As we transition to remote learning, resources, support and guidance to help you succeed

March 21, 2020

This message is sent on behalf of the Office of the Provost.

Dear URI Undergraduate and Graduate Students,

As Provost and Chief Academic Officer of the University, I am writing on behalf of the President, Senior Leadership Team, Deans, and the Faculty. First and foremost, I hope you and your loved ones are safe as we all attempt to navigate the complexities of the global COVID-19 health crisis.

I know that this is a stressful time for many as you worry about your own health and that of friends and family members, while attempting to stay engaged in your schoolwork. We at URI want to provide guidance, understanding, and support as well as ensure that you can complete your academic work this semester. If you are feeling stressed, it is understandable. Take a deep breath—we will get through this together. URI’s Counseling Center has transitioned to telehealth to continue to provide support to you. You can call the Counseling Center 24/7 at 401.874.2288 and you will be scheduled to talk with a counselor on the phone or via WebEx.

We will be proceeding with remote teaching and learning for the rest of spring semester 2020. Faculty are working hard to reformat their courses for remote delivery. Please be patient and understanding as this is happening quickly and we are all learning and experimenting with new modalities and technologies at the same time. No doubt class delivery will vary from one course to the next as faculty try different approaches. Try to be flexible during this challenging time and, most of all, try your best to continue to learn, despite the hardship and disruption that has so suddenly been thrust upon us all.

The best way to overcome the disruption created by COVID-19 is for all of us—faculty, staff, and students—to move forward together with a commitment to teaching and learning. Let’s all dig a little deeper to work hard at teaching and learning in a less than ideal circumstance and take care of each other during this time of tumult and anxiety.

It is important that you regularly check your email and the University’s Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) website to get up-to-date information about resources for you to learn remotely. You will find important links below related to advising, tutoring services, technology support, and more that you may find helpful:

Finally, during this difficult time: Be Calm, Be Patient, Be Flexible, and Be Supportive to each other and your teachers.

Be well and safe, my friends.

Don DeHayes,
Provost and Chief Academic Officer