ACU to Require Face Masks Amid Covid-19 Surge

ABILENE, TX –– Even as daily Covid-19 cases in Abilene remain lower than in San Angelo, local universities are taking preemptive measures to slow the spread.

On Thursday, Abilene Christian University announced face coverings will be required in classrooms from January 6th to January 21st.

"As we anticipate the start of classes and campus events, we are mindful of the health and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff in the ever-changing COVID-19 environment," said University President Dr. Phil Schubert in a statement. "With the rapid spread of the omicron variant, we are making adjustments to our campus health precautions and operations to protect face-to-face learning and student experiences."

The mask mandate will be required in all classrooms, labs, studios, and other instructional spaces, and indoor Chapel gatherings. In other common interior spaces, masks will be strongly recommended, but not required.

Dr. Schubert also encouraged students and staff to visit the Medical Clinic if they have not been vaccinated or are due for a booster.

"We will continue to monitor CDC guidelines as they are updated and evaluate the pandemic’s effect on our learning and living environments," said Schubert. "On or before Jan. 23, we will reassess the COVID-19 landscape and let you know if we need to take additional action or revise these protocols."