As we enter the final months of 1999, much worldwide media discussion will focus on how institutions that rely on computers will be affected by the change of the millennium

Year 2000
And

The University of Southern Maine

As we enter the final months of 1999, much worldwide media discussion will focus on how institutions that rely on computers will be affected by the change of the millennium. The questions and answers listed below provide information about how the University of Southern Maine at Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston-Auburn has prepared for the year 2000, and how we will function in the unlikely event that serious problems will develop at the turn of the century.

What is Y2K?

The Year 2000 problem is a result of a common prior computer programming practice of leaving out digits in computer code that would signify the century. As a result, the Year 2000 may be read by today’s computers as the Year 1900. The programming shortcut has the potential to cause serious problems for schools, businesses, and organization throughout the world that rely on computers to manage a multitude of daily tasks.

What has USM done to ensure that we are prepared to meet the Y2K Challenge?

A campus committee was formed in 1998 to target potential compliance problems. An inventory has been completed and testing of software, hardware, and vendor compliance is ongoing in all USM departments. A Y2K consultant has been hired to advise the campus on awareness, assessment, and remediation issues. In the unlikely event that USM is adversely affected by Y2K problems over which we have no control (e.g., utilities and other service providers), contingency plans have been developed to keep critical facilities and services operational.

At USM, we take Y2K very seriously. We firmly believe that our work will result in little or no disruption to student life and activities.

Will USM be open in the unlikely event that electrical Power is disrupted?

No. USM would be closed until power is restored and the safety of our students and staff can be assured.

Would USM be open if the event that electrical power is functional but computer systems are unavailable?

The University would be open for classes by new student orientation and registration would need to be rescheduled. Services such as processing late financial aide applications, producing transcripts, and distributing financial aid refunds could be disrupted.

How Will USM communicate with students if Y2K problems occur?

Announcements will be made through local radio and television stations. A special Y2K phone line for students in Portland and Gorham has been established at 780-4400 which will be continually updated with current information about the status of USM and its services. Lewiston-Auburn College students can call 753-6595 to be apprised of any changes to schedules and services.

What can students do to make the Y2K transition easier?

The most important thing you can do is conduct your normal business with the University as early as possible. The following list of dates may help in your planning throughout the fall.

November 1, 1999

Consult the spring 2000 course tabloid for advance registration dates. All returning students should register as soon as the schedule allows.

November 12, 1999

Final date to apply for financial aid to ensure on-time status. If you will be relying on loan funds to cover education expenses we encourage you to apply even earlier.

December 1, 1999

Final date to apply for spring admission if you are a new student and wish to ensure timely acceptance.

December 15, 1999

Final date to request and transcripts needed for admission to another school and be assure that they will arrive before December 31, 1999.

December 27, 1999

Due date for on-time payment of spring 2000 tuition for pre-registered students.

For Information

The members of the Y2K committee and staff in all USM departments providing student services are here to make the year 2000 transition as effortless for everyone as possible. However, if you have any questions about our Y2K readiness, don’t hesitate to ask. Some of the offices providing student services at USM are listed below, all other departments can be reached by calling 780-4141, 1-800-800-4876 or TTY 780-5646.

Advising Services 780-4040

Financial Aid 780-5250

Graduate Studies 780-4386

Lewiston-Auburn College 753-6551

Registrar 780-5230

Student Billing 780-5200

Undergraduate Admissions 780-5670

Winter Session 780-4077

Y2K Web Sites

The following is a list of web sites that you may wish to visit as you explore the Y2K issue.