Mar 9: Spelman’s Leadership Develops Coronavirus Spring Break & Travel Protocol

Spelman’s Leadership Develops Coronavirus Spring Break & Travel Protocol

Spelman College’s leadership has remained focused on the health and well-being of the campus community, and in that spirit, Spelman President Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D., has approved enhanced travel protocols, including guidance for and during Spring Break. Spelman is requesting that members of the College’s Campus community register their travel for Spring Break, even if the locations are within the United States. While Spelman has not historically asked any member of the community to register personal travel, the College is strongly encouraging all students, faculty and staff to register, as the path of the Coronavirus is fast-moving. In addition, Spelman has established a protocol requiring anyone returning from a country that has been designated Level 3 or Level 4 by the U.S. Department of State to self-isolate for 14 days, and obtain a medical screening before returning to campus, even if they are not exhibiting symptoms associated with the Coronavirus. Further instructions and guidance can be found in the most recent letter to the community sent on Friday, March 6. Please continue to visit Spelman’s Coronavirus Update page for updates and information.

Alumna Marionette Holmes, Ph.D., Leads Through Mentoring

For Marionette Holmes, Ph.D., C’90, the connection between mentorship and leadership is definitive. It's mentors, said Dr. Holmes, chair of Spelman's Economics Department, who provide the guidance and support that can that can transform a capable follower into a promising manager, and a promising manager into a mature leader. In fact, Dr. Holmes credits many of her professional and educational successes to the "lessons of leadership," she learned from her mentors. “The second time I was in a leadership position, I was more introspective and my whole attitude was, ‘How can I improve? How can I grow?’” recalled Dr. Holmes. “That’s what caused me to seek out mentors and coaches, and I would recommend to anyone that they do the same. It’s good to have somebody who can challenge you.”

Alumna Pays it Forward With Financial Gift to Spelman
Before she graduated from Spelman, Tionna Barnes, C’2019, was clear that she did not want another student to have to deal with the stress of finances while studying. So, not even a year after graduating, the former international studies major gifted $1,000 to the College. Barnes said she made the contribution because she was compelled to do something selfless for one of her Spelman sisters. “I felt like it was something God lead me to do,” she shared. “I was blessed tremendously during my time at Spelman, so I felt it was only right to do to same for someone else.” Currently Barnes is working as an Atlanta-based freelance wardrobe stylist. Her ultimate goal is to work in fashion full-time, helping professional athletes develop their image through styling.