UNC Asheville Expectations of Mutual Respect & Care for All

UNC Asheville is excited to welcome back the campus community for the Fall 2022 semester. As we enter the third academic year to be impacted by COVID-19, our understanding of the virus is greater than ever, thanks to our trusted healthcare partners at the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) and by the guidance of the UNC System, the Buncombe County Department of Health and Human Services, and CDC.

The distribution of vaccines and boosters has been successful, with nearly 80% of our country receiving at least one dose. Additionally, 95% of the population now have high levels of immunity due to vaccination and past COVID-19 infections, or both. Our health care facilities’ capacity for outpatient treatment has expanded, and home test kits allow for rapid identification of cases.

At UNC Asheville, masks continue to be encouraged yet optional in all University buildings. Exceptions will include health care settings where staff provide medical care to students. We will continue to follow UNC System guidance on masking policies as well as all state and county guidelines on masking.

Out of respect for each individual’s personal choice, members of the UNC Asheville community are reminded to be respectful of the choice to wear or not wear a mask in any situation. All are encouraged to decide what is best for their health and personal circumstances, also being mindful of the needs of others (i.e., children who cannot get vaccines or elders in residence).

Vaccines are readily available on campus and continue to be a safe and effective method to prevent the progression of severe disease. Receiving a vaccine or booster is not required by the UNC System but is encouraged.

The Agreement

As members of this community, we care about everyone.

As faculty, staff, students, and visitors, we have chosen to be a part of the UNC Asheville community and we understand that our actions to follow health and safety practices will impact the health and safety of others.

We recognize that not all populations are impacted equally and agree to take care to protect vulnerable populations such as people 65 years and older, people who are immunocompromised, people with asthma or diabetes, and Black, Hispanic, and Latinx communities.

Our shared commitment is to take the necessary precautions to avoid spreading COVID-19 while following all recommended health guidelines.

As a member of the University community, I agree to:

The University agrees to:

  • Wash my hands frequently following CDC standards and to use the hand sanitizer that will be available throughout campus.
  • Provide hand sanitizer readily and widely across campus.
  • Have face coverings available for students, employees and visitors. Contact the Highsmith Student Union Guest Services Desk at (828) 251-6600 for more information.
  • Follow physical distancing and room or building capacity guidelines as appropriate.
  • Encourage respect and understanding for any individuals who continue to wear masks, even when not mandated to do so, at any time that they wish to do so.
  • Monitor any symptoms as outlined by the CDC, stay home if I have symptoms, get tested as needed.
  • Share symptom self-check resources and, with guidance from the Department of Health and MAHEC, provide the necessary resources to diagnose, treat, and care for students who test positive for COVID-19. Employees will consult their medical provider.
  • Consult with a medical professional if I show symptoms and follow isolation and quarantine protocols as needed.
  • Provide the maximum amount of flexibility possible with regard to student coursework and employee workload for those in quarantine or isolation.

 

Resources

UNC Asheville encourages health and safety best practices, including hand washing and staying home when sick. We respect each member of our campus community’s choice to wear or not wear a mask. Resources, including health and safety flyers, can be downloaded here.