Collected and Captioned By Cary S. Wacker
Shall we say it up front? This past year was hard, in lots of ways. We know there was suffering and worry. Many of the events that define a year at Austin College didn’t happen, were scaled back, or recast as remote happenings. Yet, as students and classes returned in August, the human spirit rose above the daily circumstances here on campus. Faculty stretched to deliver simultaneous in- person and remote teaching with their usual skill and grace. Students laughed, wept, studied, played, created, and researched. Events and classes were moved outdoors, as a fortunate season of nice fall weather brought most everyone outside of four walls whenever possible.
Looking back at all this, we thought some perspective was in order. The year 2020 was one in which we saw life differently. Do we have it all in focus yet? Not by a longshot, but a few pages of reflection seemed appropriate. For this wrinkle in time, at least, we’ve collectively catalogued the small victories, appreciated details that might be overlooked, and observed people around us through new eyes (and a mask). Here’s to another chapter in the story of us—the Austin College family.
Alternative Spring Break to Arkansas in March 2020 became the last official travel of the year for students. After that, life took a different path. At “home” on campus, the changing seasons kept the journey interesting.
The volunteers returned to remote-only learning in Spring Term 2020. See the Alternative Spring Break 2020 Photo Gallery!
With most ’Roos back on campus for Fall Term 2020, Opening Convocation
was held outdoors for the first time ever, and in perfect weather.
Packing meals at First We Serve
See more photos from First We Serve 2020
Campus Activity Board
(CAB) outdoor games
Choir rehearsal
An outdoor classroom
Several campus buildings gained new life, including the new Sally and Jim Nation Learning Commons in Ida Green Communication Center. At right, the Nations (at center) on tour.
Elsewhere on campus, nature’s abundance brought beauty and renewal.
Students gathered for an official photo shoot for Admission Office messaging. Even with a new normal, ’Roos have created bonds that will last a lifetime.
