Mar 23: Spelman Transitions to Remote Learning Today

Spelman Transitions to Remote Learning Today
More than 2,000 Spelman students resumed their Spring 2020 semester via a remote learning platform starting today. In the last week, over 200 full time and part time faculty members, with the support of Spelman staff, worked to transition the College's in-person learning environment to one that delivers nearly 800 classes via an online platform. Spelman's Remote Technology Resources website provides tools and resources to help students learn online, and faculty and staff members teach and work remotely. “We are confident as we approach this new adventure with the common purpose of providing our women of the African Diaspora with an outstanding education that prepares them to become global leaders,” said President Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D., “You, students of Spelman, are our future leaders. As we undergo this transition, we are committed to your success. We know that a Spelman education champions the kind of problem-solving, critical thinking, and evidence-based analysis that is so necessary from leaders at a time like this.” For the latest information about Spelman’s response to the impact of COVID-19, including FAQs, please continue to visit the College’s Coronavirus Update page.

Spelman Launches #ForTheSoulOfSpelman & #SpelmanIsUndaunted Virtual Community Initiatives
Beginning Monday, March 23, Sisters Chapel will launch "For the Soul of Spelman Spiritual Care," an initiative led by the Rev. Neichelle Guidry, Ph.D., dean of Sisters Chapel and director of the WISDOM Center. This new weekly initiative, which will consist of video devotionals and Zoom bible study, was designed to assist in communal connectivity and self-care as the College transitions into a remote learning environment. “With this, we are hoping to remain present to our community,” said Dr. Guidry. “Our intent is to keep the students spiritually engaged and provide an outlet during what is already a stressful time.” Within the coming weeks, Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D., president of Spelman College, will begin engaging with the community using #SpelmanIsUndaunted on social media. Members of the Spelman sisterhood can join the conversation by using #SpelmanIsUndaunted to post 15-second videos that include words of encouragement or ideas about how the College community can continue to stay connected during this time of transition. Ideas can also be shared here. Please continue to visit the College's Coronavirus Update page on Spelman.edu and visit the FAQs page for more information.

Community Contributes to Emergency Fund to Support Students Transition to Remote Learning
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, alumnae, staff, faculty and friends of the College have rallied together to support the 2020 Student Emergency Fund. The College developed the initiative to provide one-time awards to students needing financial assistance during the pandemic. As of Monday, March 23, more than 600 donors committed over $73,000 to help students. Students in need of assistance are encouraged to submit an emergency grant application. Anyone who is interested in making a contribution to the fund can visit the donation page before the campaign ends at 11:59 p.m. EST., Tuesday, March 31.

Alumna Shares Immune System-Boosting Tips in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic
In a Q&A with Rolling Out magazine, Dr. Nicholle Martin, C’98, shared a few tips on how to boost the immune system in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Getting plenty of rest, eating whole-foods and having a plant-based diet are just a few of the suggestions Dr. Martin provides. In addition, she suggests taking a vitamin supplement like B-complex, zinc and vitamin C every day. “Zinc prevents the virus from binding your cells, and it also lessens the duration and severity of your viral illness,” she said. “Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and is necessary for the growth and repair of all bodily tissues. The B-vitamins are for stress and help with energy levels, brain function, and cell health.”