This communication was sent campuswide May 17, 2021.

Dear Wildcat Family:

Earlier this month, the state of Utah met the criteria outlined in HB 294 to end COVID-19 public health orders at the state and local levels. Last week, Governor Cox and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new face covering guidelines for people who are fully vaccinated.

In light of these developments, Weber State University is revisiting and updating our COVID-19 protocols.

Face Coverings

Beginning May 19, face coverings will no longer be required in WSU facilities, but are strongly recommended for individuals who have not been vaccinated, per CDC guidelines. The university reserves the right to still require face coverings under certain circumstances, such as large gatherings, specific events or work environments (i.e., food preparation locations), or as conditions change.

Professors teaching courses during summer session may continue to require face coverings in their classrooms through the end of the first summer block (June 25).

All are welcome to continue to wear face coverings on campus and are encouraged to do so where recommended by the CDC. Each of us will work through this transition at our own pace, and with varying levels of comfort. Please be respectful and supportive of your fellow Wildcats during this time. 

Employees who have concerns or need to request accommodations should contact their immediate supervisor or human resources. 

Students who are concerned about these changes should contact their instructors or email COVID19@weber.edu. Students with a need for accommodations should contact Disability Services.

Events

Effective May 19, the university is easing restrictions related to holding events on campus.

Organizers who wish to hold events on campus will need to submit a completed event planning form outlining the nature of the event, including a plan for how the event will manage/address COVID-19 safety concerns.

Travel

Current guidelines regarding domestic travel for university business will remain in place through June 25. 

University-related international travel should not occur through June 25. The university will revisit this guidance prior to June 25, adhering to the latest CDC recommendations.

Vaccination Clinics

The easing of these protocols is a direct result of CDC guidance and lower transmission rates in our region. We strongly encourage all members of our community to get vaccinated. The vaccine is safe, effective, and the best defense to protect you and your loved ones from contracting COVID-19. 

The university, in partnership with the Weber-Morgan Health Department, is holding vaccination clinics on May 18 and 25, 4 to 8 p.m., at the Dee Events Center. The shot is free and walk-ups are welcome.

Ongoing Precautions

Given current trends, we look forward to welcoming more people and students back to our campuses in-person this fall.

In order to provide everyone a more traditional college experience come fall 2021, it is important that we continue to:

• Get vaccinated
• Maintain physical distance 
• Wear face coverings (if not vaccinated) 
• Keep classroom and office spaces clean 
• Practice good hygiene 
• Stay home when sick

A virtual town hall to discuss these changes and our ongoing efforts is scheduled for May 19, at 3:30 p.m. Check the announcements for additional details. For additional guidance and our current COVID-19 protocols, visit weber.edu/coronavirus.

While the pandemic is not yet over, we are optimistic it is waning. This summer provides a period of transition as we return to campus and the interactions, traditions and routines that we have missed and that are so valuable to our core mission.

Wishing us all health, happiness and fortitude.

Brad Mortensen
President

Dane LeBlanc
Director of Public Safety