Dear Carlow University Students, Faculty and Staff,
We have continued to monitor, assess, and manage the outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to evolve. Because we are committed to making decisions based on science and guidance from the CDC, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and Allegheny County Health Department, we advised you early in December about the requirement to provide proof of your vaccination by January 24, 2022.
I. Virtual Undergraduate & Graduate Classes Until January 24
In accordance with this vaccine requirement, and after consultation with faculty and staff council leadership, we have decided to offer on-ground undergraduate and graduate classes virtually until January 24, 2022. At this time, it will be our expectation that the Carlow community will be in compliance with our vaccination requirement. This plan provides sufficient time operationally to ensure that we are prepared to return to an on-ground, academic learning experience that is in the best interest of all.
PLEASE NOTE:
- There will be no change in the schedule for the physical return to campus for residential students, athletes, faculty, and staff.
- In accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Education and University protocols, the Campus Laboratory School and the Early Learning Center operations will resume as planned. Parents have received communication on the appropriate on-ground testing and vaccination protocols for their children’s safe and healthy return to campus.
- On-campus events/activities will shift to virtual if occurring prior to January 24, 2022.
II. Proof of Vaccination Submission by January 24
Research to date has demonstrated that the currently authorized COVID-19 vaccines are an effective combatant against the virus. Widespread vaccination represents a critical step in mitigating the pandemic and the mutations of the virus.
As communicated previously, vaccine exemptions will be granted for those who submit in accordance with the medical and religious exemptions. Students may access exemption forms here. Employees should contact HROffice@carlow.edu to engage in the reasonable accommodation process.
We are very pleased that most employees and students have already submitted their vaccination cards. All submissions are strictly confidential.
- For employees who have not yet submitted their vaccination cards, you may do so by clicking here.
- Students who have not already submitted vaccination cards may do so by clicking here.
III. Mandatory Weekly Testing for Individuals with Medical and Religious Exemptions
For individuals who have been granted an exemption, it will be necessary to produce a weekly negative COVID test result not more than 72 hours old. It will be necessary to make your own arrangements for weekly testing.
Students, faculty and staff must self-report their test results. Students should contact Health Services by clicking here, calling 412-578-6474 or emailing hcs@carlow.edu. Faculty/Staff are asked to contact Human Resources by emailing HROffice@carlow.edu.
Thank you for helping us to protect and promote health and safety across our community. For any questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine requirement, please send an email to questions@carlow.edu.
Sincerely,
Kathy W. Humphrey, PhD, President
Anthony Good, UFA CO-Chair, Graduate
Siobhan DeWitt, Staff Council
Aimee Zellers, UFA Co-Chair, Undergraduate