Dear Students,
We are pleased to share that due to our extremely high, and consistently increasing, vaccination rate among students, faculty, and staff, that Valpo continues to have a very low rate of positive COVID-19 cases under the current conditions and protocols since students began returning to campus in early August.
Keeping our campus safe from the Delta variant means the current mask policy in academic settings needs to remain in place. All students, faculty, and staff are required to wear masks in academic classrooms, laboratories, and at required indoor academic events. Unvaccinated individuals are still required to wear masks at all times. These guidelines are aligned with recommendations from local, county, and state health officials and the few peers that share our documented very high rates of vaccination. This policy remains in place until further notice and as always, will continue to be evaluated on a regular basis. Changes in any number of conditions may result in a shift of policy. The COVID working group is engaged in discussion about the criteria and indicators that will inform future mask policy. In a constantly changing environment of imperfect information, new knowledge, and contradictory interests, this is very challenging and complex. In keeping with our institutional faith and values, we encourage and appreciate your cooperation, understanding, and grace for one another throughout our campus community and beyond.
Outside of these academic environments, remaining campus spaces are mask optional for vaccinated individuals, while masks are required for unvaccinated individuals in all spaces. Those who have specific concerns may certainly continue to wear masks on campus in any environment. Off-campus situations may not share our same vaccination rates, so we strongly encourage all to wear masks and make proactive personal health decisions while out in the community. Thank you for continuing to adhere to this protocol as we continue to work toward the most normal University experience possible at this time.
Sincerely,
Student Life Team
