Mask-wearing, restricted access, vaccine mandate updates

Following Gov. Charlie Baker’s May 17 announcement about all remaining COVID-19 restrictions being lifted effective May 29, pandemic-related mandates on campus has followed suit. 

Face Covering Guidance 
As of May 29, individuals who are vaccinated do not have to wear face coverings on campus, while individuals who are not fully vaccinated or whose immune systems are compromised should wear face coverings on campus. For face-covering requirements in Massachusetts, click here.  

Restricted Access and ID Requirements 
The University’s restricted access will conclude with the end of the State of Emergency on June 15, as announced by Governor Baker on May 17. University IDs will still need to be worn visibly by students, faculty, and staff while on campus grounds and accessing University buildings and facilities. Certain buildings, including residential halls, may still be locked during business hours due to normal security and safety practices and only accessible by permitted individuals through use of their University-issued IDs.  

Reminder: Vaccine Mandates and Expectations 
For the Fall 2021 semester, all students are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before they attend in-person classes or on-campus activities. University Health Services is directing students to receive their second shot of the vaccine by August 1, 2021. Students will be receiving more specific information on the University’s mandate in the weeks ahead, including instructions on how to submit their proof of COVID-19 vaccination.  

It is expected that all faculty and staff will be fully vaccinated prior to the Fall 2021 semester. Vaccines are easily accessible throughout the state and vaccine clinics will be held on campus this summer for campus community members.