Presidential Communications

 

 

TTUHSC Community,

 

I’m so very grateful to each and every one of you for all that you do at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. I echo what Texas Tech University System Chancellor Dr. Tedd Mitchell said in this message. This would not be the great university we know without each of you working collaboratively as ONE TEAM. This spirit will need to be preserved through these challenging times.

As the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to escalate, we are working to transition the majority of our workforce toward telecommuting. Our intent is to continue to support the needs of the university, with limited on-campus presence, while meeting the public health goal of minimizing unnecessary contact. This transition will begin March 18.

Human Resources will provide additional information in the upcoming days and resources to support working from home. Just as our students have had to adjust their learning environment, how we work may change as well. However, I want to assure every faculty member and employee of TTUHSC that we will support you through this transition.

Thank you for your understanding as we work to manage new expectations while balancing existing responsibilities. For some, that means supporting your college children through transitioning to online instruction; others are caring for sick and aging family members; and some are finding themselves navigating through closures of public school districts for their young children. We’re missing traditional spring activities as events are being canceled or postponed. There are new terms such as social distancing -- making a conscious effort to reduce the number of people we come in contact with -- in addition to rising concerns for our local economies. And, all this amid an ever-changing situation.

Please know, however, there is a constant: your TTUHSC community. Those of us in leadership roles are continuously evaluating developments related to COVID-19. Your best interest and that of our communities at large are at the forefront of every decision made. But above all else, our number one goal is to ensure your health, safety and security.

Understandably, changes can cause worry and anxiety. Please take care of yourself and your loved ones and take reasonable precautions to protect yourself from this virus. If you have specific needs, please share those with your direct supervisor, and we’ll do our very best to help.

I appreciate your continued work and service to our great university. Together, we’ll get through this, as ONE TEAM.

 

Warmest regards,

 

 

Lori Rice-Spearman, Ph.D.
Interim President and Provost
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center