AFM Newsletter for November 30, 2023

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Published:
November 30, 2023

In This Issue:

  • Main Tower Switchgear Project and Building Closure
  • AFM Accounting and Payroll Support Services Moves to MAI 4
  • askUS Support and Knowledge Base Transitioning to ServiceNow in January
  • November Tower Dedication and Ring Celebration for Texas Exes
  • Submit Newsletter Feedback and Article Suggestions to AFM@austin.utexas.edu

Main Tower Switchgear Project and Building Closure

The power supply to the Main Tower will be shut off beginning December 16 through early January to replace one electrical switchgear, which protects and controls part of the power distribution systems in the Main Tower building (MAI). Full electrical functionality will be restored no later than January 9, though the building may be made safe to occupy sooner. The time frame depends upon resolving issues that we expect to arise following the initial system re-energization on January 2. Notification will be made to all stakeholders as soon as the issues are resolved. Please note the contractor will mobilize equipment on site beginning December 13, including a generator that will occupy three parking spaces on the north side of the building.

By close of business on December 15, all departments must relocate their operations or make whatever mitigations are necessary with the assumption that they will have no access to MAI before January 9. Planning, Design and Construction (PDC) team members are compiling all these requirements and mitigation plans. Once finalized, temporary signage will be created and posted so that students, staff and faculty can find the temporary locations.

When the power to this switchgear shuts off, the building will not be safe for any occupants and doors will be physically locked down beginning December 16. The electronic access system, elevators, HVAC, lighting and other systems will not function, and building access will only be possible for true emergency situations. If you or a member of your staff has an unavoidable requirement to access to the building during the power outage, Cedric Bouey will be the POC for providing an escort.  Your PDC team recognizes the inconvenience and disruption caused by this necessary repair and we sincerely appreciate your patience and support.


AFM Accounting and Payroll Support Services Moves to MAI 4

The AFM Accounting and Payroll Support Services team has moved to MAI 4, the suite of Student Accounts Receivable. The existing email address and phone number for the team will continue to work. To pick up an accounting or payroll check, please bring your photo ID. Lobby hours for MAI 4 are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.


askUS Support and Knowledge Base Transitioning to ServiceNow in January

On January 25, askUS Support, including the existing askUS Knowledge Base, will transition to ServiceNow. The move will provide campus with new web-based tools for submitting and viewing open requests for assistance. The updated knowledge base will increase the findability of information by offering users advanced features, including smart search. For more information, continue reading askUS Transition to ServiceNow set for late January.


November Tower Dedication and Ring Celebration for Texas Exes

On November 16 the Tower Dedication took place for those who had their class rings spend the night in the UT Tower, which was lit in their honor. The Ring Celebration took place the following day with the rings being presented to students and alumni.

Texas Exes works in cooperation with AFM to coordinate the transportation and storage of the rings the day before the ring ceremony. The rings are then taken from the Tower directly to the Ring Celebration, where they are presented to students and alumni.


Submit Newsletter Feedback and Article Suggestions to AFM@austin.utexas.edu 

Many thanks to the readers who have written in with suggestions and feedback about the newsletter. Please continue to write in with any suggestions for improvements or comments to the AFM@austin.utexas.edu email address.