Health, Safety Top Pitt Priorities This Labor Day

As part of its strategy for making this term as safe as possible for students, faculty and staff, the University adjusted its calendar to remain open today, when members of the Pitt community would traditionally observe the Labor Day holiday.

 “The University truly appreciates the willingness of our employees, both faculty and staff, to adapt and adjust as our planning and response to the pandemic continues,” said David DeJong, acting senior vice chancellor of Business and Operations and vice chancellor for Human Resources. “It is a demonstration of the dedication of every member of the Pitt community to our commitment to education and the student experience.”

Pitt announced the decision in early June to compress the academic calendar and conclude the on-campus portion of the fall term by the Thanksgiving break. The measure was designed to limit the risk of spreading COVID-19 during the holiday travel season. In recognition of the calendar change, the University will instead make Monday, Nov. 30, a paid day off.

“Forgoing a traditional Labor Day holiday is part of the shared sacrifice we are all making to keep Pitt and the community as safe as possible. I hope this is the only time we have to do this, but we are all committed to the health and safety of everyone,” said Chris Bonneau, professor in the Department of Political Science in the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences and president of the University Senate.

“I also think it is important to recognize the efforts of all Pitt employees over the past several months; the commitment of everyone—faculty, staff, and students—has been essential to us being able to continue our mission in a safe manner.”

Questions regarding this modified academic schedule for the fall term can be submitted online.