Tech lifts campus mask requirement

For the first time in more than a year, face masks will officially be optional on the campus of Louisiana Tech University.

After Gov. John Bel Edwards announced last week the state’s mask requirement for schools would be lifted, University of Louisiana System President Jim Henderson followed suit Friday and dissolved the system’s own mask mandate.

Tech president Les Guice followed closely behind.

“Louisiana Tech is also lifting its mask requirement for students, faculty, staff, and visitors on campus,” Guice said in a Friday announcement. “Individuals can continue to wear masks if they choose to do so. We advise those who are not fully vaccinated to continue wearing masks to protect themselves and others.”

As the novel coronavirus came on the scene in the U.S., Tech transitioned to online-only course delivery by March 16, 2020. The univer sity had moved the majority of its employees to telework by March 24 and began bringing them back to campus in phases over the summer.

Students first returned to limited in-person classes in the second session of summer 2020. Masks had been required in all campus buildings ever since, until now.

Edwards lifted the statewide mask mandate in late April of 2021 but had kept the requirement in place for school campuses until last week.

“As a university, we will continue to prioritize maintaining health and safety while ensuring our students progress toward their academic goals,” Guice said. “We will return to normal face-to-face operations this summer and fall. Remember, your presence on campus is important to continue our vibrant culture.”