Compliance with COVID-19 vaccine requirement

Posted By: Ann Merchlewitz On: 2021-09-29
Posted On: 2021-09-29

As communicated last month (Aug. 23), Saint Mary’s has implemented a COVID-19 vaccine requirement which requires submission of a COVID-19 vaccination card or an exemption (medical or non-medical) for all employees and students. The deadline for providing either proof of vaccination or an exemption is Friday, Oct. 8, 2021. On Sept. 1, we communicated about and opened a health services portal for everyone to upload documentation to comply with the requirement. We are nearing our Oct. 8, 2021, deadline and are reminding all students (including online students) and employees of the need to comply with this requirement. It is a key measure to protect our community. 

Submit Vaccine History or Exemption

While we hope all complete the process, a failure to comply with the requirements — again proof of vaccination or a completed exemption — may result in the following actions by the university:

Students:

  • Registration holds placed on course and housing registration until compliance is achieved
  • $100 a week fine placed on a student’s account until compliance, end of the term, or withdrawal, whichever comes first
  • Holds placed on the release of transcripts

All holds would be lifted within 10 days of compliance.

Employees:

  • Oral reprimand
  • Written reprimand
  • Other consequences as outlined in the employee handbook

Again, we strongly encourage all students and employees to be vaccinated by Oct. 8 or file the appropriate exemptions. Thank you for your cooperation and continued support of each other.  

Ann Merchlewitz
Senior Vice President and General Counsel

Ben Murray
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Brian Schmisek
Provost and Dean of Faculties