Download this PDF issue Be sure to check out the links to your desktop and enjoy! E-EDITION to advertisers, podcasts, more! SCC News & Viewpoints Since 2000 • NOVEMBER 2020 • Volume 21, Number 3

We are SCC: Somerset Campus • Laurel Campus • Casey Center • Clinton Center • McCreary Center • Russell Center

Local virus infections spike College returns to restrictions due to increase in COVID cases By Noah Allen Due to the coronavirus pandemic, 2020 has been a turbulent year around the world and even at SCC. The college began to adjust to the crisis back in the spring with a transi- tion to online learning. This fall, most classes moved back to face-to-face, but with #HealthyatSCC protocols, including social distancing and man- datory masks for all. Now, as of November 18th, the college is minimizing the number of days and time people are physically on campus in order to reduce the chances of spreading COVID-19, with most classes moving immediately to a fully online format again. “The past two weeks have shown us that the COVID virus is still around and that while we have done a very good job of managing the environ- ment on campus, we cannot say the same for off-campus,” said Dr. Carey Castle, President of SCC, in an email The key to success in college is an open book Photo by Noah Allen to the faculty and staff. A lot has changed at SCC since the arrival of the pandemic this past spring, but for students there is one constant—studying. Cases have continued to rise at Above, Nursing program student Jacob Cox found time to hit the books in the Learning Commons on the Somerset Campus See NEW RESTRICTIONS on Page 14 before the campus and all other SCC locations returned to an increased distance learning format on November 19. Online instruction is discussed - Page 3 —INSIDE THIS ISSUE — A tribute to Betty Peterson- Page 15 Virtual events Couple who met Links to podcasts become the norm at SCC return for hosted by student during pandemic wedding day photos staff of the paper —PAGE 6— —PAGE 10— —PAGE 12— A Student Publication For Somerset Community College • For The Students, By The Students • Check out our Facebook page @SCC The Bridge Page 2 THE BRIDGE November 2020 November 2020 THE BRIDGE Page 3 COMMENTS, OPINIONS & NEWS Fast transition to online needs a course correction As an SCC student, I have had some good you have probably found online courses along the yourself forced onto the way, so I know this pro- online learning platform fessor is not providing me this semester, either be- with enough material or cause there were too few instruction to walk away in-person that would fit from this class having your schedule to begin learned anything of real with or because one or value. more of your classes has By When the pattern of the moved online during the Christen course became evident, I course of the semester. contacted the appropriate Of course, the reason Gibson department chair, as we you have had to make Managing Editor are encouraged to do when Illustration by this unwanted adjustment we have problems with Noah Allen is the same COVID-19 our instructors. I instantly monster that has changed almost regretted it. I expressed my concern A message from Dr. Clint Hayes everything in our world in 2020. with the quality of education in this The pandemic has affected us in particular class and explained in de- many obvious ways, including our tail how the online platform was be- Addressing online learning student concerns health and our daily livelihood. But ing misused. Do you want to know Student issues regarding our transition to additional is currently doing to address these concerns. We need one area that too few are talking the response I got? online/virtual delivery due to COVID 19 and SCCs to do a better job with this as well. I want this message about is the ongoing impact it is “The format your teacher is online program in general have become apparent this to serve as a starting point for the discussion we need having on our college education. using for this online class is what week. to have about this issue, and that the rest of this mes- Early this semester, I spoke with most of [our instructors] use,” I was If any of you have taken the time to watch this sage will serve as guidance for our conversations. SCC President Dr. Carey Castle. told in an email. “Students have week’s podcast of The Gateway then you are likely The idea of improving our online courses is not During our conversation, he asked a textbook, and it is up to them to as concerned about what you heard as something new, and SCC has taken me the following question: “How teach themselves the course.” [Yes, I am. If you have not already, I encour- Dr. Hayes is Senior multiple steps in the past to address con- are we doing with the online tran- you read that correctly.] age you to watch the podcast and lis- Vice President of cerns with our online delivery including sition?” Back then, two weeks into She continued: “The faculty as- ten carefully to what these students are Academic Affairs implementing common Blackboard the semester, I was hopeful, and my signed to the class answers emails saying. We all need to hear it. I believe course shells, providing quality assess- answer reflected that optimism. and questions, makes sure the tech- the conversation held by these students indicated some ments of online classes (granted, not every class has Now that the Fall 2020 semes- nology is working, and handles concerns that I have heard consistently from both stu- been evaluated recently), and providing professional ter is nearing an end, I can finally grades for the course. I am not sure dents and faculty, but that there is an obvious misun- development opportunities to help support online answer the question with more what you expected a completely derstanding along with some very good points. teaching. certainty and from personal experi- online course to be, but this course Watching the podcast, I heard some things that the The problem I see with this is that while the idea ence. SCC was not ready to provide is what most of them are like.” college needs to address as soon as possible. of improving our online courses is not new, and even a quality online education experi- Teach myself the course? The First, students are uninformed about what we are with the steps previously taken, our students consis- ence for all of its students -- cer- course I pay for? In fact, the course currently doing to address online course quality and tently bring up some of the same issues. This is evident tainly not for me. I pay extra for because it is online? how we deliver virtual content overall. We need to do from the podcast conversation. I have a class in which I am ex- That is not my idea of a quality a better job communicating with our students; partic- More than a year ago SCC wrote a Title III grant pected to read a chapter in a text- education. ularly what we have done to make the COVID course application that included multiple elements related to book and then take a 20-question As for the statement that this is delivery transition as good as we could do in the time improving online/virtual course delivery. Fortunately, graded test (in less than 15 minutes, how most courses online are, I am allotted to do it, and the steps we have taken to make we were recently awarded that Title III grant (Raising by the way) each week as the sole within weeks of completing two our online courses more like face-to-face courses with Appalachia: Innovative Student Engagement (RAISE)) basis of my learning in the course. Associate’s degrees, over half the synchronous delivery. Likewise, some faculty and to help support many of the initiatives we want to pur- This has bothered me greatly. See ONLINE CLASSES on Page 4 staff may not be well informed about what the college See ONLINE LEARNING CONCERNS on Page 16 November 2020 • Volume 21 • Number 3 — Email the paper at: [email protected] THE BRIDGE STAFF Contributors Faculty Managing Editor - Christen Gibson Assistant Editor - Demareon Jones At Large: Advisors: THE BRIDGE [email protected][email protected]______Ray Hunter Jeff Harris Formerly named The Mirror and still sometimes doing business as The Mirror Technical Specialist - Noah Allen Contributing Staff - Jon Gibson Cheyenne Owens Stuart Simpson Distributed to all SCC locations and available online at: somerset.kctcs.edu [email protected] [email protected] Kaitlyn Kulpa Page 4 THE BRIDGE November 2020 Online classes had to learn to do so on the fly. Un- derstandably, the quality of some of Continued from Page 3 those courses was not great. Unfor- More than a label: courses for which have been earned tunately, many of those instructors online. This is NOT how the better are still under-trained, still inexpe- online classes are. rienced, and still teaching online. A young black man’s perspective In higher quality online classes, And there is not much oversight. students are provided with chapter Professors right now are creating What does color mean to you? This year, throughout a series of con- objectives, highlighting the mate- courses for students in the Spring I’m finding that, depending on who troversies in the black community, I have rial they are expected to study and that not a single person other than you ask, the answer will become a con- seen modern labeling tactics used in an know for a test. Students are pro- the professor who is creating the versation on politics, design, or humanity attempt to distract us from our moral way vided guidance on the information class will ever see, much less nav- -- politics in the form of organizations and of treating one another. in the textbook and are encouraged igate. SCC’s administrators are labeling; design as it comes to different Today, you can’t respect a cause or to expand their knowledge through trusting their professors to do their bodily makeups; and our humanity as movement like BLM without being outside sources which are normally job correctly, but in too many cases, a core element in our moral compass canceled or dismissed by political culture. provided by the professor, includ- it’s not happening. regarding issues of race and ethnicity. Athletes like Lebron James are told to ing PowerPoints, videos, and links What should be done? The fact Regardless of the lens through which By “just shut-up and dribble” because that’s to relevant websites. some online classes are great is we view it, color is the first thing that we what their “label” limits them to. If you’re It is proven students won’t re- proof that an online platform could see. Demareon wearing your hoodie like Trayvon Martin member key concepts solely from work. But there has to be improve- As a young black man, color is a very did, then you’re acting “suspicious” and reading a textbook. They need to ment in how they are done at SCC. interesting topic to me. Growing up, I Jones deserving of a bullet because you seem practice or apply what they are I have a simple solution: peer-re- went from being that “token” black kid in Assistant Editor threatening. It’s where people “don’t see learning in multiple ways, includ- viewed classes. Professors could several schools of over 600 majority kids color” but rather see a “criminal” that just ing quizzes, discussion boards, and take other professors’ classes be- to then living in the hood for several more fits the bill. other activities. fore they are launched. Or a board and experiencing a culture shock, unto my By labeling and branding people And how about class lecture and of peers could review online classes own. with certain qualities, you’re basically demeaning discussion? Shouldn’t course read- before they go live. Because of that shift, my views on distinction one’s individual character, and you’re guilty of ings be augmented by lecture and What if the professor’s salary was and standing out were in many ways skewed. I stereotyping. discussion, as we see experience in based on the quality of their courses could not stand being looked at as “less than,” nor Being “human” in essence is where you’d in-person classes as well as many they teach to students? Would this could I take being labeled “average” lightly, so I expect to see some neutrality, and by neutral I online classes? Yet no lecture was change education as we know it? struggled with over-complication and individual- mean a base line of looking at everyone as a unique ever provided in this particular on- Now is the time to transform ity. I thought that by adding layers of complexity and valuable person, and not just a label. This line course. online education. The quality of to whatever I was doing, I’d gain the respect of abundance of labeling and stereotyping ultimately You may be thinking, “So you students’ education should not be both teachers and peers. In reality, I just ended up contributes to the problem of social injustice. have one bad class this semester. So diminished because we need to be over-complicating projects and wavering from the As a young black man in 2020 America, I seek what?” Unfortunately, it is not the protected from a deadly virus. core purpose of what I’d sought after. to speak beyond a mere label and promote change, only poor online experience I am We have now lived through I find that on a national scale, we face similar enabling others to de-cloud their lenses of bias, having this semester. I am strug- nearly a year of the “online tran- problems with understanding individuality and and to act outwardly based on their true moral gling with an online math class sition.” It is time that SCC and putting everyone under a title. compass. this semester that is no better than colleges all over the world step up “By labeling and branding people with certain qualities, you’re basically the class I describe above. Ninety their game. The resources are out percent of the material and con- there. demeaning one’s individual character, and you’re guilty of stereotyping.” cepts I have learned for the class I Our education is at stake. have learned from a tutor and from YouTube! A Farewell from the managing editor And believe me, I am not alone in my feelings about online classes at SCC. I have heard horror stories from Time at the newspaper was bridge to a future in journalism many students in my time at SCC, By Christen Gibson and our newest podcast The Gate- our SCC community. and career, I plan on this being the most in the last semester and a half. I just wanted to take a moment way coming to you through mul- Our newspaper would never last issue I publish as Managing Let me be clear on one point: to thank our readers. Thank you for tiple platforms. We have reported happen without the guidance of Editor of The Bridge. I have loved some professors are doing a great sticking with The Bridge through and had many conversations about faculty advisors and Professors every moment, idea, article, inter- job. I have had some excellent on- such a transitional time at SCC. interesting topics all semester long. Jeff Harris and Stuart Simpson. view, and podcast I was a part of. line classes. But I have had more I feel honored to have kept you Many motivational Mondays, You two keep us inspired and on I have given a piece of myself poor ones, and I should not have the students, faculty, and staff of articles, columns and podcast epi- track pushing us to produce the best into The Bridge with every project to pay for a class expecting to learn SCC updated on news through this sodes later, we find ourselves here. content possible for our readers. It I have worked on over the years as something when I am not even pro- interesting Fall 2020 semester. We could not have had the is the inspiration you given me per- both a staff member and the one vided enough instruction and mate- Despite some obvious setbacks success we did this semester sonally over the years to pursue my semester as Managing Editor. rial to succeed in that class. a world pandemic brought us without such a wonderful staff I bachelors of multimedia journalism I hope the light keeps shining In preparing to write this col- (including our faculty advisor and have worked with this semester. in the Spring at Eastern Kentucky bright for The Bridge. umn, I began researching the pro- professor being in quarantine in We have done so much, and it’s University. Keep inspiring students, Keep reading The Bridge and cess SCC uses to create online the end), we have had such a suc- been fun every step of the way. I what you two do matters! listening to the podcast. This is classes. Because of the transition cessful semester at The Bridge. am going to miss my favorite part My time at The Bridge was a hopefully only the beginning of a to online classes following the We connected with you through of SCC. Working with Noah Allen big bridge to my dreams of becom- new era at The Bridge. Stay tuned COVID outbreak, many instructors not only our expected newspaper and Demareon Jones while produc- ing a professional journalist. for another great semester led by who had not taught online before print, but now through Facebook ing a newspaper and podcast for As I move on in my education students just like you. November 2020 THE BRIDGE Page 5 FPebruaryage 6 2020 THE BRIDGE NovemberPage 2020 15 ThanksKobe toBryant’s technology, death virtual affected events have becomemillions…but the norm atwhy? SCC By Demareon Jones them -- attendees moving from Elaine Wilson, SCC’s Director By AbbyDue Perryto the COVID-19 pan- place to place,The enjoying question interactive is, why? ered more by hisSCC’s thirteen- 2020like we knowof Diversity, them. We Equity, mourn whoand Inclusionthey were, demic,On the everything afternoon about of theJanuary student 26, withinexperiences, When some celebrities over multipledie sud - year-old daughterVirtual dying be Veterans- to us. As saida mother, that “We’ve I thought picked of losingup on themy hoursexperience, of the shocking from how announcement we “attend” thatdays for --- theredenly was and no tragically, other choice why cause she will neverDay get Celebration to spouse andtransitioning child and it (efforts),just shook even me. It’sback a merclass NBA to howsuperstar we navigate Kobe Bryant, campus his daughbut to- canceldoes them. it have such an impact experience life asfeatured an adult, guestreminder thatduring none the of 9/11 us areblood invincible.” drive.” ter,visits Gianna, has andchanged eight otherdramatically. people had beenBut someon millions other ofevents people were who which Kobe did. Andspeaker I feel Lt. Col.Shawn Anderson,Normally, Directorblood drives of thehave Mc an- killedBut maybein a helicopter nothing crash, has beenhundreds af- ofsalvaged peo- havethanks never to technology, even met them? be- bad for his wife because(Retired) she KeithCreary L. Center,indoor facilityechoed arrangement,some of Barnes’ but as plefected began more to than gather the withextracurricular flowers, balloons,coming virtual-eventSCC student experiences Skylar lost both her husbandJackson, and Comsentiments.- Wilson said, “For the first time, we andevents makeshift at SCC. memorials outside offor the students. Everhart said she did not her daughter.” missioner of “We sometimesengaged withmake thefamous BloodMobile, people he- Staples Center, the arena where Bryant had feel a personal connection Kelly Barnes, Associate roes, so that’s why I think that people felt Beginning in March, immedi- Events such as the John Sher- the KY Dept. of and it worked out great! People had played for his former team, the Los Angeles to Bryant herself, but she Professor in psychology connected (to Bryant),” Anderson said. “We ately after the decision was made to man Cooper Lecture, the Consti- Veterans Affairs. advanced reservations, check-ins in Lakers,move all during in-person his twenty-year classes online career. in tution Dayunderstands program, whyand theso manyVet- at SCC, said that there are start to realizethe building, that when and tragic the processthings hapjust- responseThroughout to the that novel day coronavirusand for many erans days Daydo. celebration have been in conjunction with the TLC have somethrough common TLC themeshave included be- pen soft to- otherwent people, well.” it makes us take inven- beyond,outbreak, millions all of theof plannedpeople expressedevents conducted their “Ion thinkMicrosoft other Teams,people been geared towards providing in- hindware the training,public’s professionalreaction tory de of- our ownAlthough lives, and many we forget face-to-face that it too emotionsfor the last and month offered and tributesa half of to the Bryant as onlive, feltinteractive, personally live-streamed connected formation on new educational tools to velopment,the deaths ofand Bryant virtual and Googlecan happen cultural-based to us at any moment.events wereWe are can not- everyspring social semester media and platform many available.for the Manyprograms. to his death because he for faculty and staff; some others manymeetings. celebrities Each hasbefore seen invincible.”“high celed, the Multicultural Club is describedfall semester the wereaccident canceled and itsoutright. aftermath surDr.- DeAnnawas majorlyProctor, Directorknown ofin have been geared toward a wider him.attendance levels,” Proctor said,Amy Beaudoin,looking to anconduct advisor a at“Diversity the Mc- real.Because But the largesituation gatherings was not completelyof Online LearningAmerica, at andSCC, people is also havethe audience, including students. “with“I think many one being of the upwards rea- Crearyof 50 Center,Series” said in thatconjunction she did have with “a TLC. per- unique.people have been discouraged at director ofwatched the college’s him for relativelyyears, and KobeOn NovemberBryant on 17, the the cover TLC andof sonspeople.” we have such an in- sonal reaction”This series when will hearing be used of toBryant’s further SCC,When normally singer Princewell-attended died of anan accidental- new Teaching his daughter and Learning too,” Center,Everhart theSports Common Illustrated. Read team organized a tense Inreaction adapting to theto thedeath new death.event educate students about culturally drugnual overdoseevents like in April the Internationalof 2016, there waswhich a hassaid. been “I athink co-sponsor it affected for “virtual panel discussion” designed offormat, high-profile Proctor feels people that “Itis hasn’t“But I significantdidn’t feel a connectionhistorical (to figures him),” and similarFestival, outpouring the Day of of the shock Dead, and Earth grief manyfrom of Americathe events (more that havedeeply) been because to explore it not onlyperspectives that it aboutreinforces the howkept very us fromlittle controlholding weevents, she nor said. “Weevents often in history. think that celebrities are theDay, public, the Arnow just as Conference there was forwhen the Michaelconducted. involved him but his daughter.”pandemic and its effectshave overon campus death,” Barneshas it hurtsaid. (their “If seemingly quality). It’suntouchable, been “Although and it was circumstancesjust sad. Celebrities have JacksonHumanities, died ofthe drug-induced Autumn Shorts cardiac arrest“We wentWelding from all instructorthese face-to- Karl Watsonlife. “COVID said he & invincibleEducation” peoplefea- can’ta win-win, avoid really.”such tragedy, represent gottenour dreams worse, and we’ll their be dying as prepared makes inFilm June Festival, of 2009, andwhen the Princess Halloween Diana diedface in events was tosomewhat completely surprised virtual, at thetured public’s a panel over -of students,surely we faculty, cannot either.Not every event has hadreality to a littleas we too can real and for do us. whatever We tend is to called idol- aMonster car accident Bash in were August wiped of 1997, off the when but John we havewhelming been trying response to make to Bryant’s it and death. community members,“It’s andodd wasbecause be we presented logically in know a virtual that format,ize the youngfor,” and Wilson the talented. said. “We I felt want sad people when Lennon2020 calendar. was gunned down in Decemberwork,” of Proctor“I don’tsaid. understand how wellsomeone attended could by othersbeforehand,” who joined she added,though “butthe weones emotion that have- (comic been actor)to be Robin aware Williams of what’s passedgoing on,(in parAu-- 1980,Because and when of theElvis nature Presley of thosedied of heartSome feelrecent that eventsway about that someonehave the they’ve discussion never on MSally Teams. connect after thedone fact. on We campus also grow have up had gustto be 2014) ticipate, because and I loved be positive his work. about how failureparticular in August events of and1977. others like been conductedmet,” Watson by or coordinatedsaid. “Personally, OtherI was virtualboth- eventswatching conducted these people, “adapted.” so we somewhat feel “It all dependswe can move on who forward.” you watch.” REACH NEW HEIGHTS You can meet your academic goals and still live your busy life with WKU in Somerset.

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Schedule on-campus advising today: [email protected] wku.edu/regionalcampuses/somerset November 2020 THE BRIDGE Page 7 Student Government Association SGA Executive Officers represents SCC’s student body and is liaison to administration Always wanted to know about the Student Government Association at SCC but were afraid to ask? Well, here’s what the college website has to say about the group: SGA is comprised of a committed group of diverse individuals who represent the voice of the student body. The SGA affords opportunities for student participation in demo- cratic student government through which students may express them- selves academically and artistically and engage in thoughtful, respectful Alyssa Jones Eli Parker Haley Humble debate about student and college issues. The group promotes the general President Vice President Secretary/Treasurer welfare of all students and advocates for student rights and concerns. The SGA serves as a liaison between the student body and college administrators and stimulates an appreciation for the privileges and re- SGA Delegates sponsibilities of being a student at SCC. As the chartering body for official student organizations and a co- ordinator of college and community events, the SGA enhances local culture through activities that promote intellectual curiosity, diversity and inclusion, appreciation for science and humanities, charitable and philanthropic ideals, leadership development, collaboration, and ser- vice to others. SGA meeting dates and locations are emailed to all students. All meetings are available on skype. Election of officers and delegates is held each spring. Sponsors of SGA at SCC are Jeff Brickley and Tracy Casada. If you have questions about the group or about becoming involved or running for a position, visit the college website or contact can contact the spon- Tyler Stapp Mary Cajos Payton Zulager sors at [email protected] or [email protected]. Somerset Campus Delegate Laurel Campus Delegate Russell Center Delegate

November 2020 THE BRIDGE Page 9 SPRING 2021 TUITION PAYMENT DEADLINES: SCC Spotlight Tuition and fees for the regular 16-week session and the first 8-week What’s on the mind of SCC students this semester bi-term session (classes that start on January 11, 2021) DUE BY MIDNIGHT on January 10, 2021. • • • • • Tuition and fees for the 12-week session (classes that start on February 8, 2021) DUE BY MIDNIGHT on February 07, 2021. • • • • • Tuition and fees for the second 8-week bi-term session (classes that start on March 15, 2021) Jasmine Noah Allen Demareon Christen Gibson DUE BY MIDNIGHT on March 14, 2021. Gregory Jones Name: How will next year be different from this year? Crossword Puzzle ...I’m sure hoping it’ll Personally, I hope we Hopefully, next year I will live my life Complete the croAssw lookord puzzle at belo wour college be filled with much are out of this COVID people will be better 1 with less fear and Answers ACROSS more positivity! mess and back to connected and with more confi- on Page 10 2. SCC’s President is Dr. Carey ___ Although, I’m not some kind transitioning back to dence, and hope- 6. The Bridge’s technical specialist is Noah ___ sure COVID will be of normalcy. pre-covid times. fully, we will beat 7. University Center director is Trent ___ going anywhere.. Covid 19 globally. 2 3 8. This year, SCC’s graduation was held in what month? What TV series would make a good movie? 9. The student newspaper’s podcast is named The ___ 4 5 The Office because Game of Thrones A Dr. Strange series Gilmore Girls, a movie 10. The theme of the photo club’s fall I miss it and need would be great about Rory and her 6 7 exhibit is ___ more. If they made to see! mom’s adventure 12. Assistant editor of The a movie it would be in Europe after Bridge is Demareon ___ so great... graduation. 8 How would you spend $1 million in 24 hours? ...I would buy I would pay off my Pay off any debt. I’d invest in 9 myself a 2020 Jeep parents’ house, buy black community Buy a house, online Wrangler...my family a Tesla, set back a real-estate, office shopping spree to DOWN dream cars ... my years rent, buy new technology, decorate it. 1. Managing editor of The Bridge is Christen ___ parents houses... camera gear, and and donate A new purple Jeep 3. SCC’s two campuses are Somerset and ___ and donate to my invest in stock. the rest to charity. Wrangler with 4. What SCC center is located in Liberty? favorite charities! 10 11 all the things. 5. SCC program that offers a hair cutting What’s the good, bad and ugly about 2020? experience is ___ 2020 is mostly The good, we had Good: New virtual The good: it pushed 11. SCC’s Clinton Center is near what town? the bad and ugly. time to evaluate and connections. me to make things It’s hard to find improve. The bad, so Bad: People losing happen in my life. Sudoku & You positivity. I’m not many lost lives. their jobs The bad: COVID 19 Sudoku by Kaitlyn Kulpa 12 sure that I can. It The ugly, cases and loved ones. The ugly: deaths from seems to be problem are still rising. Ugly: The division in covid, politics, and after problem after American politics. the “new normal” problem. Created using the Crossword Maker on TheTeachersCorner.net What would you tell your younger 2019 self? Across Are you a student, 2. I would tell my Noah, at 8:00 a.m. Heavily invest in Everything will S beCC 's President is Dr. Carey ? faculty or staff at any SCC 6. younger 2019 self to today, someone Zoom stock and OK. Stay strong. The Bridge's technical specialist is Noah ? Down campus or center? 7. University Center director is Trent ? probably take a year poisons the coffee. stock up on hand 1. ManIfa gsoin gand edi tyouor of have The B anyridg enews, is Ch risten ? off from college with 8. This year, SCC's graduation was held in what Do not drink sanitizer! 3. SCC's twophotos, campus eors aeventsre Somerset and ? this whole corona the coffee. More month? 4. 9. What youSCC would center likeis lo cpublishedated in Liberty? ordeal and to stay instructions will Note: Because of new restrictions The at st udent newspaper's podcast is named The ? 5. 10. SCC program that his a hair cutting experiene is ? safe and get ready for follow. Cordially, SCC, the staff stepped in at the SlastCC photo club's fall exhibit theme is ? 11. in the paper, e-mail us at: 12. SCC's Clinton Center is near what town? a year of craziness! Future Noah. minute to help fill this column. Assistant editor of The Bridge is Demareon ? [email protected] Page 10 THE BRIDGE November 2020 SCC grads return to campus for wedding day photos ‘Love at first sight’ in psychology class As the spring semester was Cooper 102 -- fifteen minutes late. son then asked me if I was ready to getting underway in 2017, Alyson Alyson Branscum was sitting give my class presentation. I said Branscum and Mason Morgan were front and center. ‘What presentation?’ Mason said about to become classmates in the “She was the first thing I saw, ‘Didn’t you read the email? You are late Joanne Story’s Intro to Psychol- and it was basically love at first supposed to present today?’ He was ogy class. Neither was aware of the sight,” Mason said. joking. other’s existence at that point, but Mason can still picture how Al- “After a good laugh, we struck they would soon meet. yson looked and can even account up a conversation, and the rest is And one of them would immedi- for exactly what she had on that history, as they say.” ately fall in love. day. The only thing Alyson can re- Alyson and Mason, who both On January 9, 2017, the first member about Mason from that day graduated from SCC in 2018, got day of the new semester, Mason was that he was fifteen minutes late. married on October 10, 2020. walked into a classroom expecting Months went by, as Mason SCC will always hold a special to see Ms. Story and to be handed slowly worked up the courage to place in Alyson and Mason’s hearts. a course syllabus. Unfortunately for make his move, start a conversation, It is where they first met and where him, he saw neither. He was in the and ultimately, ask Alyson out. they grew, both as individuals and wrong classroom. One morning in March, Mason as a couple. Panicked, he began searching and Alyson were waiting outside To pay homage to the college for the correct classroom. Unfamil- the classroom for Ms. Story to for being a vital part of their story, iar with the campus in Somerset, it arrive. they decided to partake in a “first took him a while to get his bearings. “I saw him waiting, and I spoke look” on their wedding day, outside Finally, he burst through the door of and said hello,” Alyson said. “Ma- the Cooper building… where it all began. Alyson and Morgan now live in Richmond together as newly- weds. After leaving SCC, Alyson, a former managing editor for The Bridge, transferred to EKU and just graduated this spring. Mason Photo by Paige Franklin Photography works as a wildlife technician and Alyson Branscum and Mason Morgan returned to SCC’s Alyson works as a behavioral sup- Somerset Campus on their wedding day to have photos taken port professional with kids with outside the Cooper Building, where they first met. disabilities.

 Answers to Crossword Puzzle

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 Answers to Sudoku November 2020 THE BRIDGE Page 11 TIRED AS A MOTHER: A SURVIVAL GUIDE watch the kiddos. Ask class- I now can recognize when “me mates to help you study for time” is crucial to my success. I tests. use deep breathing techniques to Fill your cup, and not just with coffee Take some time to relax get me through stressful moments. As a mom in college, (most of my days, in every once in a while, even if I learned to tackle my to-do list in some days I feel as if I fact) the laundry will not it is just a few hours. Keeping a way that would keep me focused have to be a superwoman: get folded, you will acci- your mental health in check is and motivated. And I kicked my get all my homework dentally miss a deadline, so important. bad procrastination habit in the butt done, get good grades, or you will make a less- I had a wise, successful (for the most part). kill it at work, keep my than-perfect grade on an momma of four tell me you I still reach out to my therapist tiny humans happy and assignment because you can’t fill the cup of your family when I am feeling overwhelmed. healthy, and cook a great didn’t have the four hours if your own cup is empty. Of It helps keep me grounded because dinner for my husband. you needed to read the en- course, you also have college Juggling momma life and college. when I’m stressed it’s easy to feel If you’re like me, wear- By tire chapter because your classes you need to pour your overwhelmed and see life through a ing all the different hats Christen Gibson baby was up all night cup into as well. feel anxiety from all the hustle and negative lens. I’m learning that my that being a mother in col- sick. You might even have Fill your cup by doing things bustle of college mama life. Recog- troubles are almost never as bad as lege gives you, I have some Managing Editor to have cereal for dinner that make you happy daily. If you nize the signs that you might be get- they seem in the moment. advice for you that I have occasionally. read for pleasure, read a chapter ev- ting overwhelmed. You know those I’m nearing the end of my first learned along the way. Second in a series Learn to roll with it. ery night before bed. Write in your moments when you just want to hide college semester as a momma of In the previous column in this Be perfectly imperfect. journal daily. Devote 30 minutes a in the closet and cry with your fa- two toddlers. I have had some fail- series, we focused on how to make Don’t lie to yourself; perfection day to a hobby like painting, exer- vorite flavor of ice cream. Yeah, that ures, but with those I have also had the best of your time and organize is all but impossible anyway. Jug- cising, or playing music. might be a good sign that you need much success. Over the past five your life a little bit, but I have to gling momma life and college life Filling my cup looks different some time to yourself -- or maybe months I have gained strength and share with you the key to keep- is difficult, even on the best of days. each day. Some days I take a hike; even time with a therapist. confidence like never before. ing yourself together during your There is a reason most students some days I go thrifting for an hour; At the beginning of the Fall se- I have plans to pursue my Bach- toughest moments: get their degrees before they have some days I take a hot bath after the mester, I reached out to a clinical elor’s degree at Eastern Kentucky Sometimes good is good children. kids go to sleep. therapist. I met with her weekly for University in the Spring. It was enough. But juggling both is not impos- And speaking of sleep, get all about two months. She equipped worth every struggle, every tear Yes, some days you will be a sible. You just have to take a few that you can. Sleep deprivation is me with coping skills that have shed, and every hour of sleep lost. superwoman; you will get all the things to heart. the quickest way to empty your made the biggest difference in my It feels amazing to be so close to things done that you want to get Be willing to accept help when cup, leaving yourself unable to ac- success and dealing with all the my goals. done. But please allow yourself you need it. Take advantage of day- complish any of your goals. stress being a college mama has I know you can do it too, room to be imperfect. Some days care or a trusted family member to It is so easy to get depressed or brought me. momma. Just be good to yourself. Page 12 THE BRIDGE November 2020

Logo by Mounce SCC’s “The Gateway” is an extension of the college’s student selected for use newspaper, “The Bridge.” by lamb group The podcast/video/interview show Thanks to the graphic de- is hosted, directed and edited by sign skills of Somerset Commu- students who are enrolled in the nity College student Rebecca newspaper class— Mounce, Kentucky Spring Lamb now has a logo. VCP 255: Special Topics Lab. The logo was designed as part of a practicum class in the CLICK ON ANY IMAGE TO LINK TO THE YOUTUBE PODCAST college’s Visual Communication: Multimedia program. It features a sunrise, a lamb and the group’s initials. The design received high praise from Patrick N. Angel, PhD, Table Talk about the transition to online classes president of Southeast Kentucky Sheep Producers Association, Lon-  don, Ky. who had requested the logo. Click on the picture “Rebecca was very professional in her work with us,” he said to link to the podcast in a letter to Cindy Burton, program coordinator. “Her responses to A discussion about our repeated requests in inquiries were timely and very perceptive the transition to online ... I was impressed with how Rebecca was able to interpret subtle instruction at SCC remarks and suggestions and turn them into visuals that were ideal and other educational for us.” Burton noted that the Vis Com: Multimedia practicum class is institutions that was taught in the spring and fall and is one of the final classes in the caused by the COVID-19 program. Students are encouraged to work with area businesses and pandemic. organizations to utilize the design and computers skills they have in the classroom. “She (Mounce) is truly a talented designer and an ace student in all regards,” says Cindy Burton, program coordinator. “I, too, and very pleased with Rebecca’s final logo and applaud her determina- tion and perseverance in this adventure.” The proposed University of Somerset is discussed Angel said the design will now be incorporated as part of the group’s brand.  Click on the picture His letter to Burton continued: “I want to thank you very much to link to the podcast for connecting us with Rebecca and allowing us (to) incorporate the Somerset Mayor Alan search for our logo design into your course. Sheep farmers across Keck joined SCC’s The southeast Kentucky have been well served by you and Rebecca Gateway to answer Mounce.” questions regarding the For more information on the program, contact Burton at cindy. potential development [email protected] or Stuart Simpson at [email protected]. of a four-year university in downtown Somerset Laurel Cosmetology fundraiser in Pulaski County. for ‘Operation Kids Christmas’ The Laurel Campus south Cos- The group is raising money by A discussion about the Multicultural Club at SCC metology students and faculty promoting raffle tickets for a Yeti will once again be raising money and through donations. Click on the picture  to benefit their annual Operation For a ticket or to donate, call to link to the podcast Kids Christmas. the Cosmetology Department at Destiny Sanchez is the new The class knew they would 606-878-4851 or Dena Fugate at Multicultural Club president. have to do things differently 606-878-4777, Tabitha Bottoms at She is pursuing her this year but felt led to do some- 606-878-4902 or, Brandy Brock at education to become a thing. So they are raising money 606-878-4721. doctor. She discusses her to present to the London Ele- The drawing will be held on new position and what she mentary Resource Center for Wednesday, Nov. 25 at 3 p.m. on hopes she can accomplish them to purchase the gifts for the “SCC School of Cosmetology as multicultural club the kids such as coats, shoes, Laurel Campus” Facebook Live president. clothes, and toys. Page. November 2020 THE BRIDGE Page 13

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Eastern Kentucky University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and Educational Institution. Page 14 THE BRIDGE November 2020 New restrictions for SCC Continued from Page 1 Administrators say there are no guarantees, but... SCC in students and some employees. Dr. Castle has asked professors to contact their students to inform them of any changes that may be coming A hope for more normalcy in 2021 to their courses. By Noah Allen Originally, all Arts & Sciences classes were ucate online until classes are able to return to in-person. to be moved back online immediately following As we approach 2021 at SCC, we are seeing history repeat While some students are fans of online learning, others the Thanksgiving break, but that plan has been itself from the last spring semester, with most classes moving are not. Jacob Cox, a student in the Nursing Program, said, “I expanded to include most technical programs as online in response to a steep rise in cases of COVID-19 in the would like to go back to class” in the spring. well. college’s service area and across the country. “Especially in the Nursing Program, there is just something “The plan to move these courses and programs There is uncertainty about how the pandemic will affect the about meeting for study groups and talking with my classmates online has been in motion for a while and is in coming semester, though as classes move online once again, that I am not getting through online classes.” place to protect our students,” said Dr. Castle. procedures and protocols are being altered to protect those on As far as new opportunities at SCC go, efforts to hire a new Dr. Clint Hayes, Senior Vice President of Ac- campus. fine arts instructor, preferably one who can re-establish SCC’s ademic Affairs, echoed Dr. Castle’s sentiments. “I don’t want to promise anything when it comes to classes theatre program, are progressing well, according to Dr. Hayes. “Our goal with these transitions is to make and events coming back to in-person, because it might not “We hope to find someone who can offer classes in areas sure students are safe and healthy while still pro- happen,” Castle said. “With that being said, we are trying our such as music and theater,” Hayes said. “Since the retirement viding the highest quality education we can of- hardest to regain some sense of normalcy for the spring of of (Theatre Arts Professor) Steve Cleberg, who started the pro- fer,” Hayes said. 2021.” gram in the 1980s, this is the first time in thirty years the col- SCC’s #HealthyatSCC protocols, designed To ensure students are getting the best education they can, lege hasn’t had a theatre program.” to protect students, staff, and faculty during this regardless of the mode of instruction, faculty will undergo fur- Jon Burlew, Dean of Arts and Sciences said, “We want confusing time, have worked reasonably well, ther professional development training, Dr. Hayes said. This to make sure we get the right individual for SCC and the with only isolated COVID cases at SCC’s cam- training will help expand the faculty’s abilities to teach and ed- community.” puses and centers.

• Sharpen writing and photo skills and see your work in print SCC News & Viewpoints Since 2000 • Volume 21, Number 2 OCTOBER 2020 NEWSPAPER: • Learn ways to promote posts on social media We are SCC: Somerset Campus • Laurel Campus • Casey Center • Clinton Center • McCreary Center • Russell Center SCC’s newspaper is Commencement Council seeking is held this fall to bring back published for the for spring grads fine arts to SCC By Christen Gibson By Christen Gibson Jonathan Blake was among the more During every semester over the past 30- • Take your seat behind the microphone for a podcast than 50 graduates enjoying their proudest plus years, visitors to the Stoner Little The- students, and by moment on September 23 as he received the atre could find it full of props, lights,- cos cover for his business management degree. tumes, and busy students hard at work on “I am just so happy,” Blake said as he stage productions like Radio Suspense The- shed a few tears of joy. “I have wanted this atre, Readers Theatre, The Stronger, Fiddler for 14 years. I finally have my associate’s de- on the Roof, The Dollmaker, Plan 9 from the students. gree – even amidst all this nonsense.” Outer Space, and dozens of others. The “nonsense” to which Blake referred But not this semester. Graduate Johnathan Blake, second from right, poses for a photo with The Little Theatre, located on SCC’s Som- is the coronavirus pandemic and its impact supporters on the Somerset Campus. Photo by Christen Gibson • Join the student staff and gain multimedia experience on ... on everyone’s lives. SCC’s commence- erset Campus, is currently being used only for ment, held over from May, was a “socially Traditional graduation typically involves larger non-theater classes that need the extra distanced” affair, with students taking turns a couple hundred participants and their fam- room to fulfill social “The Bridge” is a walking across the stage in Meece Hall on ilies, but 2020’s graduation allowed for only distancing needs. College seeking the Somerset Campus as they accepted their one student and the student’s three guests in For the first time a person who credentials. the auditorium at a time. since Steve Cle- can not only Between the Somerset and Laurel Cam- Graduate Austin Arnold, who received his berg arrived at SCC puses, there were 65 associate’s in applied sci- in 1986 to become teach theatre direct descendant students who took the “I am just so happy... I have ence, admitted that “This the director of the arts, but other opportunity to have their wanted this for 14 years. isn’t what I imagined, school’s theater arts art programs moment on the stage. but it’s good considering program, there are “I don’t love that I finally have my associate’s the circumstances.” no productions in as well. today’s graduation degree – even amidst all Arnold studied at the the works. Cleberg retired following the spring semester with no of the college’s first couldn’t be the tra- this nonsense.” Casey Center primarily ditional one, but it’s and received his degree replacement ready to step in. making a difference,” —SCC graduate Jonathan Blake cover at the Somerset According to Dr. Michael Goleman, chair said SCC President Dr. Campus ceremony. of the Humanities, Fine Arts, and Social Sci- Carey Castle. “This is the final goal. It Sherry Loveless also graduated at the ences department, the upheaval in March fol- is so important. (The commencement cel- Somerset ceremony. For her, the event was lowing the outbreak of the novel coronavirus paper, “The Mirror.” complicated the transition. ebration) is worth every moment spent no less special despite the out-of-the-ordi- James Peters signs in and has a working and studying. nary circumstances. She was just happy to However, Goleman and others involved health check before taking part in “It’s important to see students graduate and be an SCC graduate. in the search for Cleberg’s replacement are become alumni here at SCC,” Castle added. See COMMENCEMENT on Page 6 graduation on the Laurel Campus. hopeful that they can fill the position soon Photo by Ashley Wilson See FINE ARTS AT SCC on Page 7 Newspaper offers new experiences - Page 3 —INSIDE THIS ISSUE — Spotlight on students & puzzles- Page 9 University Center Culinary Art student Photo club exhibit adds additional Rachel McCoy will put focus program options bakes up a winner on pandemic —PAGE 4— —PAGE 10— —PAGE 11— A Student Publication For Somerset Community College • For The Students, By The Students • Check out our Facebook page @SCC The Bridge

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Enrollment is underway now for the Spring 2021 semester! THE GATEWAY PODCAST: Sign up for: VCP 255—Special Topics Lab: The Bridge The podcast/video Class meets Monday & Wednesday 2 to 3:15 interview show is Class #85189 • 3 credit hours directed, hosted and edited by the For more information call Toll Free (877) 629-9722 student staff. November 2020 THE BRIDGE Page 15 Betty Peterson, longtime instructor, remembered for her kindness, talent Slender, graceful, unassuming, her hair her daughter, as well as the full-length play generously adorned with silver ringlets, Betty Desert Flower, which premiered at the re- Peterson appeared almost angelic. nowned Horse Cave Theater. And as far as her family, friends and col- Peterson was also a part of the Berea- leagues are concerned, she exemplified -an based playwright group Kentucky Women gelic qualities as well – those of kindness, Playwright Seminar, which had a collection love, faith, and “light.” of nine 10-minute plays produced in New The entire campus community was sad- York City under the title Shh! In 2014. She dened on July 21 of this year, when Peterson, also received grants to develop plays at the who had taught composi- Virginia Center of the Cre- tion, literature, and creative ative Arts. writing at SCC for more Steve Cleberg, who than 30 years, passed away recently retired from his after a short illness. position as a professor in “Betty was the best per- and director of SCC’s The- son I have known in my atre Arts program, worked entire life,” said fellow with Peterson on a number English Professor Wanda of projects over the years. Fries, who had begun her In one of the more mem- deep, abiding friendship orable, Cleberg directed with Peterson even before the SCC production of Pe- the two joined the SCC terson’s adaptation of The faculty together in 1989. Dollmaker, Harriette Ar- “She always tried to see the now’s classic novel. Betty Peterson, left, with fellow SCC English instructors Belinda Gadd, Sharon other person’s perspective. “Betty was the kind Whitehead and Wanda Fries. Peterson, who taught at the college for over 30 She was full of forgiveness, of quiet, thoughtful soul years, died on July 21 after a short illness. sweetness, and kindness… that the world needs,” But she really had no idea Cleberg said. “She was mode of instruction. She worked tirelessly to fessor at the same college, becoming one of how special she was, how Read additional tributes to a gifted writer, but when give her students educational experiences on- SCC’s great success stories. beautiful and gifted.” Betty Peterson from her I think of Betty, Shake- line that were on par with what they would Marveling at Peterson’s journey, Jon Bur- Sharon Whitehead, who SCC colleagues on Page 16. speare’s phrase, ‘Action is receive in her face-to-face classes. lew, SCC’s Dean of Arts & Sciences, said that retired as SCC’s Dean of eloquence’ comes to mind. Peterson came to SCC first as a student. it would not have happened if Peterson had Arts and Sciences in 2015, worked with Pe- Her spirit and her work told her story.” She had received a scholarship offer to attend not met an instructor very much like the one terson for more than 25 years. She, Peter- In addition to plays, Peterson wrote poetry Berea College but gave it up to marry her she would one day become herself. son, Fries and fellow SCC English depart- and short stories, including “Liberty Girls,” husband, Danny, while she was still in high “Betty planned to become a nurse un- ment colleague Belinda Gadd traveled to the a coming-of-age story that was published in school. Together, they had four children. til, while a student at SCC, a teacher saw a United Kingdom together in 2012. Seventeen. She also wrote a novel titled Un- When she enrolled at SCC, her plan was spark in her,” Burlew said. “That spark was “Betty was a remarkable human being,” cle Wash. to become a nurse, but she fell in love with recognized, nurtured, and encouraged until Whitehead said. “Those of us who were priv- But Peterson considered her most signifi- English, and with the encouragement and it became the ‘light’ that Belinda (Gadd) ref- ileged to know her and to work with her over cant professional contribution to be her teach- mentorship of Billy C. Clark, her creative erenced. Imagine how different Betty’s life, the years were witnesses to her self-discov- ing, and it was her writing instructor and and ours, and the lives hundreds of students ery, the articulation of her genius, the devel- work in the classroom “Betty was the kind of a writer of note in his would have been if that instructor had not opment of the master teacher, and the remark- – and as a pioneering own right, she decided taken the time to care. able achievement of the writer. Betty’s family online instructor -- that quiet, thoughtful soul to pursue a career in “Betty embraced the responsibility that came first in her life, but countless others will be her lasting leg- that the world needs.” writing and teaching. comes with teaching,” he added. “For some, have found their lives enriched by her pres- acy, her colleagues say. She earned her caring and grace and love come easily. Betty ence and, sadly, diminished by her absence.” “As an English —Steve Cleberg associates’ degree at was one of those people. The opportunity we Gadd, an Associate Professor of English, teacher, I think Betty SCC, then a bachelor’s had to know her and love her deserves to be remembered her friend’s spirit. was the best of us,” said Lynn Shearer, Pro- degree at UK, and then a master’s degree celebrated.” “Betty was light: her face, her voice, and fessor of English, and a longtime colleague at UK. She wrote her master’s thesis about Fries also maintains a deep admiration for her heart,” Gadd said. “When she left us, a and friend of Peterson’s. “Just listening to her Clark, who later asked her to do a stage ad- Peterson and for the example she set, which light went out in the world. I see her as a star talk about her classes was incredible, in that aptation of his autobiography, A Long Row for Fries lives on. in the night and an angel watching over me. she seemed to be able to get writing out of to Hoe. She created choral odes that were “Often, I try to be more like her, but I’m It is hard for me to imagine life without her, her students that most of us just don’t get. In set to music with the help of a composer in just not quite up to it,” she said. “But one but her influence will linger as long as people her quiet way, she made her students believe Ashland. The resulting production, River thing I will say: if you worked with her or who knew her remain.” they were writers, so they wrote for her. And Dreams, received critical acclaim. encountered her, she saw the best in you. And Peterson was a gifted, accomplished her students really loved her and her classes.” Peterson returned to SCC, first as the di- if occasionally she saw the worst, she judged playwright. She wrote the one-act play Real Peterson volunteered to teach online rector of its writing center, before becoming you from the perspective of Christ, in whom Daddy, which was produced at SCC, with classes for SCC back when few other instruc- an instructor. She eventually completed the she believed with all her heart. Whitehead playing a recent widow and Fries tors were ready to embrace the relatively new unlikely journey from student to tenured pro- “I loved her with all mine.” Page 16 THE BRIDGE November 2020

ulty member delivering this type of class Additional remembrances of Betty Peterson, Online learning concerns must be highly engaged with their students from her colleagues at the college Continued from Page 3 in a different way than they may be used to sue. Funding from this grant will help us in in face-to-face courses. This engagement Johnna Atkinson-Bigelow, Professor of Communications: multiple areas of the college, but a signifi- is more than just providing reading ma- “I always cherished my long conversations with Betty. It was during one of our last conver- cant portion of these funds will be applied terial and hoping their students succeed. sations that she gave me a copy of her favorite poem, ‘Desiderata’ by Max Ehrman. She had a to improving outcomes for our online stu- As one of the students from the podcast framed copy in her office. (The fact that she had copies at the ready to hand out tells you a lot dents. Some areas related to online/virtual quoted Mrs. Cindy Bird, “both student and about her generosity.) delivery that this grant supports include: teacher must work together as a team.” If “Although the entire poem describes Betty, the first and last lines describe her best: ‘Go plac- • An expansion of the Quality Matters we are not engaged in all of our classes on idly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as course evaluation and improvement process that level with our students then we have a possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons… And whatever your labors and we have already undertaken. For those who lot of work to do. aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and are unfamiliar, Quality Matters is a widely As I listened, other issues were very broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.’ recognized process for online course evalu- clear to me. We have to do a better job “This world, my world, was more beautiful because of Betty Peterson.” ation using peer reviews by trained evalua- addressing things like communication, tors that help improve course design, deliv- clarity of content, and engagement by our Kelly Barnes, Associate Professor of Psychology: ery, and hopefully, student outcomes. online (and face-to-face) faculty. These are “Betty was a kind person and a wonderful professor. I can say that with full confidence as she • The Teaching and Learning Center as consistent complaints from our students was MY professor in 2000. She will be missed.” it relates to faculty and staff preparation and it is up to all of us to address them. and professional development to improve As I indicated above, we will be work- Dr. Michael Goleman, Professor of History and chair of the Humanities, Fine Arts, online and in-class teaching and learning. ing through the pieces of the Title III grant & Social Sciences Department: • Hiring an instructional technologist that specifically address online teaching “Betty was one of the most caring and loving persons I have ever met. She inspired people, to assist faculty with planning, designing, and learning. The first step is to review many times through her presence alone, to be better, to be kinder, and to strive to reach their and developing more interactive courses. where we are currently with Quality Mat- potential.” • The implementation of SmarterMea- ters, and then to move forward with that sure readiness assessment for students process as we had planned to do. The next Alyce Grover, Professor of Communications: taking online classes for the first time. step is to continue having open discussion “Betty and I shared the scare of cancer, and through it all, she never failed to be an inspiration SmarterMeasure helps students to under- about where we are with things like en- for hope, comfort, and even in the worst of times, a wry wit. She was unparalleled as a role model stand better what it takes to be a successful gagement in our courses and better com- for kindness, as she lived her faith.” online student by assessing their level of munication from both faculty and students, readiness to take an online or technology but also put some guidelines in place that Jeff Harris, Professor of English: rich course or program. our online classes will follow. This is also “Betty personified grace and compassion and dignity and a dozen other beautiful qualities that Many of the areas of concern men- not a new discussion. Overall, we can learn I appreciated and admired. I’ve never known a more dedicated educator or a more kindhearted tioned by these students are addressed a lot from our students and from each other, person.” through the implementation of this grant and this is a good wake-up call for us re- and have been in progress for some time. garding this issue. Just like with our face- Erin Johnson, Administrative Assistant, HFASS Department: Another issue brought up on the pod- to-face courses, we have some excellent “Betty was one of the most kind and gentle spirits I’ve ever met. She was an uplifting person, cast was the inability of students to ask online courses. However, just like some of and she gave me encouraging words and compliments every time we spoke. I miss seeing her so questions directly in online/virtual classes. our face-to face courses, we need to work much, and I wish I could tell her how her confidence in me made such a positive impact on my There are important differences between to improve some of our online courses. I first year at SCC. synchronous and asynchronous delivery look forward to working together to make “Due to the pandemic, the last time I had the privilege of speaking to Betty was via email. True and our students need to be well informed our classes better for our students. to her caring nature, the email was full of praise and support. I keep her message posted by my about those differences and how they re- In closing, one thing we all have to desk and reread it any time I need a boost.” late to their success. Students do have the remember as we move forward after this ability to receive immediate feedback in a crazy year is that we were all, students, George Martinez, Professor of Psychology: synchronous online/virtual class. In these faculty, and staff thrust into something we “Betty was always kind and encouraging to me personally as well as to her colleagues and classes, students and teachers meet at the did not anticipate and frankly may not have students. She had such a gentle and peaceful presence. I always felt a sense of calm when talking same time to discuss content and this is, been prepared to do as well as we would with her and truly admired her knowledge and wisdom that she would share so gracefully.” from my experiences at least, a very close have liked or hoped. Students speaking on approximation of the in-seat classroom the podcast talked about online teachers Dr. Craylon Mills, Associate Professor of Sociology: experience. Many of our classes used this not being prepared at the level they would “Mrs. Peterson was such a wonderful teacher and person. She was my ENG 102 instructor and delivery format this semester. expect them to be. This is, by the nature one of those teachers who will always stand out in my mind no matter how much time goes by.” Asynchronous classes are by nature dif- of what we have all experienced, accurate ferent from synchronous classes for the stu- in some cases. Just as some students felt Marci Randall, Associate Professor of Reading: dent and teacher in that class materials are “forced” to take online classes through this “Betty was the most calm, caring, and non-judgmental colleague I’ve ever worked with. We all available for the student to access at any time pandemic, some faculty were asked to shift miss her presence. She was my office neighbor and her kind and thoughtful words could always based on their schedule. This is generally classes that had never been taught online make my days sunny and bright.” what we think of when we think about online to a virtual format. They were definitely course delivery. I think both of these delivery “inexperienced online faculty,” but rose to James Taylor, Associate Professor of Political Science: methods have a place, but do not think every the occasion to help move these students “Betty Peterson was one of the nicest, kindest individuals I have ever known. Her quiet man- student is well suited for both types. closer to achieving their higher education ner always made me think of the old E.F. Hutton commercial…when Betty Peterson spoke, peo- Asynchronous classes require a very dreams. Has it been perfect? I am guess- ple listened. You knew that what she had to say would be insightful and important. Losing Betty high level of self-directed learning and ing in some cases it has not been a perfect was a tremendous loss to her family and close friends, as well as to all of us in her HFASS, A&S, motivation on behalf of the student and experience for either students or teachers, and SCC family. this can be problematic for students who however, we are all learning to navigate “May her spirit soar and her life continue to inspire us all!” need additional support. Likewise, the fac- these new waters together.