Thanks to all of our Detroit Mercy community members who continue to adhere to the University’s vaccination requirement and safety protocols, particularly the use of masks on campus. These policies have been established for everyone’s safety.
As a reminder, please wear masks indoors, regardless of your vaccination status. We also urge you to remember that masks only work to slow the spread of the coronavirus if they are worn properly, which means over the nose and under the chin. If you see someone who is not wearing a mask properly, respectfully remind them. If someone reminds you, adjust your mask properly. We do this because we care.
As you may recall, on June 10, 2021, Detroit Mercy community members received a message that everyone must be fully vaccinated or receive an authorized exemption to this requirement. Beginning in October, we will require random surveillance testing of those students and employees who have not uploaded proof of vaccination, including individuals who have received an exemption to the vaccination requirement. Students and employees will be responsible for obtaining the tests at an offsite location and uploading results on a weekly basis. We will announce the details of this important means of monitoring COVID-19 cases early next month. Like many universities, we have made this decision based on the rising number of cases of COVID-19 in Michigan. We have an obligation to provide a safe, on-campus experience.
In addition to regular COVID testing, students who do not upload their proof of vaccination or receive an authorized exemption will have a hold placed on their account that will prevent them from registering for winter semester classes. Students who do not comply with the vaccination policy may also be dismissed from the University. Employees who do not upload proof of vaccination or receive an authorized exemption will receive a warning and then face consequences, including possible separation from Detroit Mercy.
If we all follow these University safety protocols, we will be able to remain on campus, living, learning and working together to build community. Faithful to our mission as a Mercy and Jesuit university, let us do our part to keep our community safe and work for the common good. As Titans Together, we can live our mission of concern, especially for the most vulnerable among us.
Thank you for your cooperation and assistance.