Dear Campus Community,
This year, the period from Monday, December 23, 2019 until Thursday, January 2, 2020, includes 4 holidays, 2 weekend days and 4 regular work days. Wherever possible, departments are encouraged to allow staff to have the 12 consecutive days off, by utilizing 4 days of vacation. As in past years, this decision is entirely voluntary for both employees and departments, but strongly encouraged for sustainability reasons. We recognize and are grateful for dedicated employees that do not have this option.
As in recent years, this break provides an opportunity for the campus to reduce energy costs and prove its commitment to sustainability. To reduce energy consumption and our campus carbon footprint, UMD will operate campus buildings at temperatures lower than usual (62 degrees F) with limited ventilation during this campus break period. If you have an adjustable thermostat in your office, you are asked to turn down the temperature to 62 degrees but no lower than 60 degrees.
Facilities Management intends to provide minimal staffing dependent on campus needs. Please contact Facilities Management at facmgt@d.umn.edu if you plan to close or have events planned that will require our custodial (staff and/or door opening) services during this period. In order to meet your needs, please respond as soon as possible.
Thank you for your continued support of UMD sustainability initiatives.
Sincerely,
Lendley C. Black
Chancellor
