Universities throughout Pennsylvania have begun implementing vaccine mandates, requiring students, faculty and staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to allow them to be on campus.

Slippery Rock University doesn't have a vaccine mandate in place. But its president, William Behre, said the university's campus community is encouraged to get the vaccine if possible.

“As the university president, I currently cannot require our students and employees to get vaccinated, but I can certainly urge everyone to get a vaccine,” Behre said. “Slippery Rock University is strongly encouraging all members of its campus community to get vaccinated, and with variant strains becoming more prevalent, it is more important than ever for everyone to do so.”

As of now, the university is requiring that face coverings be worn inside campus facilities. The university has also hosted several vaccine clinics accessible to students and faculty, and has another scheduled for Sept. 17.

The university also distributed a vaccine survey for employees to complete anonymously, and vaccinated students are being asked to upload proof of their vaccination to the student health portal in return for $50 in Flex Funds incentives. Data is still being collected, and results are expected to return after Sept. 10.

Although members of the campus community are not required to be vaccinated for COVID-19, Behre said the vaccine is the best way for individuals to protect themselves and those around them. “The best way to remain in good health is to get vaccinated,” Behre said. “It protects you, your friends and family as well as our campus and surrounding communities.”