Column: A resilient community stands strong
My original plan for this column was to write about A&M-San Antonio’s “Alternative Spring Break” program, hosted by our Mays Center for Experiential Learning and Community Engagement, where students participate in a service project designed to immerse students in a new community, in this case the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Students were excited about the opportunity to help the communities of this small island nation in their struggle to address children’s rights and fulfill obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Due to the spread of the novel coronavirus, this program and all on-site volunteer opportunities were canceled. This is one example of the many ways our lives are affected and changing across the nation due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Ensuring our students maintain their academic progress is my highest priority. Along with other universities throughout the nation, A&M-San Antonio transitioned to online or virtual learning for the remainder of the Spring 2020 semester. The unexpected consequences for students and faculty has united our community with creative problem solving and new opportunities. Technology is often a barrier, so we have ramped up the ability to provide loaner equipment and internet access, so that everyone can participate in this unexpected reality.
The spread of the coronavirus and the proportions of this global pandemic have certainly been scary, but I take comfort in the resiliency of our community. There are many examples of those who are leading con ganas, such as the emergency responders, doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals who are on the front lines of these unprecedented circumstances.
The PreK-12 teachers who have had to adapt their teaching practically overnight, the truckers who are moving goods across the country, and the grocery and retail champions who are supporting our essential needs. They “show up and make things happen” every day amid the crisis. And you, our community, are providing compassion and care to your neighbors as well as loved ones.
Naturally, we are anxious about these changes in our everyday lives, along with the uncertainty and rapid-fire of new information. The practice of social distancing reminds us that now more than ever, we value close connections and more importantly, helping others.
In times of crisis, we are strong and resilient. Now is the time to welcome unanticipated opportunities such as reinventing your home office and reconnecting using old school norms, remembering the family dinner hour, reading, games or outdoor exercise. Fortunately, we also have new tools like a favorite social media app, crowd sharing, dance videos, and the ultimate perfect selfie that will inspire laughter and creativity in connection during this dire situation.
At A&M-San Antonio, we will come out of this unique experience strengthened and better prepared for future challenges. Service is among our core values at A&M-San Antonio and we know that in service, there is strength.
Our university is here for you and soon we will be together at the many postponed celebrations, such as Ring Ceremony, Commencement, Fiesta, campus visits and so much more. Stay tuned to our website for the most current information about university events and COVID-19.
I look forward to sharing abrazos and high-fives with all of you. Until then, please abide by the advice of the CDC and our elected officials to ensure the health of our community.
Cynthia Teniente-Matson, Ed.D, is president of Texas A&M University San Antonio.
