March 9, 2021

Mount Mercy announces plan for fully in-person operations by Aug. 1

Mount Mercy University has announced plans to be fully in-person for all work, academic, and student operations by Aug. 1, 2021.

The following assumptions were considered when making this decision:

  • The COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be widely available in the U.S. by this summer.
  • Masks may be expected throughout the upcoming academic year.
  • Mount Mercy anticipates social distancing rules to be relaxed after the vaccine is widely available.

“After significant discussion and careful consideration of our state and local COVID-19 situation, Mount Mercy looks forward to in-person operations for the upcoming academic year,” said Dr. Tim Laurent, interim president. “If there is a need to adjust our plan, we will do so as soon as possible. Our number one priority is the safety of our entire community.”

Residence halls will operate at full capacity, with a review of the vaccine adoption rates to determine whether to adjust the guest and group gathering policies.

Mount Mercy is strongly encouraging its employees and students to receive the vaccine when it is available to them.