Important Updates Following Irma

Dear UCF Student,

I write today to welcome you back and to share an important update regarding course information and student resources.

Words cannot describe how proud I am to be a UCF Knight. The selfless display of patience, compassion, generosity and service by our students, staff and faculty in the wake of Hurricane Irma was extraordinary. I am grateful for the many student volunteers who assisted with recovery efforts during this critical time. We are truly stronger when we stand together to help our fellow Knights and our community.

As you readjust and return to a normal class schedule, I encourage you to focus your attention on your studies and your personal well-being. While the storm may have altered your daily routine, it must not deter you from achieving your ultimate goal of earning a college degree. Your success remains our top priority. I have outlined the following steps to ensure a smooth transition post-Hurricane Irma:

• UCF will not make significant changes to the academic calendar that would extend the academic term. Colleges, departments and faculty will have the flexibility of revising their syllabi or course delivery to ensure that course objectives are met. Please note that some changes may require additional class meetings, use of online modalities, or other adjustments. Please carefully review changes made by your instructors so that you clearly understand any changes in deadlines or expectations.
• The withdrawal, grade forgiveness and class reinstatement deadlines have been extended until 11:59 p.m. on November 6, 2017. Withdrawals will result in a grade of ‘W’ and tuition and fee liability for the course.
• If you are taking an online or a mixed-mode course, technical assistance is available. For more information, please call 407-823-0407, email webcourses@ucf.edu or visit https://cdl.ucf.edu/support/.

As a UCF student, you are ultimately responsible for adhering to all academic and non-academic policies and procedures. Please consult the university’s academic calendar for key deadlines and guidance: http://calendar.ucf.edu/2017/fall.

Other student resources include:

• Counseling – We recognize that during times like these, it is common for you to feel a broad range of emotions. Please remember to put self-care first. Counseling services are available through our Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). For more information, please call 407-823-2811 or visit http://caps.sdes.ucf.edu/.
• Tutoring – The Student Academic Resource Center (SARC) provides free resources to help you achieve your academic goals. If you need help with course content, tutoring, or improving your study skills, please call 407-823-5130 or email sarc@ucf.edu.
• Food and other essentials – Students in need of food, water, clothing, linens and other housewares are able to access the Knights Helping Knights Pantry. The Pantry is a free service supported by the Student Union, the Student Government Association and our generous community donors. For more information, please call 407-823-3663 or email jkiriwas@ucf.edu.
• Members of the National Guard – If you are a student that has been called to duty by the National Guard to assist with hurricane recovery efforts, you are encouraged to contact the Veterans Academic Resource Center (VARC) for assistance with enrollment and registration. For more information, please call 407-823-2707 or email varc@ucf.edu.
• Student care services – UCF Student Care Services offers support and resources to students in times of crisis, distress or instability. Learn more about how we can help you by calling 407-823-5607 or email ucfcares@ucf.edu.

Thank you for your ongoing patience as we continue to recover from Hurricane Irma. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need additional assistance at 407-823-4372 or ucfsdesvp@ucf.edu.

Have a wonderful semester!