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UC DAVIS: VICE CHANCELLOR - ADMINISTRATION
November 14, 2002
DEANS, DIRECTORS, DEPARTMENT CHAIRS AND CAMPUS/UCDMC ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS
Re: PPM Section 370-05, Student Off-Campus Events, Programs and Travel
As a result of two years of consultation, research, and development, Office
of Administration is pleased to announce the adoption of PPM Section
370-05. This policy represents the first in the UC system addressing
student off-campus travel and safety. I am confident that it not only
creates awareness about the issue of safety for our students when
traveling, but it also provides the campus with a formalized process for
coping with emergencies and catastrophes.
Safety and security of students, faculty and staff have always been of
primary concern for the campus, and, in fact, much of what is written in
the new policy is a reflection of existing practices. The need for a formal
travel policy became evident after the tragic boating accident of Gary
Polis and his research team on March 27, 2000. About a month later, yet
another tragedy occurred when animal behavior graduate student and
researcher Francis Bossuyt disappeared in an Amazon Jungle lake, his body
never to be found. Today, the events of September 11th, the increased
tensions and unrest at home and abroad also call for a proactive response
to the safety and security of our campus community members traveling
off-campus.
As a premier educational institution, we must make every reasonable effort
to keep our community apprised of known risks and to be prepared. In a
December 2000 presentation to the Council of Deans and Vice Chancellors
related to student health, safety and liability, Associate Vice Provost
Dennis Dutschke stated, "We must prepare for both the thinkable and
unthinkable . . . As we face the formidable challenges, we can take pride
in being a leader not only among the UC campuses, but also across the
United States." The leadership efforts of this campus go well beyond the
four corners of the policy. For example:
* On-line guidelines for event planning and travel, examples of orientation
materials, and helpful on-line tools and resources. Please see
http://rms.ucdavis.edu/travel.htm. This is incorporated by reference into
the policy.
* An affordable "short-term" travel policy (AD&D) that is available to
students, faculty and staff, and their respective significant others and
family who might be traveling with them. (see
http://rms.ucdavis.edu/travel.htm.) Of particular note, this policy
provides coverage for repatriation as well as search and rescue. To date,
it has no terrorism exclusion.
* On-line access to safety guidelines prepared by departments of A&ES, an
effort directed by Dean Van Alfen with the assistance of faculty member
Mark Grismer.
* A boating safety policy, committee and training program are being
developed at the direction of Director Susan Williams, Environmental
Science and Policy, Bodega Marine Laboratory.
* Ad hoc presentations by Risk Management Services to departments and
student groups regarding the travel policy, guidelines and insurance.
* A travel safety class offered through Staff Development and Professional
Services ("Safe Travel Isn't An Accident"), instruction provided by
Assistant Risk Manager Bonnie Robbins and Associate Vice
Provost--International Programs Dennis Dutschke.
Obviously, this is just the beginning. We are very encouraged by the level
of interest, enthusiasm, and cooperation shown by the campus, and encourage
your continued involvement and that of your department. If you would like
to have further information or have questions, please contact Director
Deborah LuthI (dmluthi@ucdavis.edu or 2-6537) or Assistant Risk Manager
Bonnie Robbins (bjrobbins@ucdavis.edu, 2-9189).
Janet C. Hamilton
Vice Chancellor - Administration
02-154
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