PROTECT GRIFFIN NATION : RETURNING to CAMPUS SAFELY
By : Kirsten Swanson
After more than a year with mostly virtual experiences , the University welcomed all students , faculty , and staff back to campus in August 2021 .
With the health and safety of the entire campus community the top priority , the University enacted a COVID-19 vaccination policy that required all on-campus faculty , staff , and students to submit proof of vaccination or apply for an exemption .
As of November 14 , 2021 , 94 % of the campus community is fully vaccinated . The remaining population submitted exemption forms and are tested weekly through GMercyU ’ s Health and Wellness Center . As of November 14 , 2021 , more than 99.9 % of all on-campus tests for the fall 2021 semester have been negative .
“ Our Mercy values call on all of us to consider the Common Good and to respect all life . Our COVID-19 vaccination policy is consistent with what we see as a moral obligation to protect not only ourselves , but also those around us ,” President Deanne H . D ’ Emilio , JD said . “ I ’ m proud of our campus community for their commitment to the health and safety of their fellow Griffins .”
In addition to the vaccination requirement , all those who visit campus must complete an Online Health Survey , check in with Public Safety at the entrances , and wear a mask when indoors ; all guests visiting the Residence Halls must provide proof of vaccination .
To ensure fair access to vaccines , GMercyU hosted numerous oncampus clinics for students , faculty , staff , friends and family . To date , the University has distributed more than 120 vaccine does to community members .
94 %
of ON-CAMPUS , FACULTY , STAFF and STUDENTS VACCINATED
2 PRESIDENT ’ S REPORT