Written by Kaelyn Spickler
While many of the big decisions from Roanoke College on the COVID-19 situation have already been made, RC is still busy making sure all students are staying informed, as well as connected.
As of today, RC is technically open, but the majority of the buildings on campus are closed. With Virginia’s governor, Ralph Northam placing a stay-at-home order within the state, the majority of RC faculty and staff, as well as Virginia residents, are working from home. If you need to visit an office on campus, reach out to the college first to make sure the building is staffed. Campus Safety remains open and can be reached at (540) 375-2310.
Despite the majority of buildings being closed on campus, Student Health and Counseling is still offering their services through the end of May. Because twenty six states have allowed behavioral health services from licensed practitioners to practice beyond their state lines, RC’s telemedicine and telehealth services are more easily accessible to remote students. Students should call (540) 375-2286 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM Monday through Friday to schedule an appointment or get the support needed.
In order to keep students engaged through this difficult time, CAB and RC Campus Rec are offering a host of events.
Starting this week, CAB is hosting a weekly photo contest. This week’s theme is “best commons recreation.” Submission links go live every Sunday, and on Wednesday of that week, submissions are due. Voting will take place between the top four, and the winner of a $25 Amazon gift card will be announced every Friday.
RC has also created it’s very own “RC Craft,” a minecraft server for our students. Register with your RC info to play at clubhub.roanoke.edu/club’rcmc. There is also a screenplay contest for students missing Basically Tarantino or wanting to keep their creativity going. A 10-20 page screenplay for a short film is due to Joe Boucher by Friday, April 17 at 5:00 PM. Submissions should be sent to boucher@roanoke.edu. First place prize winner will receive $150, second place $75, and third place $50.
Campus Recreation is challenging students to “Inside Fun” where students get a certain number of points for various activities performed. The top ten students to earn the most points will receive a t-shirt at the end of April. For a full list of activities and to submit your points go to forms.roanoke.edu/insidefun. Secondly, Campus Rec wants to see how many steps you can get! All you have to do is screenshot your weekly steps starting on Wednesdays of each week. E-mail your step totals on April 7, April 14, April 21, and April 28 to fitnesscenter@roanoke.edu.
In a world of uncertainty, RC has continuously provided resources to keep students informed, engaged, and safe. For regular updates visit: https://www.roanoke.edu/covid19, and be on the lookout for announcements from administration staff.
