COVID-19 Updates
February 18, 2022
Dear all,
I am writing to provide updates regarding our COVID-19 policies. The prevalence and disease burden of COVID-19 in Dutchess County has drastically declined in the last month. On campus, our numbers are in the single-digits for employees although we remain at about fifty cases among students.
Spring break
Students are required to have a negative COVID-19 test 24 hours before they return to campus from Spring break (unless the student has had COVID-19 in the last 90 days), and a COVID-19 test will be required 3-5 days after returning to campus (again, unless the student has had COVID-19 in the last 90 days). For those who wish to be tested before leaving for Spring break, COVID-19 testing is available as always through the College Center vending machine and at the Aula on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday afternoons from 1:00pm to 4:30pm.
Masking: students
Given the prevalence of COVID-19 cases among students, masks must continue to be worn by students indoors—including in classes, offices, and residential spaces. Students may unmask if actively eating or drinking, exercising strenuously, performing while six feet away from others (e.g., musical, theatrical performances), or alone in a private space or with roommates or apartment mates in living spaces. KN95 masks are available at the ROC.
Masking: employees
Employees, including faculty and student employees, who are vaccinated and boosted or who have had COVID-19 in the last six months, may unmask with 12 or fewer employees in meetings and in shared spaces. Employees may continue to wear masks if preferred, and it is common courtesy to ask people in meetings if all are comfortable removing masks. Employees, including faculty, may also unmask if presenting or performing while at least six feet away from others. Due to the NY Hero Act, participation in the Daily Health Checks is required through at least March 17.
Keeping the campus safe for everyone—including people who are not vaccinated or are immunocompromised—is a priority. Let us continue to be empathic and understanding as we continue to navigate the pandemic together.
Thanks, and warmer weather is coming!
Elizabeth H. Bradley, President
Vassar College
Poughkeepsie, NY 12604
@EHBVassar