Dear SMU Community,
Welcome back to the Hilltop for the spring 2021 semester. Many of you have been asking when the COVID-19 vaccine will arrive on campus and how it will be distributed to our SMU community. It’s not here yet. SMU has requested allocations under the state’s first and second distribution phases but has not received confirmation of when we might receive our first allotment or how many doses to expect.
Last week, the state updated its ordering system, and the University made the required formal request through that process. Rest assured, when the vaccine does arrive, we’ll be ready. You may have noticed the large white tent near the Dr. Bob Smith Health Center that will serve as our campus Vaccination Site. We have our system in place and will follow state guidelines in making the vaccine available, beginning with the 1A phase designated for campus health care workers and police. Next, the 1B phase will prioritize people 65+ and/or those with underlying medical conditions who are directly on campus. Students who fit in this category are also included along with faculty and staff.
For more details on how it will work, check out the new vaccination page on the Mustang Strong website. You’ll soon find a survey to help determine your eligibility phase, as well as steps on how to register for and receive the vaccine when the time comes. It also contains answers to frequently asked questions you may have. A map is available to help you find the Vaccination Site and additional parking spaces if needed.
Please note, we will not be registering for or scheduling vaccination appointments until the vaccine arrives on campus. However, you can help our planning efforts by confirming that your contact information is up to date in SMU’s registry. The Health Center will be using your mobile number and SMU email for communications regarding your appointment. To update your information, go to my.smu.edu, click on the Profile tile to review, and verify it. If incorrect, click ‘change number’ and make the necessary edits so that you can be sure to receive notifications about the vaccine.
While we hope to be offering the vaccines on campus in the near future, we encourage you to take advantage of the first opportunity to get it regardless of whether it is through SMU or another provider. Visit the Texas COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Locations map for additional vaccination sites and availability.
Along with COVID-19 testing for students available through the Health Center, another quick and easy option for the next month is the Curative kiosk. It uses a self-administered oral swab to collect the test sample at no cost to SMU students, faculty, staff as well as the public. Appointments are required, and you will be asked to provide insurance. Testing is available seven days a week at the kiosk located near the Airline Parking structure at 6501 Airline Court. When you go for the test, scan the QR code on the sign to share your results with SMU.
Whether you’ve received the vaccine or are still waiting to get it, it’s important to continue with the healthy behaviors outlined in our Pledge to Protect. Mask up and Pony up to Stay Mustang Strong.
Sincerely,
Randolph Jones
Executive Director, Dr. Bob Smith Health Center