Dear University of Iowa employees,

This morning, Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency giving state agencies additional flexibility in responding to the unprecedented COVID-19 situation to protect public health.

As a result, UI leadership is directing all employees outside of UI Health Care to work remotely unless the critical function they provide must be completed on campus.

Each of you contributes to the successful operation of this university, but many of you can complete your work remotely. Directing employees to work from home will support social distancing and reduce the threat of spread for everyone, including our colleagues who must perform essential services on campus, including:

• patient care
• public safety
• research continuity
• and critical operational support (e.g. Cambus, laundry, etc.)

Please speak with your supervisor as soon as possible to determine if your position can be performed remotely and to ensure you have the necessary access and equipment to support working from home.

Leaders in the colleges and vice presidential units will work with their senior HR leader to identify staff and student employees who are performing non-critical work and could potentially be reassigned.

Thank you for your commitment to the University of Iowa and for your flexibility in keeping the workplace safe during this time while also maintaining essential functions. We know that dealing with this evolving situation can cause stress and anxiety. Please remember that the Employee Assistance Program is available to support you.

Sincerely,

Cheryl Reardon, chief human resources officer and associate vice president