Spring 2020: Moving Forward
On March 14, I announced that the College would move to remote/online instruction through at least Easter. Then in response to the fast-moving public health crisis, on March 18 I extended this mode of instruction through the remainder of the term.
You can be proud of the way students, faculty, and staff rose to the challenges of this unprecedented disruption for which there was no playbook. I have been inspired each day this spring by the creativity and resolve of the IC community. From a virtual Celebration of Excellence and Honors Recognition Ceremony, to a Virtual 2020 Commencement, to virtual campus tours in admission and orientation sessions for new students, IC is showing the world that in 2020 we have the heart, grit, and resolve to succeed — just as our founders exhibited in 1829.
For many, the pandemic has highlighted what is truly important, it has also reinforced that where you go to college matters.
Confronting a world turned upside down, Illinois College did what it does best — work with students individually to support their educational success and personal well-being. We immediately assigned Individual Success Advisors to every student who could troubleshoot challenges and offer support, faculty re-imagined how to deliver their classes to best meet course objectives, and countless acts of courage and generosity were exhibited by the entire community in making sure students had what they needed to complete the term successfully.
This special edition of the Quarterly includes stories from this period that will inspire you and give you hope. We are not standing still or looking back. IC is on the move.
We are thrilled to be adding a traditional nursing program this fall, making plans to welcome new faculty and transfer students from MacMurray College, and expanding our strategic partnerships in the Jacksonville community.
As you all know, it matters to have access to support services from people who know you and are there to cheer you on; it matters that IC has strong ties to community partners, and it matters that IC’s students are part of a community that cares for one another. We are bringing these strengths to the task of preparing to hold in-person classes this fall, while continuing to plan for alternative scenarios should local, state or federal restrictions be in place for the operation of higher education institutions.
IC is committed to limiting the disruption of students’ education in any scenario. A task force has been assembled to examine the precautions that would need to be taken as the College aims to welcome students back to campus in late August. The College is working closely with public health officials and other local leaders in developing its plans.
Thank you for all you have done to support IC students, faculty and staff during this challenging period of time. In particular, I would like to thank you for joining me in making a gift to support students at a time when they need all of us more than ever. Students are relying on us to step up for them and to make IC a place that can inspire achievement for years and years to come.
With all good wishes,
Barbara A. Farley
President
