Dear TU community,
I write today with an update on our indoor masking rule in light of recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), relevant state law and our campus vaccine coverage rate.
Effective immediately, The University of Tulsa will no longer require face masks indoors on any of its properties. Masks are already optional outdoors at TU.
As we plan safe and effective policies for an in-person fall and as we gather information about the vaccination status of our campus community, the COVID-19 Management Team recommends a mitigation plan that prioritizes vaccination and adequate prevalence testing.
We have accomplished much over the past six months. By and large, the university community has voluntarily embraced COVID-19 vaccination opportunities. More than 70% of our workforce and roughly 40% of our student body have reported being fully vaccinated to TU’s Alexander Health Center. Public health officials advise that vaccinated people can gather safely for work or study without masks.
TU encourages all unvaccinated students, employees and visitors to wear masks according to guidance provided by the CDC, Oklahoma State Department of Health and Tulsa Health Department. We ask all students, employees and visitors to protect their health and the health of others who may not be vaccinated. Masks covering the mouth and nose remain the single most effective mitigation strategy for unvaccinated individuals.
TU continues to welcome masks on campus for anyone who chooses to wear one, regardless of their vaccination status. Masks are an effective way to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and a host of other diseases, including colds and flu. We encourage everyone to be mindful of one another’s comfort levels as we safely navigate this pandemic.
Sincerely,
Matt Warren
Vice President for Risk Management and Chief Compliance Officer