King's working towards Phase C - A Blended Campus
August 20, 2020
A message from Dr. Malloy, King's Principal:
Dear King's Community,
Earlier this summer I sent you the Return to Campus Framework. Since then we have moved fully into Phase B and are actively moving towards Phase C. We have an overall objective to operate our campus in a blended model of offering virtual services and classes along with some in-person services and classes as conditions permit. Where possible, our staff are continuing to largely work from home. However, there are many who are on-campus in shifts providing important campus services including groundskeeping, maintenance, Finance, Enrolment, Residence, printing/mailroom, King's Campus Ministry and so much more.
For example, we are preparing our Residences to accommodate around 200 students this fall. They will live in single rooms, have food services designed for maximum safety (including pre-packaged meals) and still enjoy the sense of community for which King’s is renowned. Move-in Day will happen on Sunday, September 6, 2020, in staggered, assigned slots.
As well, our Orientation Week and Bridging Week are set to be virtual experiences along with some in-person events with physical distancing. I want to commend the work of our Soph team led by Jenna Taylor (Head Soph), Holly Clarke, Raj Patel, Kendra Motz, and Spencer McLaughlin, and King's University College Students' Council (KUCSC) for their leadership this summer in working with our staff to continue these important traditions for our incoming Class of 2024. A webinar for 1st year students can be viewed here.
We recently held a webinar for our returning students as I know many of you have questions about campus operations, especially for those of you who live in London. We will be providing study space with internet access on campus in the Student Life Centre, Wemple and other areas as space and safety permits.
The Cardinal Carter Library is preparing to offer services including:
1. Contactless book pickup. Request online and pickup at the library.
2. Quick print/copy/scan.
3. Quick computer use for print/copy/scan and lookup/request.
4. Front desk checkout and support.
5. Continued online chat, email and zoom support.
6. Continued online resources priority.
7. New 'Digital Delivery' service where book chapters and journal articles will be scanned and emailed.
Events will be different this year as we test out our new Virtual Student Life Centre where you can still connect with your clubs, peers and even shop at the King’s Connection for the all-important King’s hoodie!
It goes without saying that we are taking all the steps we can regarding PPE including our own King’s facemasks. I will miss seeing those smiling faces on campus. However, such is our current situation.
Thank you all and if you have questions please know you can message me via email or my Instagram and Twitter.
As always, take care of yourself, each other and soon you will see all the changes to this place.
Watch a video about the changes to King's at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7Mn6Mm2MUI