SIU Today - October 15, 2020

SIU celebrating Diversity Week with many events Oct. 19-24

“Cultivating Connections: One Conversation at a Time” is both the theme and the goal of the university’s 2020 Diversity Week celebration, set for Oct. 19-24.

“Pass/no pass” option available for fall 2020 semester

Due to the ongoing challenges associated with COVID-19, the university will once again offer undergraduate students the option of requesting a “pass/no-pass” grade for courses taken in fall 2020. Graduate students will have the option of selecting a “satisfactory/unsatisfactory” grade.

Faculty and Staff Excellence Awards virtual program is Nov. 2

Southern Illinois University will celebrate the accomplishments of the 2020 Faculty and Staff Excellence Award recipients with a virtual ceremony at 2 p.m. Nov. 2.

Reminder on prohibited political activities 

The SIU Ethics Office would like remind all university employees and appointees about the importance of individuals complying with the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, especially during a time when passions are high and many are working remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unemployment insurance claim fraud alert

Due to a recent rash of fraud penetrating state unemployment systems, all faculty and staff are urged to watch for any unusual mail from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and, if necessary, take steps to protect your identity and accounts.

‘Diversity and Inclusion Monthly’ is available 

The October issue of “Diversity and Inclusion Monthly” is available from the Office of Associate Chancellor for Diversity. This month’s issue includes information on the university’s MEDPREP program, the fall 2020 Diversity Training schedule, registration information for “Reducing Bias and Increasing Diversity Training” and a discussion with Lolita L. Mack, president of the university’s Black Alumni Group.

Tips to avoid phishing scams

The Office of Information Technology (OIT) is providing information to help you avoid becoming a victim of phishing, as part of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

SIU Today welcomes submissions from faculty and staff. Please read the submission guidelines and use the online submission form to share campus announcements and event information.