Message from the President – June 09

Posted on Wednesday, June 9th, 2021

Dear Colleagues and Learners,

The Province of Ontario will begin implementing step one of its Road to Re-open plan this Friday, June 11 after seeing key public health indicators improve, including encouraging province-wide vaccination rates and a decrease in COVID-19 cases.

This step towards a more ‘normal’ way-of-life is a welcome and encouraging one after over a year of sacrifices and hard work made by the College community—and people across this province. We are hopeful that we will continue to see public health measures improve with continued vigilance and vaccination efforts.

The first phase of the re-opening plan will have no impact on academic programming. This means that the College is still limited to operating with a maximum of 10 persons in most instructional settings, not including prioritized programs. Some services, however, may be able to start slowly reopening. For example, starting Monday, June 14, The Campus Store will re-open for in-person shopping with limited capacity. As the re-opening process continues over the coming weeks, we will keep you updated on any other changes to the delivery of our services and academic programs.

As we make this small step toward being together as a community, we are profoundly saddened by the news of Sunday’s devastating and deadly act of violence against the Afzaal family in London, Ontario. The College condemns this racist act and the cowardice, hatred, and Islamophobia it represents. It is more important than ever to practice tolerance, respect and understanding, and to denounce Islamophobia and all forms of racism.

I recognize that many members of our community may be deeply affected by this tragedy, and I want to encourage those who need it to seek out help and support. The College offers a complete range of counselling services and general mental well-being supports for employees and students.

I also want to remind all employees and students of the special virtual event taking place the morning of Thursday, June 10. Community Gathering: Every Child Matters is an important opportunity for our community to honour and reflect on residential school victims, survivors and their families. You are also encouraged to bring family members and children. This is a crucial moment for all of us to come together.

As we move toward our shared goal of gathering together again, I also want to highlight the important role of vaccination in the process. With vaccination more widely available and a viable option for many of us to consider, the College strongly recommends vaccination for everyone who is eligible, in accordance with public health guidance.

Individuals aged 12 and over in 2021 across Ontario are now eligible to book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment through the provincial booking system and call centre. You can also find local vaccination information at the websites for Ottawa Public Health, the Renfrew County District Health Unit or the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit.  The Ontario government has also announced it is proceeding with second dose administration of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, you can see the details here. If you reside in Quebec, you can find vaccination information here.

Finally, I know many of you are eager to know what the Fall Term will look like. Next week, Chris Janzen, Senior Vice President, Academic, will share an update on our evolving plans for the Fall Term with the community.

Stay safe, and stay well.

Sincerely,

Claude Brulé

President, CEO


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