Student COVID News – October Update

Published October 19, 2021

Dear students,

Welcome officially to the fall season! All of us at the Beach have done an excellent job listening to the advisement of our COVID-19 response team to keep us thriving. We are pleased to share some good news, some things we know, and some things we still don’t know. We are constantly working with uncertainty, like changing public health policies and shifting circumstances. However, I know our adaptability will keep us moving forward. Thanks for your patience.

Associated Students, Inc. will be hosting a COVID-19 Student Q&A on Friday, November 5th from 2:00pm – 3:00pm to discuss the status of COVID-19 on campus and answer student questions from campus experts.

Vaccination Rate

Our on-campus student vaccination rate remains steady at 97.4%.

Campus Exposures

Our number of exposures has been trending downward since September. Last week, we recorded our lowest number at 12 positive cases, which is 0.0008% of our student population, minuscule compared to the number of students frequenting the campus every day.

Weekly Testing

If you are required to participate in weekly testing and have not yet done so, you will be notified of the consequences. These include being locked out of BeachBoard and possibly removed from your face-to-face/hybrid courses.

COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots

Pfizer booster shots are available on campus to folks 18+ with underlying medical conditions or 65+. Register for an appointment online.

Flu Shots

According to the CDC, it is safe to receive your flu vaccine at the same time as a COVID-19 booster shot. Click here for the schedule of flu clinics on campus. Getting vaccinated and avoiding the flu will make life much easier for you during this pandemic.

Spring Course Schedule

It’s time to begin registering for Spring 2022 courses. We anticipate bringing even more students back to campus safely in the spring.

  • Between 75-85% of our courses are expected to have a face-to-face component in Spring 2022.
  • Pay close attention to the modality of your course so you are aware of face-to-face, hybrid, hyflex, or online course offerings.

Please continue to fill out your pre-screen when you visit campus and only come if you get a green check mark. 

Our COVID-19 website has been updated for October. Also, follow ASI’s TikTok channel for videos and announcements as well!

Mask up and Go Beach!

Beth Lesen, Ph.D.
Vice President of Student Affairs