August 11, 2021 Update: COVID-19
Change to Champlain’s Indoor Masking Policy
Dear Champlain Community,
Due to the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in Chittenden County, effective today, the College is reinstating a masking policy for all students, employees, and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, when in shared indoor spaces (see COVID-19 FAQs for more specifics). Masking is not required for students in their own residential apartments/suites. This measure will be re-evaluated on an ongoing basis. This updated policy is consistent with current recommendations from the City of Burlington as well as our regional peer institutions, and supports our efforts to sustain a safe and healthy campus as we prepare to welcome students back this fall.
Research continues to show that vaccination and masking are the two most effective tools against COVID-19. All employees are encouraged to get vaccinated. Data continues to show that COVID-19 vaccines are effective in doing what they were designed to do: limit transmission, reduce severity of illness, and save lives. Thank you to the 93% of full-time faculty and staff who are fully vaccinated.
Unvaccinated employees and students with medical or religious exemptions are required to continue to participate in a weekly COVID-19 testing program. The current summer testing hours are Mondays from 8:00 AM–3:00 PM and Wednesdays from 11:00 AM– 6:00 PM at Whiting Hall.
Finally, we remind you again to take care of yourself and your community by staying home if you are not feeling well.
It continues to be our plan to fully reopen our campus to students this fall for in-person living and learning. We will continue to monitor and adapt our policies and protocols over the coming weeks.
Additional information about students’ return-to-campus will be shared with the community later this week. You can find COVID-related updates in the People Center newsletter, the Academic Affairs Brief, and on our website. Employees with questions or concerns can reach out to the People Center or questions can be emailed to feedback@champlain.edu.
Leslie Averill
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Danelle Berube
Vice President of Student Affairs
Sara Quintana
Acting Director of Human Resources
