Dear UMPI Community,
As many of you are likely aware, the University of Maine System announced yesterday a new student vaccination requirement plan. This requirement has been implemented to help us address the worst public health crisis our nation has seen in more than a century and mobilized specifically because of the rapidly spreading Delta variant. As a result, students planning on participating in any on-campus experiences must verify their completed vaccinated status or begin the process to become fully vaccinated by August 20. Please look for further communication from Student Life, Athletics, and other services for additional details on preparations for the fall semester. This includes both Presque Isle and the Houlton Center.
As of today, those who are fully vaccinated and verify their vaccination status on the secure UMS Portal do not have to wear face coverings, participate in arrival testing, or take part in weekly asymptomatic testing.
Please note that UMPI and its fellow University of Maine System institutions are recognizing both medical and religious exemptions. A medical exemption will require a written statement from a licensed physician, a nurse practitioner, or a physician’s assistant that immunization may be medically inadvisable. Students in a higher risk category, or with severe illness or underlying health conditions or other applicable circumstances that may impact their ability to comply with COVID-19 requirements may contact Mary Kate Barbosa, Director of Student Support Services (207-768-9613), for further assistance. In the case of those requesting exemption due to religious beliefs, forms and guidance will be made available through multiple campus offices and advisors.
Students enrolled in fully online programs, such as YourPace, or with only distance education modalities for fall coursework, are encouraged but not required to verify their vaccination through the Portal. If you have any questions about distance education courses, or need assistance with potential changes to your schedule in this regard, please contact your professional advisor (207-768-9419) as soon as possible.
We will make every effort to accommodate each individual’s needs throughout this process.
UMPI is continuing its “Vax Up!” campaign throughout the month of August. For those who verify their status, we will give away one free class (3 credit) per week before the semester starts, a $25 voucher each day for food, books, or gasoline, and a grand prize on August 31 of $250 credited to your UMPI account.
We recognize that these are important decisions for each individual, so we encourage you to talk to your advisor or a member of UMPI’s student support team, along with your medical provider, if you have any questions or concerns. For more detailed information on vaccination requirements and testing, you can contact Fred Thomas, Director of Safety and Security (207-768-9580). And you can always reach us at 207-768-9532.
Ultimately, all of this is about keeping each other—and our communities, families, and friends—safe. Our thanks to everyone for your dedication in this regard and ensuring our best opportunity for everyone’s safe return this fall semester.
Ray
