OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Dear SMU community,
With COVID-19 case counts low and health restrictions easing locally, nationally and globally, SMU will follow suit by sunsetting our pandemic procedures by the end of this semester.
We can do so with confidence because we have faced this unpredictable pandemic together – assessing and responding to each challenge as a community committed to our educational mission and the health and safety of our campus. COVID-19 created anxiety and uncertainty, but through it all, SMU remained resourceful and resilient. We instituted safety protocols for our specific campus circumstances, embraced technology and continued to offer excellent instruction and meaningful experiences. Thank you for your determination and tenacity in managing the ongoing challenges of the past two years.
As we wrap up the spring 2022 semester, our campus, including all classrooms, will move to mask-optional, except for the Dr. Bob Smith Health Center and campus shuttles that must meet specific federal health guidelines. COVID-19 case management, case reporting, voluntary vaccination reporting and the daily dashboard are among the campus practices that will be discontinued after May 15. Isolation housing will be made available to those who need it through the remainder of this term.
Going forward, COVID-19 testing and vaccinations for students and employees will continue to be provided through various options. Please see the grid below for additional information and effective dates of all upcoming modifications.
We are making these changes with cautious optimism, but it is important to recognize that COVID-19 is not gone. SMU will remain nimble with proven responses at the ready if needed. I am proud of and grateful for our campus’ collaborative approach to this complex, long-running issue. During this time, we have learned a great deal about our world and ourselves.
Pony Up and stay Mustang Strong.
Sincerely,
R. Gerald Turner
SMU President