Beginning Monday, June 6, masks are required in most indoor spaces on our campus when there are two or more people present for a sustained period of time.
Community members must wear a mask in all classrooms, instructional spaces, labs, studios, concert and lecture venues, libraries, Student Health Services, offices, and conference rooms. This will be in effect through at least early July.
There are specific situations when and where additional precautions will be taken.
- Entry Periods
The beginning of each term and after long breaks pose new risks as our community returns to campus. During these brief periods, masks will be required in classrooms and negative tests will be required for academic building access. If and when conditions allow, campus policies will shift back to encouraged and optional masks and tests.
The specific dates of these entry periods will be announced in advance.
- Healthcare Spaces
Masks will continue to be required to be worn in healthcare spaces, including Student Health Services, by everyone, regardless of vaccination status.
- Isolation, Quarantine, and Exposure
Those who are not up-to-date or unvaccinated with approved exemption
Masks will be available at no cost from vending machines in most academic buildings and residence halls.
Any member of the community can voluntarily choose to wear a mask in any setting at any time and for any reason (including personal and community protection against seasonal flu and colds), should the university adjust the mask requirement in the future. This personal choice should be respected. As with vaccination status, no one should ask another individual about their personal choice to wear a mask.
We will continue to monitor the trajectory of the pandemic, especially virus prevalence in New York City, and will adjust our approach to testing and mask requirements as needed moving forward.
Acceptable Mask Options
Masks must cover both the mouth and nose and must be constructed of three-ply material. Health officials recommend double masking and/or a high-quality, well-fitted mask for the greatest protection. Read more on the CDC website.
The following are not acceptable:
Masks with one-way valves or vents. These masks allow respiratory droplets to be exhaled through a hole in the material and do not prevent the wearer from transmitting COVID-19 to others.
Gaiters. These face coverings are made of thin porous material that may intensify the amount of droplets and dispersal of aerosols that may be transmitted to others.
Bandanas. These face coverings are ineffective barriers for the wearer and for others.