UMass Lowell requiring students to get COVID-19 vaccine this fall

LOWELL, Mass. — The University of Massachusetts Lowell decided to join the growing list of higher institutions requiring their students to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by this Fall 2021 semester.

This decision will include residential and commuter students interested in visiting any of the UMass Lowell campuses or properties, campus officials announced on Wednesday.

“We strongly believe this policy is our most effective tool to return to the vibrant, dynamic, and interpersonal pre-pandemic campus life that so many of us are eager to recreate,” said Joseph Hartman, UMass Lowell provost, and vice chancellor for academic and student affairs.

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Hartman added that the reason for this latest decision was based on widely anticipated additional state and federal public health guidelines in the coming months, as well as ample vaccine availability for students across the state and throughout the country.

“Faculty and staff are strongly encouraged to obtain full vaccination as soon as possible, and we are encouraged by results of a recent survey that indicated that nearly 90 percent of employees plan to do so by the beginning of fall semester,” Hartman said.

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He added that there is an ongoing partnership between UMass Lowell and Lowell General Hospital, providing vaccination appointments to the campus community for those who have yet to secure an appointment.

“While the vast majority of students and employees have already indicated they plan to be vaccinated as soon as possible,” Hartman said. “This requirement will help ensure a far safer campus as well as permit campus interactions and operations much more in line with pre-pandemic levels.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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