Ask BGC

Q: Is BGC currently developing contingency plans for the possibility that remote learning and building closures need to continue through the summer and into the fall (or need to be reinstated if a second viral spike occurs later in 2020, as some epidemiologists predict)? What will BGC do to make this planning process transparent and open to feedback/questions from the community?

A: We are, indeed, planning for the fall. Actually, “falls”—because we don’t really know which one of the possible scenarios we’ll be facing. So, we are getting groups of staff and faculty together to address the possibility of a spike with rolling, shorter closures—what I’ve seen described as “the hammer and the dance.” We’re trying to get out in front of this and make decisions now that will enable us to flexibly flow from one state into another. By trying to work our way through different scenarios now, we reduce the chances that we are taken by surprise and make hasty decisions later. Susan has asked Dean Miller and me to start this process now for a range of alternative levels of operation in the fall, ranging from a continuation of our current entirely remote operation to a return to “normal,” buildings open. These plans, as they get fleshed out, will involve more and more of the institution, and so we will go into the summer with a good, shared sense of what we might be expected to do in the fall. We will continue to invite and answer questions in this forum, and continue to hold town hall meetings as long as there is a need. I also encourage anyone who wishes to have a more personal discussion to reach out to me or to Dean Miller directly. – Tim Ettenheim

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Community News

Paul Stirton’s Retirement
Paul Stirton has made a huge impact on the BGC through his teaching and editing of W86th. It is therefore with gratitude and sadness that we announce his retirement at the end of this academic year. Watch Three Questions with Paul Stirton to look back on his time at BGC and read Dan Lee’s tribute to Paul’s 10 years with West 86th. Paul, we wish you the absolute best!

Judith Gura’s Passing
We are saddened to announce the passing of BGC alum Judith Gura (MA 1999). Judith Gura has was a impactful figure in the design world, lecturing at the New York School of Interior Design and Pratt Institute, and writing for publications such as Architectural Digest.

Wellness Tips

We rely on technology more than ever as we adjust to life at home. Check out a list of apps we recommend to help make life a bit easier!

Community Events

To make these events more accessible, we have added all community events to a Google Calendar. To subscribe, click here.

Friday, April 24, 5 pm
Yoga with Danielle Weindling
BGC MA student, Danielle Weindling, will be hosting a Mixed Level 45min Flow Yoga Class. Please sign up here, and Zoom instructions will follow. Email danielle.weindling@bgc.bard.edu with any questions.

Friday, April 24, 6 pm
Stitching Night
Calling all knitters, crocheters, sewers, and makers, join BGC PhD Candidate Amanda Thompson for her second stitchers’ circle. Please sign up here, and Zoom instructions will follow. Email amanda.thompson@bgc.bard.edu with any questions.