Dear Faculty and Staff,

As we approach the holiday season, we hope that you and your loved ones are healthy and safe, that the Fall Semester was successful, and you are ready for a well-deserved break.

During the break, we would like to encourage you to visit the New Normal Task Force (NNTF) website where we have recently posted a number of important and insightful position papers prepared by subject matter experts and members of the task force.  These position papers analyze how higher education can fulfill its mission, remain relevant and become sustainable after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has passed and economic normalcy resumes.

Specifically, there are a total of six position papers focused on the following topics:

• Instruction and Pedagogy
• Recruiting and Retention
• Globalization of Education
• Workforce Development
• Research Repositioning
• Intercollegiate Athletics

In addition, we have posted detailed recommendations from the NNTF sub-committees regarding Microcredentialing, Student Recruitment and Information Technology.

As part of collecting your feedback on the work of the NNTF, we are soliciting your questions and comments about these latest task force findings and strongly urge your participation. Your feedback will provide invaluable additional input and help expand our knowledge base as we move forward into the New Normal.  We intend to incorporate your contributions into the work of the NNTF, with the compiled information serving as a vital additional resource in helping to guide the implementation of “Daring to Dream,” the University of Houston Strategic Plan.

To access the NNTF material – which is password-protected – please go directly to uh.edu/president/nntf and log in with your personal CougarNet credentials.  You will find these articles in the Current Initiatives and White Papers sections.

The New Normal Task Force has worked diligently during the last eight months to address the significant challenges facing us all. We appreciate your support and value your input and feedback moving forward.

Regards,

Cochairs, New Normal Task Force