View in Browser
 

Coronavirus Update

The University of Miami is closely monitoring the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. University leaders are working closely with government and public health agencies and continue to follow guidelines from the U.S. Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization. Students and families should continue to monitor University communications and travel alerts from the CDC regarding COVID-19.

Please note that students who travel to areas that the CDC has identified with a Level 2 or Level 3 travel warning (currently China, Iran, Italy, South Korea, and Japan) are required to self-identify prior to returning to campus by contacting Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu and will be required to self-quarantine for off campus 14 days. Additionally, please keep in mind that new travel restrictions and quarantines may be implemented during the coming weeks.

 

SPRING BREAK TIPS

HEALTHY 'CANE NETWORK

Enjoying the Break Safely

An estimated 1.5 million students nationally will be embarking on Spring Break. Healthy 'Cane Network is here to make sure your student takes full advantage of this well-deserved break in the semester. The annual Safe Spring Break event on campus is March 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Foote Green and will include free food and giveaways. Encourage your student to attend in order to gain tips and tricks to have a healthy break.

No matter what they have planned, your student’s well-being is important.

  • The sun's UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes in sun or snow. Encourage the use of sunscreen at SPF 30 or higher and staying adequately hydrated.
  • During each hour in the sun or vigorous exercise you lose 1.2 liters of water. The effects of dehydration are even more severe when drugs and alcohol are in the mix.
  • Talk openly and honestly about your personal expectations when it comes to alcohol consumption, including that they make sure to ask for help if they need it.

Most importantly, call, Facetime/Skype, and check-in with your student, especially if they are not returning home for spring break. It’s important to hear their voice or see their face (as opposed to text, email, or social media). Share your personal expectations, especially if they are going abroad.

 

Important Dates

 

FROM DR. WHITELY'S DESK

VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS

Wellness and Safety

Our Spring semester has flown by for our students. They have been involved in many learning opportunities, but still have so many more to go. As we inch closer to Spring Break, I am reminded of how important it is for students to take intentional time to rest before returning for the remainder of the semester.

This year's Spring Break presents a new challenge for our students and University: the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). I have been part of the University's leadership team monitoring updates from local and federal agencies as well as keeping in contact with colleagues from colleges and universities around the country. Rest assured that the health and safety of students and the University community is our number one priority. I ask that you please talk with your student to review their Spring Break plans and encourage them to follow all recommendations included in University communications and, of course, from the CDC and other groups.

In addition to staying updated about the coronavirus, students should use the week to recharge by catching up on sleep and homework to ensure that they are successful for the remaining weeks of the semester. In addition to resting up, however, we know that students will also use their Spring Break to enjoy time with friends and family. When talking with your student about their plans, we encourage you to highlight their safety and making safe decisions. From wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated to being aware of their surroundings and traveling in groups, safety is of utmost importance, not only on campus but beyond it as well. As we move towards the end of the semester, I hope that our students continue making responsible choices that care for their well-being and the well-being of others.

Dr. Patricia A. Whitely has been the Vice President for Student Affairs since 1997 and is an adjunct faculty member in the School of Education and Human Development. Dr. Whitely is responsible for oversight of residential life, leadership development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, service learning, orientation, student organizations, student activities, student facilities, student counseling and student health centers, Greek life, and the Dean of Students Office.

 

SAVE THE DATE

FAMILY WEEKEND

Family Weekend Online Registration Opens June 1

The University of Miami welcomes families of current students to attend Family Weekend 2020, which will take place from Thursday, Oct. 1 to Sunday, Oct. 4.  Registration goes live on Monday, June 1 at 9 a.m. ET.

Family Weekend is an annual tradition that brings over 2,500 family members to campus to spend time with their students and learn about the University of Miami. Reconnect with your students and experience student life for yourself during this weekend packed full of events like model classes, interest sessions, family receptions, and a football game against the University of Pittsburgh.

You can read about Family Weekend 2019 here.

 

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

UM DINING

Nutrition on Campus

If you are worried about your student eating right on campus, UM Dining has got you covered! We aim to provide our students and guests with the support they deserve by offering a variety of dining options, including a focus for those with food allergies and intolerances. From following standardized recipes to avoiding cross contact in all facets of production and service, UM Dining strives to provide safe and balanced options for all our students.

Our Registered Dietitian and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist, Alyson Marquez, is a major part of our program. She works regularly with our students to show them how to get the most out of their dining experience. From eating on a specific diet, to gluten intolerance, or those just wanting to live a healthier lifestyle, Alyson is here to show students how to navigate our dining facilities and take advantage of the wide variety of dining options the University of Miami has to offer. The best part is her services are free for all students! She is available for one-on-one sessions or a simple chat through email. You can find all of her contact information on our website as well as location menus, hours of operations, event details, and much more!

 

ACADEMIC CONNECTION

OFFICE OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND EMPLOYMENT

Financial Preparedness for 2020-2021 and Beyond

It is never too soon or too often for families to discuss college and personal finance with their students, especially with upcoming deadlines and the importance of a personal finance education for young adults.

For those who submit their 2020-2021 FAFSA (CSS Profiles not required) by the April 15 deadline and complete any CaneLink To-Do list items on time, fall term awarding begins in early May. The renewability of all aid is based on your student meeting the renewal eligibility requirements for each award. If any special circumstances exist, such as less income in 2019, you or your student should contact a UM financial aid advisor for guidance.

Our Money Management Program, and the "Money Talks" series, assists students with advancing their critical personal finance skills and becoming their best financial self. Our free programming focuses on everything from credit development and budgeting to investing and real world finance.

With your proactive guidance and our programming, your student’s experiences will continue to positively support their financial goals and academic pursuits. The Office of Student Financial Assistance and Employment looks forward to assisting you and your student with their continued success!

 

HELPFUL HOW-TO GUIDES

Proxy Account Guide


How to Pay Your Bill


How students make an appointment with Student Health Service


How students make an appointment at the Counseling Center


 

UNIVERSITY NEWS

STUDENT HEALTH

A culture of health through peer-to-peer support

More than forty peer educators give back to their fellow 'Canes by working to make the University a safer, healthier place.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Getting involved just got easier

Two new online platforms help students find opportunities to get involved on campus and in the community.

SPORTSFEST

An old tradition enters a new decade

Sportsfest 2020 was a sentimental reminder of Stanford Residential College's history as its residents, faculty, and staff prepare for decommissioning this summer.

MULTICULTURAL STUDENT AFFAIRS

Understanding the political landscape with Angela Rye

Angela Rye, CEO of IMPACT Strategies and CNN political comentator, headlines Black Awareness Month 2020 hosted by Multicultural Student Affairs and United Black Students.

BUTLER CENTER FOR SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP

The time is now

Tunnel of Oppression tells stories that transform the University of Miami experience, shedding light on social issues that impact people around the world today.

 

CONNECT WITH US