OHIO implements new application process for all 2021 summer programming including camps, conferences and events
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and in consultation with public health experts, Ohio University has implemented a new application process, which is required for all 2021 summer programming including camps, conferences and events. All in-person programs must complete an application along with a COVID management plan by the April 9 deadline and be approved. The University encourages event organizers to consider a virtual environment for programs whenever possible.
Overnight (for minors), third-party and day programs where six feet of social distancing cannot be maintained at all times are not permitted unless an exception is granted. To apply for an exception, the head of the planning unit sponsoring the program must write a letter of approval, which must be included with a completed application through this online survey rubric.
If a program is approved through the application or exemption process, in addition to complying with the public health protocols, it must also comply with all minors on campus requirements as applicable: https://www.ohio.edu/hr/additional-resources/risk-management-and-insurance/minors-campus, the policy and operational guidelines as in effect at the time of the program.
Any in-person programs that directly support OHIO, such as those related to recruitment or those that serve at-risk populations, will be given priority consideration for approval. Programs are more likely to be approved if a nurse is available to support all program activity at the planning unit’s expense and responsibility.
Attendees for programs that span more than one day are highly encouraged to submit proof of a negative COVID test (within five days of arrival) at their own expense. We recognize this may be an insurmountable burden for some populations we would like to serve, and therefore it is not a requirement. All OHIO employees that are in-person for programming are urged to receive COVID tests regularly (https://www.ohio.edu/coronavirus/testing.)
We encourage planned outdoor activities whenever possible, with appropriate COVID-capacity indoor back up space.
Non-minor participants for overnight conferences or events must show proof of negative COVID test (within 5 days of arrival); agree to contact tracing, isolation and quarantine.
The total number of attendees will be dictated by COVID capacities of spaces used. Attendees will be organized into pods of up to but no more than 10, including staff. Programming staff will be responsible for daily symptom checking attendees.
Public health protocols, including masks and social distancing, must be followed at all times, including when using buses or vans.
The OHIO review committee will monitor overall scheduling to ensure groups are spaced out across the summer and campus and consider a total capacity on any given location at one time. As a result, some programs will not be able to occur even if they meet all of the guidelines above.
Contact Ohio University Executive Director of Event Services Dustin Kilgour at kilgour@ohio.edu with questions about 2021 summer programming.
For information about events at Ohio University, visit https://www.ohio.edu/student-affairs/event-services.
For more information about OHIO’s COVID-19 response, visit www.ohio.edu/coronavirus.