The message below was sent to Hendrix College students and employees on Wednesday, August 4, 2021.
Dear Hendrix community,
In recent weeks, Arkansas has seen a significant rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. While the high vaccination rate among the Hendrix community greatly reduces the risk of hospitalization and death, the delta variant has proven it can infect those who are vaccinated, and Arkansas is a high-transmission area at this time.
For these reasons, along with our priority to protect our ability to hold in-person classes safely and successfully this fall, the College COVID Steering Committee is reinstating the indoor mask requirement for all members of the Hendrix community, effective immediately. A multilayered mask that covers your nose and mouth must be worn while indoors (unless you are working alone in an office, laboratory, or other confined space or your residence hall room).
In addition to wearing a well-fitted mask while indoors, please wear one while outdoors when you are unable to maintain a 6-foot distance from others. Visit this guide from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for tips on improving the fit of your mask.
The COVID Steering Committee will continue adjusting policies and requirements as necessary based on the latest available public health data and guidance from CDC and other authorities.
Faculty and staff members will receive updated information about expectations for back-to-school and early fall semester events and meetings from the Provost later this week.
Students will likewise receive updated information about back-to-school and early fall semester campus events from the Dean of Students prior to move-in day.
Please continue to check www.hendrix.edu/coronavirus for the latest information, and email aboutcovid19@hendrix.edu with any questions.
Thank you for your commitment to the health and safety of our campus community, as well as your patience and flexibility, as we prepare for the fall semester.
Sincerely,
Ellis Arnold ’79
President