By: Maria Giovanna Jumper
As some area universities mandate vaccines for this fall for all students returning to in-person instruction--to date all SUNY and CUNY schools and nearby Hofstra University--Adelphi is offering incentives only. At Hofstra, there will be a procedure for those who have medical or religious exemptions. But Nicole Gaudino, executive director of University Health and Wellness, said that for now, no decision about a requirement has been made about Adelphi.
But that doesn’t mean it’s not a university-wide preference that all students, faculty and staff get vaccinated. Community members can be vaccinated through a state-administered site or through an authorized vaccination site, including hospitals and pharmacies. Additionally, Pfizer vaccines are still available on campus. To make an appointment you can contact health services at healthservicescenter@adelphi.edu. When making an appointment for the first vaccine on campus be sure to remember that you must be in the area 21 days after your first vaccine to receive your second dose.
To incentivize getting the vaccine, on May 10, Gaudino sent out an email urging students, faculty and staff to get vaccinated and to voluntarily notify the University of your vaccination status. In exchange, anyone who can prove vaccination is eligible for certain prizes on campus. Proof of full vaccination can be submitted between June 1 and August 1, 2021 to be eligible to receive a $25 gift card. All Adelphi community members can choose between $25 Panther dollars, which can be used at any dining location on campus; $25 Adelphi Bookstore and spirit shop gift card; $25 Panera gift card or a $25 Starbucks gift card.
The same email also stated that fully vaccinated community members will be entered into a raffle, where they could win one of six larger prizes. These prizes include a reserved parking space on the Garden City campus for the fall semester, two tickets to a New York Mets game, two tickets to a New York Yankees game, two tickets to an Adelphi PAC performance, two round-trip LIRR tickets to New York City, and wellness gear, such as folding bicycles, air fryers and blenders.
Additionally, anyone who submits proof of vaccination will not have to participate in random Covid-19 testing next year. Resident students can also be entered into a drawing where 10 students will be chosen to receive a $500 housing credit for the fall semester.
To submit your proof of vaccination, scan or take a photograph of your vaccine card, go to eCampus, click on the Health Portal, and follow the instructions on the portal.