Dillon HallThe University has adjusted its plans for Winter semester in response to the potential threat posed by the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Omicron prompts changes to plans for winter semester

The potential threat of the COVID-19 Omicron variant has prompted the University to make adjustments to its plans for a gradual return to campus for the Winter term, president Robert Gordon and provost Patti Weir announced Friday.

In response to recent advice from local health authorities and Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, the holiday closure will extend to Jan. 5. Employees able to work fully remotely should do so until further notice.

Classes for the Winter term will begin on Jan. 17, and they will initially be held virtually. Undergraduate classes in education and nursing will begin on Jan. 3 to accommodate practicum and clinical rotations but will also be held virtually as much as possible.

Library and other study spaces on campus will remain open until Wednesday, Dec. 22, with physical distancing, mask wearing, and completion of the Safe Lancer App Self-Assessment required. This listing of campus available and remote services will be updated regularly.

The message closed by encouraging all members of the UWindsor community to get their third vaccine boosters as soon as they are able.

“We hope by taking these proactive steps now, we will be better positioned to enjoy all that our on-campus life and community has to offer in the very near future,” it said.

Read the entire message on the Return to Campus website.