Message as semester begins: Wear masks in public spaces
As students, faculty, and staff began returning to campus this week for the opening of Fall Semester, they encountered mandatory COVID-19 testing, social distancing guidelines, and a University-wide mandate to wear masks in all public spaces at all times.
President Tony Allen, supported by key University and student leaders, has been energetic in promoting the message that everyone needs to wear their masks. In a message to the entire University community, the President said,
“Wearing your mask—ALWAYS!—is JOB ONE.
Testing doesn’t prevent the spread of the virus—it only tells us how we’re doing. And the requirement that everyone bring a negative COVID-19 test result to campus, and then get tested when they arrive, doesn’t mean that we can relax on wearing those masks.
“The #1 most effective method of preventing the spread of COVID-19 is to wear an effective mask in all public places.
“99% of our community wearing masks is not good enough.
“Students, unless you are in your rooms with your roommate ONLY, you are expected to wear a mask. NO EXCEPTIONS.
“Faculty and Staff, unless you are in your office ALONE, you are expected to wear a mask. NO EXCEPTIONS.
“If you forget, somebody will probably remind you. If you misplace your mask, there will be complimentary replacements available all over campus.
“If you see somebody without a mask, step up and remind them.
Be polite, but be assertive. Ask them the same way you’d want to be asked. But don’t ignore it. We can’t allow COVID-19 to push anyone off track for graduation.”
For additional information on Delaware State University COVID-19 policies and procedures as the Semester opens, visit the following: