President Eighmy urges Roadrunners to stay vigilant against coronavirus

OCTOBER 27, 2020 — Editor’s note: The following message was sent via email today from President Taylor Eighmy to all faculty, staff and students:

I want to offer a big thank you to each and every one of you. You all have done an amazing job staying positive and following the Roadrunner Pact this semester. Our relatively low number of confirmed COVID cases at UTSA currently is a testament to your determination in doing your part to stop the spread.

I know everyone is very weary of the effort it takes to cope with the pandemic. Further, you may have loved ones, friends or colleagues who have gotten sick or been hospitalized or lost a life. To those impacted, you remain in our thoughts.

“As cases in Texas continue to rise and with flu season upon us, we need to be ready for a third surge of the coronavirus.”

Nevertheless, seven months into this pandemic it can be so tempting to let our guard down. We all crave a return to some normalcy. However, as cases in Texas continue to rise and with flu season upon us, we need to be ready for a third surge of the coronavirus.

I have a few personal requests of each of you as we do our best to remain vigilant: 

• Keep practicing the Five Principles. And remember to wash your hands, wear your mask and keep a safe distance from others when in public spaces.

• Get your flu shot. This is so important! It’s one of the best ways you can protect yourself and others when the flu and coronavirus are circulating at the same time this winter.

• Get tested. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, getting tested for COVID protects those around you and saves lives. Testing is available on campus.

• Celebrate the holidays safely. We all want to spend time with our friends and family during the holidays, but large gatherings, crowded parties and travel all pose risks this year. Protect your loved ones and your fellow Roadrunners by celebrating virtually or only with members of your household—starting with Halloween this weekend.

• Take care of your mental health and well-being. Plain and simple, the pandemic has been hard on us all. Whatever feelings or challenges you may be experiencing, know you are not alone and we have resources to support you.

As a reminder, all instructional activities will be conducted online starting after Thanksgiving break for the remainder of the semester. We will share more details about post-Thanksgiving campus operations in the weeks to come.