Dear UNT Students,

Many of you likely already heard the news about Gov. Greg Abbott's Executive Order May 18 prohibiting government entities from mandating masks. As a result, UNT is no longer requiring masks indoors for anyone, effective immediately. Outdoor mask requirements on campus were lifted Friday, May 14. Our university also will be moving away from the 6-foot social distancing guidelines over the summer, though everyone is encouraged to maintain a space that makes them feel comfortable.

I also wanted to share a Q&A our leadership prepared to provide additional information as I also know many of you had questions after my Friday message. I encourage you to read through it and continue to let us know your questions.

I continue to urge you to get vaccinated if you haven't yet done so. There are many convenient options at local pharmacies and other locations available to you. You'll find a vaccine availability map at the Texas DSHS site.

Please remember that UNT's response to the COVID-19 health crisis continues to evolve as more information becomes available from the state and our nation's public health experts. I encourage you to visit the CDC safety guidelines and our Health Alerts website regularly for the latest campus guidelines as they go into effect.

We will continue to keep you updated as additional changes happen throughout the summer as we prepare for a great Fall 2021 on campus together.

UNT proud,
Neal Smatresk
UNT President