Dear MMA Community,

Last week I shared a message expressing my hope that we could begin the semester without a mask mandate. I had hoped that we could continue to build upon the strengths of our efforts to combat this pandemic with a sense of respect and shared responsibility, but events over the past few days have led me to a new and different conclusion.

We now are seeing breakthrough cases of the virus in our community and in Castine. Case levels of the virus are rising in our county and are very high in adjacent counties. Hospitalization rates in the state, especially amongst younger patients, are increasing at an alarming rate.

Accordingly, as of Thursday, August 26, all members of the Maine Maritime Academy campus community, including visitors, will be required to wear a mask when indoors on MMA property. You may remove your mask if you are alone in your workspace, if you are in your assigned campus residence, or eating or drinking during a meal.

This order will remain in effect at least until all students have been confirmed vaccinated and will be extended as conditions warrant.

Please note that MMA will continue to follow NCAA guidance for masking during athletic practice and competition.

Thank you for your cooperation as we enter this new phase. I am continually grateful for your continued dedication to ensuring the health and safety of our community.

President Brennan