Samford University leaders are actively monitoring the situation and will make every effort to provide updates and make well-informed decisions intended to ensure the continued health and safety of our community. If you have questions about Samford University’s pandemic response or current protocols on campus, contact Covid19health@samford.edu.

As Samford looks forward to students returning to campus for the Fall 2022 semester, we remain mindful of the impact of COVID-19 and its ever-evolving variants. The University will continue to be guided by applicable federal, state and local laws, guidances from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) and other public health experts in our continuing efforts to mitigate the existence and transmission of the disease on the Samford campus and to maintain a healthy workplace and academic environment for students, faculty, staff and guests. Likewise, each person should make wise personal decisions in order to minimize risks to themselves and others.

The guidelines below are intended to inform and guide the Samford community as we plan for and embark upon a new school year. The University plans to operate at normal capacities and facility configurations and without physical distancing requirements. However, should circumstances require, course offerings and modalities and University programs and activities may be modified or cancelled based upon changes in governing laws and public health guidances.

Students, parents of students, and employees are encouraged to regularly visit this website for updates, as COVID-19 continues to be an ever-changing and serious health challenge locally, nationally and globally. If you have any questions about COVID-19, please visit the various information links provided below. Should you need additional Samford-specific information, direct inquiries to covid19health@samford.edu.

Student Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk

All students are required to sign and return the Student Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk form. Students under the age of 19 must have a parent or legal guardian also sign the form. Students 18 or younger must sign the form and also provide the name and email address of a parent or legal guardian who will also sign and return the document. Both the student (if under age 19) and the parent or guardian must sign and return the form.

Face Masks

Face masks and other facial coverings are not generally required. This could change if there is an increase in local positive cases or hospitalizations. Instructors may require face masks in their respective classroom settings. Everyone should be respectful of individuals who choose or need to wear a face mask. It is recommended that students and employees keep a face mask in their pocket, backpack or otherwise on their person while on campus.

Hand Hygiene

Good hand hygiene remains an important defense against communicable diseases such as COVID-19, influenza and other infections. Regularly wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is particularly important after one coughs, sneezes, or touches his or her face. When soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol. Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipe stations are located across campus. More information on good hygiene practices.

If You Are Sick

Self-assessment continues to be an important part of combatting COVID-19. Students, faculty, staff and contractors who are sick should stay home and follow the guidance provided by the CDC and the Alabama Department of Public Health. A list of COVID-19 symptoms identified by the CDC is available online. If you have symptoms, do not attend class or report to work and notify your instructor or supervisor that you will miss class or work. Promptly contact your healthcare provider for appropriate medical advice.

COVID-19 Testing

Testing for COVID-19 is widely available off campus and at the University Health Center. If you are experiencing illness that is symptomatic of COVID-19, promptly be tested for the virus. A list of test sites in Alabama is maintained by the ADPH. Test costs are usually covered by an individual’s personal health insurance. The federal government also offers free at-home test kits that can be ordered online. Since delivery of these tests is through the U.S. Postal Service, you should order kits in advance in order to have them on hand when you need to test. If you live on campus, contact the University Health Center for testing information.

COVID-19 Vaccinations

In accordance with Alabama law, the University does not require students to be vaccinated for COVID-19 as a condition of participating in on-campus educational programs and activities. Although COVID-19 vaccinations are voluntary, Samford encourages all students, faculty, staff and contractors who enter the campus at any time to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shots as soon as you are eligible. Even if you have already been infected by the virus, vaccination is still recommended. Although the University does not provide or administer COVID-19 vaccinations, they are widely available from numerous healthcare providers and pharmacies near the University. Get more information about vaccines.

Please note: Although Samford does not require vaccination for students or employees, some third-party organizations offering internships, student teaching and/or clinical learning opportunities may have different vaccination requirements.

Students Exposed to COVID-19 or Who Test Positive

If you are a student who either tests positive or has been exposed to COVID-19, immediately self-report to covid19health@samford.edu and adhere to the most recent CDC guidance on isolation and quarantine. Faculty will be notified if a student self-reports a positive test, but students are responsible for contacting instructors to discuss missed classes, assignments, exams and other coursework.

Employees Exposed to COVID-19 or Who Test Positive

If you are an employee who either tests positive or has been exposed to COVID-19, immediately self-report to covid19employees@samford.edu and adhere to the most recent CDC guidance on isolation and quarantine. Employees who quarantine or isolate must contact their supervisor to discuss their absence and work responsibilities. Employees shall communicate with the Human Resources Department at benefits@samford.edu to coordinate the proper application of appropriate leave policies, as needed.

Required Reporting

All students and employees are required to self-report a positive COVID-19 test or exposure. Students should self-report at covid19health@samford.edu. Employees should self-report at covid19employees@samford.edu.

On-campus Residents

Students are encouraged to make plans in advance of the Fall 2022 semester in case isolation or quarantine is needed. Designated quarantine and isolation housing and meal delivery will not be provided for students who test positive or have been exposed. Students are expected to follow the current CDC guidelines. If you are experiencing symptoms, have been exposed to COVID-19, or test positive for COVID-19, wear a high-quality, well-fitted KN95 mask in the residence halls.

University Health Center

The University Health Center is available for enrolled students and full-time employees. The Center is staffed by a MedHelp physician, nurse practitioner and support personnel Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments can be made from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., and walk-in patients are welcomed. Students and full-time employees may also utilize any of the five MedHelp Urgent Care locations for after-hours and weekend assistance.

This guidance is subject to change without notice as circumstances warrant. Students, faculty, and staff should regularly and often monitor this website for updated information.

Student Emergency Assistance Fund
In light of the current coronavirus crisis, we our raising funds to provide emergency assistance to our students in need.
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