Union family,
As we prepare for a safe start for second semester, I have received a number of questions about the mandatory COVID testing. In consultation with our campus COVID Core Response Team, here is a clarification and a response to those questions which I hope you will find helpful.
Q: Who must take the COVID-19 test?
A: All employees and students will be required to take the COVID-19 test twice at the beginning of the semester.
- One test must be taken within six days before returning to campus or within six days before the start of classes on January 11.
- The second test must be taken between Wednesday, January 13, and Sunday, January 17.
Q: What if I can’t take the COVID test before returning to campus?
A: You may take the free COVID test when you first return to campus. Testing will be available in Woods Auditorium on campus before January 11 at the following times:
- January 4-7, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
- January 10, 12:00 - 6:00 p.m.
NOTE: You may start classes on January 11 as long as you have taken the test—even if the results haven’t been received yet.
Q; Where can I take my second test?
A: Union will offer expanded testing hours in the Woods Auditorium Testing Center January 13-17 (except Sabbath). This testing is free. You may also test at another location if you choose.
Q: How do I submit my test results?
Q: What if I already had COVID? Do I still need to get tested?
If you have had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, you do not need to take the mandatory tests. Please submit your proof of having COVID using the appropriate form for students or employees.
Q: What if I have received the vaccine? Do I still need to get tested?
If you have had one or both doses of any of the approved COVID vaccines, you do not need to take the COVID test. Please submit your proof of vaccination using the appropriate form for students or employees.
Q: What if I have some other health reason for not taking the COVID-19 test?
A: If you have a health reason for not taking the COVID-19 test, please contact the Campus Health Nurse at campushealthnurse@ucollege.edu to receive an exemption.
Q: Will students have earlier access to the COVID vaccine?
A: Our county health department has indicated that college employees and students will have earlier access to the COVID vaccine. But students will need to be enrolled in classes on campus to be eligible.
Q: How do I get direct answers for COVID questions?
If you have additional questions about anything related to COVID-19, we have created a way to directly contact our campus COVID Core Response Team. Please email covid@ucollege.edu
Thank you for your understanding and flexibility as we work to create a safe campus second semester.
Today Lincoln is enjoying a fresh snowfall. The breathtaking beauty covering the brown grass and barren trees reminds me of our Savior’s promise to take our lives and the ugly challenges we face—including this pandemic—and turn them into something beautiful.
Our Union College team is praying for you and your family, and we encourage your prayers for us, too. I wish you and your loved ones a hope-filled New Year’s celebration.
Blessings,
Vinita Sauder
President, Union College
|