Weekly VP Update September 24

| by Jeff Dayton-Johnson

Campus Notes

Dear MIIS Community:

Three weeks into the fall semester, and it is apparent that all of you — students, faculty and staff alike — are working out the kinks of our new hybrid learning environment. I appreciate the grace that you have so repeatedly extended to each other as we get this semester underway. And of course, we continue to focus on the safety of our campus community and I am grateful to all of you for following the numerous protocols that have been put into place.  

COVID-19 Vaccine Booster.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday authorized a booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for those 65 and older, for people of all ages at high risk of severe disease, and for others aged 18–64 at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may get a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine based on their individual benefits and risks. This includes education staff (teachers and support staff).The FDA decision paves the way for a quick rollout of the booster shots as soon as next week for those who are eligible and who had their second dose of the Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech vaccine at least six months ago.  Additional information can be found on the CDC website. 

Some quick reminders of COVID-19 policies in place for the fall semester (more detailed information can be found on the Return-to-Campus webpage and the Vaccine webpage):

  • The MIIS community working and learning on campus is now 100% COVID compliant.  Thanks to everyone for uploading your vaccine verification and authorization of release in the Sentry system.  Only faculty, staff, and students who are fully vaccinated or have an approved exemption are allowed on campus. 
  • Don’t Forget: Lanyards, MIIS ID card, and COVID compliance stickers are required on campus. Indoor masking is also required in all areas and applies to students, faculty, staff, contractors, and any approved visitors in all areas, including classrooms, offices, and common and public spaces inside campus buildings and Munras Housing. 
  • What to do if diagnosed with COVID-19?  If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, follow these steps.

Students: Need a Quiet Space with WiFi for Online Learning?  Several small offices in the McCone building are now available for individual students who might need a stable WiFi connection for remote learning.  Use of the offices will be monitored by Campus Security and the following protocols will be in place. Sign-up will be required via the sign-up sheet. Reservations are available Monday – Friday between 8AM – 10PM and must be made no later than the day before.  If a classroom or other venue is needed, a Room Reservation Request is required.  

Have a great weekend and I encourage you to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather in Monterey as we head into fall.  

Sincerely,

Jeff Dayton-Johnson

VP of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Institute

Tags: