Commonwealth of Virginia Announces Revised Social Gathering Limitations

Dear Radford Family:

Last week, the Commonwealth of Virginia announced revised social gathering limitations with the latest amendment to Executive Order 72. Following Governor Northam’s most recent action, the indoor gathering limitation will increase from 10 individuals to 50. And, the outdoor gathering limitation will increase from 25 individuals to 100. These changes take effect on April 1, 2021 and apply both on-campus and off-campus. On the same date, these limitations are being adopted by Radford University for both the main campus and Radford University Carilion.

This is a very encouraging sign for our campus and our community. However, personal responsibility will continue to be very important in providing regular opportunities for both healthy and safe engagements. If Radford University experiences an increase in the number of COVID-19 positive cases, gathering limitations will be re-examined and may be reversed to current levels.

It is critically important to note that all on-campus and off-campus activities and events must have adequate space available for required physical distancing. A majority of campus facilities and individual rooms have COVID-19 room capacities, which are clearly posted and cannot be exceeded.

Additionally, face coverings remain critically important and will continue to be required in all indoor locations, including classrooms, laboratories, common areas, and meeting spaces. For outdoor locations, in which six feet of physical distancing cannot be maintained at all times, face coverings are also required and will be enforced.

Recent references to three feet of physical distancing being recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are limited to certain K-12 settings and situations. CDC guidance for reduced distancing does not apply to higher education in any way. Again, it is critically important that indoor and outdoor locations being utilized for specific gatherings, such as on-campus and off-campus activities and events, are large enough to accommodate the necessary amount of physical distancing, specifically six feet among all attendees and/or participants.


With Highlander Pride,

Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President