Faculty, Staff and Students,

Greetings again. As always, I hope you are all doing well. And as a large population of you return to our campuses in the next few days, I want to again re-emphasize the steps the University is taking to help us all stay healthy.

We have consistently utilized this space to pass along information, when available, to help all of you understand exactly what the expectations are when you are on campus. Some things have changed since your last time here.

On the topic of masks, shields, etc.:

• Masks will be encouraged, but not required, on campus.
• Masks will be available for those who wish to wear them.
• Masks and hand sanitizer will still be located around campus, including in classrooms and residence halls.
• Masks are still required at UK HealthCare facilities.
• Plexiglass shields will still be available for those who want to use them in classrooms and offices.

Our spokespeople have said the University is again prepared to move to online instruction or bring back mask requirements if needed. This year, UK will focus on vaccines — we encourage everyone to get vaccinated or the booster shot if you haven’t already.

Again, there will be incentives (study abroad trips, iPads, athletics tickets, etc.) for those students, faculty and staff who can show proof of vaccination.

I cannot wait for all of you to return — and we all want that return be a healthy one. 

Remember to look here for all the latest COVID guideline updates, as well as the University’s coronavirus website.

Best,

Dean Lephart