Since our first CUSP report in May 2020, we have carefully considered an array of factors before making our decisions. We continue to monitor the developing situation very closely. Our decisions will continue to reflect the guiding principles we originally articulated, including prioritizing the health and wellbeing of our community, aiming to offer the best possible learning experience and providing as much certainty as possible to students, faculty and staff by making and communicating decisions as early as possible.

As discussed at the Carleton Senate last Friday, the most likely scenario for the fall seems to be a gradual and safe return to campus, as public health regulations permit, and a course and program delivery model that allows for maximum flexibility for students. In all likelihood, large classes will continue online for fall 2021, but we anticipate that it will be possible to offer a significant proportion of smaller classes, labs and tutorials in person or in a blended format. We will be providing more specific information regarding our plans, including the development of the timetable for the fall, as the situation continues to evolve.

With Winter Break over, students are confronted with preparing for final exams. By connecting virtually with their classmates or members of smaller campus communities, they are more apt to recognize that their thoughts and ideas are valued. By talking with community members with similar perspectives, they will see that they are not alone in their views too.

• March 19, 2021: Last day to request Formal Examination Accommodation Forms for April examinations to the Paul Menton Centre for Students with Disabilities.
• March 25, 2021: Registration for the summer term begins for degree students.
• March 29, 2021: Registration for the summer term begins for non-degree students.  

Feedback from your student can help to shape their student experience! All students are invited to join discussions with their peers about the future of student services on campus. We are looking to hear from your student about their opinions, ideas and experiences related to topics such as mental health, accessibility, exams, career readiness and more. This feedback will be used to inform changes to an upcoming Students and Enrolment Divisional plan that seeks to enhance and strengthen the services that shape the student experience at Carleton.

Please note students who will have completed their program requirements in Winter 2021 must apply to graduate in Carleton Central. The deadline to do so is April 1, 2021.

Regretfully, our in-person Spring Convocation ceremonies have to be postponed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Carleton will offer virtual Graduation Celebrations for the Class of 2021 in June along with many faculty and departmental events to celebrate the important achievements of our graduates. In-person Convocation celebrations will be held at a later time, when it is safe to do so.

Please join Carleton University to officially launch the new institutional Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Action Plan on March 23, 2021, at 11:00 a.m.

Developed in 2020, the new action plan reflects the priorities in the Strategic Integrated Plan, which acknowledges a pervasive need for greater understanding and commitments to accessibility, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and calls upon the campus community to work together in ways that also demonstrate our commitment to equity and inclusion. Throughout the development of the plan, the Equity and Inclusive Communities Advisory Group consulted extensively with the Carleton community.

Registration is required. The event link will be provided prior to the event.

The International Internship Program is pleased to offer undergraduate students the option to participate in a virtual international internship this summer.

If your student is seeking summer employment, a virtual internship offers a unique opportunity to gain degree-related work experience, develop international connections in their field of interest and earn academic credit, all from a work from home position. Your student may be eligible for the International Internship Bursary to help offset any costs associated with participating in a virtual internship.

The Winter and Fall/Winter Final Exam Schedule is now available. Your student will be able to find their schedule on the Scheduling and Examinations Services website.

The April Final Exam period will take place from April 16-27, 2021. Examinations are normally held all 7 days of the week.

The student experience at Carleton expands beyond academics. During their time at university, students are balancing transitions, relationships, financial pressures, academic commitments and extra-curricular activities, all while getting to know who they are and learning how to manage multiple demands.

The Mental Health and Well-Being website provides centralized information on mental health resources, support, and initiatives that are available across campus to help students understand, manage and foster their mental health and well-being while at university.

The Black History Committee, with the Carleton University School of Social Work, is hosting a Black History event on Saturday, March 6, 2021. Through a virtual experience that will foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation through critical discussions, storytelling and performances the event will highlight African diasporic accomplishments and culture, as well as draw attention to the challenges, strengths and resilience of Black communities in Canada. Registration is required.

The Relay for Life program at Carleton University is more than a fundraiser. Every year it brings the Carleton community together to support and fight for a unified cause. Attend Relay for Life to commemorate the survivors in the community, remember those lost and continue to fight together to prove that we are bigger than cancer. The event will take place virtually from Friday, March 12, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. to Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 12:00 p.m.

Make sure to register today to get set-up for a jam-packed weekend of fun events, prizes and community-building. If you cannot attend, consider donating to support the largest post-secondary fundraiser in Canada!

Despite remote learning, there are lots of opportunities for your student to stay involved! Carleton has many student services that provide innovative and engaging programming to Carleton students.

To learn more about upcoming online events, encourage your student to visit the CUx website.