The opportunity to get vaccinated against COVID-19 has made a positive impact throughout the Oglethorpe community. First and foremost, it offers a step toward protecting the health and well-being of students, faculty and staff, along with their friends and family. It is also a step toward returning to fully in-person learning and having the campus experience that makes Oglethorpe unique.

Several Petrels shared why receiving the COVID-19 vaccine was important to them. Hear their stories in the videos below.

Kirsten Carroll ’24 and Library Assistant Sarah Rodgers ’18

Professor of Biology Dr. Karen Schmeichel

Ryan Jenei ’21 and Rachael Morris ’24

Dean of Students Dr. Kyle R. Williams

In March, Oglethorpe announced its plan for a full return to campus in fall 2021. To mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and its variants, the university issued a policy that all students, faculty and staff be vaccinated prior to returning to campus, in order to have the opportunity to come back together as a community. Individuals may apply for an exemption as a medical or religious accommodation. Students must indicate their vaccination status through this COVID-19 vaccination acknowledgment form by Friday, August 13.

Additionally, Oglethorpe will host free, walk-up vaccination clinics on Wednesday, August 25 and Wednesday, September 22 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. These clinics are open to the entire community. No appointment, identification, proof of citizenship or health insurance are needed. View details on these upcoming clinics.