Dear Faculty and Staff:
I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a unique and challenging year. While the times continue to remain uncertain, we have been remarkable as a community. We remain committed and united to ensure the safety as well as the sustainability of our University and I truly appreciate all of your efforts, hard work and support during these difficult times.
So much has been accomplished this year, as we: adhered to precautionary practices to fight against the virus; instantly shifted our operations for learning, teaching and working remotely; adjusted our budget to accommodate millions of dollars in state reductions and revenues lost; were proactive with quality improvement initiatives related to the LCME site visit; launched new graduate studies programs; accelerated collaborations in research; and completed the construction of the medical office building that will house the Wasson Center, Summa clinical partner space and an expanded Bio-Med Science Academy. In addition, the NEOMED Strategic Plan was unanimously endorsed by the Board of Trustees on Sept. 9. This was accomplished through the efforts of so many of you, and we will look to you for assistance with the metrics and tactics to ensure that it moves forward and that NEOMED continues to remain strong and sustainable for the future.
As a way to say “thank you” for your continued commitment and contributions, NEOMED wants you to take some time to relax and enjoy family and friends during the holiday season. The University will again be engaged in reduced operations for two weeks, beginning Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, and continuing through Friday, Jan. 1, 2021. NEOMED will resume full operations on Monday, Jan. 4, 2021. During this time, we strongly encourage employees to use three days of vacation or compensatory time on Dec. 21, 22 and 23, which when combined with the three approved days of holiday leave and four days of winter break leave, will give you a full two-week break.
Department supervisors will work with those employees who are required to be on campus during this period. Closer to the holiday, payroll will provide specific details on how to report all leave on your timesheets. Please contact human resources with any questions regarding eligibility or other details.
Please know I am thankful for all that you do.
Sincerely,
John T. Langell
President