Wittenberg joins COVID-19 challenge

Effort is to get more people vaccinated.

Credit: Bill Lackey

Credit: Bill Lackey

Wittenberg University has joined the COVID-19 College Vaccination Challenge in an effort to get more people vaccinated.

The challenge was announced earlier this month by the White House and the U.S. Department of Education, according to a release from the school.

“Since the vaccine distribution began, Wittenberg has made every effort to encourage our students, faculty, and staff to be vaccinated, recognizing that the more people who are vaccinated, the safer our campus will be and the more we can begin to return to the residential living and learning experience that sets Wittenberg apart,” President Michael L. Frandsen said. “President Biden’s recent call to action aligns well with our own goals, and we are proud to join in the national effort.”

As part of the challenge, Wittenberg agrees to three actions to help get its campus community vaccinated: Engaging every student, faculty and staff member; organizing the college community’s vaccine efforts; and delivering vaccine access for all.

Wittenberg now joins 16 other Ohio colleges and universities in accepting the challenge, including Clark State College.

The university also announced an incentive program last week to get more students vaccinated. It will offer three financial aid grants each week through Aug. 3. The grants of $2,500, $1,000 and $500 will be applied to each winner’s 2021-22 tuition and related costs.

To be eligible, students must register their vaccine information with Wittenberg by the Friday immediately preceding the drawing. Drawings are each Monday, and staff will contact the student winners so they can provide verified proof of their vaccination. Winners will be announced to campus each Wednesday.

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