Office of the Registrar

Dear OSU students,

OSU Safety and Success policies continue to adhere to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) guidelines, as we work together to achieve Governor Brown’s goal of 70% of Oregonians 18 and older having received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. The following message is about an allowable exception to the current face covering policy. The exception only applies to employees, including student employees.

Exceptions to the face covering policy.

We have identified a number of university employment settings where we are able to allow for an exception to OSU’s face covering policy in alignment with OHA’s Interim Guidance for fully vaccinated employees. This exception is available to OSU employees, including student employees, while working in allowable environments.

What does this mean for student employees?

Fully vaccinated OSU employees who provide proof of being fully vaccinated will be allowed to refrain from wearing a face covering while working in their assigned work environment – where allowable. Employees, including student employees, will be required to use their face covering – regardless of vaccination status - when others not assigned to the work environment enter the work environment. For example, if you work in a space and a guest (or employee from another department) enters your workspace to do business, you must wear a face covering. Additionally, if you work in a space where there are regular guests (employees, students, customers) you will continue to be required to wear face coverings and be physically distant in shared indoor spaces. Examples of these include the library, Memorial Union, Dining Centers and Dixon Recreation Center. 

This exception does not extend to individuals who are accessing or utilizing university space, as OSU is unable to effectively administer a similar verification process that meets OHA’s requirements, beyond those who hold employment status. 

When will the face covering policy change?

We expect the face covering policy will be modified or terminated when the Governor terminates the statewide mask requirement. You can help us get there by increasing our vaccination numbers. If you have not already, make sure to visit the Student Health Services website to upload verification of your compliance with OSU’s vaccine program. Thank you for your continued adherence to OHA’s and OSU’s public health measures and supporting the Governor’s vaccination goals.

Sincerely,

Dan Larson

Vice Provost for Student Affairs

OSU Coronavirus Response Coordinator