Drury University will not require masks when school starts this fall. Some social distancing measures might remain in place, however, and the school will continue a COVID-19 testing program for unvaccinated students, faculty and staff. Proof of vaccination will be required to opt out of testing, Drury said in a news release. The university said it continues to work with the Springfield-Greene County Health Department “as the situation evolves.”
Drury is also offering incentives for students attending its residential day school to get vaccinated.
The incentives include three $1000 tuition discounts, two “park anywhere” parking permits and a night in the president’s suite at a home basketball game among other things. Students who submit proof of vaccination to the Dean of Students Office will be entered into a drawing for prizes.
Drury is also incentivizing employee vaccinations through health care premium reimbursements and cash incentives for those who are not on the university health care plan.
When 55 percent of the student body is vaccinated, Drury will hold a campus event. If 70 percent of students are vaccinated, the university will add an extra day to fall break.
Drury is planning to hold a vaccine clinic on campus the day before classes begin on Monday, August 23rd. The university held a clinic in June during a summer orientation day for new students.