Lincoln College is updating current COVID-19 guidelines for campus, effective immediately.
On May 13, The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the removal of mask mandates for fully vaccinated people both indoors and outdoors, even in large gatherings. Governor J.B. Pritzker announced Illinois will align mask and social distancing guidelines with these CDC recommendations.
In accordance with new CDC and state guidelines, masks and face coverings will no longer be required at the Lincoln College campus for fully vaccinated individuals. Masks will continue to be required inside the Lincoln College Health Services Office as well as on campus transportation.
“Individuals on campus have the option to wear a mask or practice physical distancing if they are fully vaccinated,” said Lincoln College President David Gerlach.
During this transition, the campus community asks that individuals show compassion and respect to fellow Lynx on decisions related to mask-wearing. Wearing a mask is still an effective method for preventing the spread of illness for vaccinated and unvaccinated people.
Lincoln College encourages members of the campus community and campus visitors to be vaccinated, however, the college will not require proof of vaccination status from employees, students, or visitors at this time. The policy will be reviewed prior to the start of classes in August to reassess current risks and mandates.
“Receiving the vaccine is the best way for our students and employees to protect themselves and our campus community against the virus,” said Gerlach.
According to the CDC, people are considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine.
“New cases of the coronavirus have declined considerably nationwide and in Logan County. A significant portion of the population have been vaccinated, including many who work on the Lincoln College campus,” Gerlach added.
With the safety and welfare of Lincoln College and the Logan County community remaining a top priority, the institution is excited to offer in-person instruction for fall 2021.
Lincoln College will continue to adapt to current challenges and reinvent higher education to best serve the students, faculty, staff, and community.
