COVID-19 Advisory and Working Groups

As concerns continue to mount over novel coronavirus — now formallly known as COVID-19 — UB is increasing its efforts to prepare for and respond in the event that cases of the infectious disease become more widespread and directly impact the university. President Satish K. Tripathi has established several committees and working groups, comprised of faculty, staff and students, to maintain continuity across UB’s academic, research and business operations:

Advisory Committees

COVID-19 Advisory Committee

Provides perspective and advice regarding UB’s readiness during this evolving situation. Comprised of faculty, staff and students from across the university,

Chairs:
  • Beth Del Genio, chief of staff to the president
  • Joseph Balthasar, professor of pharmaceutical sciences and associate dean for research in the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

COVID-19 Task Force

Active since January, monitors the COVID-19 situation and the health of the university community, collaborates with the Erie County Department of Health, and develops and implements a communication plan to facilitate the delivery of accurate, up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 to the UB community.

Chairs:
  • Beth Del Genio, chief of staff to the president
  • John Della Contrada, vice president for university communications

Working Groups

Academic Working Group

Charged by Provost A. Scott Weber, coordinates issues related to academic continuity, enrollment management, international education and alternate forms of course instruction.

Operations Continuity Working Group

Responsible for maintaining continuity in UB’s business services, internal audit, human resources and facilities.

Chair:
  • Laura Hubbard, vice president for finance and administration

Incident Management Group

Charged with planning for any possible disruption to university operations due to COVID-19.

Chair:
  • Laura Hubbard, vice president for finance and administration

Research Working Group

Works to ensure the continuity of UB’s research program and identify issues and concerns to minimize any potential disruption.

Chair:
  • Venu Govindaraju, vice president for research and economic development

Student Life Working Group

Addresses student health and well-being.

Chair:
  • Christina Hernandez, interim vice president for student life