March 31, 2021
Dear Students,
As we continue to plan for a return to campus, we want to HIGHLY encourage you to receive a COVID-19 vaccination in your local area, as they become available, PRIOR to arrival at Pitzer this fall. There are many benefits to receiving the vaccination prior to arrival. For example, students who are vaccinated will not need to observe the same quarantine periods if identified as in close contact with someone with COVID-19 and will likely be exempt from regular COVID-19 testing protocols.
As you may know, the COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for Emergency Use Authorization by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is becoming more readily available nationwide. For example:
- As part of the employees of institutions of higher education, we have learned that student employees who reside in the local area are now eligible to receive that vaccine. They can do so through Student Health Services (SHS) and other local vaccine providers with proof of student employment (such as a W2).
- In the State of California, all individuals over the age of 16 will become eligible for vaccination starting April 15.
- And, President Biden has declared that all individuals over the age of 16 will become eligible for vaccination nationwide starting no later than May 1, with most individuals becoming eligible by April 19.
- Please check with your vaccine provider in advance to confirm the requirements.
Any questions or concerns related to the COVID-19 vaccine can be fielded by Student Health Services (SHS):
- TCCS COVID-19 FAQs section on COVID vaccines
- Nursing phone appointments available by contacting SHS (909) 621-8222
- Provider phone appointments also available by contact SHS (909) 621-8222
- 7C – Health provider appointments available via telemedicine 24/7
In the near future, students will be informed of their access to our Healthy Pitzer Daily Screening Form. This will allow students who have been fully vaccinated to provide us with confirmation that they have been vaccinated by uploading a copy of their fully completed CDC-issued vaccination card, created in partnership with Student Health Services (SHS).
We hope you will join us in being “Mindful of Each Other” in our return to campus by considering your options to become vaccinated and reaching out to SHS with any questions. And, as new information becomes available, we will continue to update our website.
Sincerely,
Sandra Vasquez
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs
