Editor's Note: University of Arkansas Chancellor Joe Steinmetz penned a letter to the campus community on Tuesday giving an update concerning COVID-19 on campus, reminders on how to stay safe at the first home football game of the year and info about a drive-through flu vaccine clinic happening on campus. You can stay up-to-date with the latest health and safety guidance and information on returning to campus on the U of A's COVID-19 Response website.

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Dear U of A Community:

After much uncertainty, delay and rescheduling, I'm pleased we are on track to play our first football game against the Georgia Bulldogs this weekend. I feel much better about this game knowing that the university's number of active cases of COVID-19 continue to decline. We now stand at 127 cases and have nearly 80% of our quarantine and isolation space available. Our campus was asked to batten down the hatches, and I'm pleased that you have responded accordingly — though, again, we must continue to be vigilant. In no way are we out of the woods yet.

Needless to say, football games will look a little different this year, with stadium capacity set at 22% — or roughly 16,000-17,000 fans. Face coverings will also be required and there will be no tailgating. These are just of a few of the changes Hogs fans can expect this year based on directives from the Arkansas Department of Health and the Southeastern Conference. Mostly, I want to encourage everyone attending a game to be safe and follow the guidelines. Our Razorbacks have earned the right to hear the roar of the home crowd, but only if we can ensure the safety of everyone, both on the field and off. Doing your part will help ensure that they can continue to play the game they love in front of the people who love their team. 

I also wanted to let you know that the Pat Walker Health Center will be offering drive-through flu vaccines for students, staff and faculty on Wednesday, Sept. 23, from noon to 4 p.m. As with previous COVID testing, the drive-through vaccine clinic will be held in the parking lot across from Baum-Walker Stadium (or South Razorback Road and West 15th Street). You will need to present your university ID and have a face covering. You will also need to bring your health insurance card/policy information to avoid being charged for the vaccine. If this time is not convenient, you can always call the Pat Walker Health Center and make an appointment (479-575-7723). Please consider doing so.

Campus-specific COVID-19 information can be found here.

In light of this week's game, I encourage you to stay safe, stay agile and stay Razorback Strong.

Go Hogs!

Joe Steinmetz, Ph.D.
Chancellor