Amid evolving guidance related to the pandemic, I am writing to inform you of the current status of Buffalo State College’s protocols related to COVID-19. This update provides guidelines related to health, safety, and administrative services as we continue our return to in-person operations during summer 2021. This guidance will be updated throughout the remainder of the summer and will be shared in the Daily Bulletin and posted to the college’s Coronavirus Information website. Questions may be addressed to vpfm@buffalostate.edu.

Buffalo State is in receipt of fall COVID-19 guidance from State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras. Fall guidance is currently under review by our Emergency Response Planning Group (ERPG), the Incident Management Team (IMT), and the President’s Cabinet. Following their review, President Katherine Conway-Turner will share Buffalo State’s fall COVID-19 protocols with the campus community.

SUMMER 2021 GUIDANCE FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

Masks
Note: The following mask guidance applies to summer operations. Fall mask guidance is currently under review by ERPG, IMT, and the President’s Cabinet.
  
Fully vaccinated individuals (faculty, staff, students, and visitors) do not need to wear masks indoors or outdoors, except in instructional spaces (e.g., classrooms, laboratories studios, etc.). Unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown must wear a mask at all times indoors, including in instructional spaces, but may remove their masks while working at a physically distanced individual workstation or while actively eating or drinking in a campus dining area. Unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown may remove their masks outdoors unless they are in a gathering or at a crowded event where they are unable to maintain 6 feet of physical distancing.

As masking requirements for vaccinated individuals evolve, we want to remind our community that faculty, staff, and campus visitors may continue wearing masks for a number of reasons. Welcoming and accepting those who wear masks on campus is an easy step anyone can take to support others.

Air Quality
Buffalo State follows guidelines from the New York State Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding mechanical ventilation and air filtration. The campus has installed and will maintain high-performance MERV-13 filters within all facilities with air handling unit ventilation systems. Ventilation systems will continue to operate for longer hours, with increased outdoor air being supplied to indoor spaces where possible. Ventilation systems in all student housing facilities and all restrooms will be operated continuously. General purpose classrooms, which are not supported by air handling unit systems and scheduled for use during fall 2021, will be equipped with air purification units. 

There may be areas of the campus that are warmer or cooler than usual as a result of these changes. Individuals are asked to please accommodate these minor inconveniences and dress appropriately, so that the whole community can benefit from these ventilation changes.

Attestation
Every campus employee reporting to work in person must affirm that he or she has read and understands the Guidance for State Agencies and Authorities during the COVID-19 Public Health Public Emergency. Please follow the link to read the guidance and attest that you understand its provisions and will adhere to its requirements.

Building Access
Effective August 2, Buffalo State will return to the building opening and closing schedule used before COVID-19. Under the normal schedule, all doors on academic and administrative buildings will be opened by 7:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. Academic buildings will be closed at 10:00 p.m., and administrative buildings will be closed at 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Any facility that requires opening on Saturday or Sunday will be opened upon authorized request from the Events Management Office.

Capacity
Workplace capacity is limited only by the space available for individuals to maintain physical distancing, based on vaccination status. For fully vaccinated individuals, no physical distancing is required.

At this time, proof of vaccination status is not required from employees; however, employees are invited to upload their vaccination information to Human Resource Management to be exempted from weekly surveillance testing. 

Cleaning and Disinfecting
Buildings are being prepared for a 100 percent return to in-person operations for the fall 2021 semester in compliance with CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfection. The custodial emergency response team is trained and equipped with specialized disinfecting equipment and is available to address any area of concern, at any time of day, quickly and thoroughly.

Custodial Services staff members will disinfect any area that is occupied and continue use of the blue tape system that indicates which spaces have been occupied. Hand sanitizer dispensers are provided and refilled across campus. Virex, an EPA-approved disinfectant, has been widely distributed and is available to all by request.

Health Screening
State agencies and authorities may continue to screen individuals for COVID-19 symptoms, recent close contacts, and recent positive COVID-19 test results prior to or immediately upon arrival to the workplace, regardless of individual vaccination status. Screening may be performed via signage, by email and website, by telephone, or by electronic survey before individuals arrive to work. Temperature checks are no longer required as a part of health screening. Buffalo State will continue to use the daily health screening process for all employees who present to campus for work each day. 

Mail and Parcel Delivery 
Mail and parcel deliveries are being made at least once a week to buildings that have central mail rooms. Mail will return to normal delivery schedules starting August 2.

Special requests regarding mail and parcel delivery may be emailed to adminops@buffalostate.edu.

Return to In-Person Operations
The Pilot Statewide Telecommuting Program (alternative work locations) ended July 2, 2021. Buffalo State is phasing in employees’ return to in-person operations in stages and in a purposeful manner. This approach supports the important measure of thoughtfully increasing campus density over the course of summer 2021, consistent with health and safety guidelines.

Requests for exceptions involving extenuating circumstances limited to child care, elder care, or specific COVID-19-related medical accommodations should be addressed to the Human Resource Management Office. For those with extenuating circumstances, an extension of telecommuting arrangements may be possible through September 7, 2021.

Before workers return, supervisors will develop safety-oriented plans for a return to in-person operations for the Buffalo State offices or departments they oversee. Employees must follow all applicable health and safety guidelines.

Social Distancing
Fully vaccinated individuals do not need to be socially distanced, but unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown need to maintain 6 feet of social distance in accordance with CDC guidelines. In instructional spaces, in lieu of maintaining 6 feet of social distance, appropriate physical barriers may be used as long as they do not present a health or safety hazard. A mask is considered a physical barrier. 

Spending Controls
In accordance with SUNY guidance and until further notice, all Buffalo State departments should continue to curtail Other than Personal Service (OTPS) spending. The restrictions described in the Procedures for Spending Controls: COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 apply to all state, Buffalo State College Foundation, and Research Foundation administrative funds.

Purchases must be limited to those items and services that are urgent, essential, and relevant to Buffalo State’s strategic priorities. Spending down of departmental accounts is prohibited. These procedures aim to provide methods for prioritizing, seeking approval for, and enacting essential OTPS spending at Buffalo State College during and after the COVID-19 impact.

Testing
COVID-19 surveillance testing takes place on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 10:00 a.m. and on Wednesdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the Campbell Student Union Assembly Hall.

Fully vaccinated employees (two weeks after receiving the second dose or two weeks after receiving a single dose vaccine) are exempt from mandatory weekly testing upon the submission of documentation (vaccine card or Excelsior Pass) that shows completion of a full vaccination series (definition subject to change based on final recommendations on booster shots from the Food and Drug Administration and the CDC).

Employees interested in submitting proof of full vaccination are encouraged to complete a Proof of Vaccination form. Employees who do not wish to provide their vaccine documentation via the secure form may call Human Resource Management at 878-3042 to schedule an appointment to provide it in person.

Mandatory weekly testing will continue to be required for any employee who has a physical presence on campus and who has not been fully vaccinated or has not shown proof of vaccination status.

Travel
This guidance pertains to all state, Research Foundation, and Buffalo State College Foundation funds:

International travel continues to be prohibited. Limited domestic travel may be permitted if it is consistent with local health guidance, supports essential business of the college, and relates to

• health and safety,
• instruction and research,
• student-facing experiences (e.g., Athletics),
• revenue generation (e.g., Admissions).

All travel requests must be accompanied by a COVID-19 Travel Attestation Form (DOCX, 74 KB) and require approval from the traveler’s supervisor. With the exception of Research Foundation–sponsored travel, all requests require review and approval at spending thresholds consistent with ongoing spending constraints reviews. Proposed travel valued above $10,000 would be subject to approval of the College Budget Committee. Research Foundation sponsor-funded travel is allowable consistent with New York State and local health guidance.

Travel Cards (T-Cards) will be available for use on approved travel. To reactivate T-Cards, please secure supervisor and respective cabinet member approval and submit to Bonnie Heim, director of non-contract procurement.

Vaccinations
New York State provides information about vaccinations and appointment availability.

The Buffalo State College community is invited to attend Buffalo State College Day on Friday, September 17. This special event will officially kick off the college’s 150th anniversary celebration. Please join us at 3:00 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall for an entertaining sesquicentennial presentation featuring speeches, performances, and the debut of Buffalo State’s new alma mater. A reception will follow on the lawn in front of Rockwell Hall.

Ready to celebrate? Visit the Buffalo State sesquicentennial website for the latest information about the 150th anniversary. You’ll find a calendar of events, historical information, and a tool kit that includes downloadable logos, event invitation templates, Zoom backgrounds, social media filters, email signatures, and more.

Earlier this month, State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras announced updated COVID-19 protocols and guidelines for fall 2021 operations (PDF, 224 KB). Thanks to New York State’s low positivity rates and increasing vaccination rates, I am pleased to confirm that Buffalo State College plans to welcome students, faculty, and staff members back to campus this fall for a fully in-person academic year. The Return of the Roar will be heard throughout our classrooms, Bengals sporting events, and campus life this year as we celebrate Buffalo State’s 150th anniversary and reconnect with our friends, classmates, faculty, and colleagues.

Consistent with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and SUNY, effective immediately, all students, faculty, staff, and visitors who are fully vaccinated are no longer required to wear a mask or practice social distancing in indoor or outdoor settings on Buffalo State’s campus, including classrooms, laboratories, studios, offices, residence halls, recreation spaces, and dining areas. Full vaccination status is considered to be effective two weeks after receiving the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine.

As Governor Cuomo announced in May, all students planning to attend in-person classes at SUNY campuses this fall must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This mandate will be implemented by SUNY and Buffalo State College once the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) fully approves one of the three COVID-19 vaccines currently available under Emergency Use Authorization. The timing of full FDA approval remains to be determined. In the meantime, Buffalo State will require all resident students living on campus this fall to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with limited medical or religious exemptions. Any students who are not yet vaccinated should expect some limited experiences on campus this fall, including mandatory mask wearing in nearly all settings (including in classrooms), as well as possible restrictions on the use of facilities such as the fitness center, participation in recreational sports, attendance at select student events, and in-person dining options.

I urge any student, faculty member, or staff member who has not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine to do so immediately. We have joined Chancellor Malatras and other SUNY campuses in participating in the #30DayVaxChallenge, and we urge any remaining unvaccinated individuals to do their part before returning to campus this fall. Don’t wait. Make a vaccine appointment today by visiting suny.edu/KnowYourVax. The vaccines are safe, effective, and free. We’re all looking forward to getting back to the things we’ve missed over the past year and a half—mask-free conversations, concerts, student clubs, and gathering with friends. That all starts with being fully vaccinated.

Additional details and protocols for the fall semester (For Students | For Faculty and Staff) can be found on Buffalo State’s Coronavirus Information website. Faculty and staff members should read the Daily Bulletin for the most current information about returning to the workplace. Students should check their email for updates from Students Affairs, Residence Life, and their faculty members.

Just as we have throughout the pandemic, Buffalo State will remain flexible and ready to adjust our plans, including the guidelines on masks, if conditions should change. The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff will continue to be our top priority.

We look forward to seeing everyone on campus soon. The fall semester begins August 30!

Amid evolving guidance related to the pandemic, I am writing to inform you of the current status of Buffalo State College’s protocols related to COVID-19. This update provides guidelines related to health, safety, and administrative services as we continue our return to in-person operations during summer 2021. This guidance will be updated throughout the remainder of the summer and will be shared in the Daily Bulletin and posted to the college’s Coronavirus Information website. Questions may be addressed to vpfm@buffalostate.edu.

SUMMER 2021 GUIDANCE FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

Masks
As announced by President Conway-Turner on July 22 and consistent with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and SUNY, students, faculty, staff, and visitors who are fully vaccinated are no longer required to wear masks or practice social distancing in indoor or outdoor settings on Buffalo State’s campus, including classrooms, laboratories, studios, offices, residence halls, recreation spaces, and dining areas. Full vaccination status is considered to be effective two weeks after receiving the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine.

Unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown must wear a mask at all times indoors, including in instructional spaces, but may remove their masks while working at a physically distanced individual workstation or while actively eating or drinking in a campus dining area. Unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown may remove their masks outdoors unless they are in a gathering or at a crowded event where they are unable to maintain 6 feet of physical distancing.

As masking requirements for vaccinated individuals evolve, we want to remind our community that faculty, staff, and campus visitors may continue wearing masks for a number of reasons. Welcoming and accepting those who wear masks on campus is an easy step anyone can take to support others.

Air Quality
Buffalo State follows guidelines from the New York State Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding mechanical ventilation and air filtration. The campus has installed and will maintain high-performance MERV-13 filters within all facilities with air handling unit ventilation systems. Ventilation systems will continue to operate for longer hours, with increased outdoor air being supplied to indoor spaces where possible. Ventilation systems in all student housing facilities and all restrooms will be operated continuously. General purpose classrooms, which are not supported by air handling unit systems and scheduled for use during fall 2021, will be equipped with air purification units. 

There may be areas of the campus that are warmer or cooler than usual as a result of these changes. Individuals are asked to please accommodate these minor inconveniences and dress appropriately, so that the whole community can benefit from these ventilation changes.

Attestation
Every campus employee reporting to work in person must affirm that he or she has read and understands the Guidance for State Agencies and Authorities during the COVID-19 Public Health Public Emergency. Please follow the link to read the guidance and attest that you understand its provisions and will adhere to its requirements.

Building Access
Effective Monday, August 2,  Buffalo State will return to the building opening and closing schedule used prior to COVID-19.  Under the normal schedule, all doors on academic and administrative buildings will be opened by 7:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. Academic buildings will be closed at 10:00 p.m. and administrative buildings will be closed at 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Any facility that requires opening on Saturday or Sunday will be opened upon authorized request from the Events Management Office.

Capacity
Workplace capacity is limited only by the space available for individuals to maintain physical distancing, based on vaccination status. For fully vaccinated individuals, no physical distancing is required.

At this time, proof of vaccination status is not required from employees; however, employees are invited to upload their vaccination information to Human Resource Management to be exempted from weekly surveillance testing. 

Cleaning and Disinfecting
Buildings are being prepared for a 100 percent return to in-person operations for the fall 2021 semester in compliance with CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfection. The custodial emergency response team is trained and equipped with specialized disinfecting equipment and is available to address any area of concern, at any time of day, quickly and thoroughly.

On August 2, custodial services will resume normal cleaning operations and augment these with disinfection of high-touch surfaces in public areas. Faculty, staff, and students should make use of hand sanitizer stations and are encouraged to use the disinfectant wipes and spray provided by the campus to disinfect high-touch surfaces in their work areas.

Health Screening
State agencies and authorities may continue to screen individuals for COVID-19 symptoms, recent close contacts, and recent positive COVID-19 test results prior to or immediately upon arrival to the workplace, regardless of individual vaccination status. Screening may be performed via signage, by email and website, by telephone, or by electronic survey before individuals arrive to work. Temperature checks are no longer required as a part of health screening. Buffalo State will continue to use the daily health screening process for all employees who present to campus for work each day. 

Mail and Parcel Delivery 
Mail and parcel deliveries are being made at least once a week to buildings that have central mail rooms. Mail will return to normal delivery schedules starting August 2.

Special requests regarding mail and parcel delivery may be emailed to adminops@buffalostate.edu.

Parking
All faculty, staff, student, and visitor vehicles parked on campus are required to display current parking permits appropriate to the lot designation (PDF, 4.3 MB) and according to permit instructions. Parking meters provide short-term parking for visitors and are available in lots R-3, R-4, G-25, and I-30. Vehicles in metered spaces must display a valid meter receipt.

To ensure proper use of campus lots with the return to in-person operations for the fall 2021 semester, full parking enforcement will resume August 2. Questions about parking at Buffalo State may be directed to parkingservices@buffalostate.edu.

Resources for Employee Wellness
During challenging times, it is especially important that we attend to our mental health and well-being. Here are several resources available to support employees:

• The Employee Assistance Program at Buffalo State offers support to employees to promote well-being in and out of the workplace.
• Headspace offers science-backed meditation exercises and mindfulness resources. In partnership with Governor Cuomo, Headspace now has a special New York collection of meditation, sleep, and movement exercises.
• Health.gov provides evidence-based guidance for maintaining or improving health through physical activity.
• The Professional Development Center at Buffalo State provides resources for employees to reconnect to campus and support for employee wellness.
• WellNYS Everyday helps New Yorkers make better choices to be well and stay well.

Return to In-Person Operations
The Pilot Statewide Telecommuting Program (alternative work locations) ended July 2, 2021. Buffalo State is phasing in employees’ return to in-person operations in stages and in a purposeful manner. This approach supports the important measure of thoughtfully increasing campus density over the course of summer 2021, consistent with health and safety guidelines.

Requests for exceptions involving extenuating circumstances limited to child care, elder care, or specific COVID-19-related medical accommodations should be addressed to the Human Resource Management Office. For those with extenuating circumstances, an extension of telecommuting arrangements may be possible through September 7, 2021.

Before workers return, supervisors will develop safety-oriented plans for a return to in-person operations for the Buffalo State offices or departments they oversee. Employees must follow all applicable health and safety guidelines.

Social Distancing
Fully vaccinated individuals do not need to be socially distanced, but unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown need to maintain 6 feet of social distance in accordance with CDC guidelines. In instructional spaces, in lieu of maintaining 6 feet of social distance, appropriate physical barriers may be used as long as they do not present a health or safety hazard. A mask is considered a physical barrier. 

Spending Controls
In accordance with SUNY guidance and until further notice, all Buffalo State departments should continue to curtail Other than Personal Service (OTPS) spending. Restrictions described in the Procedures for Spending Controls: COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 (PDF, 376 KB) have been updated to reflect recently publicized changes to travel and personnel procedures. They apply to all state, Buffalo State College Foundation, and Research Foundation administrative funds.

Purchases must be limited to those items and services that are urgent, essential, and relevant to Buffalo State’s strategic priorities. Spending down of departmental accounts is prohibited. These procedures aim to provide methods for prioritizing, seeking approval for, and enacting essential OTPS spending at Buffalo State College during and after the COVID-19 impact.

Testing
COVID-19 surveillance testing takes place on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 10:00 a.m. and on Wednesdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the Campbell Student Union Assembly Hall.

Fully vaccinated employees (two weeks after receiving the second dose or two weeks after receiving a single dose vaccine) are exempt from mandatory weekly testing upon the submission of documentation (vaccine card or Excelsior Pass) that shows completion of a full vaccination series (definition subject to change based on final recommendations on booster shots from the Food and Drug Administration and the CDC).

Employees interested in submitting proof of full vaccination are encouraged to complete a Proof of Vaccination form. Employees who do not wish to provide their vaccine documentation via the secure form may call Human Resource Management at 878-3042 to schedule an appointment to provide it in person.

Mandatory weekly testing will continue to be required for any employee who has a physical presence on campus and who has not been fully vaccinated or has not shown proof of vaccination status.

Travel
This guidance pertains to all state, Research Foundation, and Buffalo State College Foundation funds:

International travel continues to be prohibited. Limited domestic travel may be permitted if it is consistent with local health guidance, supports essential business of the college, and relates to

• health and safety,
• instruction and research,
• student-facing experiences (e.g., Athletics),
• revenue generation (e.g., Admissions).

All travel requests must be accompanied by a COVID-19 Travel Attestation Form and require approval from the traveler’s supervisor. With the exception of Research Foundation–sponsored travel, all requests require review and approval at spending thresholds consistent with ongoing spending constraints reviews. Proposed travel valued above $10,000 would be subject to approval of the College Budget Committee. Research Foundation sponsor-funded travel is allowable consistent with New York State and local health guidance.

Travel Cards (T-Cards) will be available for use on approved travel. To reactivate T-Cards, please secure supervisor and respective cabinet member approval and submit to Bonnie Heim, director of non-contract procurement.

Vaccinations
New York State provides information about vaccinations and appointment availability.

In recognition of National Intern Day, the Buffalo State College Career Development Center is pleased to highlight this year's Department Intern of the Year award recipients.

The Professional Development Center, along with members of the Administrative Staff Working Group (ASWG), has developed a survey to identify individuals on campus who perform similar tasks in an effort to create task-specific cohort communication groups. The goal is to share efficiency strategies and information related to the task or responsibility in order to streamline communication, increase collaboration among areas on campus, and provide support for navigating campus processes.

If you are responsible for or complete any of the tasks listed below, please consider taking five minutes to complete this survey by Tuesday, August 24.

• Purchasing and procurement processes 
• Budget reporting and record keeping 
• Managing travel logistics 
• Website design 
• Marketing (including social media) 
• Appointment scheduling (managing calendars other than your own) 
• Providing student support (providing advising PINs, serving as a liaison between students and faculty)
• Creating and processing human resources paperwork (new hires, returning employees) 
• Submitting IT tickets for new employees 
• Submitting IT tickets for issues or new equipment 
• Supporting campuswide committees 
• Supporting search committees 
• Generating meeting minutes 
• Planning events 
• Communicating new policies and procedures to unit colleagues 

If you have questions or are interested in joining or learning more about the ASWG, please email the Professional Development Center.

Amid evolving guidance related to the pandemic, I am writing to inform you of the current status of Buffalo State College’s protocols related to COVID-19. This update provides guidelines related to health, safety, and administrative services as we resume in-person operations.

This information will be discussed by President Katherine Conway-Turner and members of her cabinet at virtual town hall meetings on August 3 and August 26. All faculty and staff members are welcome; please register to attend.

This guidance will also be updated throughout the remainder of the summer and will be shared in the Daily Bulletin and posted to the college's Coronavirus Information website. Questions may be addressed to vpfm@buffalostate.edu.

SUMMER 2021 GUIDANCE FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

Masks
As announced by President Conway-Turner on July 22 and consistent with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and SUNY, students, faculty, staff, and visitors who are fully vaccinated are no longer required to wear masks or practice social distancing in indoor or outdoor settings on Buffalo State’s campus, including classrooms, laboratories, studios, offices, residence halls, recreation spaces, and dining areas. Full vaccination status is considered to be effective two weeks after receiving the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine.

Unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown must wear a mask at all times indoors, including in instructional spaces, but may remove their masks while working at a physically distanced individual workstation or while actively eating or drinking in a campus dining area. Unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown may remove their masks outdoors unless they are in a gathering or at a crowded event where they are unable to maintain 6 feet of physical distancing.

Buffalo State is continually reviewing current CDC and state mask guidance and will notify the campus regarding any changes. As masking requirements for vaccinated individuals evolve, we want to remind our community that faculty, staff, and campus visitors may continue wearing masks for a number of reasons. Welcoming and accepting those who wear masks on campus is an easy step anyone can take to support others.

Air Quality
Buffalo State follows guidelines from the New York State Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding mechanical ventilation and air filtration. The campus has installed and will maintain high-performance MERV-13 filters within all facilities with air handling unit ventilation systems. Ventilation systems will continue to operate for longer hours, with increased outdoor air being supplied to indoor spaces where possible. Ventilation systems in all student housing facilities and all restrooms will be operated continuously. General purpose classrooms, which are not supported by air handling unit systems and scheduled for use during fall 2021, will be equipped with air purification units. 

There may be areas of the campus that are warmer or cooler than usual as a result of these changes. Individuals are asked to please accommodate these minor inconveniences and dress appropriately, so that the whole community can benefit from these ventilation changes.

Attestation
Every campus employee reporting to work in person must affirm that he or she has read and understands the Guidance for State Agencies and Authorities during the COVID-19 Public Health Public Emergency. Please follow the link to read the guidance and attest that you understand its provisions and will adhere to its requirements.

Building Access
Buffalo State has returned to the schedule for building opening and closing used prior to COVID-19. Under the normal schedule, all doors on academic and administrative buildings are opened by 7:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. Academic buildings are closed at 10:00 p.m., and administrative buildings are closed at 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Any facility that requires opening on Saturday or Sunday will be opened upon authorized request from the Events Management Office.

Capacity
Workplace capacity is limited only by the space available for individuals to maintain physical distancing, based on vaccination status. For fully vaccinated individuals, no physical distancing is required.

At this time, proof of vaccination status is not required from employees; however, employees are invited to upload their vaccination information to Human Resource Management to be exempted from weekly surveillance testing. 

Cleaning and Disinfecting
Buildings have been prepared for a 100 percent return to in-person operations in compliance with CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfection. The custodial emergency response team is trained and equipped with specialized disinfecting equipment and is available to address any area of concern, at any time of day, quickly and thoroughly.

Custodial services has resumed normal cleaning operations and is augmenting these with disinfection of high-touch surfaces in public areas. Faculty, staff and students should make use of hand sanitizer stations and are encouraged to use the disinfectant wipes and spray provided by the campus to disinfect high-touch surfaces in their work areas.

Health Screening
State agencies and authorities may continue to screen individuals for COVID-19 symptoms, recent close contacts, and recent positive COVID-19 test results prior to or immediately upon arrival to the workplace, regardless of individual vaccination status. Screening may be performed via signage, by email and website, by telephone, or by electronic survey before individuals arrive to work. Temperature checks are no longer required as a part of health screening. Buffalo State will continue to use the daily health screening process for all employees who present to campus for work each day. 

Mail and Parcel Delivery 
Mail delivery has returned to the normal schedules used prior to COVID-19. Special requests regarding mail and parcel delivery may be emailed to adminops@buffalostate.edu.

Parking
All faculty, staff, student and visitor vehicles parked on campus are required to display current parking permits appropriate to the lot designation, and according to permit instructions.  Parking meters provide short-term parking for visitors, and are available in lots R-3, R-4, G-25, and I-30. Vehicles in metered spaces must display a valid meter receipt.

To ensure proper use of campus lots with the return to in-person operations, full parking enforcement has resumed. Questions about parking at Buffalo State may be directed to parkingservices@buffalostate.edu.

Resources for Employee Wellness
During challenging times, it is especially important that we be attend to our mental health and well-being. Here are several resources available to support employees:

• The Employee Assistance Program offers support to employees to promote wellbeing in and out of the workplace.
• Headspace offers science-backed meditation exercises and mindfulness resources. In partnership with Governor Cuomo, Headspace now has a special New York collection of meditation, sleep, and movement exercises.
• Health.gov provides evidence-based guidance for maintaining or improving health through physical activity.
• The Professional Development Center at Buffalo State provides resources for employees to reconnect to campus and supports employee wellness.
• WellNYS Everyday helps New Yorkers make better choices to be well and stay well.

Return to In-Person Operations
The Pilot Statewide Telecommuting Program (alternative work locations) has ended. Requests for exceptions involving extenuating circumstances limited to childcare, elder care, or specific COVID-19-related medical accommodations should be addressed to the Human Resource Management Office. For those with extenuating circumstances, an extension of telecommuting arrangements may be possible through September 7, 2021.

Social Distancing
Fully vaccinated individuals do not need to be socially distanced, but unvaccinated individuals and those whose vaccination status is unknown need to maintain 6 feet of social distance in accordance with CDC guidelines. In instructional spaces, in lieu of maintaining 6 feet of social distance, appropriate physical barriers may be used as long as they do not present a health or safety hazard. A mask is considered a physical barrier. 

Spending Controls
In accordance with SUNY guidance and until further notice, all Buffalo State departments should continue to curtail Other than Personal Service (OTPS) spending. The restrictions described in the Procedures for Spending Controls: COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 have been updated to reflect recently publicized changes to travel and personnel procedures  and apply to all state, Buffalo State College Foundation, and Research Foundation administrative funds.

Purchases must be limited to those items and services that are urgent, essential, and relevant to Buffalo State’s strategic priorities. Spending down of departmental accounts is prohibited. These procedures aim to provide methods for prioritizing, seeking approval for, and enacting essential OTPS spending at Buffalo State College during and after the COVID-19 impact.

Testing
COVID-19 surveillance testing takes place on Tuesdays from 6:00 to 10:00 a.m. and on Wednesdays from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the Campbell Student Union Assembly Hall.

Fully vaccinated employees (two weeks after receiving the second dose or two weeks after receiving a single dose vaccine) are exempt from mandatory weekly testing upon the submission of documentation (vaccine card or Excelsior Pass) that shows completion of a full vaccination series (definition subject to change based on final recommendations on booster shots from the Food and Drug Administration and the CDC).

Employees interested in submitting proof of full vaccination are encouraged to complete a Proof of Vaccination form. Employees who do not wish to provide their vaccine documentation via the secure form may call Human Resource Management at 878-3042 to schedule an appointment to provide it in person.

Mandatory weekly testing will continue to be required for any employee who has a physical presence on campus and who has not been fully vaccinated or has not shown proof of vaccination status.

Travel
This guidance pertains to all state, Research Foundation, and Buffalo State College Foundation funds:

International travel continues to be prohibited. Limited domestic travel may be permitted if it is consistent with local health guidance, supports essential business of the college, and relates to

• health and safety,
• instruction and research,
• student-facing experiences (e.g., Athletics),
• revenue generation (e.g., Admissions).

All travel requests must be accompanied by a COVID-19 Travel Attestation Form and require approval from the traveler’s supervisor. With the exception of Research Foundation–sponsored travel, all requests require review and approval at spending thresholds consistent with ongoing spending constraints reviews. Proposed travel valued above $10,000 would be subject to approval of the College Budget Committee. Research Foundation sponsor-funded travel is allowable consistent with New York State and local health guidance.

Travel Cards (T-Cards) will be available for use on approved travel. To reactivate T-Cards, please secure supervisor and respective cabinet member approval and submit to Bonnie Heim, director of non-contract procurement.

Vaccinations
New York State provides information about vaccinations and appointment availability.

In accordance with updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Erie County Department of Health, Buffalo State College will again require all campus community members and visitors—regardless of vaccination status—to wear face masks while indoors on campus beginning Monday, August 9.

Face masks are not required when faculty or staff members are alone in their personal offices or when students are inside their private residence hall rooms, or for individuals who are actively eating or drinking in a campus dining area.

Unvaccinated individuals will be required to wear face masks in all outdoor settings. Face masks will also be required for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals in all large outdoor group settings of 200 or more people.

Buffalo State College plans to welcome the campus community back to campus this fall for a fully in-person academic year. The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff remains a top priority.

As COVID-19 protocols and recommendations continue to evolve, Buffalo State will adjust its health and safety guidelines accordingly for the prevention and management of COVID-19. Additional details and protocols for the fall can be found on the Coronavirus Information website. Faculty and staff members should read the Daily Bulletin for the most current information about returning to the workplace. Students should continue to monitor their campus email as well as the For Students section of the Coronavirus Information website for updates and important details regarding returning to campus.

Buffalo State will continue to use the COVID-19 Daily Screening Questionnaire for all faculty, staff, and students who present to campus each day. Mandatory weekly testing will continue to be required for any individual who has a physical presence on campus who has not been fully vaccinated or has not shown proof of vaccination status. Buffalo State will require all resident students living on campus this fall to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

If you have not yet been vaccinated, now is the time to do so. Buffalo State joined Chancellor Malatras and other SUNY campuses in participating in the #30DayVaxChallenge, encouraging any remaining unvaccinated individuals to do their part before returning to campus this fall. Make a vaccine appointment today by visiting suny.edu/KnowYourVax.

Over the past year, our campus community has done a remarkable job of adhering to the guidelines and keeping our campus healthy and safe. Thank you for your continued cooperation.

Peter M. Carey will retire from his position as chief of university police later this month, after 41 years as an exemplary member of the University Police Department at Buffalo State College.

Please join us for a retirement celebration on Wednesday, August 18, from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. in the LoRusso Alumni and Visitor Center as we acknowledge Chief Carey’s service and many contributions to Buffalo State. Remarks will begin at 2:45 p.m.

All COVID-19 health and safety protocols in place at the time of the event will be observed. RSVP by email to vpfm@buffalostate.edu.

The academic obligation for 2021–2022 at Buffalo State College commences Monday, August 23, 2021, and ends Tuesday, May 31, 2022.