Southeast Missouri State University student publication

Vargas announces changes to SEMO’s Protect the Nest Plan

Thursday, October 14, 2021

On Oct. 14 Southeast President Carlos Vargas sent an email to students, faculty and staff announcing modifications to the Protect the Nest Plan, which will go into effect on Monday, Oct. 18.

The modifications include decreasing the amount of areas on campus face masks are required to be worn. According to the email, after meeting with the University’s Emergency Response Team (ERT), “the decision was made to no longer require face masks to be worn in residence halls, the student recreation center, office spaces, dining areas, and common areas on campus such as lobbies, hallways, lounges, etc.”

Masks will still be required in classrooms for the remaining duration of the fall 2021 semester and the decision on requiring facial coverings next semester has not been made yet.

The current vaccination rate on campus is at 64% and if the rate reaches 70% the upcoming Thanksgiving break will be increased from three days to five days. The deadline to reach the goal is Nov. 1.

Students, faculty and staff can show proof of vaccination by submitting their vaccination cards online or by presenting the cards in person at the Student Recreation Center in Room 413.

Vaccination clinics will continue to occur weekly throughout the semester and the next one will be held on Oct. 20 in the University Center Program Lounge from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

For more information on the Great SEMO Give Away Get Away incentive program and upcoming vaccination clinics visit the COVID informational website.

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