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The University loosens campus mask mandate

By: Nick Brockinton

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – University of Arkansas Interim Chancellor Charles Robinson, sent an email to students and faculty about recent updates regarding COVID-19 measures on campus.

Robinson said that masks are no longer required in dining areas, active exercise areas, and sporting events. 

Along with this, the university no longer requires COVID-19 self-reporting.

However, masks are still required in classrooms, labs, Razorback transit buses, and most indoor areas where 6 feet of social distancing is not possible.

“We will continue to require masking in classrooms and labs while making gradual changes to campus COVID-19 policy,” Robinson said, “where they make sense for us based on the conditions.”

The latest report from the Arkansas Department of Health showed more than 90% of university employees are partially vaccinated with 82% of students who live in Arkansas, as well.

Robinson said in his 2021 Annual State of the University Address that U of A’s student enrollment broke 29,000 for the first time in history.

The interim chancellor urged students and faculty to proceed with caution as adjustments are made on campus.

“We will continue to monitor this issue and make updates as appropriate.”