The University of Tennessee System today announced increased face-covering requirements at university campuses based on the rise in COVID-19 Delta variant numbers across the state. UT Martin’s main campus and five regional centers will join the UT System to adjust mask requirements for at least the next two weeks.

With today’s UT System guidance, the mask requirement is being extended starting today, Aug. 23, to all UT Martin indoor public spaces, except in private offices, residence hall rooms, while engaging in fitness activities, and while actively eating and drinking. More details about face coverings in classrooms were outlined in an Aug. 20 email from Academic Affairs to faculty members. Athletics will make decisions about masking at indoor athletic facilities.

As announced by the UT System, we’ll re-evaluate the need for the expanded face-covering requirement by Sept. 7. I also remind students to continue reporting COVID-19 symptoms to Student Health and Counseling, employees to the Office of Human Resources, and isolate yourself when necessary. As noted on the UT Martin coronavirus website, all members of the university community are expected to consistently report symptoms and follow isolation and/or quarantine guidance from university medical officials.

The goal to open in-person this fall semester is accomplished, but we have much more work to do. We’ll regularly monitor conditions and adjust as needed to keep the UT Martin community safe, and we’ll continue to communicate with you. If you haven’t been vaccinated, please protect yourself and others by getting the vaccine, and help yourself and your fellow Skyhawks by following current face-covering requirements.

We value each of you as part of the UT Martin family, and I thank you in advance for helping us to keep our university community safe for everyone.