Face coverings are no longer required for indoor settings at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville and Ozark effective immediately.
Dr. Robin E. Bowen, ATU president, announced the decision in accordance with a recommendation made by the ATU COVID-19 task force during its Tuesday, March 1, meeting.
“This marks the next phase in our continuing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Bowen. “I am grateful for the diligence and commitment demonstrated by ATU faculty, staff and students over the past two years. I offer a special word of appreciation to the members of the ATU COVID-19 task force and our staff in the ATU Health and Wellness Center. They have been at the forefront of our mitigation and response efforts since before the first case of COVID-19 was discovered in Arkansas.
“The ATU COVID-19 task force will continue to monitor developments in the coming weeks and the ATU Health and Wellness Center will remain available for any Arkansas Tech student, faculty member or staff member who develops symptoms of COVID-19 or tests positive,” continued Bowen. “The ATU Health and Wellness Center also stands prepared to assist any member of the ATU community who wishes to seek a COVID-19 vaccination or booster. Should circumstances warrant, we will revisit the ATU COVID-19 management plan and adjust it as necessary to maintain a safe learning, teaching and working environment. For now, it is time…literally and figuratively…to take a deep breath and enjoy the fact that we have turned this corner.”
Individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms while visiting the ATU Health and Wellness Center will be asked to wear a mask while in the health care facility.
In addition, members of the ATU community who qualify for early release from isolation due to COVID-19 will be asked by the ATU Health and Wellness Center to continue wearing a face covering for the period of time recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
ATU is also adjusting its COVID-19 management plan to allow for external events on its campuses effective immediately.
