March 1, 2021

Mount Mercy sees success with COVID-19 mitigation efforts

In accordance with local health officials, the CDC, and successful mitigation policies, Mount Mercy University has lifted visitor restrictions on campus.

“While this is the first phase, physical distancing and mask requirements will remain in effect,” said Nate Klein, vice president for student success. “In the event of a rise in cases on campus and/or in our community, this policy will again be revisited.”

Athletic events will be limited to 25% capacity with student-athletes allotted a limited number of passes for family members. Current students and employees may attend athletic events and also invite one additional family member to Sunday mass on campus.

These changes to Mount Mercy’s visitor policy are a result of the low COVID-19 numbers on campus that have been maintained throughout the pandemic. The decline in cases and hospitalizations in the Cedar Rapids community also factored into the decision.

In addition, to better understand students’ experiences during COVID-19, Mount Mercy took part in the NSSE PULSE Survey.

Based on the answers of freshman and sophomore students, Mount Mercy scored higher than the national average in all categories including excellent faculty and advisors, adequate space for learning, supportive of overall well-being, and overall experience.

Mount Mercy’s cumulative average was 77%, 11 points higher than the national average.