OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Wednesday, December 8, 2021
Dear SMU community,
A federal judge in Georgia has entered a nationwide injunction that temporarily stops the enforcement of Executive Order (EO 14042). Consequently, SMU is pausing the requirement that all employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 18, 2022, unless and until the courts instruct otherwise.
I want to thank you for your remarkable response to our request to upload your vaccination information. So far, 92% of our full-time faculty and 88% of our staff members have verified that they are fully vaccinated. While students were not required to get the vaccine, we know that at least 70% are vaccinated. Many more are likely vaccinated but have yet to report it. The high vaccination rate coupled with the low number of COVID-19 cases on campus in recent weeks is reassuring as we face the latest virus variant, Omicron.
SMU recognizes the value of vaccinations in maintaining a healthy and safe campus. We encourage you to get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shots at the Dr. Bob Smith Health Center or wherever is convenient for you. We will monitor all court cases affecting EO 14042 as they move forward and will remain prepared to comply.
Thank you for your commitment to staying Mustang Strong through the second year of this challenging pandemic. It has been a long haul, and it is not over yet. As we head into the holiday season, I wish everyone a restful, rejuvenating break and a wonderful time filled with family and loved ones.
Sincerely,
R. Gerald Turner
SMU President