McMaster, Mohawk to require proof of vaccination for anyone on campus
Two Hamilton post-secondary institutions have joined the ranks of colleges and universities requiring COVID-19 vaccines for anyone on campus or accessing facilities in the fall.
As of Sept. 7 - the start of the first week of classes - all students, staff and visitors attending campus or accessing facilities at McMaster University and Mohawk College will be required to show proof of vaccination.
Both McMaster and Mohawk previously said the vaccine requirement would only apply to students living in residence.
The new policy will require that anyone accessing campus or a university facility in person upload proof that they are fully vaccinated," McMaster president David Farrar and provost Susan Tighe said in an Aug. 16 letter.
All those attending McMaster facilities in person will be required to have a full course of the vaccine or an approved exemption by Oct. 18. Testing will be available between Sept. 7 and Oct. 18 for those without a second dose or exemption approval.
At Mohawk, proof of full vaccination is required by Oct. 30, which means getting a second dose by Oct. 15. Vaccination requirements will be in place throughout the entire academic year.
For staff and students, vaccine status will be linked to their campus access cards. Visitors will have to show their status at designated entrances.
Exemptions may be granted to people who have either a medical accommodation or an objection based on disability or creed," president Ron McKerlie in an Aug. 16 letter. Those with approved exemptions" must undergo regular testing and show a negative test result in order to work or study on campus.
At both institutions, health and safety protocols, such as physical distancing and masking, will remain in place.
At least five other Ontario post-secondary institutions - Seneca College, the University of Ottawa, Western University, Brock University and Fleming College - are requiring proof of vaccination, the Star reported.
In an email to The Spectator, a spokesperson for Redeemer University in Ancaster said it will be continuing with its policy to strongly encourage vaccination for all students, faculty and staff," but says it will follow suit" should the province mandate vaccines.
In Hamilton, about 69 per cent of those aged 18 to 24 have had a first dose, and 56 per cent are fully vaccinated as of Aug. 16.
Kate McCullough is a Hamilton-based reporter covering education at The Spectator. Reach her via email: kmccullough@thespec.com