COVID-19

A novel coronavirus, named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was identified as the cause of a respiratory illness first detected in 2019 that caused a worldwide pandemic. The illness caused by this virus has been named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Photo credit: Alissa Eckert, MSMI and Dan Higgins, MAMS

Columbia State Responds to the

Coronavirus Pandemic

In March 2020, Columbia State extended spring break amid the coronavirus pandemic to give faculty adequate time to convert classes from traditional on-ground course instruction to a virtual format. The academic year was finished out in the virtual format as all college campuses were closed, and faculty and staff worked remotely to conduct regular college business and provide services to students.

Columbia State Transitions To Online Instruction, Cancels Events Amid

COVID-19 Outbreak

As a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Columbia State temporarily transitioned to online classes starting in March 2020.

College officials continually monitored the news and recommendations from public health officials and the Tennessee Board of Regents. In addition, the College convened a COVID-19 Task Force and Advisory Group to review information and make decisions to best protect the health and safety of all students, faculty and staff.

“Our top priority is the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “This is not a step taken lightly but one that allows us to provide the continuation of studies during this challenging time. We will continue to provide the quality of instruction for which we are known, as well as to maintain services and support for students throughout this time.”

Students attended online/alternate courses and received instructions from their professors regarding the specific changes for each class.

In an effort to assist students with this transition, the college developed a Student Resources Center webpage to connect students to valuable resources such as free online tutoring, instructions on accessing the online platform, local free wi-fi hotspots, as well as information on special offers for free internet service from local broadband companies.

The college continues to monitor the status of the coronavirus and recommendations from public health officials in an effort to determine when on-ground classes will resume. Columbia State began offering an admissions recruiter hotline through Zoom for individuals with questions about applying to Columbia State and those wanting to learn more about the college’s academic programs.

Although college faculty and staff are working remotely, admissions recruiters are still available to work with students digitally.

“The admissions team at Columbia State understands the uncertainty and challenges facing the community during the COVID-19 crisis,” said Jill Riley, Columbia State chief enrollment services officer and director of admissions. “We are transitioning to virtual experiences to assist prospective students and their families. We are excited to offer a recruiter hotline, which is a virtual space where students can drop in to ask questions about admissions, academic programs and enrollment.”

Admissions Recruiter Hotline Offered

Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

Spring 2020 Graduates Celebrated with “Drive-Through” Parade

“It was quite a wonderful celebration,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “I, along with the faculty and staff, could not be more proud of our graduates.”

Graduates received a commemorative box that included their mortar board, tassel, stoles, cords, Student Honors Awards, degree or certificate, and more. The boxes were presented in front of the Hickman building by cheerful Columbia State faculty and staff.

In lieu of a traditional ceremony, Columbia State held a Virtual Commencement in July 2020. “We were disappointed that due to the coronavirus pandemic we could not safely come together as a group in our traditional ceremony,” Smith said. “However, we were excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates with a virtual ceremony. We are so proud of them.”

PPE Supplies Donated for COVID-19 Relief in Maury County

Columbia State’s Health Sciences Division donated personal protective equipment to community medical partners, including NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center and Columbia Fire Department.

The donated PPE included isolation gowns, gloves, face masks and shields. Due to COVID-19, these items have been in high demand at medical facilities to help protect healthcare professionals as they combat the virus.

“Community partners regularly contribute to student learning through clinical access, sharing of expertise and financial support. What a blessing to be able to respond to a request for supplies during the COVID-19 crisis,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. “Several of the division’s departments, from nursing to veterinary technology, reached into storage areas to share with those currently involved in direct patient care.”

Columbia State has a long-standing partnership with community medical facilities and was pleased to reciprocate by sharing critical supplies during a challenging period.

“Columbia State’s health science programs benefit daily from invaluable relationships with providers throughout the region,” Fleming said. “We are thankful and look forward to collaborating for years to come.”

Columbia State donated PPE supplies to NHC Maury Regional.