline workers who have spent the holidays caring for COVID-19 patients in our community and keeping our essential operations open. My heart goes out to all those who have been affected by this virus.
As we start 2021, we must make it our mission to look out for one another and follow all required safety protocols. We simply cannot let our guard down in these next few months before vaccinations are widespread.
Yesterday, our chief health officer, Dr. Sarah Van Orman, sent an urgent message advising our community that compliance with public health measures is mandatory. It is critical that you heed her words.
Specifically:
- Students who are returning to off-campus housing should delay your return for several weeks.
- Employees who have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with the virus should refrain from coming to work. The university is extending the use of Supplemental Sick Leave for all onsite employees through January 31, 2021.
- Avoid non-essential travel. If you have traveled outside of Southern California, you are required to quarantine for 10 days upon your return according to LA County’s “Safer at Home” mandatory directive on travel.
- Do not attend gatherings with others outside of your household. Consider testing for COVID-19 if you have engaged in high-risk activities.
Each of us can make a difference and, together, we will get through this. Thank you for all you have done over the past 10 months to take care of your friends, colleagues, neighbors and loved ones. We have pulled together as a family during this very difficult time and we will continue to care for each other in 2021 as we look to brighter days ahead.
All the best,
Carol L. Folt President