UIF/UI Advancement Team Operations - COVID-19 Update 03.27.20

Dear Colleagues:

“The strength of the team is each individual member.
The strength of each member is the team.”– Phil Jackson

During this time of change and disruption, I find this quote particularly relevant. The COVID-19 crisis has required us to individually — and as a team — adapt, support, trust, and lean on each other in new ways.

Over the past couple of weeks, I have seen and heard many examples of how our advancement team has embraced this challenge head-on. I am impressed by people in every corner of our advancement program, at our universities, and in our communities. You are rising to meet every new challenge with creative solutions that are keeping us on track during this unprecedented time. On behalf of the entire UIF/UI Advancement Team - COVID-19 Crisis Management Task Force, thank you for all you are doing and the example you are setting.

Even though almost all of us are working remotely, I have heard from a number of colleagues that calendars are full and people are Zooming all over the place. If you haven’t jumped on Zoom yet, I encourage you to utilize Zoom or Skype for enhanced personal interaction. It’s a great way to stay connected with co-workers and colleagues.  Virtual Zoom coffee breaks and even happy hours are surprisingly engaging as well. I also urge you to continue monitoring the UIF Online page to find the latest information about the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on our business operations and to find archived communications and links to helpful resources. 

Effective communication is important under normal circumstances and even more so in times of crisis. If you have questions, continue to work through your supervisors and leadership teams. I will check in with you weekly, so feel free to send along questions and information you would like me to address or share.

Have a great weekend, and remember together we are stronger. Stay well!

Best regards,

Jim