Spring 2022 Semester Operational Plan

Dear Highlanders:

As a united community committed to the health and safety of our members, we continue to move through the pandemic by making strides to reverse pandemic protocols where appropriate, continuing others and striving to create our post-pandemic “new” normal.

The COVID-19 Working Group, especially, took great care compiling information, developing plans and procedures, and adapting as the pandemic shifted. Thanks to our collective efforts, I present you with Radford University’s Spring 2022 Operational Plan.

As we move forward, vaccine boosters may be on many of your minds. The Pfizer booster has been approved, and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has shared that approval for the Moderna and the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine boosters is anticipated in late October or early November.  At this time, vaccine supply is ample and shortages are not expected.  Faculty, staff and students interested in receiving the COVID-19 booster at least six months after the final dose of your initial COVID-19 vaccine should contact a local pharmacy, health care provider or use the VDH vaccine finder.

As I shared in my August 13, 2021 message, the implementation of the indoor masking requirement is intended to be a temporary health and safety measure based upon CDC and VDH guidance.  I am encouraged by the high vaccination rates of our students and employees and low positivity rates shown through our COVID-19 testing that we will be able to lift this temporary health and safety measure in the near future.  Please know that we will continue to monitor local transmission rates and remain in close contact with the New River Health District.

With the end of the semester approaching and as you think about your travel plans, be sure to review the CDC guidance and VDH considerations.

I couldn’t be more proud of all Highlanders in prioritizing the health and well-being of our community. We will continue to seek guidance from our state officials and determine what protocols are necessary in the future.

With Highlander Pride,

Carolyn Ringer Lepre, Ph.D.
Interim President