Dear Faculty and Staff,

Like many others across the nation, our community is currently experiencing a significant spike in reported COVID-19 cases due to the highly contagious Delta variant. Based on information we’ve received from our local hospitals and healthcare experts, this is largely affecting the unvaccinated, and as of August 3, 2021, only 44% of Leon County residents were fully vaccinated. The good news is it is fairly well-established that these spikes in positivity rates are relatively short-lived, often showing an equally quick decline within 4-6 weeks.

While TCC has emphasized personal responsibility and respected the right of each individual to choose whether or not to get vaccinated, as a College we have always followed guidance from respected sources as we navigate our way through these uncertain times. We work hard to maintain a safe environment, particularly regarding any event we host with increased density of participants and duration of exposure.

To that end, we will be postponing Eagles RISE, which was originally scheduled for next Thursday. The new date will be announced soon. While this was not an easy choice, it was made in an abundance of caution consistent with our original goal of protecting faculty, staff, and students.

In addition, I have asked members of our Executive Team to review any planned activities coming up in the next eight weeks that would involve density and duration and either move them to virtual or alter them to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.

We will be sending out additional communication shortly with more vaccination opportunities we will be bringing to our campus in anticipation for this fall and the return of students.

As always, we continue to ask everyone to do their part to keep our campus clean and safe. Wash your hands frequently, take the day off when sick, and respect one another’s personal space.

While face coverings are not required of all, employees, students and visitors are welcome to wear masks anywhere on campus. Certain certification programs and classrooms may require masks and other protective safety equipment. The College will continue to provide these if you do not have them, upon request. And, if you have tested positive for COVID-19, please continue to notify Human Resources.

Thank you for helping us start the semester off right. We look forward to getting together soon to celebrate our College and our team!