Dear UVM community,

As we head into spring break, I want to take a moment to express how proud I am of the way we have weathered this challenging time with so many unknowns. I sincerely hope the upcoming week gives everyone a chance to relax, recharge, and reflect.

University and governance leaders have been meeting regularly to ensure that our decisions and policies help position UVM for excellence that is sustainable, not only in the days and years ahead but for the long-term. Our responsibility to our institution is what led us to the recent decision to enact a temporary hiring pause across the university. This decision was not made lightly and we informed deans, directors, and department chairs earlier this week. We are implementing the hiring pause as an act of fiscal prudence during this period of uncertainty. We will continue to monitor the situation and be prepared to update and revise our approach as necessary.

To help us plan for and stay up to date with the latest federal changes, our Operations Teams for Federal Response began convening this week. Comprising faculty, staff, administrators, and deans, these groups are focusing on four key areas: Research, Immigration, Our Common Ground, and Faculty Affairs. The efforts of these groups will support a Core Team of senior leaders to help shape strategy and policy as we navigate the changing landscape for higher education.

Despite all the uncertainty we are experiencing, our student-athletes continue to make us proud. I look forward to cheering on our men’s and women’s basketball teams in the upcoming America East tournaments. The UVM women will host an AE quarterfinal game against UMBC at Patrick Gym tonight, while the men will host their own conference quarterfinal on Saturday. Let’s be sure to turn out in great numbers, wear our Green and Gold, and cheer on our beloved Catamounts.

Please know that I feel and understand your worry and concern for our institution and our people. We are resilient and we will get through this together. To our students, I hope you take some time to rest and enjoy some time with family and friends over break. To our faculty and staff, I hope you have time to catch up on those things that have been hard to get to and that you can take a few moments to enjoy the beauty of Vermont, even in mud season. Let’s prepare to finish the semester strong.

Warmly,

Patricia Prelock
Interim President