New GPA calculator

A new GPA calculator launched last week that was modeled after Rochester’s calculator. Reach the calculator at gpacalc.umn.edu or by visiting One Stop and navigating Academics > Grades and transcripts > Viewing grades. Students can either manually punch in their information, or Twin Cities/Rochester students can log in to have the calculator pull their information from PeopleSoft.

The FAFSA is available and the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) is back

The 2018-2019 FAFSA is available for students. The good news is that the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) that was disabled back in March has been restored. Students and/or parents can use the DRT to complete the 2018-19 FAFSA, but not for earlier years.

Staffing change in GSSP

Chris Abts, former Graduate Student Services & Progress (GSSP) Coordinator, has transferred to a business analyst position within ASR's Continuity and Compliance department. Taking his place is former One Stop counselor Brittany Rams. Brittany holds a BA in Art History with minors in Management and Italian Studies, as well as an MA in Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development, focusing on Higher Education. For GSSP-related questions, you can still contact gssp@umn.edu. years.

Technology & Transfer AACRAO calling for presenters

The Technology & Transfer AACRAO Conference will be held Minneapolis in 2018. It is the perfect opportunity to showcase emerging technologies and pioneering solutions that help to improve services and facilitate student success. The priority submission deadline is November 15. Check out AACRAO's website for more information.

WiFi network "UofM Secure" to retire

The WiFi network "UofM Secure" is scheduled to retire at the end of December 2017. You should now continuously connect to eduroam, the preferred, secure network for students, faculty, and staff. UofM-Guest is available for guests and visitors. OIT-managed devices will continue to connect to UofM Secure for the near future until all areas and places have been transitioned.

Veterans appreciation events

In November there are two events to honor our student veterans. On November 8 the Thanking Student Veterans booth will be open on the Washington Avenue bridge, and on November 15 the 11th Annual Student Veterans Appreciation Day event will take place in the Great Hall at Coffman Memorial Union. Guest speakers of the event include 2017 Tillman Scholar Britt Johnson and Brigadier General David D. Hamlar. Both events are free and open to the public.

FERPA Q & A

Q: A faculty member expressed concern about a student in their class who appeared to have had a seizure. The instructor wonders if it is acceptable to contact the parents of the student to make sure they are aware of the situation. The instructor has heard of the health and safety emergency clause within FERPA and believes this might be acceptable as a result. Can the instructor contact the parents?

A: No, the health and safety emergency applies when a student is going to be a harm to him/herself or the campus community. The faculty member could, however, get written permission from the student to contact the parents.