I’d like to extend my deepest sympathies to all those affected by the flooding, mudslides and highway closures throughout BC. This is a trying time as we recover from the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the latest devastating wildfire season and now by these extreme weather events.
The Province of BC has declared a state of emergency and UBC Okanagan will watch these developments closely.
Campus remains open, classes are unaffected and any updates pertaining to the university will be available at ok.ubc.ca.
We stand ready to assist our community and beyond in any way that we can.
UBC Okanagan has put emergency funding in place to assist students in need of urgent financial support as a result of this natural disaster. For more information or to apply, visit students.ok.ubc.ca/emergency-funding.
Some students may also wish to contact their course instructors if they are having difficulty attending their classes due to reduced access to BC highways, and I thank those faculty members who have already taken proactive steps to support students. Faculty leaders are aware of these exceptional circumstances and processes for academic concessions are available to support students that may be unable to participate in midterms or major assignments.
Please also consult DriveBC if you are required to travel.
Many on our campus may be facing increased stress or anxiety as we navigate yet another period of uncertainty. It’s now more important than ever to treat everyone in our community with compassion, patience and generosity. I also encourage those impacted to seek out additional supports to help manage the added emotional and physical strain that times of crisis can cause.
There are a number free services available to support the health and wellbeing of students, faculty and staff:
Our communities have shown incredible resilience, fortitude and resolve over these past two years and I’ve no doubt that they will again overcome this difficult situation with grace and dignity.
Lesley Cormack
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Principal
UBC Okanagan
