Dear Huskies,
We are almost there. We are so close to a time of connection, good health, and less restrictions.
As you know, earlier today, the Board of Trustees approved a policy that requires COVID-19 vaccination for all UConn students on the Storrs and Regional campuses engaged in in-person instruction in the fall. Having a vaccinated campus is how we are able to return to the ‘normal’ that we all have missed so much over the course of the past year.
Getting vaccinated should be an informed choice and not one that all of us can necessarily choose. As a result, UConn has developed a two-part exemption process for students that is specific to the COVID-19 vaccination requirement.
I want to take some time to review how you can learn more about vaccination and how to request an exemption.
First, it’s so important to make an informed decision. Please take the time to review the informed guidance provided by the CDC on the benefits of vaccination. Also, additional information is available from SHaW that reviews questions we think you might have and how to submit your vaccination record.
Second, I want to review how to request an exemption. This information is also available on the SHaW website.
Process for Requesting a COVID-19 Vaccine Exemption:
Immunization exemptions will be permitted under certain circumstances. Students seeking an exemption must complete an exemption form by July 15, 2021. Students will be notified of the status of their request by August 6, 2021.
Students who receive an exemption will be permitted to participate, in person, in classes and university activities subject to certain preventative measures as determined necessary by UConn.
Students receiving an exemption will be contacted directly by SHaW regarding preventative measures that are determined by the SHaW medical team, based on guidance from state and local health authorities, to be necessary for in-person participation in campus activities. Preventative measures may include, but not be limited to, required participation in surveillance testing, close contact quarantine, masking requirements, housing restrictions, etc.
Students seeking an exemption must follow the procedures described below:
Medical Exemption Process:
· All requests for medical exemptions from the COVID-19 vaccine requirement shall follow the immunization exemption process established by SHaW, which includes validation by a medical professional.
· Any student wishing to apply for a medical exemption must print, complete, and upload the Immunization Exemption Form to the SHaW Student Health Portal.
· Students who receive medical exemptions may be subject to exclusion from campus in the event of a vaccine-preventable disease outbreak and may be required to take other health and safety measures including, but not limited to, participation in surveillance testing, quarantine, and mask-wearing.
· SHaW will review and accept vaccination exemptions waivers for medical reasons only. A signed statement indicating specific medical contraindication from your medical provider is required for medical exemption.
Non-medical Exemption Process:
· Non-medical exemption requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
· Students who receive a non-medical exemption may be subject to exclusion from campus in the event of a vaccine-preventable disease outbreak and may be required to take other health and safety measures including, but not limited to, participation in surveillance testing, quarantine, and mask-wearing.
· Any student wishing to apply for a non-medical exemption must upload a statement detailing your reason for requesting a non-medical exemption through the Non-Medical Exemption Request link .
The objective of this vaccination requirement is to provide the safest and heathiest return to campus possible in the fall. It is also to ensure that we accommodate and welcome those who are unable to be vaccinated.
We have done so much together, Huskies. You have taught me so much about what it means to be a Husky and the choices we make for the health of ourselves, our friends, and our loved ones. Thank you.
Let’s take this final step together and return home to UConn this fall.
All my best,
Eleanor JB Daugherty, EdD
She/her/hers
Associate Vice President and Dean of Students