Walker announces changes for upcoming fall semester
Photo taken by Chris Vega.
On June 17, President Mark Walker issued his first announcement about the upcoming fall semester and possible changes in COVID-19 protocols. Walker recently confirmed the fall semester at Lee will see fewer COVID-19 restrictions for students while temporarily requiring masks indoors.
On Wednesday, August 11, Walker issued an announcement to students readdressing the protocol for wearing masks. According to Director of Communications Brian Conn, the Presidential Cabinet assessed the most recent data and decided to temporarily modify the mask protocol.
In light of the recent rise in COVID-19 cases in Bradley County, masks will be required inside campus buildings. The mask requirement is effective immediately, as reflected in the Return to Campus plan.
The Tennessee Health Department reported Bradley County’s active cases of COVID-19 increased by 42, totaling 587 active cases as of Thursday, August 12.
According to Walker, the current plan is to hold classes and chapel at full capacity with no mandatory temperature checks, while masks are temporarily required indoors.
“You can fully expect this fall to be as close to a normal Lee University experience as possible,” said Walker. “We are remaining vigilant and will make necessary adjustments as needed.”
Lee University administration is encouraging students to get the COVID-19 vaccine, but will not be requiring it. According to the Tennessee Health Department, only 30.3% of Bradley County residents are fully vaccinated.
The Lee University Health Clinic is planning to offer free vaccines to students and faculty, and will be sending a campus-wide email announcing when they will be available. Several local drug-stores and pharmacies are offering free vaccines as well.
Editor in Chief Anna Shand and News Editor Taylor Perkins contributed to this story.
