Greetings, JMC alumni and friends, from Kent State University “remote” campus! As you can probably guess, as a result of this worldwide coronavirus pandemic, nearly all of us – students, faculty and staff – are carrying on as best we can from our homes or sheltering with friends and relatives.
I don’t want to paint these difficult times with a rosy glow. Many are suffering from illness and financial stress. Some have lost loved ones. We’ve been disappointed by postponements of graduation and commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the events of May 4, 1970.
But I also am inspired by our community’s spirit and by efforts to continue teaching and learning. Our faculty, staff and students made a remarkable pivot to remote instruction in a matter of days. It has not been perfect, but faculty have been working with students to give them flexibility and resources to successfully complete the semester and continue on track toward graduation. We take to heart the university mantra “Flashes take care of Flashes.” You can follow the university’s efforts to adapt at www.kent.edu/coronavirus.
Student Media are another source of pride. Through online and social channels, its audience has hit record highs as a valued source of news and information. We also are hearing about alumni making a difference in this crisis. We hope to feature some of you in the next issue of Jargon and our future email communications.
We are looking forward to the fall, hopefully back on campus. We will welcome new Director Emily Metzgar in July. In the meantime, keep up the good work and keep in touch!