St. Thomas’ University Action and Response Team announced via email that it will be lifting its face covering requirement in many indoor spaces on Saturday, Feb. 26. Masks will still be required inside classrooms, labs, St. Thomas’ shuttle and the Center for Well-Being.

UART said the change in policy was “thanks to our strong COVID-19 vaccination rates, a declining number of infections on campus and changes to city ordinances.”

The message, which was sent to all St. Thomas students, faculty and staff, said the community should still respect those who still need or choose to wear a face covering and that “everyone should carry a face covering in case one is needed.”

“Many members of our community live with unvaccinated family members (especially children under the age of 5, who are not yet eligible for COVID-19 vaccines), support family members who are immunocompromised, or may have a pre-existing condition that requires them to wear a face covering even if they are vaccinated,” the email stated.

The email also encouraged community members to use the university’s self-report form. UART stated that appointments for a COVID-19 booster shot are available at the Center for Well-Being.

“We thank you for all your efforts to support one another and our community. Your on-going cooperation enables our campus community to continue safely navigating this pandemic,” the email said.