Important update for employees on mask and social distancing requirements

Dear Colleagues,

I am writing with an important update and clarification on wearing masks on campus. As you are aware, the CDC and New York state recently announced that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance in most outdoor and indoor settings. Based on current vaccination rates, the New York State Department of Health still strongly recommends that individuals wear masks indoors when the vaccination status of all individuals is not known.  As federal and state guidance evolves, so will the College's masking and social distancing requirements. Based on current guidance, the following rules currently apply to employees on campus:

• Fully vaccinated employees do not need to wear masks outdoors.
• Fully vaccinated employees do not need to wear a mask or socially distance indoors when with other fully vaccinated individuals (including meetings and small gatherings).
• Fully vaccinated employees must continue to wear masks indoors when in the presence of other individuals where the vaccination status of the other individuals is unknown. This includes all indoor public spaces on campus such as shared workspaces, classrooms, labs, studios, Case Center, Scribner Library, the Murray-Aikins Dining Hall, hallways, restrooms, etc.
• Employees (vaccinated and unvaccinated) are not required to wear face masks when working alone in their private offices or vehicles.
• Unvaccinated employees must continue to wear appropriate face coverings and maintain appropriate social distancing when in public spaces and outdoors.

Please be cognizant of your own risk in making decisions about masking and safe physical distancing. All members of our community must be respectful in their communication with others regarding mask wearing and vaccination status. While individuals may voluntarily disclose their vaccination status, the College expects all community members to exercise sensitivity to individuals’ unique circumstances. This includes refraining from asking an individual why they have not been vaccinated. 

Thank you for your continued efforts in making our campus a safe place to learn and work. If you have any questions, please reach out to a member of the HR Team.

Sincerely,
Sarah Delaney Vero, Esq.
Interim Human Resources Director
Assistant Director of Employment & Workforce Diversity