FLORENCE-On Thursday, April 2 Dr. Ken Kitts, President of the University of North Alabama issued an open letter to friends and family of UNA:
Dear UNA Family and Friends,
We find ourselves in unprecedented times. Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to listen to alumni, friends, business leaders, government officials, and others describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their professional and personal lives. It’s clear that the health care and economic challenges in front of us are very real. At the same time, I also have heard uplifting stories marked by individual acts of compassion, sacrifice, and generosity. Many members of the UNA family are going above and beyond the call of duty every day to fight the virus or to support others who are on the front lines of the battle against this pandemic.
As we all learn to navigate this new reality, Dena and I want you to know that you, our UNA family and friends, are always in our thoughts. I also want to provide you with a brief update regarding our University and how we are adapting to these challenges.
You are most likely aware that we are now delivering all instruction remotely and handling meetings and related activities in similar manner. The implications of this University-wide transition have been significant. Our faculty members have proven to be nimble and effective teachers and mentors as we have expanded our online presence. This is no small endeavor, and I am grateful for their cooperation and impressed by how they have adapted so quickly. Similarly, Dr. Kimberly Greenway and the Housing and Residence Life team have done an amazing job assisting almost 800 students with check out from the residence halls. Countless other faculty and staff members have made our student experience the best it could possibly be during these difficult times. I am exceptionally proud of our University team.
I also want to let you know that we are caring for our students in new ways brought on by this pandemic. UNA continues to serve over 200 students who cannot return home due to travel restrictions or who otherwise face housing insecurity issues. For some, it’s been a financial decision to remain in Florence to keep a job to make ends meet. For others, it’s the need to remain on campus to complete online courses because of a lack of internet access at home. Regardless of the reason, our residence halls and meal plans represent basic shelter and food for these students.
Additionally, and while none of us can predict financial market volatility, I want to assure you that the UNA Foundation Board of Directors’ Investment Committee has measures in place to mitigate any losses our endowments might face in the short term and keep us on the strongest possible financial trajectory over the long term.
Many of you have already asked me, “How can I help?” My answer is simple but so important. We have the Caring for the Pride Fund which is designed specifically to help students, faculty, and staff who have been adversely affected by short-term, unexpected life events, like those caused by COVID-19. Today, I invite you to join with me and Dena in making a gift through the Caring for the Pride Fund. By pulling together, our UNA family will make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling to cope with the myriad challenges of the past few weeks.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as President of the University of North Alabama. I am keenly aware of this great institution’s proud history of not only surviving but thriving through tumultuous times. We will rise to meet this challenge as our predecessors rose to meet the challenges of earlier eras – and we will emerge from this stronger than ever before.
Dena, the boys, and I miss you, and we wish you continued health and safety. We look forward to seeing you all back on campus in the very near future.
Roar Lions!
Kenneth D. Kitts, President
