Although there are not any on-campus classes anymore, SHC is still working hard to provide the best solutions for its students.
On Friday, March 13, President Joe Lee announced that the school would be switching to online classes for two weeks. Three days before classes began, the period of virtual learning was extended for the rest of the semester. This decision was made out of careful consideration and communication between the school and Alabama health experts. Lee wrote in an email to all students, “It’s not the outcome any of us wanted, but given that the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it's a decision that was made with everyone's welfare at heart.”
As far as commencement for senior graduates go, the date was moved from May 9, but there has not yet been a new determined date, according to Ashley Rains, SHC’s director of media and public relations. A survey was sent out to seniors including a question about Commencement. Once the responses have been finalized, the school will announce the results. Instead of rescheduling Honors Convocation, students will receive any awards via mail or email. The school is continuing to keep the seniors informed of any new decisions. The rest of the students are still encouraged to register for summer and fall classes.
With most students back home, SHC is still making sure the campus community is well looked after. Lee wrote in his email that there are less than 20 students still on campus due to stay-at-home orders in certain states. Final move out day is May 10, but there will be exceptions to this date if necessary. The Student Government Association’s new president and vice president will have a virtual transition ceremony. The Wellness Center is now working online to provide any sort of services to students, faculty or staff. Students can still stay informed through Campus Update which is now running again.
The college is continuing to interact with potentially new students through virtual events to keep practicing social distancing. It will also continue maintaining the campus while students are gone. Rains explained that some campus improvements include disinfecting, powerwashing and continuing work on a new brick wall for the baseball field. SHC wants what is best for the campus community. Students are encouraged to ask any questions that they may have during these trying times.