University of North Dakota to implement indoor mask requirement

(Grand Forks, ND) -- The University of North Dakota will require masks in certain areas of its campus, according to a letter sent to the campus community by President Andrew Armacost on Sunday afternoon.

Armacost says the University continues "monitoring the trajectory of COVID-19 and Delta variant to consider actions that will allow us to deliver the educational mission of the University most effectively."

"To enable us to continue operating normally in the early days of this semester, the University of North Dakota will implement a mask requirement for indoor public spaces," Armacost wrote. Public spaces are defined as hallways, classrooms, open seating lounges and teaching laboratories, but not individual offices or private living spaces.

Masks will be required in the public spaces of academic buildings, administrative buildings, the Chester Fritz Library, Student Health Services, and the University Children's Learning Center. The requirement is also in effect for Wilkerson Commons and the Memorial Union, except for when someone is eating. Non-university facilities where University business is conducted, such as the Gorecki Center, are also included.

Masks are strongly encouraged, but not required, in residence hall common areas, campus apartment common areas, the Wellness Centers and athletic facilities. However, when meetings are scheduled in residence hall common areas, masks will be required.

"UND will continue to monitor COVID-19 cases, consult with local and state health officials, follow CDC guidelines, and make needed adjustments as the situation evolves," Armacost said. "The safety of our students, faculty, staff, and the entire community remains our top priority."

The mask requirement will go into effect on Monday, August 23.