University of Dayton to require masks in most indoor, shared spaces

DAYTON — In response to the nationwide surge in COVID-19 cases caused by the delta variant, the University of Dayton will now require masks regardless of vaccination status in most shared indoor spaces.

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The university’s Path Forward team made the announcement Monday, citing the changing conditions in the pandemic caused by the highly-contagious delta variant.

“Based on these changing conditions, and after consultation with our medical advisory panel and public health officials, everyone, whether vaccinated or not, is required to wear face coverings in most shared indoor spaces on campus effective immediately,” a university spokesperson said in the email to campus members.

The policy will require facial coverings in academic, classroom, studio, lab and related spaces, and all dining facilities when not actively eating or drinking. They will not be required in areas that are not shared like private offices.

Masks will be strongly encouraged in shared residential areas like common areas and lobbies.

Move-in weekend for students is scheduled for the weekend of Aug. 20-22 with the first day of classes for the fall semester starting Aug. 23. For the fall semester, the university is planning on normal capacity without physical distance restrictions across the entire campus, in including dining, classrooms, events, gatherings and meetings, the spokesperson said.

Guests will be permitted on campus but must follow facial covering protocols.

“We are calling on every member of our campus community to take personal responsibility for their own health and wellbeing and to protect our colleagues, classmates and extended UD family,” the spokesperson said. “Remember: students, faculty or staff members may return home each day to unvaccinated and vulnerable young children, aged parents or immuno-compromised friends and family.”

“We will continue to carefully monitor pandemic conditions and the latest CDC and public health guidance. As we’ve stated, protocols may be revised on short notice as conditions change; all options are on the table as we continue to strive for an active and engaged campus environment, with safety as a top priority,” the spokesperson said.

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