COVID-19 vaccine update

Dear Faculty and Staff, 

I write to provide an update about COVID-19 vaccinations in New York state based on information provided to us today by the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities (CICU).  

• As of today, the state has added "in-person college faculty or instructors" to the list of populations who are eligible to be vaccinated, beginning today. Faculty who are teaching in person should complete this screening form.
• The form has now been updated to include "in-person college faculty or instructors" as an option under the Additional Information section. The option only appears once you choose a response to the question above it.
• In addition, as a licensed or registered childcare facility, all employees of Greenberg Childcare Center are currently eligible to be vaccinated. Similarly, as a registered nursery school, all employees of the Early Childhood Center are also eligible to be vaccinated.
• Individuals being vaccinated must bring proof of eligibility to the vaccination site. This may include an employee ID card, a letter from an employer or affiliated organization, or a pay stub, depending on the specific priority status.
• It is important to note that while in-person college instructors and childcare workers are now eligible to make a reservation for vaccination, demand for vaccines still far outpaces the state’s supply. Appointments could take up to 14 weeks due to limited federal allocation. 
• Eligibility determinations and a list of nearby providers where appointments can be scheduled can all be found through New York's new Am I Eligible app. New Yorkers can begin calling the New York State Vaccination Hotline — 1-833-NYS-4VAX (1-833-697-4829) — at 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11.
• Per current New York state guidance, prior to receiving the vaccination, you must complete the New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Form. This form can be completed online and you will receive a submission ID, or you can fill out the form at your vaccination site. 

Please note that decisions about who is eligible for vaccination are being made externally by state and local officials. According to health officials, people who are vaccinated can still spread the disease, even if they don’t get sick. In turn, anyone who receives the vaccine should continue to maintain social distancing and wear a mask, along with all other related precautions.

Again, we will continue to monitor this situation for developments and will provide updates via email and on the Campus Planning website as relevant information becomes available.

Thank you,
Marc C. Conner
President