March 12, 2020
 
 
Greetings NAASC Members!
 
By now you are aware of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) and its impact on our country and the world.  As I write, National and international events are being postponed and canceled as advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization.  It is obvious and unfortunate that the Spelman Community is affected by all the precautions in place.  As the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College (NAASC) is a part of the larger Spelman Community, we are indirectly affected.
 
As you may know from emails, Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell, President of Spelman College has been working with the CDC since February.  At a meeting yesterday, plans were made to manage the impact of the coronavirus on Spelman’s campus.  Beginning this week, she has been sending emails updating the Spelman community.  If you have not read them, please go to www.spelman.edu for the most current information. 
 
While the College will remain open, there is an effort underway to reduce the number of people as well as reduce the opportunity for physical contact that may increase the spread of the virus.  Students are being asked to leave dorms and return home to complete the spring semester remotely. 
 
NAASC chapters can best support the efforts of the college by staying abreast of President Campbell’s emails.  In addition, I will reach out to NAASC chapter presidents if and when we can support the students and /or the college.  Although we have not yet been asked, I ask NAASC chapters to be prepared to support students that need help traveling home and staying electronically connected so they can complete their classes online.
 
Finally, please send prayers to our Spelman Sisters that are returning home from experiences abroad. 
 
I thank you in advance for being True Blue and using our time and resources to be of support to Spelman.
 
Sisterly,

Tara L. Buckner, C’87
President
National Alumnae Association of Spelman College (NAASC)