DATE: August 30, 2022
TO: The SUNY Old Westbury Campus Community
FROM: Timothy E. Sams, President
RE: Change in Campus COVID-19 Guidance - Masking
As we commence with classes this week, I am writing to announce that effective tomorrow, Wednesday, August 31, 2022, SUNY Old Westbury will change its Fall 2022 COVID-19 guidance related to masking. CDC has rated Nassau County's transmission rate as MEDIUM (as of Aug. 30, 2022). Based on this guidance from the CDC, SUNY Old Westbury will move to a mask optional status for all facilities, except as follows:
- in an instructional setting when required by the instructor
- in a healthcare setting (i.e., Student Health Center, Office of Counseling and Psychological Wellness, COVID-19 testing site)
- on the campus shuttle buses
- if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, wear a mask, get tested immediately and self-quarantine while you await results.
- if you test positive and must be isolated (i.e., you will also be required to mask for five days after ending isolation, days 6-10).
Please know that this decision is subject to change at any time depending on evolving metrics and conditions. If infection numbers increase, we may reinstate the mask mandate on campus.
Even as we make this announcement, I strongly encourage all to consider masking and all other methods that provide vigilance regarding COVID-19 safety on our campus and in the community.
Further, as we make this change, it is important to remember that some members of the campus community (students, faculty, staff, and visitors/guests) may choose to continue wearing face masks because of COVID-19 or for any number of reasons. Other individuals value masking as a way to remain healthy and prevent other respiratory illnesses. Some may just feel more comfortable wearing a mask. In addition, a mask should not be interpreted as a symbol of vaccination status. Welcoming and accepting those who wear masks on campus is an important part of being a caring and respectful community.
In addition, and as mentioned in the bulleted list above, individual faculty retain the right to mandate masks in their classroom, and do not need to offer a justification, as discussion of such factors could raise privacy concerns. Reasons could include health concerns of faculty or students in the class, or those who have vulnerable family members.
Please note that failure to comply with the mask requirements as noted here will result in a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, which may result in sanctions that include suspension from class and the campus.
Thank you.
Tim