Dear campus community,

This weekend marks two years from our initial switch to remote learning and working at the beginning of the pandemic. In that time, we’ve learned a great deal about COVID-19 and how to prevent its spread. Vaccines and effective treatments have dramatically changed the trajectory of the disease.  These developments — coupled with your cooperation and adherence to our health and safety requirements — have contributed to the recent rapid decline in cases, and I am happy that we can mark this anniversary with another step toward normalcy. 

Today, I want to remind you that, at the end of this week, we will lift several of the campus mask requirements that have been in place since November. I also want to answer some of the questions that the Campus Health Committee has received.

Beginning March 11, masks will be optional in most public indoor spaces on campus, including the Student Center Building, the Mort Harris Recreation and Fitness Center, residence halls, dining areas, libraries, and offices. There are only a few exceptions to our new mask-option policy for indoor spaces. Masks will continue to be required in classrooms and laboratories, as well as Counseling and Psychological Services and the Campus Health Center.

The individual decision to choose to continue to wear a mask is a personal one that may be based upon a number of factors. Those who wish to wear masks on campus are encouraged to do so; they may also ask others to wear a mask when entering their office or apartment, or if they are participating in a meeting. We ask everyone to show respect and comply if asked to wear a mask. Faculty and staff can see their Business Affairs Officer to obtain a supply of masks for their office beginning Friday.

As always, the most important thing that you can do to protect yourself and others is to get vaccinated and to obtain a booster dose when you are eligible.  All vaccine and booster mandates remain in effect for students, faculty and staff through the spring, spring/summer and fall semesters, and — for now — everyone must continue to submit a completed Campus Daily Screener when coming to campus.

If you have further questions about these changes or specific circumstances related to the mask optional policy, please reach out via email to healthcommittee@wayne.edu.  Have a great spring break, and I look forward to seeing many of your smiling faces on campus soon.

Laurie M. Lauzon Clabo, PhD, RN, FAAN
Chair, Campus Health Committee
WSU Chief Health & Wellness Officer

FAQ

Q. Are masks required on campus?

A. Masks are optional when outdoors or in most indoor public areas on campus, including the Student Center Building, Mort Harris Fitness and Recreation Center, dining areas, residence halls, libraries, and offices.

Q. Where are masks still required?

A. Masks continue to be required in all campus classrooms and laboratories, as well as Counseling and Psychological Services and the Campus Health Center.

Q. Can I still wear a mask if I want?

A. Yes. We understand that the choice to wear a mask is a personal one and can be due to a number of different factors. Those who wish to continue wearing masks while on campus are encouraged to do so.  

Q. Can I ask others to wear a mask?
A. Yes. All faculty and staff have the right to request that others wear masks when in their private office space, and students can request all visitors to their apartment wear a mask as well. While masks are optional in meetings, participants may also request that other attendees consider wearing a mask for the comfort and safety of others.

Q. Can I request a supply of masks for my office?

A. Yes. Faculty and staff can see their Business Affairs Officer to obtain a supply of masks beginning Friday, March 11.