Fall Course Planning and Preparations for Pittsburgh-Based Faculty

August 5, 2025

Dear Pittsburgh-Based Faculty Members and Course Instructors:

As we enter a new academic year, I want to ensure you have the necessary support and resources for a successful semester. This email highlights key resources and reminders to help you prepare for Fall 2025.

Timely Action Items and Requests

Scheduling Considerations

  • Fall Break (Oct. 13-17): Coordinate assignments to avoid deadlines during or immediately after this period of intended rest and restoration.
  • Democracy Day (Nov. 4): No classes or course-based activities will be held before 5 p.m., and the university will offer programming and discussions on civic service and democracy.
  • Moratorium Hours (4:50-6:50 p.m. ET weekdays): Limit undergraduate course activities to allow students time for university-affiliated activities. Exception requests must be made to the university registrar for explicit approval.
  • : Consider these dates when planning mandatory activities and assignments. Students are encouraged to share dates for which they need flexibility early in the semester.
  • Reserve Classrooms and Labs via 25 Live: This includes spaces managed by Computing Services, computing labs, and spaces in the Cohon University Center, Tepper Building, Hamburg Hall and Mellon Institute.

Creating a Supportive Learning Environment

  • Student Academic Success Center: The center offers a range of services to help students thrive, including academic coaching, tutoring, and communication and language support. It also provides accommodations for students with disabilities and works with faculty and staff to improve advising.
  • Student Accommodations: Students can apply for accommodations at any time through the Office of Disability Resources. Students with approved accommodations must notify faculty via a secure portal for each class.
  • : Use this form to refer students — or for students to self-refer — to Student Affairs for general support or assistance. For immediate safety concerns, University Police is available 24-7 to help triage support, including Student Affairs staff on call.
  • NameCoach: Use this tool to help with name pronunciation and pronouns.
  • Early Course Feedback (ECF): Collecting ECF helps you understand student experiences in your course. This feedback provides actionable insights to make impactful adjustments during the semester.

Accessing Faculty Resources

Federal Impact Resources and Updates

I look forward to seeing you all soon for the new academic year, and thank you for everything you do to make Â鶹´å an exceptional learning environment for our students.

Sincerely,

James H. Garrett Jr.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer