from Cleveland State University
September 3, 2021

To our campus community,

Over the past year we have put in place COVID-related safety protocols and practices that reflect both the science and the unique needs of our campus community. Those measures will continue to evolve and change in response to conditions on campus and in Northeast Ohio. We asked for your help and cooperation in keeping us all safe, and you responded, most recently by continuing to wear masks in all indoor spaces on campus.
Thanks to all of you, we continue to have one of the lowest COVID-19 infection rates among urban public universities in the country. So far this fall, we have had only 12 reported positive cases, none of which were acquired on campus. We will remain vigilant and do everything in our power to keep these numbers low. 

How will we do this? The science tells us that the absolute best tool we have for combating COVID is vaccination. After closely examining the limitations, shortcomings and consequences of vaccine mandates at other universities, we believe a rigorous education and testing campaign – right now – is the best approach and fit for CSU.  

In addition to continuing our random testing program for students, beginning next week we will launch a 4-6 week comprehensive, peer-to-peer education campaign designed to ensure as many members of our community are vaccinated as possible. 

The campaign will include multiple coordinated strategies: opportunities for faculty, students and staff to share our stories of getting vaccinated, doubling down on information about how and where to get the vaccine, listening with empathy to the concerns of those who are vaccine- hesitant and sharing accurate information about the value and safety of vaccines. 

We will also announce incentives to students, faculty and staff who get vaccinated. Throughout the campaign we will assess its impact and the health of the campus community. As we track progress, and as circumstances require, we will adjust our approach to keep everyone on campus safe and healthy, as we have over the last 18 months.   

A reminder: COVID-19 vaccines are available on campus for all members of our CSU community on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Health & Wellness Services in Room 205 at the Center for Innovation in Medical Professions (2112 Euclid Avenue). No cost and no appointment needed. If you are not yet vaccinated, we urge you to make this a priority the first day back after the long weekend. Just walk in. 

It’s up to us — ALL of us – to ensure the safety and well being of our campus community. Thank you for doing your part.
Sincerely,
Harlan Sands
President
Laura Bloomberg, PhD
Provost & SVP, Academic Affairs

Forrest Faison, MD
SVP, Research & Innovation
Chief, Health Strategy
David Jewell, MBA
SVP, Business Affairs
Chief Financial Officer 

© 2021 Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115-2215 PH: 216.687.2000
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