Rapid Response: Building a bridge over troubled waters, with Spelman College president Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell

Remote Learning

Spelman College's transition to remote learning was a swift response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mary Campbell, the college's president, recognized the urgency of moving classes online as the virus spread rapidly across the U.S. She noted, "It was clear that its growth was going to be exponential," prompting a quick decision to evacuate the campus and shift to online education 1. This shift required rethinking educational delivery and support mechanisms, as students lost access to on-campus resources like computer labs 1. The college also faced the challenge of maintaining its unique community and sisterhood virtually, which Campbell described as an ongoing conversation 2.

   

Financial Challenges

The financial implications of the pandemic have been significant for Spelman College, which is heavily tuition-dependent. Mary Campbell explained that nearly 50% of the college's budget comes from tuition and fees, with another substantial portion from room and board 3. With only a fraction of students on campus, the college faced a 70% reduction in room and board revenue, while costs remained largely unchanged 3. To navigate these challenges, Spelman implemented cost-cutting measures, including faculty and staff furloughs, which were difficult but necessary decisions 4. Campbell emphasized the importance of guiding students through these tough times while ensuring the institution's fiscal sustainability 4.

   

Health & Safety

Health and safety measures at Spelman College have been a top priority amid the pandemic. The college's small campus size and high-risk demographics necessitated careful planning to ensure safety while maintaining educational quality 5. Mary Campbell2. "We were driven by the need to make decisions on behalf of the health and welfare of our students and our workforce," she stated, underscoring the college's commitment to its community's well-being 2.