August 27, 2021

As Medicine Hat College (MHC) prepares to welcome new and returning students next week, mandatory masks and daily self-assessments are part of the plan to protect the health and safety of those on campus.

“With increased case numbers in Medicine Hat, our region and across the province, we chose to return to a mandatory mask policy on campus. We recognize response to this decision will vary, but we are asking everyone for their patience and support as we work through this together,” explains Kevin Shufflebotham, president and CEO of MHC.

‘Protecting the health of our college community is our top priority, but we can’t do it alone. We need everyone – students, employees, and visitors – to make safe decisions, follow the rules in place, and respect each other so we can move beyond the current situation.”

Immunizations are recognized as the best line of defense against COVID-19 and MHC strongly encourages everyone to make an informed decision about the vaccines available. The institution is also exploring the use of a mobile vaccination clinic to campus and considering other steps to support the campus community. Protective barriers are in place and physical distancing remains in effect wherever possible.

Shufflebotham adds that some programs have adapted their delivery to include both online and face-to-face options, and students will have the support of the college should they need to stay home due to illness.

While members of the public are welcome on campus, facility bookings are limited to college-related activity at this time.

“There will be challenges in the days and weeks ahead as we continue to respond to COVID-19,” says Shufflebotham. “We are grateful for the commitment and dedication of our employees as we move forward with delivering education in our region.”

For updates on MHC’s pandemic response, please visit www.mhc.ab.ca/covid-19.