Coronavirus Update for March 18: A Message from Human Resources
Dear Campus Community,
Western is open and all employees should work remotely when possible to help mitigate or slow the spread of COVID-19. We recognize that there are a number of functions performed that require employees to be present at the work site in order to continue business operations. It is our obligation to minimize the number of employees on-site and support the safety of those who remain on campus.
Western is NOT in Suspended Operations
While the university is NOT in suspended operations, we are in support of working remotely where feasible. We are receiving a number of questions about what would happen if the university were to suspend operations for more than 15 days. At this time we do not anticipate being in a period of suspended operations for a period of greater than 15 days.
I-9 Completion by Appointment
In an effort to practice social distancing, our HR Front Desk will be working remotely but will come in to complete I-9s for new hires by appointment only. To make an appointment, please contact hr@wwu.edu or call 360-650-3774.
Location: Old Main Theater Box Office (near Student Business Office Visitor Parking)
Community Service Day
In light of the impact of coronavirus in our community, we encourage you to take advantage of your Community Service Day to help out those in need (while practicing good social distancing of course!). This leave day can be requested using the standard Leave Request Form.
Alternate Work Week Schedules
As a result of the change to the Suspended Operations Policy, and the potential need for overtime-eligible employees to work remotely and flexibly, Western’s Telework Policy POL-U5415.01 and Permitting Flexible Work Schedule POL-U5410.02 have been canceled on an interim basis.
New & Updated FAQs
We’ve added 3 new FAQs to the WWU Coronavirus website:
- How do I evaluate if it is feasible for my employee to work remotely?
- Some of my employees have responsibilities and duties that do not allow remote work. How do I support them during this time?
- Can I bring my child to work?
We encourage you to review all of the existing FAQs. For the full list of employee and supervisor FAQs, go to https://www.wwu.edu/coronavirus.
Practice Self-Care
In the face of stressful times, it’s important to make sure we stay healthy and resilient. Remember to practice techniques that work for you to manage your own stress such as sleep, exercise, good nutrition & meditation!
Human Resources will continue to provide 24/7 service. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 360-650-3774 or hr@wwu.edu at any time with questions.
QUESTIONS:
Employee/Labor Relations Consultants:
- Kelsie Swanson (BFA, URM) at x4065
- Megan Galley (ESS, UA) at x2615
- Gretchen Lucas (AA) at x2513
Faculty Relations:
- Austin Cooper at x3915
During this time, you may be faced with delays in Human Resource services. We appreciate your patience!
Chyerl Wolfe-Lee
Assistant Vice President for Human Resources