Learning from the COVID Experience

With school back in session, colleges and universities spent the last six months learning from experience when it comes to the novel coronavirus. We checked in with a few presidents to ask what they have learned from enduring COVID-19.

Robert O. Davies

President of Central Michigan University

I have been truly inspired by the adaptability and innovation of our students, faculty and staff. When we were forced into a remote learning environment, they immediately found creative ways to remain connected and to continue to work toward their goals. I have learned we can apply that same innovative thinking to our practices in noncrisis times as we seek new ways to serve students and carry out our mission.

Donald J. Bachand

President of Saginaw Valley State University

We learned that the hard work, determination and adaptability of our faculty and staff was appreciated by students. We made the pivot from 90% face-to-face instruction to 100% remote instruction. … Second, we focused on how to safely reopen the university for the fall semester by developing our New Expectations for a Safer Tomorrow plan that outlines how SVSU will offer a quality educational experience and address the health and safety of our campus community.

Jean Goodnow

President of Delta College

I’ve heard so many stories in which Delta’s students and faculty have engaged in inspired remote learning. I am proud of the Delta College faculty who are seeking further certification in order to ensure their online instruction is the best possible for students in the region. With innovation as a core value, Delta is adapting to an ever-changing environment in which to teach and learn.