A two-week mask mandate was put in place Monday, according to an email sent to students, faculty and staff by Dr. Phil Schubert, president of the university.

The email stated that the change in health precautions comes in the wake of rising numbers in COVID-19 cases throughout the Abilene community.

“The goal of this change is to protect student experiences and allow as many as possible to continue,” Schubert said.

Similar to last fall, students must have masks to be allowed into class. Large events and meetings are being asked to find outdoor spaces to meet. However, common interior spaces on campus, such as the Bean, will remain mask optional.

The university is still strongly recommending vaccination and is providing testing and vaccines at the Medical Clinic.

The email also stated that the university plans to continue to monitor CDC guidelines and reevaluate protocols.

“On or before Sept. 20, we will reassess the COVID-19 landscape and let you know if we need to take additional action or can revise these protocols,” Schubert said.

For more information on COVID-19 on campus, check acu.edu/coronavirus.