Since the COVID-19 pandemic first arrived in Central New York in March 2020, Syracuse University students, faculty and staff have demonstrated a tremendous commitment to the health and safety of the campus and Syracuse communities. That commitment to public health has never been more evident than it has in recent weeks as thousands of students, faculty and staff have responded, once again, to an urgent call to action.
In April, Chancellor Kent Syverud announced that as of June 1, Syracuse University would require a COVID-19 vaccine (or an exemption for medical reasons or sincerely held religious beliefs) for students, faculty and staff. Members of the University community have met that expectation–with enthusiasm. As of June 23, 97% of faculty and benefits-eligible employees are fully compliant with the University’s vaccine requirements. That percentage increases to 99% when including those who have received the first required dose of a two-dose vaccine.
Nearly 90% of students who will be on campus this summer have already done the same, and the University is reaching out to all students who will coming to campus this summer and in the fall to ensure they also take this important step.
From masking up to maintaining social distance, exercising good health practices to participating in a rigorous surveillance testing program, the vast majority of the campus community has remained committed to the University’s COVID-19 response throughout the pandemic.
Dr. Karen Nardella, medical director at the Barnes Center at The Arch, says the high rate of vaccine compliance is a very positive step in the right direction in the battle against COVID-19.
“I am really impressed with our community’s response. These numbers are very exciting because a large majority of our campus is immunized, which makes campus a safer place to be,” she says.
For information on how you can get vaccinated, visit the University’s Stay Safe website. To report your vaccination status, visit the MySlice portal.
