13 COVID-19 A key practices sign bearing instructions for a healthy semester stands in the American Heritage Lobby. COVID-19 directives were posted around campus in fall 2020. | photo by Stanley Morales MASKS ON Students and staff follow COVID-19 guidelines. story by Kaitlyn Cooper The threat of COVID-19 reached the United States in February 2020. While the virus became more prevalent throughout the country, many were unaware of the effect it would have on Harding’s campus. The cancellation and subsequent return of International Programs and spring break mission trips were the first Harding events affected by the pandemic. Shortly after, as students and faculty enjoyed spring break 2020, University administration sent an email on March 19 announcing the immediate need to transition to online classes. The cancellation of on-ground education left many to deal with feelings of shock, uncertainty and disappointment. Sophomore Madison Stevens reflected on her reaction to the news. “The first initial reaction was ‘Yay, I don’t have to go back to school,’ but that definitely didn’t last long,” Stevens said. “In six hours I was like, ‘Oh no, that means I don’t get to come back and see my friends.’ There’s a lot of things I didn’t get to do, but I understand why, so I tried not to be too disappointed about it.” Exacerbating these feelings was the unpredictable nature of online classes. For many, online coursework was a difficult adjustment. Students and faculty modified their schedules, teaching and learning styles and modes of communication to create the ideal experience. Despite the unfavorable situation, Harding finished the spring 2020 semester. Instructor of education Allison Parker highlighted the benefit of such an experience. “In some ways, even though it took us away from each other, it unified us in purpose as far as trying to complete our mission for the semester, even without being together,” Parker said. Throughout summer 2020, University administration sent emails prefacing the regulations students and staff were required to uphold to ensure a safe fall 2020 semester on campus. These regulations included the requirement of social distancing and wearing of face masks, the cancellation of Fall Break, a switch from in-person to virtual chapel, frequent self-screening, changes to classroom layouts and remote studies after Thanksgiving break. These changes sparked anxiousness in some students, but most were prepared to adhere to such guidelines if it meant being together on campus. “This is one of those things where it’s a new experience for everybody, and so everyone is just doing the best that they can,” Stevens said. “It’s hard to find fault in that.” Once the fall 2020 semester began, it took time for students to fully adjust and accept the changes Harding enforced. Despite these changes, faculty and staff made efforts to maintain the essence of a community of mission. “We’ve had to utilize every opportunity to maintain relationships,” Assistant VP of Student Life and Dean of Students Zach Neal said. “We still interact with groups, but with the necessity to wear face coverings and distance, it’s made it to where we also need to maximize Zoom meetings, sending out cards, reaching out with text and emailing. If anything, it’s increased our emphasis on the many different ways we can stay connected.” Wear it proudly! Students wear masks while walking between classes. COVID-19 guidelines were enforced in fall 2020 to reduce the spread of the virus. | photo by Stanley Morales
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