Apparently a private Christian college in Virginia has become the first institution of higher learning to give vaccinated students a “special” lanyard that they are DEMANDING that they wear in lieu of masks so that other members of the campus can tell who “should be wearing a mask” and who they need to physically distance themselves from.

The Details

Emory and Henry College posted their vaccination policy message to their students earlier this month saying that the lanyard requirement was supposed to be something that was “worn at all times on campus.”

According to Young America’s Foundation, the customized lanyards are going to state “#Vaccinated” and “Doing My Part!”

More from Dean of Students Tracey L. Wright’s Letter:

This decision allows everyone an easy way to discern who should be wearing a mask and physically distance themselves from others. Any fully vaccinated person who forgets their lanyards is required to wear a facial covering and keep their physical distance. Everyone still has the option of wearing a mask, as I and others still do in certain environments, despite the fact that I am fully vaccinated.

For students who are currently on campus who have already submitted their documentation, you may contact me to arrange a time to pick up your lanyard. For those who will not be on campus until this fall, I will send out information regarding where you can pick up your lanyard on the day that you check in.

What Else is Emory and Henry’s Vaccination Policy Saying?

Emory and Henry required all of their students to be vaccinated if they play on any of their NCAA athletic teams, if they live on campus, if they are involved in any major groups, or even if they represent the college in any visual or performing arts program. Additionally, the college is requiring all health science and nursing majors to get the vaccination as well.

Students were required to report their vaccination status to the college by at least July 1st, according to the letter.

Yes, there are medical and religious exemptions available, but the medical exemption requests will require documentation from health care professionals. Additionally, all religious exemption requests will require notarized documentation. Additionally, the letter states that “should you be granted an exemption, you are going to be required to wear your facial covering at all times in these enclosed spaces until the CDC indicates otherwise.”

YAF also noted that the college has not returned a request for comment. It remains to be seen if other colleges will start following suit on this, but let’s hope not.