Respecting Others

Members within our university community are experiencing varying levels of comfort with the decision to make masks optional; particularly those who have underlying health issues, are immunocompromised and at higher risk of becoming very sick with COVID-19, or are living with someone who is at higher risk. Please be supportive and respectful of those who continue to wear masks. There are many good reasons why people may choose to do so! 

Individuals who are concerned about their personal protection are encouraged to select a high-quality, well-fitting mask, such as a KN95 or surgical mask.

KN95 and Surgical Masks Available on Campus

Thanks to a partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), UNC is offering free KN95 and surgical masks at several locations across campus. Everyone is encouraged to have their own supply of masks as these supplies are limited. However, if you're on campus and need a mask, stop by one of these locations to get one:

Dean's Offices:

• Kepner Hall 
• Gunter Hall 
• McKee Hall 
• Guggenheim Hall
• Candelaria Hall

Residence Hall Desks:

• Harrison Hall (Basin Neighborhood)
• South Hall (Ridge Neighborhood)
• Weibking Hall (Mesa Neighborhood)
• Arlington Park Apartments

Other Locations:

• Michener Library 
• Skinner Music Library 
• University Center information desk 
• Holmes Dining Hall
• Recreation Center
• Bear Pantry, room 2205
• Parson's Hall
• Carter Hall, outside of room 4007D

FAQs About Masks

• Why was the decision made to go mask optional?

  The decision to make masks optional is a result of the significant decline in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations across the state and country, and within our own university community, as well as updated guidance from the CDC indicating that healthy people are no longer required to wear masks in areas where there is a low or medium COVID-19 community level.

  While we are relaxing our mask policy, we are not letting our guard down and will continue with our other prevention efforts, including:

  • On-campus vaccination clinics: Through our partnership with the state, we continue to offer convenient opportunities to get vaccinated on campus by hosting Colorado's COVID-19 Mobile Vaccination Clinic. Check the COVID-9 vaccination webpage for clinic dates and times.
  • Free on-campus testing options: Our free community testing site, located on the east side of Bishop-Lehr Hall, remains open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. In addition, we offer free COVID-19 Rapid At-Home test kits for faculty, staff and students at several locations across campus. Check UNC's COVID-19 testing webpage for test kit locations.

  As we have throughout the pandemic, the university will continue to closely monitor guidance from federal, state and local public health officials and adapt our prevention efforts accordingly.

• Can individuals require masks in their classrooms, personal workspaces or unit offices while UNC's mask-optional policy is in effect?

  No, but any person may choose to continue to wear a mask. 

  For those who are concerned about their personal protection, a high-quality, well-fitting mask, such as a KN95 mask, is recommended. 

  • Employees who believe they need special accommodations should contact Human Resources. 
  • Students who believe they need special accommodations should contact the Disability Resource Center. 
• Are there places on campus where masks are still required?

  Yes, masks are still required in healthcare settings, including the Student Health Center, UNC’s Audiology Clinic, the Ben Nighthorse Campbell Cancer Rehabilitation Center and the Athletics training room.