Atlanta HBCUs, Emory University to require COVID-19 vaccinations for fall semester

ATLANTA — A COVID-19 vaccination will soon be required for students at a few metro Atlanta colleges.

Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine and Spelman College released a joint statement saying proof of vaccinations will be required for the fall 2021 semester.

[SPECIAL SECTION: COVID-19 Vaccine in Georgia]

The Atlanta University Center Consortium said students must be fully vaccinated, which means a person has gone at least two weeks after getting their final dose.

“As AUCC member institutions plan for summer programming and the fall semester, using the latest scientific data to implement vaccination protocols is the next step in keeping our community safe. Vaccination of our community members is critical to continue meeting our highest priority—maintaining the safety and wellbeing of our constituents,” the joint statement said.

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Each university will share specific guidance and what exemptions would be made. There will be chances for students and employees to get their vaccinations at the UCC Student Health and Wellness Center as well as on campuses.

Emory University also announced Monday that it will require vaccinations for students.

The university said it will have a supply for students who can’t be vaccinated before coming to campus. Students can apply for an exemption “based on medical conditions or strong personal objections.”

“Student vaccinations will create a healthier environment in our classrooms, which will be at full density during the fall. It will also allow for student life activities including programs, athletics and intramural sports, performances and events, and appropriately-sized gatherings. In addition to vaccinations, we will also continue to employ the public health measures we have embraced over the course of the pandemic including the wearing of face coverings and testing,” said Emory President Gregory L. Fenves.

Emory will not require vaccinations for staff and faculty but it is strongly encouraged.

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