It has been a busy few weeks as Brock University prepares for the beginning of the Fall Term.

The ever-changing and evolving situation with the pandemic and vaccination rollout has required that our community of students, faculty and staff be adaptive and understanding as plans are being considered and revised. Thank you for your patience as the University works to ensure your safety and well-being as fall approaches.

Earlier this week, the Province of Ontario directed the establishment of vaccine mandates for all universities and colleges, as well as for the health care and public service sectors, and other areas. The Government of Canada is introducing vaccine mandates for broad sections of the economy and country including for the public service, air travel passengers and others.

On Thursday, Aug. 12, Brock University announced it will require COVID-19 vaccinations for all students, faculty, staff and visitors who wish to access campus this fall.

This week, the University shared more information in an updated FAQ.

Brock is confident the community understands the importance of being vaccinated. Surveys of students undertaken across the University consistently show that upwards of 90 per cent of respondents are fully vaccinated or will have received at least one shot when the Fall Term begins. That’s a reassuring indication that our community is ready for fall.

Next week, Brock expects to provide more detail on the system that will allow students, faculty and staff to provide verifiable proof of vaccination. You’ll be receiving the instructions about this system shortly.

As these plans are being completed, you can take important steps now to be prepared:

• Get vaccinated — if you have yet to get vaccinated, please do so.
• Download your provincial proof of vaccination document(s) and have them handy.
• Encourage others in your networks to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

The University is looking forward to the Fall Term and thanks you again for your understanding and partnership as we all continue to manage a challenging situation.

A video message from Interim President Lynn Wells about the University’s preparations ahead of the Fall Term: