(KAIR)--Excited about a normal start to the school year next fall.

That word is delivered in a release from Benedictine College President Steven Minnis, who says a regular schedule, including the traditional fall break and semester's end in December is what's currently planned for the Atchison college.

Adding that the Catholic college is "subject to certain government mandates which could disrupt" the current plans, Minnis said that, as of now, the college anticipates no mask mandate, with an in-person academic year expected, including the "normal slate of student activities, including athletics, arts, and intramurals" along with other Benedictine College social traditions.

Saying that he has been asked about the possibility of the college mandating coronavirus vaccinations for all students, Minnis, in the release, said "vaccination is an individual's decision on how best to serve the common good," and while "the U.S. Bishops have indicated that these vaccines are a way to contribute to the common good," Minnis said it's understood that there are "many individual considerations that must be respected regarding" receiving the vaccine, and encourages students to consult with health care providers and spiritual guides, but adds the college will no require vaccinations.

As for the mask mandate, Minnis says that while it won't be required by the college, they "will follow all federal, state, and local requirements," adding that it's "possible that the NAIA might still have specific protocols for athletic events" which Benedictine College will abide by.

The first day of class for the 2021-2022 fall semester will be August 25.