April 13, 2020- 4:17 p.m.

Recognizing the unique situation we are facing with COVID-19 and the shift to fully online classes, Georgia College has decided to extend the last day to drop with a W grade through Friday, April 24. If you would like to pursue this option, you may use your Unify/PAWS account to make this change to your schedule.

I strongly encourage you to speak with your academic advisor and your instructor before making a decision to drop a class. You will want to consider the impact of dropping a course not only in terms of your gpa, but also its potential effect on completing degree requirements, finishing prerequisites, and completing requirements for admission to certain major programs. Your instructor can provide valuable feedback for you on ways you can improve your performance in class, give you an objective evaluation of your current status, and guide you toward additional resources. Both can provide assistance and tips on managing the shift to online courses. 

Dropping a class may also have implications on your financial aid eligibility (including HOPE).  You should contact the Financial Aid Office if you have any questions or concerns about your aid eligibility.  Their contact information is 478-445-5149 or financialaid@gcsu.edu.

I am also available and would be glad to review your options with you.  Please take advantage of all of your resources at this time.  All of the Georgia College faculty and staff are committed to helping you succeed, especially during these unusual times.  
 
A. Kay Anderson
Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management
and University Registrar

_____________________________________________________________

April 9, 2020- 10:25 a.m.

Students,

As we prepare to issue the pro-rated refunds for Housing, Meal Plans, Mandatory and Course Fees, it is imperative that your information is current.  If you are due a refund, there are two options for delivery: Direct Deposit or Paper Check.  We strongly encourage you to sign up for Direct Deposit, if you are not already signed up.

To access your funds faster, please enroll in Direct Deposit using the following instructions:

                1.  Log into Unify
                2.  Click the PAWS icon
                3.  Select the Student Account Center tab and proceed to the Student Account Center
                4.  Select the Electronic Refunds link on the right side of the page
                5.  Click the Set Up Account button and follow the on screen instructions

Please note, refunds will no longer be available for pick-up at the Business Office.  If you do not sign up for Direct Deposit, your refund check will be mailed to the current address on file.  Please follow the instructions below to ensure your account has the most up-to-date address listed.

1.  Log into Unify
                2.  Click the PAWS icon
                3.  Select the Personal Information tab
                4.  Select View Addresses and Phones to view current address on file
                5.  Select Update Addresses and Phones to update with current address

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Business Office at 478-445-5254, or by email at businessoffice@gcsu.edu.

Sincerely,

GC Business Office

_____________________________________________________________

April 2, 2020- 1:35 p.m.

Georgia College and the University System of Georgia’s 26 institutions will continue to deliver instruction remotely during May and summer semesters, with only limited exceptions.

We are tentatively planning to return to normal on-campus operations for the fall semester should guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Georgia Department of Public Health allow it.

In the interim, we have been asked to continue their current telework and flexible work strategies for faculty and staff. Georgia College, overall has remained open, with only minimal staff physically on-site to ensure continuity of certain services.

We continue to prioritize the safety of our students, faculty and staff as we do our part to help stem the spread of the coronavirus in Georgia and fulfill our mission to graduate our students in these challenging times.

Sincerely,

Steve M. Dorman

President
Georgia College & State University

_____________________________________________________________

March 31, 2020 - 11:03 a.m.

Greetings Bobcats!

As we have transitioned to online instruction, I wanted to let you know that all of the offices within Student Life are here to assist you throughout the remainder of the semester.  Here is some important information about programs and services that you can continue to access even though you are not on campus:

The Career Center-The Career Center will be providing students with the following career services in a virtual environment:

• Workshops:  Resume Writing 101 and 102; Networking 101, and Internship Search
• Resume, Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae Review
• Job and Internship Search Assistance
• Graduate and Pre-Professional School Assistance
• Career and Major Exploration
• Mock Interviews

To register for a workshop or make an appointment, students can call the Career Center.
Phone: 478-445-5384
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/career

 

Counseling Services- Counseling Services staff are meeting with students via telephone and video conferencing for counseling and psychiatric appointments.  To schedule services, students may email their counselor or call 478-445-5331.  Students are also invited to access self-help resources through our free online library of engaging, interactive programs for support with anxiety, depression, insomnia, communication and more by logging in with their Bobcats email. 

Contact information:   
Phone:  478-445-5331 
Email: counseling.services@gcsu.edu 
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/counseling 

 

The Cultural Center- The Cultural Center will have office hours on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:00-2:00pm via Webexas a means for students to drop in if they have questions and to offer support. To access office hours, search for meeting number 614 089 469andenter the password: CCofficehour2020. This should allow you to enter the personal meeting room once granted access, or you will be sent to a waiting room. 

Each week, we will also host various virtual programs for students to connect with us (and each other), such as Ted Talk Tuesday’s, Wellness Wednesdays and a series of events called Keep Calm and _____ on. Through the remainder of the semester, we also hope to host a movie viewing event and a virtual poetry slam. I will also be virtually meeting with our student groups to continue communication with them. At the end of the semester, the Cultural center will join in with the rest of the Programs team to honor the seniors that have been involved with the Cultural Center via Recognition Week. We hope to have a special portion of our website dedicated to them.

Phone: 478-445-8155
Email:  CulturalCenter@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/culturalcenter

 

Georgia College Athletics- Georgia College Athletics continues to engage with our student-athletes  Although we have no games or practices, our coaches and student-athletes communicate in a variety of ways on a regular basis.  Our website and our social media sites provide content showcasing out student-athletes. 

GC Athletics Website
https://gcbobcats.com/landing/index

GC Athletics Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/gcbobcats/

GC Athletics Twitter
https://twitter.com/GCBobcats

GC Athletics Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/GCBobcats

  

GIVE Center- The GIVE Center is providing virtual programs and events to our students, student volunteers and service leaders. We are also providing multiple online trainings for our volunteers, service leaders, and student staff members. April is Volunteer Appreciation Month and we will be doing lots of recognition throughout the month to recognize how are student volunteers are making an impact in our community. Lastly, The GIVE Center staff is continuing to offer support to our student volunteers, service leaders and community partners on a regular basis. For more information about GIVE Center programs, please check  GC Connect.

Phone: 478-445-5700
Email: kendall.stiles@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/give-center

 

Office of the Dean of Students -  The Office of the Dean of Students serves as a clearinghouse for student concerns.  Student concerns range from behavioral and physical health issues to student conduct concerns.  The Office of the Dean of Students works with the CARE Team, Student Conduct, Counseling Services, and Student Health Services.  All operations are fully online and ready to serve students.  Please call or email using the information below to request an online appointment. 

Contact information:    
Phone:  478-445-2090 
Email: dos@gcsu.edu 
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/dean-students

 

Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life- The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life is currently hosting virtual recognition week in honor of Greek Weekend and graduating seniors.  Please feel free to follow us on social media to join in on the fun.

Facebook: Georgia College Fraternity & Sorority Life @GCOFSL(https://www.facebook.com/GCOFSL/) and on Instagram: Georgia College FSL (https://www.instagram.com/gc_fsl/) 
Phone: 478-445-2960
Email: ofsl@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/fsl

 

The Outdoor Center- The Outdoor Center will be sending out a daily dose of information through https://instagram.com/outdoor_gc and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorGC/). There will be a day dedicated to each of the following topics: our amazing student staff (and graduating seniors!), previous and future trip photos and videos, cool gear and how to maintain it, and submissions from our students about their adventures. We are looking forward to hearing about unique ways that our students have been and still are adventuring!

Phone: 478-445-5786
Email: outdoor@gcsu.edu   
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/outdoor

 

Parent and Family Programs-  The Office of Parent and Family Programs continues to engage families of GC students through social media and e-mail newsletters. Families will receive information on supporting the transition to e-learning, developing routines, identifying anxiety and depression, fighting boredom, and promoting total wellness for students through this crisis. Interactive social media posts and events will encourage families to network and build community together. Families can continue to reach out via phone or e-mail with questions.

Phone: 478-445-8566
Email: emily.jarvis@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/parent

 

Student Activities and Organizations- The office of Student Activities and Org will send out the Virtual Programming Digest every Monday that will outline the various online programs that students can engage in. This digest will be sent via GC Connect and will hit the inbox of every student. We will also continue to work with all of the registered student organizations to prepare for the SABCprocess.

 

Student Disability Resource Center- The Student Disability Resource Center will continue to assist students with accommodations for courses. Our website provides links and resources that may be helpful, along with the steps to take to become registered with our office. Meetings are conducted with students via WebEx or phone calls. Student can continue to make appointments through Unify (same as Academic Advising and Career center) or they can just call at  478-445-5931 and disability@gcsu.edu.

Phone: 478-445-5931
Email: disability@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/disability

 

Student Health Services-  Student Health is continuing to offer appointments via telehealth, utilizing our remote electronic medical record access and WebEx or phone call advice. Students needing an appointment can call 478-445-5288.  We are also engaging in social media to offer “Tips of the Day” for healthy habits associated with nutrition, sun care, sexual health, and healthy hygiene. For more information, visit:  https://www.gcsu.edu/studenthealth

Phone: 478-445-5288
Email: student_health_services@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/studenthealth

 

Wellness and Recreation Center-  The Wellness and Recreation is currently offering various online Fitness and Intramural esportsprograms.  Go to https://www.instagram.com/gcwellnessrec each week to access the weekly virtual fitness schedule.  Go to www.imleagues.com/gcsu to see what gaming leagues are currently being offered.  

Phone: 478-445-7777
Email: wellness.recreation@gcsu.edu
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/wellnessrec

 

The Women’s Center and LGBTQ+ Programs-  The Women's Center and LGBTQ+ Programs is offering a range of programs, community building opportunities, and training this week. Each week we will have a updated newsletter that includes all our offerings for the week. This is the link to this week's -newsletter: https://www.smore.com/9y80z. All of our programs and events have also been added to GC Connect. 

Phone: 478-445-8519
Web: https://www.gcsu.edu/womenscenter

 

Please stay safe! 

Shawn Brooks, PhD 
Vice President for Student Life

_____________________________________________________________

March 28, 2020 - 10:10 a.m.

Dear Students

Welcome back to the Spring 2020 semester!  

Classes will resume on Monday, March 30th and will be delivered online/remotely until the end of the semester.  Please know that the Georgia College faculty and staff are prepared and stand ready to support your education so that you can successfully complete the remainder of the academic term.  

You are probably already familiar with GeorgiaView/D2L, the GC Learning Management System.  Please check the following Navigation Guide Video Library, which provides instructions for its use.  In addition, a dedicated webpage, GC Keeps Learning, has been designed to serve as a central location with resources, links, and information.  We believe this portal will be useful and allow you to quickly access relevant information as we embrace this online learning environment.

To assist you with your online learning experience, here are some useful tips:

• Online courses provide flexibility.  However, your work must be completed within the timeline provided by your instructor.
• Time management is critical when it comes to online courses. You may find this video on Time Management for Online Students helpful.  Remember to keep track of major assignments, factor in prior commitments, allot yourself a certain amount of time for each task, and create a weekly schedule that you will follow.  Be sure to identify a dedicated study space.  This will help you remain organized. Completing your work consistently in a designated location, will encourage you to establish a routine. 
• Be sure to actively participate in online activities.  It is important that you check your course announcements and updates frequently.  For example, some course requirements may involve commenting on a discussion board or posting a question. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these expectations. Remember that online courses are developed around the concept of collaboration and interaction.  Faculty will encourage you to engage in the online experience.  I encourage you to  check often and communicate with your professors.
• Like you, your fellow students may have inquiries about assignments or projects.  Reach out to them as you prepare for an exam, email your professor and be proactive in asking for help.  Consider employing Student WebEx  to collaborate with others. Utilize the network of classroom peers and university resources (University Library, Learning Center, Writing Center, Advising Center, etc..) to maximize your success.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

If you have any questions, please use the following: 

·         GeorgiaViewSupport: Center for Teaching and Learning- 8:00am-5:00pm(478-445-2520) (ctl@gcsu.edu)

·         Password Issues:  SERVE HelpDesk (478-445-7378 or via email: serve@gcsu.edu)

·         24/7/365 Assistance through Knowledge Base: GeorgiaView Knowledge Center or Help Center Agent (1-855-772-0423)

If for any reason a student has difficulty with the online technology or has challenges with internet service availability in a specific area of the state, please be sure to reach out to our Serve Help Desk. 

We want you to be successful and stand ready to support your academic journey. For additional resources and information, please be sure to visit GC Keeps Learning (also on Instagram). New material and information will be posted there frequently. 

I wish you a productive remainder of the Spring 2020 semester. Please remember that Georgia College is here to assist you during these unprecedented times!

 

Go Bobcats!

CostasSpirou, PhD

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

_____________________________________________________________

March 28, 2020 - 10:10 a.m.

Dear Faculty Colleagues, 

I would like to thank you for your hard work in preparing for your courses to be offered online/remotely on March 30th.  We are ready to deliver 1,565 courses, which is 100% of our Spring 2020 offerings.  This is very impressive as it reflects your commitment, creativity, flexibility, and “can-do” attitude.  I am deeply appreciative of your efforts and willingness to make quick adjustments, always keeping our students in mind. They are at the center of all that we do during these challenging times.  As I am sure you all know, the health and safety of our faculty, staff and students are of paramount  importance. Please consider some suggestions below as we move forward with the upcoming transition: 

• Remember that our students, unless they have special permission due to extenuating circumstances, must stay away from campus as they complete the Spring 2020 semester.  They, like all of us, are anxious and under pressure during this unprecedented time. There is uncertainty about employment opportunities, job offers, internships,  summer plans, etc.  Your flexibility, patience, empathy and support are essential during this last portion of the semester.  
• Online instruction is a dynamic process. We know that it is an iterative process that continuously improves upon itself over time and after each successive semester. I know how difficult this is on many of you – particularly those that might feel frustrated in trying to perfect your online teaching in such a short period of time.  Consider that simplicity is often more successful than complex and elaborate designs.
• Everyone is stressed, anxious, and under a lot of pressure from multiple perspectives. Now more than ever, we need to support and take care of each other through encouragement and understanding. If you can encourage or assist a colleague, please do so!
• Be sure to communicate with your students frequently. Keep in mind that they are taking multiple online courses.  For many of them, this may be the first time they have learned using remote methods.  Use of GeorgiaView/D2L for communications allows for clustering of all course related material in one place.  This will help our students keep track of assignments and course expectations.
• Remember that ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accommodations apply in an online/remote environment as well. Please be aware that some students may be in need of extra assistance.

As a way of providing continuous support to faculty, we have assembled many online resources in a single online portal: GC Keeps Teaching. We have also created a similar portal for student-specific information:  GC Keeps Learning.   Additionally, the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) has organized two Webinars for next week and will be maintaining a GC Online Learning Community site for faculty to ask questions and exchange ideas with each other. Think of it as if you were going to lunch with another faculty member and wanted to pose some questions about teaching.  Please contact CTL for registration information.

Thank you again for your continuous efforts during these very challenging times. Feel free to contact your Department Chair, College Dean, or myself if we can provide any assistance.

Best wishes for a successful remainder of the Spring 2020 term!

 

Sincerely,

CostasSpirou, PhD

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

_____________________________________________________________

March 27, 2020 - 9:46 a.m.

Dear Georgia College Colleagues:

Words cannot express my thanks and gratitude to the faculty and staff of Georgia College over the last few days.  I am so proud to report that our faculty have quickly mobilized under the leadership of the deans and department chairs, and Provost Spiroureports that 100% of our courses are ready to go online Monday morning.  This is no small feat, and I thank the faculty for working through your spring break to make this happen for our students.  Thanks also to our Center for Teaching and Learning staff and our IT staff for being ready to help faculty transfer their work during this period.

Let me also thank our diligent staff who continue to process paperwork, answer student and parent phone calls, help students move out of residence halls, and move the work of the university forward from your workstation at home.  I know many of you had to rapidly learn about our web and phone conferencing platforms (I know I did!) and still continued your work.  Thank you for your dedicated customer service and friendly approach to your work!

I also know that many of you are having to balance work, caring for your children, and taking care of a different set of demands when everyone is together all day long.  Thank you.  You continue to manifest that Georgia College “can do” state of mind, and I so appreciate that.  You continue to work hard and provide service to our students, faculty and staff – albeit in a different way.  I cannot thank you enough.

Starting Monday, our students will be actively pursuing their coursework again – online, until the end of the semester.  There will be questions about technology and getting connected.  There will be questions about bills and refunds of fees.  And there will be plenty of questions about student life.  I know that again, you all will rise to the opportunity of meeting these needs as well.

Like many of you, I am paying close attention to the news and receiving updates on the global situation we find ourselves in.  Many of you are anxious and looking for clarity and answers.  I wish I could provide them, and I wish there was a clear path forward.  As yet, there is not.  But, I hope you take comfort knowing that we are embarking on this journey together with resoluteness and resolve.  I know that as a community - together - we will overcome these hardships, and we will emerge stronger and better prepared.

We are currently working to launch a more robust and improved version of Front Page.  This will allow us to submit information about upcoming events and stay connected to activities happening within our campus community – such as joining a live yoga class or taking a virtual tour of one of our museums. In addition, a GC United web portal is being created to showcase many of these events and announcements to our community.  More to come by the end of next week – so stay tuned!

While we work distantly, I encourage you to continue to look after each other – your families, your neighbors and your colleagues.  Please avoid crowds as we all work together to “flatten the curve.”  Pick up the phone and call a friend for support and encourage one another.  And please reach out if you need someone to talk to.

Thank you for all that you do for Georgia College!  Stay safe and be well.

With Bobcat Pride,

 

Steve M. Dorman
President

_____________________________________________________________

March 22, 2020 - 6:05 p.m.

Dear Students:

Thank you for your patience as we develop a refund plan to prorate relevant fee charges that will not be utilized for the remainder of the academic year.  We sincerely regret our inability to fully meet your on-campus service needs due to the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The reimbursement plan will utilize March 16 as the last day of service for the services funded by all related fees.  Using this date, there are seven weeks remaining in GC’s 17-week semester.  The approved plan allows for reimbursements that provide for prorated fee refunds for housing, dining, athletics, student activity, health/wellness, parking/transportation, and certain course-related fees.

We hope to start the refunds as soon as logistically possible and our goal is to have all relevant refunds completed by April 16.  We ask that you make every effort to set up direct deposits. If you haven’t already done so, please login to Unify, select PAWS then select the Student Account Center tab to enroll for direct deposit. For questions, please contact GC Business Office at 478-445-5254 or email businessoffice@gcsu.edu.  Remember, direct deposit is the most efficient way to receive your refund.  If your direct deposit profile is not established, GC will mail your refund check to the address on file in your student account.

Additional details on relevant refunds:

• Housing refunds will be based on the type of housing contract agreement utilized this semester.  We have contracts ending in May, June and July and each contract will be reimbursed accordingly.  The housing programming fee will be refunded for the remainder of the semester. 
• Dining contract reimbursements will be prorated according to individual meal plan service agreements, using the effective date of March 16 for calculating unused meals.  All balances remaining on 100 and 25 block-meal plans will be reimbursed as well. 
• Course related fees are uniquely different and will be refunded based on an unused portion of the fee.
• GC’s mandatory fee structure is tiered based on the number of credit hours taken and the type of fee.  All prorated refunds will be based on the relevant applicable tier associated with each student and the related fees that apply. The refunding prorations are based on a factor of 41%, using 7 weeks for proposed refunds out of a 17 week semester. Additionally, each mandatory fee has been analyzed to determine if a certain percentage needs to be netted out due to continuing online or telephonic service delivery, on-going operational obligations, and/or building debt-service obligations. Refunds of this nature have not yet been experienced in the student account enterprise system platform; we are working diligently with the system office to ensure that all refunds can be viewed in an itemized format within your personal student account.  Should this not be possible, our GC Business Office staff will always be available to explain your bill.
  • Athletic Fee, $181 full fee: 34% of the mandatory athletic fee supports student scholarships that are still being utilized, so this amount will be netted out of the refund.
  • Health Fee, $95 full fee: 63% of this fee supports running the Student Health Clinic and 37% supports Wellness programming.  Staff continue to work in the Clinic answering phones and assisting anyone that may need help, so this amount will be netted out of the refund.  
  • Parking & Transportation, $75 full fee:  $10.50 of the Parking and Transportation Fee supports a PPV parking lot debt-service obligation, so this amount will be netted out of the refund.
  • Access/ID Card, $9 full fee: The cards are still being used, and will be used over the summer and again in the fall. 
  • Student Activity Fee, $133 full fee:  $42 of the fee supports a building debt-service obligation, so this amount will be netted out of the refund. 
  • Wellness Center Fee, $175 full fee: This is a fee that entirely supports the debt-service obligation of the Center and will not be refunded.
  • Technology Fee, $68 full fee:  This fee will be used through the remainder of the semester to support the transition to digital and online instructional delivery and thus will not been refunded. 

Thank you again for your patience and understanding as we continue to serve you.  Respecting protocols for social distancing during this health crisis, GC continues to work with skeletal crews and teleworking. Please know that we remain committed to supporting student success.  If you have additional questions regarding your fees, the best way to contact us is:

GC Business Office
Phone: 478-445-5254 
Email: businessoffice@gcsu.edu

Sincerely,

Steve M. Dorman
President

Susan C. Allen
Vice President for Finance & Administration

_____________________________________________________________

March 22, 2020 - 4:25 p.m.

Dear Georgia College Students:

This afternoon, the Baldwin County Board of Commissioners declared a state of emergency in Baldwin County due to confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus.  The declaration includes provisions that prevent social gatherings of 10 or more people. It also includes a curfew that will be imposed on non-essential travel from the hours of 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.  Work-related and emergency travel situations are exempted from this declaration.

As we begin the transition to online academics, we also need to make sure we are practicing the art of “Social Distancing.”  Social distancing is a term applied to actions that can be taken to stop or slow downs the spread of COVID-19.  This virus is a highly contagious illness that is spread by close contact with others.  It is of the utmost importance to do everything we can to help bring the pandemic to a quick conclusion.  

There are a number of things you should be avoiding including:  group gatherings both indoors and outdoors (including pool areas), concerts, theaters, athletic events, retail stores, workouts at gyms, visitors in your house, and mass-transit systems to name a few.  Do not change your behavior to avoid contracting COVID-19, rather, act as if you have the virus and change your behavior to avoid infecting others.

The safety and well-being of all members of our campus community is our top priority.  Tackling this situation will require each of us to do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.   

Please take care of yourself and others by practicing social distancing.

Warmest regards,

Shawn Brooks, PhD
Vice President for Student Life

_____________________________________________________________

March 18, 2020 - 9:15 a.m.

*************************************************************

Subject:  Message from President Dorman to Georgia College Employees

*************************************************************

Dear Colleagues:

The unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 pandemic means that we all have to accept a certain amount of ambiguity and uncertainty as we move forward. Online classes will start for our students on March 30 for the remainder of the semester. Similarly, faculty members are preparing to finish the semester with online learning and the GC Housing Office is communicating with students about moving out of the residence halls in the next week.  In an effort to follow CDC guidelines and to prevent large crowds from forming, the move out process will occur in a staggered manner.  We will make every effort to accommodate any student who is unable to return home, or who cannot find housing elsewhere.

The Georgia College campus will remain open with limited services to ensure business and learning continuity through the end of this semester.  Therefore, we strongly encourage all staff to remain off campus and to work by telecommuting or flexing your time.  Not all staff will be able to telework, so please consult with your supervisor about these options. The Office of Information Technology has created WebEx accounts for many employees to make communications easier. Other solutions do exist and we encourage individual offices and departments to make decisions that best serve their individual work and operational needs.

Let me take this opportunity to thank all of you for your dedication and service to our students and campus community. Your support for each other and for our students and faculty members is essential.  Thank you for your patience and flexibility as we approach a quickly changing and evolving set of circumstances.  We will inform the campus as soon as more information emerges regarding future work plans.  Please know that the health and safety of the entire Georgia College community is our prime concern at this time.

Please check our website for the latest information on this rapidly unfolding situation. 

Please follow CDC guidelines and stay safe!

Sincerely,

Steve Dorman
President
Georgia College

_____________________________________________________________

March 17, 2020 - 11:00 a.m.

Dear Students:

In the interest of all students, the University System of Georgia (USG) announced a decision to move all instruction to an online format for the remainder of the semester. Georgia College will be closing all on-campus housing facilities, including West Campus Apartments, with minimal exceptions for students unable to return home, or who cannot find housing elsewhere. 

Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding social distancing and in an effort to prevent large crowds, the move out process will occur in a staggered manner in multiple batches.  Therefore, students are not allowed to return to campus until they receive permission from Georgia College. You will receive specific instructions regarding when you will be allowed to return to campus to retrieve your belongings from residence halls. Students must follow those instructions. We will make every effort to accommodate those students who are unable to depart campus.

On Wednesday, March 18, University Housing will release information regarding move-out procedures via email to all on-campus students.  Students will be assigned a specific time for move out over the next week.  To maintain student safety, it will be critical that students do not arrive on campus before their scheduled time. University Housing will provide instructions for rescheduling for those students who are unable to meet the move-out appointment.

In addition to the closure of on-campus housing, please note the following:

• Classes will resume via online instruction on Monday, March 30. 
• The USG will be providing guidance to campuses regarding refunds for housing, dining, and other services. Students should wait for Georgia College to contact them.
• The Georgia College campus remains open with minimal staffing to ensure business and learning continuity.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this unprecedented time. With your help, we will ensure the collective safety of our entire campus community.

Kind Regards,

Steve M. Dorman
President
Georgia College & State University

_____________________________________________________________

March 17, 2020 - 8:24 a.m.

Faculty update from Provost Spriou

 

Dear Faculty Colleagues,

As Georgia College prepares to move to online instruction for the remainder of the 2020 academic term, I would like to share with you the information below:

1. Following the current two week USG required pause, we will begin the delivery of courses via online on Monday, March 30th.
2. We will return to the semester as scheduled. Faculty should incorporate any missing work from the week following Spring Break into the remainder of the semester.
3. As you organize your material and prepare to launch your online courses, please utilize the faculty support services available at the Center for Teaching and Learning. The staff in CTL are ready to assist your efforts (478-445-2520-ctl@gcsu.edu).
4. Please continue to monitor the Georgia College website on COVID-19 found here.  

Thank you for your commitment to supporting our students during these unprecedented times!

Costas

_____________________________________________________________

March 16, 2020 - 8:00 p.m.

Message for Faculty, Staff and Students:

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Dear Colleagues and Students :

We just received guidance from the University System of Georgia that Georgia College, along with other institutions in the system, will move to online instruction for all courses for the remainder of the semester. This situation is very fluid and evolving rapidly.  More information will be released with additional details as soon as possible. The full message from the University System of Georgia is below:

Georgia College Moves to Online Instruction for Remainder of Semester
For Immediate Release
March 16, 2020
Contact: Aaron Diamant, aaron.diamant@usg.edu

The University System of Georgia (USG) has decided that Georgia College, along with all 26 institutions, will move to online instruction for all courses for the remainder of the semester with extremely limited exceptions. This action comes following last week’s decision to suspend instruction for two weeks to ensure business and instructional continuity, and to allow further state assessment of COVID-19.

Students are not allowed to return to campus until they receive permission from their institution, which will be forthcoming soon.

Additionally, residence halls will be closed, with minimal exceptions for students unable to return home, or who cannot find housing elsewhere. Students will receive specific instructions from campus leaders regarding when they will be allowed to return to campus to retrieve their belongings from residence halls. Students must follow those instructions. For those students who are unable to depart campus, we will make every effort to accommodate these students. 

The University System of Georgia will be providing guidance to campuses on refunds for housing, dining, and other services. Students should wait for Georgia College to contact them. 

Georgia College will remain open, with minimal staff physically on-site, to ensure continuity of certain services.

In the end, we want to ensure that our faculty, staff and students are safe; that we do our part to help stem the spread of the coronavirus in Georgia; and that we fulfill our mission to graduate our students even in the face of these challenging times.

 

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we go through this unprecendented time.  Please continue following the guidance from the CDC to protect your health and the health of your family.  

Sincerely,

Steve M. Dorman
President
Georgia College & State University

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March 14, 2020 - 10:40 a.m.

Faculty Update from Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Costas Spirou on Keep Teaching USG

 

Dear Faculty Colleagues,

Please find below a communication from the USG that includes a resource page to prepare for transitioning to online instruction.

My thanks to everyone for your extraordinary efforts during these challenging times as we work together to support our students!

Thank you again and have a good weekend!

 

Costas

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Good morning,

 

The distance learning team here at USO has created a resource page https://www.usg.edu/keep_teaching_usg designed to guide faculty toward helpful resources and contacts to prepare for a transition to online instruction. This includes many of the resources from your institutions together with other useful tools and quick-guides all in one place.

Many many thanks for all who worked so diligently to bring this together. Of course we will add to the site as other resources become available.

Please feel free to distribute on your campus.

Best Wishes

Tristan

 

Dr. Tristan Denley
Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer
University System of Georgia
tristan.denley@usg.edu

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March 13, 2020 - 10:00 a.m.

Greetings Students!
    
As you prepare for an extended Spring Break, I am reaching out with good wishes for a safe, healthy and restful time away.  Please stay safe and pay close attention to CDC guidance about measures to take care of yourself and your loved ones.
    
In addition, as you head out, I strongly encourage you to take your books and learning materials with you.  Please continue to check the Georgia College web site for important updates.
    
Have a good time and take good care.
    
Kind regards,
    
Shawn Brooks, PhD
Vice President for Student Life
Georgia College & State University

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March 12, 2020 - 7:45 p.m.

Message for Students:

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Subject:   Temporary Suspension of Instruction

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Dear Students,

The safety of our students is a top priority for Georgia College. Therefore, we are asking all students to depart campus by the end of the day on Friday, March 13, 2020 and to remain away from campus until March 29, 2020. At this time, students are not being asked to move out of their residence halls for the remainder of the semester. Georgia College will accommodate students who are unable to leave campus.

While students are away from campus, Georgia College faculty and staff will be finalizing online instruction modules and business continuity plans. State officials will continue to assess the current situation regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) in Georgia.

Please check our website for the latest information as well as the USG’s website. Additional information will be posted as this situation continues to unfold.

Sincerely,

Steve Dorman
President
Georgia College

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March 12, 2020 - 7:45 p.m

For Faculty & Staff:

Message from the President:  Online Instruction and Business Continuity

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Dear Colleagues:

Pursuant to the USG’s directive earlier today, and effective Monday, March 16, 2020, Georgia College will temporarily suspend instruction for two weeks to allow time for university faculty and staff to finalize their business continuity plans and online instruction modules. State officials will continue to assess the current situation regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) in Georgia.

Students are being asked to depart campus by the end of the day on Friday, March 13 and to remain away from campus until March 29. At this time, students are not being asked to move out of their residence halls for the remainder of the semester. Georgia College will accommodate students who are unable to leave campus.

Please check our website for the latest information as well as the USG’s website. Additional information will be posted as this situation continues to unfold.

Sincerely,

Steve Dorman
President
Georgia College

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March 12, 2020 - 11:40 a.m

Wellness and Recreation Center Update

 

Dear Campus Community,  

Late yesterday afternoon, we came to understand that a community member who stated they had recently traveled to Italy had used the Wellness and Recreation Center.  Although the individual is asymptomatic, out of an abundance of caution, the Center was closed immediately and we contacted the Department of Public Health.  We were advised to conduct a routine cleaning of the facility and to reopen.  The individual has been contacted and informed they may not use the WRC until further notice.  

Please know the health and safety of our students is always our top priority. 

Britt McRae, MN, NP-C
Director, Student Health Services

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March 10, 2020 - 4:46 p.m.

Campus community update from President Dorman on coronavirus and springbreak travel.

 

Dear Campus Community:

With Spring Break approaching, many of us will be taking a well-deserved break from campus. We continue to monitor the Coronavirus outbreak very carefully and want everyone to be safe and healthy upon their return to campus. 

Please keep in mind the following if you are planning to travel during Spring Break or anytime thereafter:

• Check the travel information on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and State Department websites and talk with your family and travel companions to make a wise decision about travel plans.
• The CDC has urged everyone to avoid traveling to or through any of the locations with a Level 3 or Level 4 travel health notice. 
• Consistent with guidelines from the CDC and the Georgia Department of Health, anyone traveling to, from or through a Level 3 or higher travel designation cannot return to campus until they have been asymptomatic for a period of 14 days from the date of entering or reentering the United States. These self-quarantined travelers must follow CDC and local health authority guidelines prior to returning to campus in an effort to keep everyone safe. 

Guidelines for self-quarantine from the CDC include:

• Washing dishes, clothing, and bedding regularly.
• Limiting the sharing of household items like drinking glasses, plates, utensils, bedding, towels, and clothing.
• Regular cleaning of all high-touch surfaces including tables, countertops, doorknobs, keyboards, tablets, bathroom fixtures, television remotes, and phones.
• Frequent hand washing.
• Limiting contact with others in the home, including pets.
• Restricting activities outside the home except for appointments with a medical professional for evaluation.

 

• Please note that the status of countries or regions identified by the CDC as having an elevated health risk may change while you are traveling and thus could affect airport or other travel procedures. Please pay attention to ongoing guidance and information from the CDC and the State Department websites for the latest updates.
• The State Department has recently alerted travelers of an increased risk of infection of COVID-19 in a cruise ship environment.
• At this point in time we are not transitioning to an online format for current instruction. We do encourage all faculty members to prepare for online instructional delivery should unfolding circumstances require this approach to accommodate our students.  Similarly, we encourage all students to prepare for the possibility of an online learning environment by accessing their GeorgiaView/D2L accounts. 
• For all students, faculty and staff:  if you are traveling in any capacity (international or domestic), whether for university business or personal travel, we have created an online travel registry. We encourage everyone to register their travel through our online Travel Registry Form.  You may be required to use your Unify credentials.
• If anyone experiences symptoms consistent with the coronavirus, please take all necessary precautions by self-isolating and seeking medical attention from your primary care provider or other appropriate health care facility. 

The safety of our entire campus is our highest priority. For more information on the coronavirus, including guidance, resources and campus-specific announcements, please refer to our website. We will be updating the site regularly. 

Thank you for staying informed on this rapidly evolving situation.

 

Steve M. Dorman

President

Costas Spirou

Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs

Britt McRae

Director, Student Health Services

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March 10, 2020 - 8:50 a.m.

 Faculty update from Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Costas Spirou on D2L training sessions

 

Dear Faculty Colleagues,

As we prepare, due to the uncertainties of the COVID-19, the Georgia College Center for Teaching and Learning has scheduled three sessions this week to assist faculty to create online resources for their courses.  These can include developing a module, organizing a discussion board, setting up a quiz/exam, and uploading your syllabus.  Specifically:

1. Wednesday, March 11, Noon to 12:50 p.m.
2. Wednesday, March 11, 2:00 to 2:50 p.m.
3. Thursday, March 12, 2:00 to 2:50 p.m.

All sessions will take place at 376 Ina Dillard Russell Library (CTL Classroom).

I encourage all faculty members to be proactive in preparing for all contingencies, including the delivery of online education.

To sign up for this program, please click on the Registration Link. 

 

Thank you,

Costas

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March 9, 2020

 Faculty update from Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Costas Spirou on COVID-19 preparedness

 

Dear Faculty Colleagues,

As we further our preparations to provide students with continuity in learning, due to the uncertainties surrounding the ongoing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) situation, I would like to share with you some useful information and resources: 

 

1. Please familiarize yourself with the following resource from the Center for Teaching and Learning to access materials on GeorgiaVIEW (Brightspace by D2L) which is Georgia College's Learning Management System.  You will find D2L interactive tutorials, quick guides, open educational resources for teaching and learning, as well course design insights, grade book build, video assistance and other services.  I would suggest that each of you work to develop a sample module by using your home equipment.  This will allow you to simulate a potential situation should the need arise.

 

2. In addition, USG eCampus has produced an online training course for USG faculty titled Rapid Guide to Teaching Online in D2L.  It is a condensed triage-style training that focuses on the basics of online access, communication, quizzes, and assignment submissions. There will be a companion training for students as well as a basic D2L LMS template that faculty can use.  Contact the Center for Teaching and Learning if you are interested in accessing this resource.

 

3. Other USG institutions have developed resources on ways to access and prepare for remote instruction. For example Georgia State University has created the following website.  The Chronicle of Higher Education also published a resource which you can find here.  Contact the Center for Teaching and Learning for more information on this and other USG material.

 

4. For D2L technical support: 

•   Center for Teaching and Learning (478-445-2520-ctl@gcsu.edu) Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday (Location: Library 3rd Floor, Room 375).
•   Password Issues: SERVE Email or 478-445-7378. 
•  GeorgiaVIEW Knowledge Center (https://d2lhelp.view.usg.edu/s/) provides 24/7/365 assistance through Knowledge Base or Help Center Agent (1-855-772-0423).
•  Staff members from the Center for Teaching and Learning will be happy to assist you with D2L and teaching support.  Feel free to contact any of the following staff members:

 

Jim Berger, CTL Director (jim.berger@gcsu.edu)

Laura Mender, Systems Analyst (laura.mender@gcsu.edu) 

Jaclyn Queen, Instructional Designer (jaclyn.queen@gcsu.edu)

Barbara Szyjko, Instructional Technology Staff Specialist (barbara.szyjko@gcsu.edu) ​

Simeco Vinson, Instructional Designer Specialist (simeco.vinson@gcsu.edu)

 

Thank you,

Costas

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March 6, 2020

Message to faculty from Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Costas Spirou on Coronavirus

 

Dear Faculty Colleagues,

The USG Office of Academic Affairs provided guidance on precautions regarding the ongoing COVID-19 situation. The uncertainties around how this virus might spread requires us to be flexible and prepare for a wide range of circumstances to meet the needs of our students.  Georgia College will be providing updates at https://www.gcsu.edu/coronavirus as additional information becomes available.  

As you know, all faculty at Georgia College are assigned a D2L account which will assist to provide continuity in learning.  Prepare to utilize this resource in case courses need to be delivered online should students be under quarantine.  This can include “asynchronous” discussions, video conferencing, independent learning activities, and consideration for alternative plans for lab and clinical course requirements.  Faculty, staff and students who traveled to countries at a Level 3 or higher designation are required to remain home as they self-monitor for 14 days prior to returning to campus. Additionally, all instructions for quarantine or isolation must be followed. The Georgia College Center for Teaching and Learning (https://www.gcsu.edu/ctl) is prepared to provide assistance if you need to employ an online format to meet the academic needs of our students.   

Once again, please monitor the Georgia College site for updates and thank you for your continued commitment to serving our students!

 

Thank you,

Costas

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March 5, 2020

Message from President Dorman to the campus community on Coronavirus

 

Dear Campus Community,

I know that as a campus community we are all concerned about the coronavirus and its impact. Please know that Georgia College places the highest priority on the safety of everyone on campus, and we are closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds. We are coordinating efforts closely with the University System of Georgia and are reviewing guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as well as the Georgia Department of Public Health.

We have created a website (https://www.gcsu.edu/coronavirus) that provides the latest updates on the coronavirus as it relates to our campus. It includes additional information and resources on how to prevent the spread of coronavirus. This webpage will be updated as additional information becomes available.

We are committed to doing all we can to keep our students, staff and faculty safe.

 

Sincerely, 

Steve Dorman
President
Georgia College