Communicable Disease Outbreak Committee

CDOC's Purpose

The purpose of the Communicable Disease Outbreak Committee (CDOC) is to review public health surveillance reports and other pertinent data to ensure the safety and well-being of University of Arkansas students, faculty, staff, and guests. This committee will recommend policies, procedures, and actions to address potential and actual communicable disease outbreaks declared by the Arkansas Department of Health. In addition, CDOC serves as a multidisciplinary advisory body that supports the university’s broader public health efforts, including mental health and other emerging health concerns.  

What CDOC Does

In order to reduce risk, prepare for, and address the needs related to public health issues on campus, the CDOC:

  • Recommends policy
  • Recommends operating practices and procedures
  • Collaborates to promote the health and wellness of university students, employees, and visitors
  • Disseminates information about potential threats related to communicable diseases and other public health concerns, and how to minimize risk
  • Guides the university’s preparation and response activities related to communicable diseases and broader health issues
  • Advises the Chancellor, Provost, and Vice Chancellors on trends, risks, appropriate responses, and mitigating actions

CDOC Members & Meetings

The CDOC meets quarterly and as needed. The CDOC may create subgroups for ad hoc projects.

CDOC is co-chaired by:

  • UA Police Department: Co-Chair – Matt Mills, UAPD assistant chief
  • Pat Walker Health Center: Co-Chair - Huda Sharaf, medical director

Standing Members:

Academic Affairs

  • Academic Affairs, Jim Gigantino  

Student Affairs

  • Student Affairs, Monica Holland and Becky Todd
  • Assistant Director for Emergency & Risk Management
  • Director of Medical Services, AJ Olsen
  • Director of Nursing, Lisa Davis

Finance and Administration

  • Environmental Health and Safety, Richard Ashworth
  • Emergency Management, Jessica Post
  • Human Resources, Melinda Allen

Content Experts

  • David McNabb
  • Bart Hamming

General Counsel

  • Erin Walcutt

Athletics

  • Tricia Matysak  

Ad Hoc Members:

  • Director of Greek Life, Parice Bowser
  • Executive Director of University Housing
  • Assistant Medical Director, Carlos Acosta
  • University Relations, Mark Rushing
  • Senior Director for Marketing and Communications, Robyn Starling-Ledbetter
  • Marketing/Communications Embedded Staff Member
  • Director of Counseling and Psychological Services, Tom Caughlan
  • Psychiatrist, Scott Brenner
  • Graduate School and International Education, Lindsey Aloia
  • Study Abroad, Aley Bedair