The University of Vermont is committed to meeting or exceeding all the expectations outlined in Governor Scott’s “Safe and Healthy Return to Campus” mandatory guidance document, UVM president Suresh V. Garimella said. The document was published yesterday and discussed in the governor’s press briefing today. UVM worked closely with the state in developing the guidance.

“We are very grateful to Governor Phil Scott and his administration for their leadership in promoting a safe return to campus for Vermont’s higher education institutions,” Garimella said. “We recognize the need to do everything we can at UVM to promote the health and well-being of our campus and our entire community.” 

The “UVM Safe and Healthy Return to Campus” plan is posted online and will be updated throughout summer, working in close collaboration with the state.

The university also recognized and thanked Governor Scott and the Vermont Legislature for allocating a portion of the State Emergency CARES Funding to help address the financial losses the university has experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

The funds are earmarked for a variety of purposes including refunds for students, virus testing, technology infrastructure and training, and the personal protective equipment (PPE) required for continued operations. Importantly, they will also help to address the growing need for student financial aid.

Garimella was also appreciative of the support and enthusiasm the state has offered for the university’s proposal to establish an Office of Engagement focused on supporting the state’s businesses, entrepreneurship and economic development efforts. “It is a key platform in our recently approved strategic imperatives, ‘Amplifying our Impact,’” Garimella said.

“The past few months have seen many challenges, and we expect there will be more to come,” he added. “But by prudently addressing our COVID-related, short-term budget needs and our recurring budget gap while aligning resources with our strategic framework, we are confident in UVM’s ability to continue to provide a safe environment and an excellent education for our students and act as an engine for the state’s recovery and success into the future.”