January 2022 Return-to-Campus Guidance

December 24, 2021

As we come to the close of 2021, we want to thank the faculty, staff and students of Bowie State University for your diligence in adhering to the strict safety protocols to protect the health of our campus community. Our efforts to provide access to a high quality education for our students and a safe environment for everyone remains our highest priority as we prepare to return on Jan. 3, 2022.

Despite the increase in cases prior to the winter break, we have received no reports of hospitalizations or serious complications due to contracting COVID-19. The high rate of vaccination in the BSU community has provided a significant protection against serious illness and death from the virus. We will continue to consult local authorities and others throughout the University System of Maryland to monitor the progression of COVID-19 and will make any adjustments to protocols as changes in the science and data may require.

To ensure a safe reopening in January, the following information will assist you as you return to campus:

  • The university will open Monday, Jan. 3 following the holiday break. Telework is strongly encouraged for those who are able to do so from Monday, Jan. 3 through Friday, Jan. 7, 2022. Please speak with your supervisor to confirm your status. The university will be open during this time.
  • COVID-19 testing will resume on campus on Jan. 3. Appointments may be made through the Wellness Portal. A negative test result will be required for all faculty, staff and students coming to campus starting Monday, Jan. 10, 2022.
  • Residential students will receive information sent directly to them in January on arrival dates and testing requirements for move-in.
  • BSU strongly recommends booster shots for all students, faculty and staff as soon as you are eligible—six months after your last Pfizer or Moderna vaccination shot and two months after the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Everyone who is already eligible is encouraged to get their booster shot before the spring semester begins. Vaccines and booster shots are available by appointment through the Wellness Portal.

Bowie State’s virtual Winter Session will proceed as scheduled with all courses online. Spring semester classes will begin on Monday, Jan. 24.

We want to remind everyone to pay attention to their BSU email, the COVID-19 Updates website and social media channels for key information during the winter break. We will continue to provide updated information to protect the health and safety of our entire BSU community.

Thank you for your continued support of our BSU community to remain Bowie Bold and Bulldog Strong.