Masking is optional in indoor spaces at Stonehill College. Masking is also optional for entrance into Health Services, the Athletic Training Room, and the Counseling Center. However, please be advised that health-related facilities may make a change to their area based on current needs and require masks. In those situations, the facility will post signs locally. Those who test positive for COVID-19 or are identified as a close contact must also continue wearing a mask in accordance with isolation and quarantine protocols. Faculty and staff may request the use of masking for classroom settings or meetings, and we ask that everyone be understanding, accommodating, and respectful of these requests. Individuals may continue wearing a mask if they choose for any reason, and we support them in that choice.
Yes, guests and visitors may access campus. Non-student, overnight guests are also permitted in the residence halls. Resident students wishing to register an overnight guest should do so through the guest registration process in myHill. Additional information is available here.
Asymptomatic surveillance testing is not required, nor available on campus.
Yes. The College does provide symptomatic testing to students, faculty, and staff. During business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday), students experiencing symptoms should contact Health Services directly at 508-565-1307.
We recommend that students pack a few rapid test kits when they move to campus so that they can test on their own if necessary (such as after business hours). Health Services leaves a few test kits in a weather-proof bin by the back door of their office as a courtesy for after-hours self-management for individuals that may not have remembered to pack or purchase test kits.
Students with questions regarding general health information and/or vaccines can contact Health-Services@stonehill.edu or 508-565-1307.
Employees experiencing symptoms should contact their primary care provider first and follow up with the Employee Health and Wellness Coordinator Monique Avila at 508-565-1608.
Rapid tests are on sale at most major retail pharmacies.
Starting Monday, September 25, 2023, households can request four free rapid, at-home COVID-19 tests through the United States Postal Service. Place your order here.
Individuals who test positive for COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status, are expected to follow public health guidelines for isolation and are highly encouraged to isolate at home. Please click on this link to read over the isolation guidance and fill out the link to the Close Contact form. Identified close contacts of the positive cases will be provided information consistent with public health guidelines to determine the need for quarantine.
If you experience any trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in your chest, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, bluish lips or face, call for emergency services immediately.
Academic Support and Extracurriculars
Students are advised to work with their faculty members if they are ill, for any reason. Students completing an isolation period should reach out to their professors directly and promptly to inform them of their projected absence and to inquire about alternative arrangements for accessing course material. Academic Services can also offer assistance to students who are navigating illness or isolation due to COVID. Students employed on campus or serving as members of clubs or athletic teams, are encouraged to reach out to those group leaders or managers as well.
Need Assistance?
Community members with questions about when it is appropriate to leave isolation, or general questions about these protocols, can call the following numbers during normal business hours:
If students need assistance for a non-emergent case of COVID after normal business hours, students can call their Resident Director. For emergencies, call Campus Police (508-565-5100) or 911.
Individuals should stay in their isolation space and should do their best to remain distanced from other household members. Students should not leave isolation to go to class, work, or run errands. Individuals may only leave isolation for urgent medical care and to pick up takeaway meals. If you must leave for one of these reasons, do not take public transportation or ride-shares. Wear a well-fitting, effective mask any time you leave your isolation space. Clean and disinfect high-touch areas frequently.
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 and are isolating on campus, you should plan to obtain your own meals by utilizing the EVERYDAY App. When ordering your food please note in the comment box before checking out, that you will be “picking up in the specialized area” at the Commons.
The specialized area is designated for students in isolation. The door is across from the fountain outside the Commons. You will open this door and see a shelf with your order. Grab and go.
If you have been exposed to someone with COVID:
The College uses an email system to provide isolation guidance to positive individuals. Positive individuals are asked to fill out a close contact form within the isolation guidance email. Please note that your identity will be kept confidential. The College will then use email systems to perform contact tracing, and all community members are expected to cooperate with these contract tracing efforts.
Yes. While experts learn more about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide under real-life conditions, it will be important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to us. The College believes it is important to continue to follow Massachusetts Guidance.
The College highly recommends that all community members stay up to date with COVID vaccinations per CDC guidance.
We highly recommend that all individuals receive their annual flu vaccine. It’s best to be vaccinated before flu begins spreading in your community. However, vaccination is still recommended because flu most commonly peaks in February and significant activity can continue into May.