Society and Culture Health And Wellness

Pandemic Letter from the Dean

Though it has been a trying and difficult year, we must continue to be vigilant in order to keep ourselves, our families, and our communities safe.

  • Dr. Neal M. Davies
  • 27 November 2020

Dear All, 

We are now over nine months into this pandemic, and we’ve reached a critical juncture. The risks are high and severe. Though it has been a trying and difficult year, let’s all hunker down and find that extra inspiration to keep going. We must continue to be vigilant in order to keep ourselves, our families, and our communities safe. 

Now, more than ever, remember and be aware that your actions and decisions not only impact those close to you, but can have serious consequences for broader community health. We must all take the time to consider and mitigate risks. Be mindful in all that you do and know that you are not alone in making these sacrifices for the greater good. 

Continue to take individual responsibility for the collective. Follow all health regulations, rules, and recommendations. Be fastidious in washing your hands, sanitizing surfaces, wearing your masks, physically distancing, working from home, and staying at home whenever possible.

Be mindful of all that you do. Mitigating risks is what we must do together. It is for the benefit of others for which we must act, and reciprocity will be to both our individual and collective advantage.

Rest assured that, while it will continue to be challenging for the next while, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. There is hope on the horizon with vaccines on the way, and we are on a path towards them. I must commend all of our colleagues at the University of Alberta, and our alumni and friends around the world, that are working day and night in the pursuit of protection against this deadly virus. 

Dig deep and know that you have people around you to support you when you need it. Stay connected with friends and family virtually and reach out if you ever need help or are feeling overwhelmed.

Revelations have occurred to all of us. Nurture strength of spirit. These new guidelines and mandates are not simply to be understood; these messages are to be lived. It is a fused responsibility for our common goal to act accordingly.

2020 will soon be over and 2021 will bring challenges but renewed opportunity and light itself.

Stay home and stay safe. 

Sincerely, 

Neal M. Davies

Dean and Professor, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences