TO: The Gustavus Community
FROM: COVID-19 Response Leadership Team
SUBJECT: Gustavus Mask Requirement
DATE: August 17, 2021
As we prepare for the majority of students to move to campus over the next three weeks and begin classes in early September, Gustavus is implementing an indoor masking requirement that will be in effect from 5 p.m. on Friday, August 20 through 8 a.m. on Monday, September 20. Students, faculty, and staff who are already on campus are encouraged to begin masking now in advance of the requirement going into effect on August 20.
The COVID-19 Response Leadership Team and President’s Cabinet believe that this temporary masking requirement will set the foundation for a safe and successful academic year by minimizing the chance of infection as students and staff reacclimate to campus. Please do your part by wearing a facial covering, and remember — Gusties ROAR (Respect Others, Act Responsibly)!
During the masking requirement period, all Gustavus students, faculty, and staff will be expected to wear a mask indoors regardless of vaccination status. Exceptions include students who are in their residence hall room with the door closed, employees who are working in an individual office with the door closed, and individuals who are seated and eating.
This requirement is being put in place due to increased transmission of the COVID-19 Delta variant in Minnesota. Wearing a mask or facial covering during the move-in period and the first two weeks of class will help our community minimize the spread of COVID-19 as we come together for the academic year. Once people have adjusted to being on campus and College staff are able to evaluate case numbers, the COVID-19 Response Leadership Team and President’s Cabinet will revisit the requirement with the intention to no longer require masking as of September 20.
As a reminder, students are required to be vaccinated or have a documented and approved exemption on file with the Gustavus Health Service. Students, faculty, and staff who were vaccinated outside of the state of Minnesota should visit the Gustavus Health Portal to upload proof of their vaccination status.
All students are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19 before the academic year begins. For optimal timing, tests should be completed three to five (3-5) days before returning to campus. Students already on campus are welcome to utilize the Gustavus Health Service for COVID-19 testing.
Any member of the community who experiences possible COVID-19 symptoms should contact the Gustavus Health Service or their healthcare provider as soon as possible.
If you have any questions, please email g-covidresponse@gustavus.edu.