Continuing with the promise to be as safe as possible while being as open as possible, I have decided to make the Methodist University campus “mask optional” effective immediately.
This adjustment aligns with the new Cumberland County guidance on masking and comes after consultation with local and MU health professionals. The decision also coincides with the current decline of COVID-19 cases on our campus, and is without a doubt a result of the decision to become a vaccinated university.
While masks are no longer mandatory in classrooms, the student center, at indoor athletic events, in residence halls, or otherwise, please know that wearing your mask in the presence of others – and being fully vaccinated – still remain the best forms of protection against COVID-19. For your safety, I highly recommend you continue masking around others, and don’t wait for the next vaccine clinic on our campus (March 21) to get a booster shot. Masks are available through the Student Affairs Office in the Berns Student Center.
We have remained resilient in battling COVID-19 on this campus, willing to be flexible and adapt as necessary. This “mask optional” decision is no different. If at any time we see a spike in positive cases in our community, we will immediately move back to mandatory mask guidelines for our safety.
While we all welcome the opportunity to take off our masks, we also know there are some among us who may need to wear masks for any number of reasons. I know we will remain respectful of others, caring for, and protecting fellow Monarchs whenever possible. We will also continue weekly testing for those required to do so.
If you have questions about MU COVID-19 guidelines, please visit our Forward Together web site, and for any additional inquiries reach out to [email protected].
Sincerely,
Stanley T. Wearden, Ph.D.
President
Methodist University