In 2021, a year after the arrival of a novel Coronavirus in Texas caused the University to make unprecedented changes in its operations, we asked some of our staff, “What has it been like to work at UT Dallas during the COVID-19 outbreak?” Here are their responses.
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7
Working at UTD during the pandemic has been a great comfort to me. During a year in which I haven’t been able to see most of my family and friends on a regular basis, I have a gained a greater appreciation for my UTD family. Two examples illustrate this best. Last summer, I worked with several of our FM staff to physically prepare classes for socially-distanced, in-person learning, and through the process I got to know several of our Facilities Maintenance staff. Despite early mornings and long hours moving furniture, taping off table tops, and covering chairs, they worked cheerfully and looked out for each other. There are several co-workers I had only known from a few words exchanged in the office. This past year, three of us formed a text chat group to commiserate, exchange information, and cheer each other up with funny animal pictures. They are both moms, so it has shown me how this pandemic has impacted everyone differently. Despite the distance, my colleagues and I have found ways to become closer. Finally, I would be remiss if I did not include a note about our UTD leadership. As an FM employee, I have had to be on campus several times, so I am very appreciative of the early, decisive, and effective actions our leadership has taken to create safe working and learning environment. Mask-wearing mandates, free masks and hand-sanitizer, sanitizer stations spread across campus, frequent communications, a return-to-work plan, and now regular testing make me feel safe and valued. During a time of great uncertainty, UTD has provided guidance and solace.
Carmen Wright, NCIDQ, RID, AUID
Interior Designer, LEED Green Associate
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