Latest University messages

Change to campus mask requirement – May 5, 2023

Dear MSVU students, faculty and staff,

Sincere thanks to all of you for your dedication to the MSVU community over the past three pandemic years. This truly is a caring, community-oriented place, and your pandemic response has been a perfect example of that.

As our COVID-19 context has evolved these past few years, so too have our related campus protocols. I’m writing today to update you on MSVU’s mask requirement.

Effective Monday, May 8, masks will no longer be required in instructional spaces on campus (i.e. classrooms and student labs). Mask use will still be encouraged in crowded indoor public spaces or should you have cold symptoms (like a cough or runny nose). Masks will continue to be available for those who need them (at the Assisi Security Desk, Library Circulation Desk, Registrar’s Office, and Athletics & Recreation main desk). Free COVID-19 rapid test kits are also available at these locations.

Please note that masks will continue to be required in the MSVU Health Office, and for appointments in Counselling Services (including Career Services) and Accessibility Services (including the testing centre).

Students who require a COVID-19 related accommodation should contact Accessibility Services (AccessibilityServices@msvu.ca). Faculty and staff who require a COVID-19 related accommodation should contact Human Resources (Human.Resources@msvu.ca). Faculty and staff who wish to add or remove plexiglass barriers in their spaces can contact kimberley.darr@msvu.ca for assistance. As well, if colleagues ask you to wear a mask while in their individual workspaces, please respect those requests.

We’ve learned a great deal about how to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses through our COVID-19 experience. I encourage you to continue to adhere to best practices such as frequent handwashing, keeping up-to-date on your vaccinations, and staying home when you’re sick.

Sincerely,

Joël

Dr. Joël Dickinson
President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Saint Vincent University

Classroom mask requirement at MSVU extended to winter 2023 semester – December 6, 2022

Dear MSVU students, faculty and staff,

I’m writing today to let you know that masks will continue to be required in instructional spaces (classrooms and student labs) and certain health/support service offices at MSVU throughout the winter semester. Masks will continue to be strongly recommended in all other areas.

This requirement will help us get through what is predicted to be a challenging winter from a respiratory virus perspective. It is our current expectation that masks will not be required after winter 2023.

Note that masks are also required (both this semester and next) in exam spaces.

Rationale 

While COVID-19 continues to circulate, other illnesses are mounting a significant comeback. Continuing to wear a mask for the next several months will help us get through this particularly challenging season of mixed respiratory viruses – and it’s a continuing recommendation from NS Public Health (additional provincial guidance on living with respiratory illnesses is available here.)

Further, while many of us have been able to return to a version of our pre-pandemic normal, that’s not yet the case for those who are at particularly high risk of severe disease. By wearing masks in classrooms and student labs, we are making it safer for these individuals to attend. Ensuring the safety of all to the greatest extent possible is in keeping with our institution’s commitment to community and accessibility.

Our community was overwhelmingly supportive of our classroom and student lab mask requirement this fall. And while I appreciate that not everyone will be thrilled to hear about its extension, I have no doubt that everyone will continue to show their commitment to caring and community through the simple act of wearing a mask.

Details 

As in the fall semester, instructors may choose to remove their masks to teach (while keeping as much distance as possible) and masks may be lowered to take a quick drink (or if regular eating is required for medical reasons). Students/presenters may choose to remove their mask while presenting. Students who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons must register with Accessibility Services – contact accessibilityservices@msvu.ca. Instructors will be advised of the students in their classes who are medically exempt from the mask requirement.

For those in need of a mask, they will continue to be available for pick-up at the Assisi Security Desk (Assisi Hall main entrance), Library Circulation Desk (Main floor, EMF), Registrar’s Office (Room 207, Evaristus Hall), and Athletics & Recreation main desk (2nd floor, Rosaria Student Centre).

The health/support service offices where masks will continue to be required include the MSVU Health Office, Counselling Services, Career Services and Accessibility Services.

Additional ways to protect yourself and others

A reminder that there are other important things you can do to help reduce your chances of severe disease from COVID-19 (and other viruses), in particular:

Sincere thanks for your continued support of MSVU protocols designed to help keep all members of our community learning and working safely. There is light at the end of this tunnel!

Joël

Dr. Joël Dickinson
President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Saint Vincent University

Covid-19 protocols for fall 2022 at MSVU - August 3, 2022

Dear MSVU students, faculty and staff,

With September nearing, I’m writing to provide an update on COVID-19 protocols for the fall semester at MSVU.

This stage of the pandemic is in some ways our most challenging for the disproportionate impacts it is having. For many, a return to gathering in person is now a reality. But for those for whom the risk of severe disease from COVID-19 is high, the continuing pandemic and evolving protocols pose a significant challenge.

Ensuring the safety of all MSVU community members to the greatest extent possible is in keeping with our institution’s commitment to community and accessibility. Fortunately, there are simple measures we can take to help protect one another.

Masks to be required in classrooms and student labs this fall

One of the easiest things we can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to wear a mask. That’s why, for the fall 2022 semester (i.e. effective Sunday, September 4), masks will once again be required in classrooms and student lab spaces.

Masks will continue to be strongly recommended in all other common indoor areas, with the exception of the MSVU Health Office, Counselling Services, Career Services and Accessibility Services where masks will be required in keeping with NS Health protocols.

Instructors may choose to remove their masks to teach (while keeping as much distance as possible) and masks may be lowered to take a quick drink (or if regular eating is required for medical reasons). Plexiglass can also be installed where appropriate. Requests for plexiglass installation can be sent to Tom Strapps, Director of Facilities Management at Tom.Strapps@msvu.ca.

Students/presenters may choose to remove their mask while presenting. Students who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons must register with Accessibility Services – contact accessibilityservices@msvu.ca. Instructors will be advised of the students in their classes who are medically exempt from the mask requirement.

Three-layer masks are recommended. For those in need of a mask, they will continue to be available for pick-up on campus at the following locations: the Assisi Security Desk (Assisi Hall main entrance), Library Circulation Desk (Main floor, EMF), Registrar’s Office (Room 207, Evaristus Hall) or Athletics & Recreation main desk (2nd floor, Rosaria Student Centre).

Most classrooms will continue to operate at 80% capacity for the fall 2022 semester. At the same time, we continue to offer a number of online courses for those who need or want to continue to learn online.

Vaccination

Vaccination helps reduce your chances of severe disease from COVID-19.

Though proof of vaccination will not be required to attend campus this fall, all are still strongly encouraged to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (including boosters), in keeping with Public Health guidance.
– Are you in Nova Scotia? Book a vaccination appointment via NS Public Health here.
– Living elsewhere in Canada? Information on where to get a vaccine in each province is available here.

We are working with Nova Scotia Public Health to host a COVID-19 vaccination clinic on campus early this fall (including for boosters) – stay tuned for details.

Stay home if you’re sick

Another important means of protecting our community is to stay home if you are sick. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should not come to campus, even if you have tested negative on a rapid test (you may not get a positive rapid test result until a few days after the onset of symptoms). If you do test positive for COVID-19, you should complete the Nova Scotia COVID-19 Report and Support Screening form. Please also contact your instructor or supervisor to make arrangements for your absence.
– Review common symptoms of COVID-19 here.
–Information on when those with COVID-19 are considered recovered is available here.

Questions?

Students with questions about any of these protocols are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Experience at ose@msvu.ca. Employees with questions can contact human.resources@msvu.ca.

These past two and a half years have not been easy; and it’s been a longer pandemic journey than many of us anticipated.

Thank you for your support of MSVU protocols designed to help keep all members of our community learning and working safely.

As throughout all other stages of the pandemic, we will continue to monitor the situation and adjust our approach as appropriate. If anything needs to change, we will update you as soon as possible.

We are going to have a great fall semester together. And these simple protective measures will go a long way in making it the safest semester possible.

See you soon!

Joël

Dr. Joël Dickinson
President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Saint Vincent University

Mask protocol update – effective June 25 (June 22, 2022)

Dear MSVU students, faculty and staff,

I’m writing to remind you that our mask protocol at MSVU will change effective Saturday, June 25 (the end of Summer Session 1).

In keeping with the latest provincial guidance and practices across our sister institutions, mask use will be strongly recommended in common indoor areas on campus starting June 25; masks will no longer be mandatory in these locations (common indoor areas include classrooms, computer labs, the Library, lobbies, elevators, the dining hall, etc.).

Masks still required in Health and Counselling Offices on campus

Please be advised that there are certain exceptions to the change in mask protocol at MSVU effective June 25. Masks will continue to be mandatory in MSVU’s Health and Counselling Offices (including Career Counselling), and Accessibility Services. This means that masks must continue to be worn at all times in these particular areas, including for the duration of appointments and in reception and waiting areas.

The MSVU community has been exemplary in our support of one another throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and I encourage continued patience, understanding and respect for individual choices as we implement this latest change on campus. Please continue to stay home if you’re sick or have tested positive for COVID-19. Following Public Health’s guidance, I encourage you to get a COVID-19 booster shot(s) as soon as you are eligible.

Of course, we will continue to monitor the ever-evolving pandemic situation and make any adjustments required to help keep our campus safe, including with a view to the fall semester.

Sincerely,

Sheila

Dr. Sheila A. Brown
Interim President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Saint Vincent University

 

COVID-19 update -- A message from the President and Vice-Chancellor (April 26, 2022)

Dear MSVU students, faculty and staff,

Congratulations on weathering another Nova Scotia winter and pandemic semester! It’s hard to believe that the second anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 pandemic has come and gone. Likely few of us would have predicted that we would still be navigating pandemic impacts some 25 months later.

As we look to the start of our summer sessions, I’m writing to share an update on pandemic protocols on campus.

Mask requirement extended
Masks are one of the simplest measures of protecting yourself and others. In light of current high COVID-19 case numbers in our Province, and in keeping with the extended mask mandate at P-12 schools in Nova Scotia, we will continue to require masks be worn in all indoor common spaces (including classrooms) at MSVU until at least May 31. Among other benefits, this extended mask requirement will help us ensure the safety of attendees at our spring convocation ceremonies, scheduled to take place May 19 and 20.

Classroom capacity limits continue
Classroom capacity limits will continue throughout both summer sessions. Capacity limits in other spaces on campus will be lifted effective May 1.

Vaccine mandate and on-campus rapid testing paused
Also based on our evolving context, including protocols across similar organizations (including provincial and federal governments), we will be suspending the vaccine mandate at MSVU effective May 1 (including suspension of the use of the visitor declaration form). We continue to benefit from exceptionally high rates of vaccination among members of the MSVU community (more than 98% during the fall and winter semesters) and strongly encourage all who are eligible to get your boosters as soon as possible. Should a change in circumstance necessitate it at any point, the university’s vaccine requirement could be re-instated.

Effective May 1, the on-campus COVID-19 rapid testing clinic will also be suspended. Those in need of rapid testing can pick-up tests from provincial sources. You can find more information about rapid and PCR COVID-19 testing in Nova Scotia here.

Faculty and staff travel update
While the government of Canada has lifted the pandemic-related global travel advisory, international travellers are encouraged to check for government travel advice and advisories before travelling, including those that are destination specific. Faculty and staff travelling for work purposes are expected to adhere to national and provincial protocols, and should be aware that MSVU will not cover COVID-19 related costs that are not covered by our insurers (for example, quarantine costs).

Events permitted
Events are permitted on campus; however, masks must be worn (until at least May 31), except while eating or drinking. Distance between attendees should be facilitated to the greatest extent possible – though it is no longer required, in keeping with provincial protocols.

As we’ve done throughout the pandemic, we will continue to monitor our evolving context and adjust our protocols as appropriate. As members of the MSVU community, you’ve been exemplary in your commitment to keeping one another safe – and I know that will continue through to the end of this journey. Continue to stay home if you’re sick or have tested positive for COVID-19 and get your COVID-19 booster shot(s) as soon as you’re eligible.

Wishing you a healthy spring and summer,

Ramona

Ramona Lumpkin, CM, PhD
Interim President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Saint Vincent University

Update on MSVU COVID-19 Protocols - Message from Interim VP Academic & Provost (March 4, 2022)

I’m writing to share an update on the University’s response to the Province of Nova Scotia’s announcement that Public Health restrictions will end March 21.

At the start of the winter semester, we outlined a series of COVID-19 safety protocols which, for many in our community, informed decisions about where and how they would be able to study, teach and work this term.

In light of that commitment, and given the nature of our environment (one where regular gathering of sizeable groups is required and students live together in Residence), it was determined that it would be most prudent to maintain our COVID-19 protocols through to the end of the winter semester.

Mask and vaccination requirements extended until April 30

In short, masks will continue to be required in all common indoor spaces (including classrooms) and proof of vaccination will continue to be required for those attending campus (or proof of regular negative COVID-19 test results for those with approved exemptions) until (and inclusive of) April 30, 2022. The only change to the current mask requirement will be to exempt hallways in Residence buildings effective March 21 – in other words, residents will no longer be required to wear masks in Residence hallways as of that date.

We are planning for our vaccine and mask requirements to be lifted effective May 1, though both mask use and vaccination will continue to be recommended after that date.

Update on other protocols

Space capacity limits on campus will be extended for a short period too, lifting on May 1. Enhanced cleaning of high touch surfaces will continue until at least that date and plexiglass barriers will remain in place.

Until April 30, all events on campus must adhere to MSVU room/space capacity limits and the university’s vaccination requirement will apply to all event attendees.

Rapid (asymptomatic) COVID-19 testing clinics will continue on campus on Mondays (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.) and Thursdays (1 p.m. to 3 p.m.) throughout March, shifting to one day a week in April: Mondays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., while supplies remain available. The location will remain EMF 207. The status of the on-campus testing clinics after May 1 will be determined at a later date. Those with approved exemptions to the university’s vaccine requirement who must submit twice weekly proof of negative COVID-19 test results should plan to get a supply of rapid tests through community-based sources (e.g. libraries, family resource centres and rapid testing pop-up sites). Where to get rapid tests in Nova Scotia.

An update on our protocols effective May 1 will follow closer to that date. And, of course, we will continue to be prepared to change our approach should a change in our pandemic context require it.

Throughout the pandemic, we have sought to ensure the safest possible environment for the diversity of students, faculty, staff and community members we serve. While we know that many are keen to move past certain restrictions, we must continue to prioritize the safety of our community members in the context of our unique environment.

I know that members of the MSVU community will continue to demonstrate exceptional support for one another.

Dr. M. Brook Taylor
Interim Vice-President Academic and Provost
Mount Saint Vincent University

COVID-19 update: Announcement of gradual restriction easing in Nova Scotia (February 11, 2022)

Dear MSVU students, faculty and staff,

Sincere thanks for your understanding and patience throughout the many shifts that have been required of us during this pandemic. I know it’s not been easy at times. Remember that your MSVU family is here to support you.

Yesterday, Nova Scotia Public Health shared its plan to gradually ease COVID-19 restrictions starting this Monday, February 14, 2022. In short, the Province has outlined a careful, multi-phased easing of certain restrictions to take place over the course of the next few months. Here’s what the latest provincial announcement means at MSVU in the near future:

  • Events on campus: Effective Monday, February 14, events are permitted on campus (indoors and outdoors) at 50 per cent capacity. Event organizers need to ensure as much physical distancing as possible between groups at an event. They also need to have a COVID-19 prevention plan in place. Please remember that proof of full vaccination is required for participation in all discretionary events, per the Nova Scotia government’s requirement. Masks are also required. Chartwells is accepting catering orders.
  • Meetings: In-person meetings can take place. That said, meeting organizers may still opt for virtual or hybrid meetings in consultation with attendees and, in particular, if safe physical distancing can’t be maintained.
  • Staff working arrangements: Staff who have been working from home these past several weeks should plan to transition back to the office over the next two weeks, with a view to departments being back to their full on-campus presence by Monday, February 28. Supervisors should work with their team members to plan for staff return. We realize that some staff may face exceptional circumstances, in which case they should consult with their supervisor who will discuss the matter with Human Resources. A reminder that our Flexible Working Arrangements program is in development and should be rolled out early this spring.
  • Masks continue to be required in all common indoor spaces on campus. Our mask requirement will continue for the foreseeable future.
  • On-campus testing clinic: A reminder that, at this point, on-campus asymptomatic rapid COVID-19 testing remains available for MSVU students, faculty and staff (members of the general public are not able to attend MSVU testing clinics). You may be asked to show your MSVU ID card (available free of charge at the Library front desk if you don’t already have one). Testing is available in EMF 207 on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Service updates:
    • Both the Rosaria Dining Hall and Seton Café are open and offering a variety of meal and snack options.
    • Capacity will increase slightly in the Fitness Centre (to 75%), but with distancing and other protocols still in place.
    • Several services run by the MSVU Students’ Union have also recently restarted their on-campus operations, including the Fountain Play Centre, Pride Centre, Captain Crow’s Café and the foodbank.
    • Athletics and Recreation is planning for the return of PD day camps for kids starting next week and a March break camp next month (within revised capacity limits).
    • Lastly, regular league play will resume soon for varsity sports and we’re excited for our Mystics to be back in action! Spectators will be permitted at 50% capacity (with masks required, as well as physical distancing to the greatest extent possible).
  • Residence: The interim visitor policy permitting one visitor per Residence student will be reinstated effective February 14. Residence students with questions can contact Lynn.Cashen@msvu.ca.

It is important to note that ensuring as safe a campus environment as possible continues to be a priority. Our multi-layered approach to keeping campus safe remains essential. As always, we will adjust our approach as needed.

Take care,

Ramona

Ramona Lumpkin, CM, PhD
Interim President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Saint Vincent University

COVID-19 Update: Academic calendar changes (January 5, 2022)

Dear MSVU students, faculty and staff,

Happy New Year! I hope this update finds you well and having enjoyed some down time over the holiday break.

Academic calendar changes
Further to my message of December 21 noting a delay of the first day of all classes for the winter semester to January 10, I am writing to advise of some consequent changes to the academic calendar. The table below summarizes the changes as approved by Senate Executive.

Last day to add/drop a course 
Original Date: Wednesday, January 12
New Date: Monday, January 17

Last day to drop without transcript notation (W) 
Original Date: Wednesday, February 2
New Date: Monday, February 7

Last day to drop without academic penalty (WF) 
Original Date: Wednesday, March 9
New Date: Monday, March 14

Last Day of Classes 
Original Date: Wednesday, April 6
New Date: Monday*, April 11 (designated as a Wednesday)

Reading Day  
Original Date: Thursday, April 7
New Date: Tuesday, April 12

Exams Begin
Original Date: Friday, April 8
New Date: Wednesday, April 13

Exams End
Original Date: Friday, April 22
New Date: Monday, April 25

*Of particular note, the last day of classes will be designated a Wednesday even though it falls on a Monday. This is to ensure that we meet the minimum required number of days for each course. As well, in keeping with Senate guidelines, the winter 2022 exam period has been reduced by two days (eight days instead of ten).

Per my message of December 21, courses and labs at MSVU will be delivered online until January 31, 2022. We continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation in our region and will provide a further update as soon as possible.

Campus re-opened January 4
While campus has re-opened, including all facilities and services, many student services are offering multi-access supports (i.e., in-person and online or by phone). Please consult individual service pages on the MSVU website for details.

Testing and vaccination clinics on campus
Our on-campus rapid COVID-19 asymptomatic testing clinic has re-opened in EMF 207. Please refer to the website for the latest testing clinic dates and times. As well, there will be a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination clinic on campus from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Friday, January 7 (in the Multi-Purpose Room, Rosaria Student Centre) for students, faculty, staff and community members aged 12 and up (including boosters for those eligible). Further vaccination clinics will be scheduled and information on dates/times will follow.

Additional COVID-19 protocols
Please be reminded that the university has a number of other COVID-19 protocols in place.

  • Masks are required in all common indoor spaces and when a distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained.
  • The university’s vaccination mandate requires that all those coming on campus provide proof of full vaccination (two doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine) or apply for an exemption and continue to submit twice-weekly proof of negative COVID-19 test results. If you are new to campus for the winter semester and haven’t yet done so, please submit your vaccination requirement documents as soon as possible.
  • Finally, please stay home if you’re sick.

Mental health supports
There’s no question that these are difficult times. The pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of many. Supports are available.

  • For students: MSVU Counselling Services: counselling@msvu.ca; Good2Talk NS Helpline for Postsecondary Students: 1-833-292-3698
  • For faculty and staff: Employee & Family Assistance Program (or EFAP) via Morneau Shepell (free, confidential counselling services) – visit the EFAP website or call 1-844-880-9142.
  • For all: Wellness Together Canada is a free, online, 24/7 mental health and substance use support portal provided by the Government of Canada. Visit wellnesstogether.ca or call 1-866-585-0445 (Adults, 18 or older), 1-888-668-6810 (Youth, below 18) or text WELLNESS to 741741 (Adults), 686868 (Youth) to connect with a professional for support.

Thank you for your patience as we navigate this new phase of the pandemic. I wish you a good start to the winter 2022 semester.

Brook

M. Brook Taylor, PhD
Interim Vice-President Academic and Provost
Mount Saint Vincent University

COVID-19 precaution notification from NS Public Health - December 14, 2021

Please see below for a message from Nova Scotia Public Health. Students, faculty and staff with questions can contact NS Public Health at 811 or MSVU’s Manager of Health Services Maxine Brewer, RN, at Maxine.Brewer@msvu.ca.

Re: COVID precaution notification at Mount Saint Vincent University, Seton Building

Students/faculty/staff,

Public Health is investigating a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the community. Based on our findings, you may have had an exposure to COVID-19 at Mount Saint Vincent University – Seton Academic Centre on this specific date and time:

December 8, 2021

Seton Academic Centre – Seton Cafe

1:00pm-1:45pm

Public Health will only follow-up directly with close contacts that are determined through our investigation. At this time, you are not considered a close contact. However, Public Health requires anyone who has had an exposure to COVID-19 to follow the instructions below regardless of your COVID-19 vaccination status:

  • We recommend you get tested (PCR COVID-19 test not a rapid/take-home test) at least 72 hours after the last exposure whether or not you have symptoms.
  • You are NOT required to self-isolate or to be tested, unless you develop symptoms.
  • Self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days from the last exposure until December 22, 2021. Symptoms include a new or worsening cough, or two or more of the following: fever (i.e. chills, sweats), shortness of breath, sore throat, runny nose/nasal congestion, or headache.
  • Anyone who develops symptoms is required to self-isolate, book a PCR COVID-19 test, and stay isolated until you receive a negative test result.

For those who require COVID-19 testing, visit https://covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/en or call 811 if you don’t have online access or if you have other symptoms that concern you.

We encourage all eligible Nova Scotians to get fully vaccinated as soon as possible. To book an appointment, visit https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/book-your-vaccination-appointment/ or call (toll-free) 1-833-797-7772.

Thank you for your cooperation,

Public Health, Nova Scotia Health