Academic Planning - 2021-2022
Message to Community – Provincial COVID-19 Restrictions Lifting March 14 and STU Campus Health and Safety Measures to Remain in Place Until the End of the Semester
Yesterday afternoon, the Premier and Chief Medical Officer of Health announced that the Provincial Government would be removing remaining COVID-19 mandatory measures on March 14. This follows announcements in the other Maritime Provinces where restrictions are being lifted over the next month.
That being said, I believe it remains sensible to leave our current health and safety protection measures — masking, distancing, hand sanitizing — in place until the end of the semester. From March 14 until the end of the semester and exams is 6 weeks, which is a relatively short period of time; so at this late stage of the academic year, it is important to focus on continuity and stability rather than launch a series of changes.
It has been an accomplishment for our faculty, students, and staff to organize and deliver an academic year under such trying circumstances. If we continue with our current classroom operations and leave our health and safety measures in place, we can all stay focused on our academic work and completing the year successfully.
As we move toward more typical operations in the coming weeks, there may be some adjustments in areas such as dining hall operations and the O’Keefe Fitness Centre.
Message to Community – Campus Operations During Winter Semester
I wanted to provide you with an update and the context for our decisions related to on-campus operations when in-person classes resume next week.
Throughout the pandemic, we have worked closely with Public Health on decisions regarding campus operations, particularly classroom settings. In our meetings, they have been an advocate for the mental health benefits of returning to in-person teaching and with our protection measures they believe that classroom settings are not high-risk environments for COVID-19. Across the country, Chief Medical Officers of Health have also favoured in-person instruction and campus activities. This is predicated upon abiding by measures related to vaccinations, masking, and distancing as these are important to maintain a low-risk environment with this milder though more transmissible variant.
Maintaining Personal Protection and Safe Classroom Operations
Masking remains required in classrooms and all indoor common spaces. We are recommending that individuals wear a medical mask; the “best” is a KN-95 or N-95 non-ventilated mask, while a “good” mask is a non-medical cloth or disposable mask with 2/3 layers plus filter. A two-layer cloth mask may be worn along with a disposable mask. With masking and distancing rules in place and a community vaccination rate of 99%, students and professors in class are not considered close contacts should anyone test positive for COVID-19.
Reminder of Provincial Testing and Reporting Requirements
If you do develop one or more symptoms, you must isolate and register for a COVID-19 test. To determine what test you need, see here for an online form. A positive Point-of-Care Test (rapid test) is considered a positive case of COVID-19, so if you have a positive POCT, continue to isolate and follow these instructions.
1. Isolation Requirements
You are required to register a positive result online to the government. If you live in residence, Residence Life has circulated their procedures. Individuals who have a positive POCT or PCR test must:
- Isolate for 5 days if you are fully vaccinated or 10 days if you are not fully vaccinated or immunocompromised.
- Once you have completed your 5-day isolation, you must mask continuously, avoid vulnerable settings, and gatherings for the next 5 days. Please note: classrooms are not considered “gatherings” by Public Health.
- Your isolation period starts the day you receive your positive test result.
You may stop isolating when all three of these criteria have been met: (1) You have completed your isolation period, (2) and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medications, (3) and your symptoms are improving. Further information may be found here: How to Isolate and Further Information on Isolation.
2. Close Contacts
You are responsible for informing your close contacts of your positive test and they will be required to isolate as well. Close contacts are the people who were within two metres of you for at least 15 minutes without masking or barriers in place during the 48 hours before you developed symptoms or 48 hours before you tested positive (whichever came first). Further information on how to identify close contacts is here.
Booster Shots Available on Campus
Those 18 years of age or older with at least 5 months since their last vaccine are eligible to book their third shot. The Campus Pharmacy is doing walk-ins Monday to Friday from 10:30 am to 5 pm. To book an appointment elsewhere, see COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments.
As we continue to navigate these ongoing challenges, we thank students, faculty, and staff for their patience and compliance with protective measures. If you have any questions, please contact ask@stu.ca.
Thank you.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor
Message to Students – Campus Offices to Reopen Jan. 31 and In-Person Classes to Resume Feb. 7
Thursday, January 27, 2022
When the Government of New Brunswick moved the province to Level 3 from January 14-30, we moved campus operations to essential services and extended remote teaching until February 7. Government is now transitioning to Level 2 effective January 31 with K-12 schools returning to in-person teaching.
On Monday, January 31, STU will return to normal campus operations with academic and administrative offices open and staff returning to work followed by the start of in-person teaching February 7 (for those courses scheduled to be in-person). Our residences have been open throughout this period, and the George Martin Hall Dining Hall is set up for in-person dining for residents with meal plans. Beginning January 31, coffee, tea, and muffins will be available in the George Martin Hall Dining Hall for students, faculty, and staff until food services in Sir James Dunn Hall reopen February 7.
Across the country, public health officials are increasingly emphasizing the importance of returning to in-person teaching at all levels of the education system. Recognizing that stringent health and safety measures remain in place, there is increasing focus on the educational needs of students and consideration of the potential negative impacts of public health measures. Over the past week, we have been in contact with Public Health, the Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training, and Labour, and the other universities on health and safety guidelines for campus operations. In addition to leaving our protective measures in place at STU, we are updating our campus mask policy as we transition to more in-person teaching and campus activities.
Strengthening our Mask Requirements
Masking remains required in classrooms, hallways, elevators, stairways, washrooms, indoor common spaces, and when accessing faculty and administrative offices. In addition, we are now recommending that individuals wear a medical mask. According to Public Health, the “best” mask is a KN-95 or N-95 non-ventilated mask, while a “good” mask is a non-medical cloth or disposable mask with 2 or 3 layers plus a filter. Alternatively, a two-layer cloth mask may be worn along with a disposable mask. Please see the attached guidance document from Public Health.
To assist with the start of this change, we will be providing a medical mask to each member of faculty and staff, and we have a supply available for students in residence. There will also be a small supply available in classroom podiums should they be required. Please note that WorkSafe NB has informed us that given our masking and distancing rules, a classroom setting is not considered a “close contact” situation, nor is it a “large gathering”. As well, Public Health has confirmed that as long as the 2-meter distancing area is maintained in a classroom, a professor or student presenter may remove their mask when teaching or presenting. Please note, however, that if a professor is ever closer to students than 2 metres, wearing a mask is required. As always, students are required to wear masks continuously and maintain a seated distance of 1 metre from all other students in the classroom.
Book Your Vaccination Booster Appointment Now
The best protection against COVID-19 is a combination of vaccination, masking, and distancing. Those 18 years of age or older with at least 5 months since their last vaccine are eligible to book their third shot. To book an appointment visit COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments or Campus Pharmacy.
With a milder though more transmissible variant, our campus measures related to vaccination, masking, and distancing are as important as ever to maintain a low-risk environment.
We will continue to monitor developments and reach out to Public Health if any issues arise. If you have any questions, please contact ask@stu.ca.
Thank you.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor
Message to the Community – New Brunswick Moves to Level 3 and Start of In-Person Classes at STU Reset to February 7
Today the Government of New Brunswick announced that it is moving the province to Level 3 in its alert system effective midnight Friday and lasting until January 30.
Earlier in the week, Public Health had released its projection of COVID-19 cases through the end of January/early February. We have been in contact with Regional Public Health to understand these projections, explain our campus health and safety protection measures, and seek guidance on campus operations. Following these consultations, St. Thomas University will continue with remote teaching and learning but reset the return to in-person classes to three weeks from now on February 7 (for those courses scheduled to be delivered in person).
Campus Operations
During the period from midnight Friday, January 14 until January 30, we will be operating in an essential services model. All offices will move to on-line operation with the exception of Facilities Management and Student Services and Residence Life as residences and food services in George Martin Hall continue operations. Residence Life staff will communicate with students about any further operational changes within residences. With the exception of the JBOK Fitness Centre, campus buildings will remain open including the Study Hall and the Computer Lab in Sir James Dunn Hall, and faculty and staff can continue to access their offices. This will keep administrative and student services operating while minimizing the number of individuals on campus.
Public Health is clear that the best way to protect yourself and reduce the strain on the healthcare system is to assume that everyone you come into contact with could have COVID-19. With a milder though more transmissible variant, this means our campus measures related to masking, hand sanitizing, and distancing are as important as ever. In the coming days, we will be communicating information on masking, testing requirements, reporting cases, and campus activities after February 7.
Book Your Vaccination Booster Appointment
The best protection against COVID-19 is a combination of vaccination, masking, and distancing. As 99% of our community is fully vaccinated, this protection now includes getting a booster shot. Those 18 years of age or older with at least 5 months since their last vaccine are eligible to book their third shot. To book an appointment visit COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments or Campus Pharmacy. That extra step protects you and others who may be more vulnerable.
Though the start of this semester has been eventful, I continue to be encouraged by how faculty, staff, and students respond to new challenges determined to make the best of this situation and with optimism for better days ahead. We will continue to monitor developments and reach out to Public Health as any issues arise. If you have any questions, please contact ask@stu.ca.
Thank you.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor
Message to Students — STU Moves to Remote Classes to Begin Winter Semester on January 10 with In-Person Classes Resuming January 24
Following advice from Public Health regarding the number of Omicron variant COVID-19 cases expected in the coming weeks, St. Thomas University will be moving all courses to the remote delivery format for the first two weeks of the second semester (beginning on January 10) and plans to return to in-person classes on January 24 (for those courses already scheduled to be delivered in person).
This pause is being made in the best interests of the health and safety of members of the STU community, as well as the greater Fredericton community and local health care system. A delay in the start of in-person classes is happening at all public universities in the province.
January 4 to January 10
When the university opens on Tuesday, January 4, all administrative and support services will be available in person and online. During the period from January 4 (when the University re-opens) to January 10 (when classes begin online), your professors will be reaching out to you to explain how their course will be structured for the first two weeks of remote learning.
Residence and Dining Services
Our residences and food services in George Martin Hall will be open and available for students beginning January 9. However, we are requesting that students living in residence, who are able, begin their semester at home and return to residence the weekend of January 22-23.
We have contacted the Students' Union to explain the situation. If you have any questions, please reach out to ask@stu.ca.
Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor
Message to the Community — COVID-19 Public Exposures at UNB Library Dec. 6 and 8
We have been notified of the following COVID-19 exposures at the UNB Library:
- December 6 between 12 noon and 2 pm – Harriet Irving Library
- December 8 between 9:30 am and 11 am – Harriet Irving Library
According to information from Public Health, if you were fully vaccinated (2 doses) for COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to exposure:
- Self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days after the potential exposure.
- If any COVID-19 symptoms develop, book a COVID-19 PCR laboratory test on-line or by calling 811. You do not need to isolate while waiting for test results.
If you do not have symptoms, you can use a Rapid Point of Care Test screening kit. You do not need to isolate. Rapid POCTs are now available at Student Services, Registrar’s Office, Financial Services, IT Computer Lab, and Admissions during regular office hours.
Continue to follow all Public Health advice, including wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing in public settings.
Further information may be found here. We will update you if there are any developments.
Message to Students – Holiday Travel Reminders for Domestic and International Students
I am writing to ask all students to pay close attention to travel rules over the holidays.
International Students
We have already written to international students providing information on travelling to Canada and included a checklist of predeparture planning and travelling (e.g., vaccination, arrival testing, quarantine requirements). If you did not receive this information, please respond to this e-mail.
Domestic Students
During the holidays, any student who travels outside of Canada/US may be required to have a Mandatory Random Test upon return and required to isolate (48-72 hours) until the results are available. Please note that such isolation cannot occur in our residences and students should book hotels in Fredericton. As well, if you travel outside of Canada, you need to download the ArriveCAN app.
As this situation may be changing, please continue to check with the Government of Canada as updates can come at any time.
During the holidays, we will keep you updated on any significant changes in New Brunswick that could have an impact on STU. If you have any questions, please reach out to ask@stu.ca.
Thank you.
Ryan Sullivan
Associate Vice-President (Enrolment Management)
COVID-19 Public Exposure at the J.B. O'Keefe Fitness Centre
We have been notified that there was a COVID-19 exposure at the J.B. O'Keefe Fitness Centre on the following days:
- Friday November 26 (3:30pm - 5:30pm)
- Monday November 29 (7pm - 9pm)
- Tuesday November 30 (7pm - 9pm)
- Wednesday December 1 (7pm - 9pm)
If you may have been potentially exposed, please click HERE more information.
Message to Community— Follow-Up on COVID-19 Public Exposures at STU Nov. 26 and Dec 1
Public Health has notified us that after further communication with the case noted yesterday, there is another class that has been exposed:
November 26 and December 1, 2021
CRIM 1023A, 09:00-10:20, Edmund Casey Hall, Room 103
Dr. Claire Goggin
We are contacting the professor and students in this class directly with further information.
According to information from Public Health, if you were fully vaccinated (2 doses) for COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to exposure:
- Self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days after the potential exposure.
- If any COVID-19 symptoms develop, book a COVID-19 PCR laboratory test on-line or by calling 811. You do not need to isolate while waiting for test results.
- If you do not have symptoms, you can use a Rapid Point of Care Test screening kit. You do not need to isolate. The Rapid POCT are available at the Sir James Dunn STUSU Help Desk (Mon.-Thurs. 10am to 4pm and Friday 10am to 3pm).
- Continue to follow all Public Health advice, including wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing in public settings.
Further information may be found here.
Message to Community – COVID-19 Public Exposures at STU on Nov. 29 and 30
We have been notified that there was a COVID-19 exposure on campus.
- Tuesday, Nov 30: Anthropology-2413, 11:30-12:50, Edmund Casey Hall, Professor Moira McLaughlin
- Tuesday, Nov 30: Business-2013A, 16:00-17:20, Sir James Dunn Hall, Professor Ken Critchley
- JBO Keefe Fitness Centre: Monday, Nov 29, Tuesday, Nov. 30, and Wed. December 1 around 19:00 to 21:00.
We are contacting students and professors in these classes directly.
According to information from Public Health, if you were fully vaccinated (2 doses) for COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to exposure:
- Self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days after the potential exposure.
- If any COVID-19 symptoms develop, book a COVID-19 PCR laboratory test on-line or by calling 811. You do not need to isolate while waiting for test results.
- If you do not have symptoms, you can use a Rapid Point of Care Test screening kit. You do not need to isolate. The Rapid POCT are available at the Sir James Dunn STUSU Help Desk (Mon.-Thurs. 10am to 4pm and Friday 10am to 3pm).
- Continue to follow all Public Health advice, including wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing in public settings.
Further information may be found here. We will update you if there are any developments.
Message to Community – Potential Covid-19 Public Exposure at STU on Nov. 24
We have been notified that there was a potential public exposure at the Tim Hortons at STU on Wednesday, November 24 between 7:30 am and 9:30 am. There were also potential public exposures at the UNB Student Union Building November 22 and November 24.
According to information from Public Health, if you were fully vaccinated (2 doses) for COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to exposure:
- Self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days after the potential exposure.
- If any COVID-19 symptoms develop, book a COVID-19 PCR laboratory test on-line or by calling 811. You do not need to isolate while waiting for test results.
- If you do not have symptoms, you can use a Rapid Point of Care Test screening kit. You do not need to isolate. The Rapid POCT are available at the Sir James Dunn STUSU Help Desk (Mon.-Thurs. 10am to 4pm and Friday 10am to 3pm).
- Continue to follow all Public Health advice, including wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing in public settings.
Further information may be found here. We will update you if there are any developments.
Thank you.
Lily Fraser
Vice-President (Finance and Administration)
Dr. Kim Fenwick
Vice-President (Academic and Research)
Message Sent on Behalf of Associate Vice-President (Enrolment Management)
COVID-19 Rapid Point-of-Care Tests (POCT) are now available on campus at the Sir James Dunn STUSU Help Desk (Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 10am to 4pm and Friday 10am to 3pm).
A POCT is an antigen test to screen for COVID-19 that can be done at home. Within 15 minutes, it can help to identify if a person’s sample contains COVID-19. These are the same tests that the Province of New Brunswick has been distributing and come in packs of five and include instructions.
Rapid POC tests are very helpful in slowing the spread of COVID-19, but they only reflect your health status at the time of testing. POCT tests are for people who have no symptoms and have not been instructed to isolate.
Please note that all positive POCT results must be confirmed with a laboratory PCR test.
For further information on testing, please see here.
Thank you.
Ryan Sullivan
Associate Vice-President (Enrolment Management)
Message to Students – Winter Semester to Continue Current Course Models
As we approach the end of this term, I want to update you on the Winter Semester that begins Monday, January 10.
The Fall Semester has been a challenging one for students, faculty, and staff, just as it has been challenging for society to continue the push through the pandemic. We should not overlook what we have been able to achieve. It has been beneficial to be back in familiar surroundings and to begin a return to in-person activities — our classes, lectures, special events, internships, experiential learning, and athletics are taking place primarily in person.
This year has proven to be better than the previous one, and there will be additional milestones early in the new year; our refurbished Vanier Hall opens and we host an in-person Convocation for the Bachelor of Social Work Class of ’22. These are important highlights in our progress towards the return to a typical campus life.
Winter Semester 2022
While the number of new COVID cases is declining, the overall number remains high and many regions in the province face restrictions as Public Health pursues a cautious approach to recovery. This prudence is understandable as we have seen four waves of COVID over the past 20 months. The high vaccination rates for students, faculty, and staff, along with campus health and safety protection measures, provide us with a higher level of protection. Nevertheless, I believe that we should continue to follow the same careful approach.
We will therefore be starting the Winter Semester using our current course delivery model that sees the majority of courses delivered in-person with various remote options. The Registrar will soon circulate the information on course models (in-person or remote) and on the process for requesting remote access accommodations for in-person courses (due to documented medical reasons or travel restrictions). We will also continue to provide the complete range of student services in-person and remotely. Students enrolled in the School of Education and School of Social Work will be receiving details on their courses from their program directors.
I wish you all the best on your end-of-term studies, essays, and then exams. If you have any further comments or questions, please reach out to ask@stu.ca.
Thank you, and best wishes.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor
New rules for positive rapid-test results
The mandatory order has been updated to state that anyone who receives a positive result from a rapid-test kit taken at home must immediately schedule an appointment for a lab-based PCR test at a Public Health assessment centre.
An appointment may be booked online or by calling 811. Anyone who fails to do so will be subject to fines. Peace officers will investigate information received through employer testing programs and from residents to ensure individuals are complying.
Message to Students - Travel & Gatherings During Thanksgiving and Testing
Travel During Thanksgiving
According to direction from the Provincial Government, students may travel home for Thanksgiving only if their government-issued identification address lists the household they’re visiting as their home address.
If you are travelling outside the province during the Thanksgiving weekend, please be aware that every person entering New Brunswick must pre-register online and this includes anyone re-entering the province. Upon your return:
- If you are fully vaccinated, no self-isolation will be required.
- If you are not fully vaccinated, you must self-isolate for 14 days or until you receive a negative COVID-19 result from a test taken on day 10 or later upon return.
- Individuals who cannot receive a vaccine because of a medical exemption will be required to provide proof of such exemption.
Complete information on the New Brunswick Travel Registration Program is here.
Thanksgiving Gatherings
To further limit the spread of the virus and reduce further hospitalizations, New Brunswickers must not have gatherings in their homes or on their property with anyone with whom they do not currently live, with a few exceptions, during the Thanksgiving long weekend, between Friday, Oct. 8 at 6 pm and Monday, Oct. 11 at 11:59 pm. A single household includes individuals living together. It can be extended to include caregivers for any of those people, plus any parent, child, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild of those people who requires support, plus any one additional person who lives alone at another address who requires support.
Symptoms and COVID Testing
Public Health has specific recommendations regarding getting tested if anyone is displaying symptoms.
Information about Testing
Testing: With 1 Symptom
Anyone who has even just one symptom of COVID-19 should complete the Provincial Government online assessment, book a COVID-19 test, and follow the directions provided. Even if a person has only one mild symptom, testing is recommended. People who have one mild symptom do not have to isolate while waiting for their test and results unless that person is known to be a contact of a case and/or has been directed by Public Health to isolate.
Testing: With 2 Symptoms
If you have not been fully vaccinated (0 or 1 dose) for COVID-19
- If any COVID-19 symptoms develop, book a test, either online or by calling 811.
- If you have 2 or more COVID-19 symptoms you must isolate while waiting for your test result.
- It can take up to fourteen days before you would test positive after being exposed to COVID-19; if your test results comes back negative, continue self-monitoring for any new symptoms and get tested immediately if you develop new symptoms.
- Avoid visiting settings with vulnerable populations such as nursing homes, correctional facilities, and shelters over the next 14 days.
- Continue to follow all Public Health advice, including wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing in public settings.
- You can request a COVID-19 test even if you have no symptoms.
- If you have been advised by Public Health to isolate, you must do so regardless of vaccination status.
If you are fully vaccinated (2 doses) for COVID-19
- If any COVID-19 symptoms develop you should book a test, either online or by calling 811.
- You do not need to isolate while waiting for your test results.
- Continue to follow all Public Health advice, including wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing in public settings.
- If you have been advised by Public Health to isolate, you must do so regardless of vaccination status.
Message to Students - Proof of Vaccination Now Required to Access Certain Locations and Events on Campus
Effective today, the Provincial Government has put in place requirements for proof of vaccination and government-issued identification when accessing certain events, services, and businesses. On our campus, locations and events requiring proof of vaccination (ie., STU Safe validation) and identification (STU Student Card) involve:
- accessing the JB O’Keefe Fitness Centre
- indoor organized group recreational sports
- indoor festivals, performing arts, sporting events
- indoor organized gatherings including conferences and workshops
We are seeking clarification regarding other types of campus events and situations though these government requirements do not apply to our dining halls or food outlets.
Under the government regulations, Individuals unable to receive a vaccine due to a medical or religious exemption will be required to show proof of exemption. On campus, it’s best to have a photo or photocopy of the exemption certificate or letter that was accepted by the University.
To abide by the Provincial Government’s new regulations at the above noted locations or activities, we will also accept other proof of vaccination, namely:
- MyHealthNB record
- Immunization record from an RHA clinic, pharmacy, or Public Health
- Photo or copy of an immunization record
- Proof of vaccination from another jurisdiction
Use STU Safe for Vaccine Validation, Rapid Testing, Exemption Requests
Please have the following information ready before you begin the validation process: (1) the dates/type of vaccine and (2) a scanned copy/photo of your proof of vaccination ready for uploading. If you are requesting an exemption on medical or religious grounds, you will need a scanned copy/photo of exemption information from a physician/nurse practitioner or religious leader. You may use STU Safe to apply for in-person vaccine validation and to schedule an appointment to bring your proof of vaccination to George Martin Hall, Room 303.
STU Safe may be found here.
Vaccine Exemption Information is here.
Questions? ask@stu.ca.
Information on how to access your QR code is here.
Thank you.
Message to Students – STU Begins Vaccine Validation and Rapid Testing Program
Thursday, September 16, 2021
We are following up on previous messages regarding mandatory vaccines, exemptions, and rapid testing for COVID-19. We are launching an online vaccine validation tool so that students may upload proof of vaccination or request an exemption. The same tool will be used by those who will be required to report regular rapid testing results.
- Students have until Oct. 15 to provide proof of full vaccination. After Oct. 15, to come to campus, students must either be fully vaccinated with confirmation and wear a mask, or have an approved exemption, participate in regular testing, and wear a mask.
- Students who have received or scheduled their first vaccination will be permitted to come to campus. They will be required to begin regular testing starting Sept. 20 until they provide proof of full vaccination which must be completed by Oct. 15.
- Students who are seeking or receive an approved exemption to mandatory vaccination will be required to participate in regular testing starting Sept. 20 and have until Oct. 15 to provide completed documentation to support their request for an exemption.
You are encouraged to provide the information requested as soon as possible through STU Safe and not wait for the Oct. 15 deadline — this is important given the Province’s new requirements for proof of vaccination when accessing events, services, and businesses.
Vaccine Exemption Information
Vaccine exemption may be permitted on medical or religious grounds and requires a note from a physician/nurse practitioner or religious leader. The requirements for the exemption may be found . If you have any questions about exemptions, please direct them to ask@stu.ca.
Rapid Testing Protocol
Rapid testing is for students who are not fully vaccinated or have received an approved exemption. These individuals must complete a rapid test and upload the results twice (2) per week (we recommend Mondays and Thursdays) to STU Safe. Information on rapid testing may be found .
Using STU Safe for Vaccine Validation, Rapid Testing Results, and Exemption Requests
Please have the following information ready before you begin the validation process: (1) the dates/type of vaccine and (2) a scanned copy/photo of your proof of vaccination ready for uploading. If you are requesting an exemption on medical or religious grounds, you will need a scanned copy/photo of exemption information from a physician/nurse practitioner or religious leader. STU Safe may be found here.
If you are not comfortable in uploading your health information, you may use STU Safe to apply for in-person vaccine validation and to schedule an appointment to bring your proof of vaccination to George Martin Hall, Room 303. STU Safe may be found here.
Provincial Requirement for Proof of Vaccination
The Provincial Government announced yesterday that beginning Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 11:59 pm, individuals will be required to show proof of vaccination when accessing certain events, services, and businesses, and anyone entering New Brunswick must preregister their travel. These changes (full list here) are being implemented to ensure that the Province is able to remain in Green and avoid lockdowns. Proof of vaccination will need to be shown when accessing:
- indoor festivals, performing arts, and sporting events
- indoor and outdoor dining and drinking at restaurants, pubs, and bars
- movie theatres, nightclubs, amusement centres, pool halls, bowling alleys, and casinos
- gyms, indoor pools, and indoor recreation facilities
- indoor group exercise facilities
- indoor organized gatherings including weddings, funerals, parties (excluding parties in a private dwelling), conferences, and workshops
- indoor organized group recreational sports, classes, and activities
Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 22, we will be using the STU Safe tool as a mechanism for students, faculty, and staff to provide proof of vaccination when accessing the above noted services on campus (ie., indoor dining and the JBOK Fitness Centre). More information on how to use the STU Safe tool for this purpose will be provided next week.
Thank you.
Dr. Kim Fenwick
Vice-President (Academic and Research)
Lily Fraser
Vice-President (Finance and Administration)
Message to Students - Update on Vaccination Declaration Process
Tuesday, September 7, 2021
New Brunswick Public Health has recommended that post-secondary institutions mandate vaccines for students, faculty, and staff. We are following that recommendation and will soon launch an on-line vaccine declaration tool so that students may upload proof of vaccination or a request for a medical or religious exemption.
- Students will have until Oct. 15 to provide proof of full vaccination. After Oct. 15, to come to campus, students must either: (1) be fully vaccinated with confirmation, or (2) have an approved exemption, participate in regular testing, and wear a mask.
- Students who have received/scheduled their first vaccination will be permitted to come to campus and will be required to begin regular testing on Sept. 15 until they provide proof of full vaccination which must be completed by Oct. 15.
- Students who are seeking an exemption to mandatory vaccinations based on medical or religious grounds will need to begin testing on Sept. 15 and have until Oct. 15 to provide documentation to support their request for an exemption. Students who are approved for an exemption will be required to participate in regular testing and wear a mask.
These requirements are expected to be in place for the fall semester and will be reassessed as needed based on guidance from Public Health. Later this week we will be sharing information on the system that will be used for declaring vaccination status, exemptions, and the regular testing program.
Vaccine Exemptions on Medical or Religious Grounds
Vaccine exemptions will only be permitted on medical or religious grounds and will require a note from a physician/nurse practitioner or religious leader. Anyone with an approved exemption will be required to wear a mask and participate in twice-weekly rapid testing and follow-up Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing if a positive result occurs. The process for requesting an exemption will be part of the vaccine declaration tool.
Anyone who is vaccine hesitant is encouraged to schedule an appointment with their health practitioner to make an informed decision on vaccination. Should a student not be vaccinated nor have a medical or religious exemption, they will not be permitted to come to campus after Oct. 15. Instead, they will be encouraged to take remote courses. Academic Advisors in the Registrar’s Office (advising@stu.ca) are available to assist students with academic planning and course selection. The last day to add/drop fall term and full-year courses is Sept. 17.
Getting Your Vaccine
Anyone who requires a vaccine may register for vaccinations at the UNB Campus Pharmacy (the same building as the UNB Bookstore). are planned for Thursday, Sept. 9, and Friday, Sept. 10 (from 10 am to 5 pm). Vaccinations are also available through Horizon Health Clinics or a pharmacy.
If You Have Symptoms of COVID-19
The symptoms of COVID-19 have included: Fever/Feverish, sore throat, headache, runny nose, a new cough or worsening chronic cough, new onset of fatigue or muscle ache, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell.
- Public Health strongly recommends that people with two or more symptoms get tested even if you have been vaccinated. For an on-line self-assessment and testing steps, see here.
- For information on COVID-19 case and contact management, see here. This page provides important information on whether you need to isolate while you await test results. If you are fully vaccinated and don’t have any known exposures, you do not need to isolate while waiting for your results unless directed by Public Health. Otherwise, you will need to isolate until you receive your results and further direction from Public Health – please see the detailed information from Public Health.
Message from President and Vice-Chancellor Dawn Russell
Update on Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccinations and Masking Requirements on Campus
Tuesday, August 31, 2021
As we move towards the beginning of the term, I am writing to provide further information on mandatory vaccinations and masking requirements. Most new COVID infections in the province are occurring among the unvaccinated or those not yet fully vaccinated, and these steps to strengthen our health and safety measures are designed to keep members of our community as safe as possible.
Mandatory Vaccinations – Confirmation Process Begins in September
Following the guidance of Public Health, we are requiring that students, faculty, and staff be fully vaccinated. A significant majority of students have indicated that they are fully vaccinated, and I would expect a similar situation with faculty and staff. We are setting up a secure, on-line system to upload and validate proof of vaccination. We aim to have that system in place in early September at which time individuals will be able to provide proof of vaccination. Those who are not yet fully vaccinated will have until October 15 to complete the process and provide their proof of vaccination.
Those who cannot satisfy the vaccination requirement because of medical or religious grounds must apply for an exemption and will be required to participate in twice-weekly Point of Care Testing (POCT) with follow-up Polymerase Chain Reaction Testing (PCR) if a positive POCT result occurs. We will provide the POCT tests at no charge and implement a means to submit test results. Additional periodic PCR testing may be required.
In the coming days, we will be sharing information regarding the system to record and upload your proof of vaccination, as well as the exemption certification and testing results for those who are not fully vaccinated. A testing program for students living in residence will be delivered through Residence Life.
If you haven’t yet received your first or second vaccination, please book your appointment as soon as possible. Please see the information below on how to book an appointment. Appointments for a second dose must be scheduled for a date that is at least 28 days after the first dose. Once the vaccine confirmation system is launched and students have had the opportunity to upload their information, you must either be (1) be fully vaccinated with confirmation, or (2) provide an approved exemption and participate in a regular testing program to come to campus.
Getting Your Vaccine
Anyone who requires a vaccine may register for vaccinations at the (the same building as the UNB Bookstore). Clinics are planned for Tuesday, Sept. 7, Thursday, Sept. 9, and Friday, Sept. 10 (from 10 am to 5 pm). Vaccinations are also available through Horizon Health Clinics or a pharmacy.
Reminder – Mask Wearing/Distancing
As wearing a mask helps prevent the spread of COVID-19, masking will be required in all indoor settings on campus. Masks are required in classrooms (except for professors or other presenters who can physically distance by 2 metres from the rest of the class while presenting), and in hallways, elevators, stairways, washrooms, indoor common spaces, and when accessing administrative offices. Masks may be removed when eating/drinking or exercising at the JB O’Keefe Fitness Centre. Any student unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition will require a medical exemption letter from an authorized medical professional (physician or nurse practitioner) which can be sent to studentservices@stu.ca.
Compliance with this masking requirement will be monitored by staff. If a student refuses to comply with the masking requirement, they will be required to leave the classroom or building. Non-compliance will be subject to disciplinary action under the Non-Academic Misconduct Policy.
Though these changes may present an additional inconvenience, they are important measures to keep everyone safe.
Thank you.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor
Message from President and Vice-Chancellor Dawn Russell
STU to Implement Mandatory Vaccinations for Students, Faculty, and Staff
Thursday, August 19, 2021
Over the past few days, there have been a number of developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most significantly, the Provincial Government is now preparing to implement a mandatory vaccination program for provincial public sector employees and a testing program for unvaccinated employees. The numbers of COVID-19 cases in the province are expected to increase and the potential impact of cases in other parts of the country are factors that have influenced that decision.
Many universities in Canada are implementing or considering mandatory vaccines based on their particular circumstances. From a survey we conducted earlier this month, the vast majority of our students (87%) have reported that they have received or expect to have received two vaccination doses by September. Moreover, 6% have received or expect to receive one dose, and 4% want to be vaccinated but don’t expect to be by September. These are encouraging numbers especially coupled with the health and safety measures that we will be leaving in place on campus to begin the term. These include a mandatory mask policy, distancing requirements, and continued cleaning and disinfecting measures, among other proactive steps.
Over the course of the pandemic, we have followed the guidance of the Provincial Government and Public Health. We have been in contact with Public Health today and they are strongly recommending post-secondary institutions implement a program that includes mandatory vaccinations and testing similar to government.
We recognize that we need to do more to strengthen our health and safety measures; therefore St. Thomas will be developing and implementing a policy of mandatory vaccinations consistent with the guidance from Public Health.
In the coming days, we will be developing the parameters for effectively and equitably implementing such a mandate on our campus and we will be reporting back to you on further details.
Obtaining Your Vaccine
Any student who has not yet received their first or second vaccine is strongly encouraged to book an appointment through Vitalité or Horizon Health Clinics or a pharmacy. Students residing outside New Brunswick are encouraged to seek information on vaccination in their province of residence. During Welcome Week, students can also access COVID-19 vaccination clinics offered at the UNB Campus Pharmacy (29 Dineen Drive in the UNB Bookstore):
Back-to-School Immunization (Pfizer and Moderna)
Campus Pharmacy (10 am to 5 pm)
Tuesday, Sept. 7
Thursday, Sept. 9
Friday, Sept. 10
For more information and to register, see . The Pharmacy encourages anyone making an individual appointment to try to bring a friend to get their vaccination as well.
Thank you.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor
Message from President and Vice-Chancellor Dawn Russell
Fall Semester Plan Sees Campus Open with Majority of Classes in Person
Monday, June 14, 2021
I am pleased to announce that St. Thomas University will be open for the Fall Semester with more than 65% of our Bachelor of Arts courses delivered in-person, along with numerous remote options. In addition, we will be providing both in-person and remote student services to ensure that you have all the necessary supports to be successful, and our residences will be open with food services operating. Plans are underway to welcome you for the first day of classes on September 8, which is less than three months away.
The School of Education and School of Social Work programs will be in person, and those students will receive details from their program directors on course delivery and when to arrive on campus.
Fall Course Delivery Options
Working with faculty, we have developed in-person and remote course deliver models. The Semester 1 Course Offerings and WebAdvisor now indicate which model each course will be following:
- In-Person Courses list a building and room number in the location field.
- Remote Courses list “Web Online” as the course location.
Please Note
- In-person courses will have remote access accommodation available for students not able to return to campus in September due to extenuating circumstances such as travel restrictions or a medical condition. The nature of the remote access will depend on the course and could include livestreaming, streaming with interaction, and/or asynchronous elements. Professors will share details about remote access on a course-by-course basis to those students who have been granted an accommodation to participate remotely.
- All students should plan to be available for the time slot assigned to their course whether the course is following an in-person or remote model.
- Students who need to access an in-person class remotely will be required to apply for an accommodation to do so; details on the procedure for doing so will be forthcoming.
- To reduce confusion, full-year (6 credit-hour) courses that begin as remote courses in the fall will continue with remote delivery for the full year.
Students who are able should plan to return to Fredericton for September. Our hope is to return to fully in-person classes and operations by January.
Getting Vaccinated Can Bring Us Back Together, Faster
The Province of New Brunswick is implementing a gradual easing of restrictions until August when they target a lifting of remaining restrictions. They will be monitoring vaccination rates which are a key driver for reopening. The best thing that you can do to maintain this momentum towards recovery is to get vaccinated.
Any student who has not yet received their first vaccine is strongly encouraged to book an appointment through Vitalité or Horizon Health Clinics or a pharmacy. Students residing outside New Brunswick are encouraged to seek information on vaccination in their province of residence.
With the safety and health of our community as our primary goal, we will consult with Public Health as we move towards September, and we expect to keep protection measures in place (such as hand-sanitizing, masking).
After such a prolonged absence, we look forward to having students, faculty, and staff together again on our campus. We will continue to monitor the situation, and updates will be forthcoming over the summer. In the meantime, we have developed a series of FAQ on the Fall Semester.
If you have any further questions, please reach out to ask@stu.ca.
Dawn Russell
President and Vice-Chancellor