With three weeks into classes and more than 95% percent of the campus vaccinated, we look forward to continuing in person for the entire semester. One thing to ask… let’s mask…

Indoor Masking — On and Away from Campus

Recently on other college campuses, there have been Covid outbreaks among students this fall — including some of those vaccinated. From contact tracing efforts, it was determined that behaviors such as hanging out in rooms unmasked, traveling in cars together, and going to parties and bars led to some campuses having hundreds of students being infected. Everyone, please remember that your off-campus activities can affect your protection from Covid, so make wise choices.

Here are a few on-campus reminders:

• Masks are required in student lounge areas, dining rooms and café spaces when not eating or drinking.
• Masks are required while working out in the fitness center. Failure to comply could mean losing access to the indoor facilities.
• Make sure your mask covers your nose and mouth.
• Wear acceptable masks, such as a KN95 mask, a nonmedical disposable mask or a two-layer cloth washable one. Sorry, gaiters and bandanas don’t cover it.
• Eating and drinking are not permitted in classrooms or labs in order to keep an individual’s mask fully covering one’s mouth and nose.

Family Weekend and Homecoming Safety Plans

The university is making plans for everyone’s safety regarding two beloved annual traditions. We are excited to welcome students’ families and our alumni to campus in the next few weeks. The events are carefully planned, with most being held outdoors, otherwise they are in larger-capacity, well-ventilated venues. All guests to campus are to follow indoor masking protocols and we are notifying them that we prefer that they come vaccinated and certainly not attend if they have any symptoms.