Mac, Redeemer say vaccination encouraged, not required for students; Mohawk undecided

Hamilton post-secondary institutions say they will not require students to have a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine before returning to campus in the fall.

We strongly encourage that at a minimum (students) receive their first COVID-19 vaccination at least 14 days before moving in," Kevin Beatty, McMaster University's director of housing and conference services, said in an April 30 residence update.

London's Western University said Thursday that it would be requiring students in residence to have at least one dose of the vaccine 14 days before moving in - a move endorsed by local public health authorities - assuming Ontario's supply allows," a release reads.

As of May 18, all Ontario adults age 18 and over are eligible for vaccines.

In a May 20 report with recommendations on a safe return to campus, McMaster said the university has been advised by public health that safety measures, including masking, physical distancing and screening, will still be in place in the fall.

Redeemer University, a Christian university in Ancaster, has also said it will not require proof of vaccination from students.

Redeemer is encouraging students, faculty and staff to get vaccinated when they are eligible, but will not be requiring vaccination to live in residence or study on campus," spokesperson Shannon McBride said in an email to The Spectator.

She said the university is open to the possibility" of hosting a clinic on campus in the fall to make vaccines more accessible to students.

Mohawk College has yet to decide whether vaccines will be required for students on campus.

Neither Mohawk College nor the college sector has made a determination on vaccines for students," spokesperson Bill Steinburg said in an email to The Spectator. We will certainly be following the guidance from Hamilton public health and the ministry on how to safely support students."

Steinburg said the college will communicate to students any requirements once a decision is made.

Kate McCullough is a Hamilton-based reporter covering education at The Spectator. Reach her via email: kmccullough@thespec.com