The Executive Committee of the University of Vermont’s Board of Trustees today endorsed a requirement that students be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus by the time they arrive on campus for the Fall semester.

“I have consulted with medical and public health experts at the university and in the state,” said UVM President Suresh Garimella. “The risk is simply too high to take chances with COVID-19, especially with thousands of our students coming from other states where vaccination rates are lower than ours.”

Vermont leads the nation in vaccination rates. Currently, over 80 percent of residents have had at least one dose of vaccine. About two thirds have had the full dose, according to the Vermont Department of Health.

“A fully vaccinated student population on our campus is the best way to continue to protect the health of students, employees, and the broader Burlington community against COVID-19,” said Garimella. “And It is  the most effective way to ensure a vibrant campus experience for our students.”

UVM will be communicating with students and families about the requirement in the coming days.