THE
COLLEGIAN Friday, September 11, 2020 | Volume 109, Issue 1 | North Newton, KS
Jenna Ratzlaff and Ada Schmidt-Tieszen pose on a porch to commemorate both graduation from Bethel College and a recent retirement. Photo courtesy of Jayden Kaltenbach
2
College makes improvements around campus
3
Editorial: Be considerate of others
6
Students are updated on pandemic procedures
9
Cross country prepares for future
11
Kauffman Museum features temporary exhibit
2 NEWS
Coordinators develop new convocation procedures
GRACE LUMPKINS Staff Writer
The decision to move convocation to a virtual setting has been one of the major changes to the school year at Bethel College in regards to curriculum accommodations. In years past, convocation has been in Krehbiel Auditorium at 11:00 a.m. on Monday and Friday. Each week would feature a selection of speakers that would cover a variety of topics. At the end of a speaker’s presentation, there would be a live Q&A session during which students would be able to ask questions about the speaker or the presentation. Each student was
required to attend 18 convocation sessions per semester. That number has now been reduced to nine. Meredith Lehman, assistant professor of business and economics, and one of Bethel College’s convocation coordinators, has shared some insight on how this year’s convocation was planned. “One of the biggest core objectives for convocation is building community, which is much easier to do when you are there in person. I think one of the challenges, if it was going to be worth it to do convocation at all, had to be not just having this be an individual experience, but having this somehow feel communal in some way,” Lehman said.
To preserve the sense of community, Lehman and her fellow coordinator Doug Siemens, associate professor and director of elementary teacher education, wanted to regularly drop the convocation videos online. Their hope is that, even though convocation is online, everyone can still get into a routine and maybe watch at the same time as friends. They also made a Q&A component so that students can still get to interact with the speakers. Since modern technology is not always the best option, there have been some problems on that side of it too. “Initially there have been a few glitches with the technology,
but we’re getting things sorted out,” Siemens said. Even though there are big adjustments, making convocation completely online has had its perks. “For people who are less tech savvy, it is kind of intimidating, so it is part of our job to convince them that it is going to be fine. I think our first speaker this week, Brad Guhr, did a really great job at setting the tone and being a great example for future speakers,” Lehman said. The range of speakers was broadened as people from all over the world are able to be a part of convocation. There are speakers participating from a variety of places outside of Kansas, including Washington, Oregon, Pennsylvania,
Canada and more that are excited to take part in virtual convocation. The Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (KIPCOR) is a regional institute affiliated with Bethel College, dedicated to resolving human conflict. In the past, they have organized events that are then coordinated with Bethel to overlap with convocation to use speakers for both. They will be doing a remote film series this year that students are welcome to watch. Some may be available for students to watch as a convocation credit, just like in years past. This new era of convocation offers a variety of new opportunities, and students can still take away valuable life lessons.
Local contributors and organizations sponsor updates
ELIZABETH ALDERFER Staff Writer
This fall semester may look very different around Bethel’s campus for several different reasons. Besides obvious changes due to the current pandemic, there are multiple new renovations happening around campus. Bethel College has a brand new look after Erin Myrtle, graphic design coordinator, worked to re-brand the Bethel logo. Myrtle was inspired by historical Bethel designs in a
refreshed and modernized way. “There is no doubt the threshing stone should stay a Bethel College symbol. It is a distinctive symbol not only relevant to our heritage but for the larger Kansas community and the world. It suggests something dynamic, a symbol of motion, and change,” Myrtle said. While doing historical research, Erin was drawn to a 1960’s Folk Festival poster that had wheat inside the stone. As wheat is an important part of threshing, seeing these elements together visually tied the process.
The Haury Hall lounge is looking spiffy after updates supported by the Women’s Association! Photo by Lindsey Pfannenstiel
Erin was further inspired by the quote in the Will Academic Center given by Conrad Snider ‘84 that reads: “The threshing stone is a tool that provides nourishment for our bodies by separating the wheat from the chaff — just as the College provides nourishment for our minds and lives.” The departments of communication arts and business also re-imagined the Bethel tagline to the phrase “We are Threshers” in order to capture the essence of Bethel. What do all personnel, students, alumni, donors, friends of the college have in common? We are Threshers. In the Fine Art Center parking lot, one can now find solar panels, allowing Bethel to increase its energy sustainability with two electric car charging stations. It also provides students and visitors alike with shaded parking. This project was made possible by alumni maintenance, generous donors and local companies who came together to sponsor the solar panels. This project was completed in May and has already been used by many out-of-state cars and even Teslas. August of 2019 brought
damage to Mantz Library, mainly in the trusses that support the roof. In late June, the college hired Library Design Systems to move all of the bookshelves out of the damaged part of the library. The construction process has been continuous and has reduced usable space, but it is going to be completed in the near future. Haury Hall also experienced some new touches, courtesy of the Bethel College Women’s Association. Deborah Gering stated that the goal was to make small touches that would add up to a big difference. Painting took place in the lounge and front entrance and new furniture was added. The furniture was purchased with
consideration to how it could be cleaned and maintained, especially during a time where sanitation is key. Another exciting addition was the purchase of eight Adirondack chairs and four tables. These could be put outside and allow for better social distancing, as well as providing unique seating inside. Thank you to the Women’s Association for these updates and additions! With all these new updates around campus, the Bethel community, students and staff are looking forward to having a great year, despite unusual circumstances. Thank you to everyone who worked hard planning these projects, and also to those who
SGA Updates SEPTEMBER 13 MEETING SGA election results are arriving soon! *As always, these meetings are open to the student body SGA Number: (316)-284-5288
OPINION 3
Be Considerate of Others
CHARLOTTE ERHMANN Copy Editor
I will be the first to admit that being back on campus during trying times like these is definitely not the move, but I can’t help but feel a little blessed to be able to see my friends in-person again. After months in quarantine where I saw only my cat, my sister, her millions of cats and my grandparents, fresh faces are definitely a very welcome sight. As a college student, I am a much better at learning in-person than I am at learning online. I tend to find myself slacking or putting off work when it comes to online classes. While this semester is full of a lot of firsts for me, I am glad to be able to have some sense of normalcy. However, I fear that there is a chance that we may have to switch to solely offering an online campus experience again. Most of Bethel’s students have been functioning well when it comes to wearing their masks and staying socially distanced, but this is a college. I have heard of students from Bethel attending several parties happening on or around campus. I do not have words to fully express my anger toward the individuals who think it is safe to throw a party right now. While some may not think they are putting themselves or anyone else in harm’s way, I believe they are being truly selfish.
Living through a global pandemic is not fun for anyone. However, it is because of people that are inconsiderate of rules that our country is currently doing so poorly. People who do not stop to think about the consequences their actions might have on the lives of others. For those who have been partying, I have just one question for you: Is drinking with your friends worth risking their lives? Is it worth risking the lives of their loved ones? The scariest part of this pandemic is that a person may think that they are a healthy individual, but disease does not discriminate. While some people are lucky enough to be asymptomatic, it has reduced otherwise healthy people to hospital beds. Without a true grasp on how the disease fully works, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) released cautionary instructions about wearing masks and avoiding unnecessary interaction. Part of me wishes that we could go back to our old sense of “normalcy,” but I know that we cannot do so while under these conditions. All of us have a responsibility as a part of the Bethel community. We all have a responsibility to take care of ourselves. More importantly, we have a responsibility to take care of the community around us. I think a few months of a pandemicadjusted lifestyle are worth the restlessness, especially if it means others are not dying due to general negligence. Please wear your mask, wash your hands, and do not go to parties. Your loved ones will thank you when they are not struggling to breathe from a hospital bed, where you cannot visit them due to the preventable spread of this disease.
Charlotte Erhmann is a junior psychology and history and political science major. She
GRADUATE CHECK-IN: PANDEMIC EDITION What was your overall graduation experience and how has the pandemic effected your short-term future?
Elizabeth Freisen-Birky “My family tried to make virtual graduation as special as possible - they woke up early and decorated the house and our front yard for me, probably with the hope that there would be some recognition in the form of people driving by and honking, etc. They ordered a cake and toasted me and cooked a special brunch and dinner. So my family made the day special! Virtual graduation was a total buzz kill. I feel like Bethel did next to nothing for us as seniors in allowing us the right or opportunity to help decide how graduation would be celebrated. This put a major damper on the entire virtual graduation for me and many others, I believe, as well. There was no “process” on Bethel’s end... and I think it was a major oversight that they didn’t send out a survey or ask for our opinions and feelings at any point in the process, especially since we’re the ones who graduated.”
Sophia Minder “Honestly, it was hard feeling left out of the whole tradition of graduation day. Feeling like celebrating isn’t really an option. My family tried really hard to still make it special with a huge Zoom call and they decorated my apartment. As far as post graduation, I’m in DC for an internship that is mostly remote, and it’s really confusing and hard to navigate because it feels like no one knows what they are doing. Being an “adult” is really hard already without adding the unknowingness of a pandemic. Really I’m just so nervous for my future and what that will look like.”
Gregory White II “Being kicked from the school and missing out on the end of my last year didn’t even feel real. It seemed like we would at least get to graduate in a semi-formal or normal way but that wasn’t the case. I was blessed with the opportunity to still “graduate” with my brother, so I wasn’t alone in the process. Our parents planned and surprised us with a drive by graduation. Friends and family came from around the city to congratulate us from their cars. It was nice that my friends and family could celebrate with me. “
Joseph Winfield “Virtual graduation was really tough to be honest. Like that final walk across a stage in front of so many different people, your friends, families, loved ones - you definitely start to look forward to it as your college career is ending. It’s almost like the cherry on top. But the one thing about our class in our ability to adapt and that’s exactly what we had to do! In my case we invited a small amount of people over and watched the ceremony, had dinner and things of that nature. But the biggest thing that was really affected was post grad plans. I wanted to travel a lot right after, but because the pandemic hit, the only thing to do was to get a job and work. I’m really grateful and blessed that I graduated. I do wish we were able to have a ceremony because being one of the first to graduate in my family is a huge accomplishment! It’s all love though!”
4 OPINION
: staff writers share their perspectives THRESHPECTIVES
How should classes be carried out this academic year? Hybrid courses are the move Entering the One thing about these classes is that 2020-2021 school you must realize that communication and year has been discipline are key factors if you want to different for a lot have success throughout these courses. of students, faculty You cannot rely on the professor to and incoming remind you of your assignments and you freshmen. It must communicate with your instructor is completely if you have any concerns about the course. JAYLEN RANDLE different to what That will help you a long way. Staff Writer we are accustomed One thing about this whole hybrid to. With the class situation that I feel students have hybrid learning methods developed by to realize is that this is a whole new the faculty at Bethel, students are given experience to all of us at Bethel College an opportunity to work from home and and that these times may be trying, but online. Speaking for we have to do our best myself, I see that there to make the most of the can be a lot of pros and situation. Do your best cons to this method. to not let the stress of This new hybrid “...Communication this situation wear on learning method your mental health. and discipline is something that are key factors if thingsThereyou arecanmany can benefit students do who participate in you want to have to help yourself get success...” extracurricular activities through these trying and also the students times. Try not to stress who are working their yourself out so much way through college. with the work and A hybrid method of adjusting to the new education allows students to choose a method of learning. This pandemic has certain day out of the week to physically done that to us enough. When you do attend class and have the rest of the week have free time, I suggest that you do your off to work or focus on things other than best to take care of your mental health and school. practice some sort of self care, whether But the student must make sure that that be taking a break to get some fresh they are managing their time appropriately air, taking a walk or even playing a video and are meeting their requirements for game. These are just a few suggestions. their courses without falling behind. Throughout this school year I Here are some tips to keep you ahead encourage you to be the best student you of your work and make sure you don’t fall can be. Set goals for yourself and don’t let behind in your classes: stress get the best of you. We’re all in this Try finding a person in each class together! to do homework with and help hold you accountable and motivate you. Develop a thorough studying schedule and create a Jaylen Randle is a senior communication planner that has all your due dates for your arts major and art minor, as well as football work. That way you won’t continuously player and member of SAC on campus. wonder if you have an assignment due the following day.
In-person classes are a must For this they may completely miss that lecture. fall semester, This can negatively impact grades and expectations participation. for student and I understand that at the beginning of faculty behavior the semester, virtual classes were necessary. have revolved They did allow students to attend classes around the recent while they were being reintegrated back pandemic. What to Bethel’s campus. Virtual class was very JESSICA LAROCQUE could be considered beneficial at that time. Sports Editor as the most drastic However, now that most of the change is offering students are back on campus and the choice of either in-person or virtual practicing social distancing guidelines, classes. Some professors may even hold virtual classes should only be held in classes in a hybrid fashion, offering both severe circumstances, or when distanced in-person and virtual classes. outdoor classrooms are compromised by Some of the major bad weather, as we components to offering have seen recently. “Not only will in-person or virtual In-person classes in-person classes depends on will also help students class size and instructor maintain their classes allow teaching preferences. A personal health. Not for interaction class with an abundance only will in-person among peers, of students requires more classes allow for they will also space in order to socially interaction among distance. bring a routine to peers, tit will also A smaller class of five students’ lives.” bring a routine to may find it easier to hold students’ lives. This class in a smaller space. routine will give Despite these restrictions, classes should students a constant they may not be be held in-person, at least in part, if not experiencing in any other aspect of their all the time. lives. When classes are held in-person, The final reason classes should be held students and teachers benefit from the in-person is for the college experience. in-person connection. Students are Many students still attend on-campus more likely to engage with the lecture or college because of the experience. There discussion if they are present. Teachers are are many opportunities for students to also more able to read their students’ faces attend a much more cost effective online and gauge their level of interaction. college. They do not because of the Students may even have a problem community atmosphere that they have at accessing class if it is held virtually. Bethel College. Virtual class relies on dependable internet connection, which is severely lacking in many places on Bethel’s campus Jessica LaRocque is a senior English major (Warkentin being the exception), and at Bethel College. She is the sports editor for good knowledge of the learning platforms the Collegian. being used. If either a student or teacher does not know how to fix a recurring problem,
FEATURES 5
Student Wellness advocates for mental health awareness BETHANY POWLS Editor-in-chief
In the midst of pandemic discussions and debates, issues surrounding mental health are consistently called into question. Jill Hoopes, director of student wellness, has addressed this issue as students, especially first-years, arrive on campus under new regulations. “Coming to college already is anxiety inducing, and everything about your identity is different… where you live, where you eat, who are your friends, the sports you play, the group that you sing with, everything is different. One thing we do to help students adjust is to provide different opportunities. We tell them to leave their door open, we tell them to start talking to people. But what’s happening is we’re telling students to do the one thing that they shouldn’t do when they’re anxious: isolate. We’re kind of fueling anxiety by protecting ourselves from this disease. It is very hard for students to feel connected. And it’s very hard for them to use their coping skills… Believe me, it had to happen, but that’s where a lot of this anxiety is being fed,” Hoopes said. Anxiety is an umbrella term in diagnosis that encompasses a variety of different causes, symptoms and responses. “There’s like OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), general anxiety and then there’s also panic attacks. When someone is going through anxiety with COVID, a lot of that is fueled by the fear of the unknown, because we just don’t know…This is a very new type of situation for us. When it comes to that anxiety, it is that fear of the unknown… If you do struggle with anxiety and you add this on, it’s rather limiting,” Hoopes said. Students have responded differently to the involvement of
social media and news media in general as they navigate both social interactions and informational sources. “For people that had to quarantine and self-isolate, I do feel that social media was helpful because it allowed them to be connected. Another thing about technology that is negative is it keeps us from having those one-onone interactions. We’re not talking to people as much, we’re scrolling. Media in general has been very stressful for people. People read numbers, a lot of contradicting information with the media, and become scared… One thing that I have told students to do is really limit your social media. If you become obsessive, it will just fuel anxiety. It is possible to have too much of that, especially if it makes you more nervous every time you look,” Hoopes said. When coping with anxiety on campus, the first step in beginning to cope is to admit that the anxiety exists. “What happens is we tend to ignore it and think it will go away… it won’t. So be willing to talk about it. Find that supportive friend, find that supportive family member. It’s a good reason to call Mom, because trust me, Mom always wants a phone call. Admit that it’s there. Admitting when you’re scared in our society can be hard with the social stigma behind mental issues. Focus then on what you can do about it, not what you can’t. Easier said than done,” said Hoopes. Additionally, students are looking for other activities to cope under new safety measures instituted by Bethel College. “It’s about finding what works for you. For some people meditation works, and for others, it just makes it worse. There’s some people that will be anxious all day if they don’t get in their run. It’s about finding what works for you,
because everyone is different,” Hoopes said. When looking for positive encouragement, one option for students is to turn to a friend or family member that is consistently positive and supportive or looking for positive news. “It’s about finding that person to talk to and saying ‘Hey, I’ve had a really bad day’ and finding that person that isn’t negative, and that will talk to you. Because every time we turn on the news, we’re hearing bad stuff. Don’t scroll past those articles. Actually Bradley Kohlman, he and some different people got together and learned how to sew and made a bunch of masks for people. Look to the people who have recovered from COVID and are now donating blood to help others recover in hospital. Look for the helpers,” said Hoopes. Currently, Bethel College provides several on-campus resources, both virtual and inperson for those struggling with coping. “We do have a support group
here on campus that meets weekly for those who are struggling with anxiety. A lot of times, the support group that we have is student led and it is designed to help students deal with their emotions, look at different coping skills… That’s definitely a very good option that we have on campus. I’m always available to help. Online, there are a bunch of different anxiety workshops and websites that can help… it kind of depends on the situation. If you think your anxiety might be triggered by that, it’s really important to watch your
sources of information,” Hoopes said. Hoopes recommends that all members of the Bethel College community take time to practice self-care. “Self-care should be your number one priority. A lot of people on this campus struggle with that. There’s no way with how busy students are. Self-care is important, take time to relax. Maybe that’s what COVID is going to teach us, to slow down a bit,” Hoopes said.
Some issues that Student Wellness staff are willing to help you or someone else with • homesickness • trouble adjusting
• feeling overwhelmed
• academic struggles
• not feeling connected/isolation
• depression
• anxiety
• time management
• noted changes to personality
• finanacial issues
• level of functioning changes
• substance use issues
• anger/impulsivity issues
• relationship problems
• physical or mental health concern
*Any issue causing distress and/or making your life difficult *There are no issues too “minor” or severe for any student to talk with Student Wellness about Student Wellness has a variety of opportunities for students to stay connected and supported during their time on campus. Graphics by Jill Hoopes
THE BETHEL COLLEGE COLLEGIAN
6 FEATURES
College discusses isolation and quarantine procedures
BETHANY POWLS Editor-in-Chief
On top of the pressure of regular schoolwork, students this year are faced with keeping themselves extra healthy and preventing the spread of COVID-19 on Bethel’s campus. Geri Tyrell, director of the department of nursing, is one of the main people to talk to if you should experience COVID-19 symptoms or complications. Along with the implementation of #CampusClear, an app that allows students to track symptoms, Tyrell is currently working with others on staffing the Thresher Health Center in order to provide a contact base for students who are restricted from campus because of logged symptoms. “Right now until we have the Thresher Health Center staffed, you can contact me, for an athlete you can contact your athletic trainer, or if you
are a local student and have a local health care provider you can contact them directly,” said Tyrell. At this point, Bethel is not requiring extra tests for certain symptoms. “However, if an individual is displaying symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19, we will work with a local healthcare provider to have the student assessed and the provider will determine if there is a need for an additional COVID-19 test at that time,” said Tyrell. For students and community members, there is a notable difference between “isolation” and “quarantine.” “Isolation is only for someone who tests positive. Those individuals are considered contagious for 2 day prior to showing symptoms up to 10 days after symptoms start, so a total of 12 days. However, if the individual is asymptomatic the date of the positive test is used as the official start of symptoms.
Quarantine Kit 1. Don’t forget the basics!!!! Soap Water Food
Rachel Geyer manages to fit the majority of her snacks in her arms. Photo by Bethany Powls
2. Technology Laptop Phone and charger Movies Digital streaming subscriptions
Therefore isolation is a total of 10 days. If they are showing symptoms, the time frame may be longer based upon the length of symptoms, however they have to be fever free and symptom free for 3 days. But the minimum of time will be 10 days in isolation. If a student is found to have tested positive we will move the student to a separate space on campus. During this time, the individual is not allowed to leave the confines of the designated space, unless it is a medical emergency. This means you can not attend any in person classes, go to the CAF, pick up mail, go to practice, for a walk, or to the store,” said Tyrell. The school plans to attend to the basic needs of students in isolation in order to make sure that they remain healthy and that their condition does not become worse. “ During this time, all of your meals will be delivered to you each day. In addition, we have had an overwhelming
3. School work
Bring your designated textbooks!!!
Peyton Uznanski reclines in lounge-wear with a handmade pillow and her monkey blanket. Photo by Bethany Powls
outpouring of love and support from the community, so Student Life has been delivering snack and drink bags as well. Each day, the nursing faculty will come and do an assessment of the individuals in the isolation space to ensure that symptoms are not present or worsening. Students will also be contacted by assigned health departments,” said Tyrell. Quarantine looks different from isolation and is based on whether or not students have been exposed in a certain way to someone who tests positive for COVID-19. “Quarantine is used for someone who has not tested positive but is considered a close contact of someone who has tested positive. A close contact is someone who was closer than 6 feet for longer than 10 minutes
4. Clean laundry Clean lounge-wear
FEATURES 7
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 with or without a mask on. Because the virus takes time to replicate in the host [person] symptoms of COVID-19 can begin anywhere from two to 14 days. That is why the quarantine period is 14 days. That way we can monitor for symptoms and ensure that the individual does not become positive and possibly infect other people. The date used to calculate this is based upon the last date of exposure or date of contact with the person who is positive,” said Tyrell. Bethel College is providing designated spaces on-campus for students to quarantine. “Students need to spend the majority of their time in the designated space. However, they are allowed to leave the quarantine space to go on a walk outside but must wear a mask at all times outside of the space and maintain 6 feet of distance from other people. They are not allowed to enter any public spaces, buildings, stores, leave campus, go to the CAF, go to practice, or attend in person class. Currently, Student Life is delivering all of the meals to individuals in quarantine. There is also travel related quarantine that
5. Entertainment!! Exercise equipment Books Coloring books
is mandated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and those individuals follow these same guidelines,” said Tyrell. While in quarantine or isolation, it can be difficult for students to feel supported by their community and their peers. “Students who test positive and must be moved into isolation are just as shocked and scared as everyone else. They did not intend to contract the virus. So recognizing that these individuals are your peers, your friends and they need your emotional support is crucial. Remember that physical distancing does not mean ‘social distancing.’ You can still call, Facetime, SnapChat, or whatever to stay connected with them during those ten days. Let them know that you care about them,” said Tyrell. Additionally, students in isolation will need support when it comes to academia, as classes will likely still be progressing. “Have an individual in your class take really good notes! If they are well enough they can participate virtually in class, but we know that is not always the same as being present. Maybe offer to ‘meet them online’ to cover something that was discussed in class or to help with an assignment, be a virtual study
buddy during this time…When a student has completed their isolation period it is important to recognize that they are no longer considered contagious, therefore they can return to their normal activities,” said Tyrell. If students are nervous about or unaware of how to inform their professors of their lack of physical presence in class, there’s a resource for that too. “Once the Emergency Response Team has received the official notification of isolation or quarantine, we will communicate with the Center for Academic Development to notify the student’s professors of their absence from in-person class. If a known or approximate return to class date is available at that time, it is included in that initial email. The information provided is only the name and date of expected return to class; professors are not provided with information as to whether the student is positive or a close contact. On occasion, if we need to provide additional messages such as collection of materials for class, sometimes that is included in the email as well,” said Tyrell. Students should consider having supplies readily available if they should have to go into isolation on short notice.
“Some institutions have recommended that students have an ‘isolation go bag’ prepped and ready at all times. This would include a set of sheets and pillowcase, blanket, pillow, clothing, hygiene products, and medicine for 10 days. Remember you are not going anywhere so you do not need makeup or fancy clothes. We are talking lounge-wear! You would also want to bring your textbooks and laptop, electronics chargers, and any academic necessities. You might want to include items to help keep you entertained, because boredom will be your worst enemy! So this might include some cards, books, nail polish… Some people could not live without their TV and Xbox. But it really comes down to what are the essentials that you need during that 10 days. After the 10 days, students will move right back into their original space so don’t bring too much stuff,” said Tyrell. Bethel College is prepped to ensure the safety and accessibility of their students should COVID-19 symptoms arise. If you have further questions about these procedures, feel free to reach out to Geri Tyrell at gtyrell@ bethelks.edu.
6. Stay connected with your 7. Document your family, friends, and peers experiences... Zoom Calls Virtual Games
Journal Video Diary
Edel Miller, sports a semester worth of textbooks for some heavy reading. Photo by Bethany Powls
Jessica LaRocque has all the essentials for ensuring the safety of herself and those around her. Photo by Bethany Powls
THE BETHEL COLLEGE COLLEGIAN
6 FEATURES
College discusses isolation and quarantine procedures
BETHANY POWLS Editor-in-Chief
On top of the pressure of regular schoolwork, students this year are faced with keeping themselves extra healthy and preventing the spread of COVID-19 on Bethel’s campus. Geri Tyrell, director of the department of nursing, is one of the main people to talk to if you should experience COVID-19 symptoms or complications. Along with the implementation of #CampusClear, an app that allows students to track symptoms, Tyrell is currently working with others on staffing the Thresher Health Center in order to provide a contact base for students who are restricted from campus because of logged symptoms. “Right now until we have the Thresher Health Center staffed, you can contact me, for an athlete you can contact your athletic trainer, or if you
are a local student and have a local health care provider you can contact them directly,” said Tyrell. At this point, Bethel is not requiring extra tests for certain symptoms. “However, if an individual is displaying symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19, we will work with a local healthcare provider to have the student assessed and the provider will determine if there is a need for an additional COVID-19 test at that time,” said Tyrell. For students and community members, there is a notable difference between “isolation” and “quarantine.” “Isolation is only for someone who tests positive. Those individuals are considered contagious for 2 day prior to showing symptoms up to 10 days after symptoms start, so a total of 12 days. However, if the individual is asymptomatic the date of the positive test is used as the official start of symptoms.
Quarantine Kit 1. Don’t forget the basics!!!! Soap Water Food
Rachel Geyer manages to fit the majority of her snacks in her arms. Photo by Bethany Powls
2. Technology Laptop Phone and charger Movies Digital streaming subscriptions
Therefore isolation is a total of 10 days. If they are showing symptoms, the time frame may be longer based upon the length of symptoms, however they have to be fever free and symptom free for 3 days. But the minimum of time will be 10 days in isolation. If a student is found to have tested positive we will move the student to a separate space on campus. During this time, the individual is not allowed to leave the confines of the designated space, unless it is a medical emergency. This means you can not attend any in person classes, go to the CAF, pick up mail, go to practice, for a walk, or to the store,” said Tyrell. The school plans to attend to the basic needs of students in isolation in order to make sure that they remain healthy and that their condition does not become worse. “ During this time, all of your meals will be delivered to you each day. In addition, we have had an overwhelming
3. School work
Bring your designated textbooks!!!
Peyton Uznanski reclines in lounge-wear with a handmade pillow and her monkey blanket. Photo by Bethany Powls
outpouring of love and support from the community, so Student Life has been delivering snack and drink bags as well. Each day, the nursing faculty will come and do an assessment of the individuals in the isolation space to ensure that symptoms are not present or worsening. Students will also be contacted by assigned health departments,” said Tyrell. Quarantine looks different from isolation and is based on whether or not students have been exposed in a certain way to someone who tests positive for COVID-19. “Quarantine is used for someone who has not tested positive but is considered a close contact of someone who has tested positive. A close contact is someone who was closer than 6 feet for longer than 10 minutes
4. Clean laundry Clean lounge-wear
FEATURES 7
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 with or without a mask on. Because the virus takes time to replicate in the host [person] symptoms of COVID-19 can begin anywhere from two to 14 days. That is why the quarantine period is 14 days. That way we can monitor for symptoms and ensure that the individual does not become positive and possibly infect other people. The date used to calculate this is based upon the last date of exposure or date of contact with the person who is positive,” said Tyrell. Bethel College is providing designated spaces on-campus for students to quarantine. “Students need to spend the majority of their time in the designated space. However, they are allowed to leave the quarantine space to go on a walk outside but must wear a mask at all times outside of the space and maintain 6 feet of distance from other people. They are not allowed to enter any public spaces, buildings, stores, leave campus, go to the CAF, go to practice, or attend in person class. Currently, Student Life is delivering all of the meals to individuals in quarantine. There is also travel related quarantine that
5. Entertainment!! Exercise equipment Books Coloring books
is mandated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and those individuals follow these same guidelines,” said Tyrell. While in quarantine or isolation, it can be difficult for students to feel supported by their community and their peers. “Students who test positive and must be moved into isolation are just as shocked and scared as everyone else. They did not intend to contract the virus. So recognizing that these individuals are your peers, your friends and they need your emotional support is crucial. Remember that physical distancing does not mean ‘social distancing.’ You can still call, Facetime, SnapChat, or whatever to stay connected with them during those ten days. Let them know that you care about them,” said Tyrell. Additionally, students in isolation will need support when it comes to academia, as classes will likely still be progressing. “Have an individual in your class take really good notes! If they are well enough they can participate virtually in class, but we know that is not always the same as being present. Maybe offer to ‘meet them online’ to cover something that was discussed in class or to help with an assignment, be a virtual study
buddy during this time…When a student has completed their isolation period it is important to recognize that they are no longer considered contagious, therefore they can return to their normal activities,” said Tyrell. If students are nervous about or unaware of how to inform their professors of their lack of physical presence in class, there’s a resource for that too. “Once the Emergency Response Team has received the official notification of isolation or quarantine, we will communicate with the Center for Academic Development to notify the student’s professors of their absence from in-person class. If a known or approximate return to class date is available at that time, it is included in that initial email. The information provided is only the name and date of expected return to class; professors are not provided with information as to whether the student is positive or a close contact. On occasion, if we need to provide additional messages such as collection of materials for class, sometimes that is included in the email as well,” said Tyrell. Students should consider having supplies readily available if they should have to go into isolation on short notice.
“Some institutions have recommended that students have an ‘isolation go bag’ prepped and ready at all times. This would include a set of sheets and pillowcase, blanket, pillow, clothing, hygiene products, and medicine for 10 days. Remember you are not going anywhere so you do not need makeup or fancy clothes. We are talking lounge-wear! You would also want to bring your textbooks and laptop, electronics chargers, and any academic necessities. You might want to include items to help keep you entertained, because boredom will be your worst enemy! So this might include some cards, books, nail polish… Some people could not live without their TV and Xbox. But it really comes down to what are the essentials that you need during that 10 days. After the 10 days, students will move right back into their original space so don’t bring too much stuff,” said Tyrell. Bethel College is prepped to ensure the safety and accessibility of their students should COVID-19 symptoms arise. If you have further questions about these procedures, feel free to reach out to Geri Tyrell at gtyrell@ bethelks.edu.
6. Stay connected with your 7. Document your family, friends, and peers experiences... Zoom Calls Virtual Games
Journal Video Diary
Edel Miller, sports a semester worth of textbooks for some heavy reading. Photo by Bethany Powls
Jessica LaRocque has all the essentials for ensuring the safety of herself and those around her. Photo by Bethany Powls
SPORTS 8
Bethel sports follow precautions during practices
Women’s volleyball social distances during a team meeting. Photo by Jessica LaRocque MARCUS LEBONDE Staff Writer
COVID-19 has had a major impact on every aspect of life. The question that comes to mind for student-athletes is, “are sports still in question for the upcoming season?” Most public D1 schools have either canceled or pushed back their fall sport seasons. Colleges have their own individual solutions as a result of COVID-19, including making
their students go home around Thanksgiving break and switching fully to online schooling. This can make fall sports almost nonexistent in bigger schools. What is happening at the smaller populated colleges like Bethel and other National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) schools around the country? On July 31, the NAIA Council of Presidents (COP) agreed for upcoming fall sports
VOLLEYBALL SEPT. 22 3:00 & 5:00 P.M. AWAY FRIENDS UNIVERSITY
SEPT. 27 1:00 & 3:00 P.M. AWAY AVILA TRIANGULAR
“to postpone the fall national setback for teams while practicing football championship to spring and working out is that they must 2021. This decision came after the workout in groups. For example, COP voted earlier… to postpone the football team cannot all be championships in all other fall in the weight room at once. They sports until spring. This decision must separate and do lifting and still allows NAIA conferences to conditioning in small groups compete in the fall and winter, if maintaining a six foot distance they so choose.” between each other. This decision puts some fate The last precaution teams are into each of the schools’ hands. taking during this pandemic is that Bethel College fall sports are every athlete on the team must all practicing under the strict have their personal water bottle. COVID-19 protocols. These teams They cannot share with their will not be able to travel outside teammates in order to help prevent of their conference to play games, cross-contamination between they will have to stay inside of the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) and only play KCAC opponents until their championships begin in the spring of 2021. What is COVID-19 doing to affect the teams while they are practicing and going through workouts? All students and athletes are required to test for the virus when they arrive on campus. If a student tests positive, they must remain in isolation for ten days and participate in workouts. After their isolation, they cannot return to team activities until they have negative test results. All athletes must wear masks Warm up is distanced and masks are on! to and from workouts. The biggest Photo by Jessica LaRocque
FOOTBALL SEPT. 12
6:00 P.M.
CROSS COUNTRY HOME
vs. AVILA UNIVERSITY
SEPT. 19
6:00 P.M.
teammates. With all these rules and restrictions on teams for the upcoming 2020-2021 season, the question has to be asked as to how it will affect the play of these teams. They are getting less time together as a team, meaning they are developing less communication and less chemistry during practice. Despite these restrictions, teams are adjusting well to sports practice, games and team chemistry.
SEPT. 19
HOME
BETHEL INVITATIONAL
AWAY
at MCPHERSON COLLEGE
SEPT. 26 TABOR INVITATIONAL
SOCCER SEPT. 19 5:30 and 8:00 P.M. AWAY at OKLAHOMA WESLEYAN
AWAY
SEPT. 26
6:00 P.M.
vs. HESSTON COLLEGE
HOME
Coach Parsley builds cross country team ARRAN KEARNEY Staff Writer
When Coach Kelly Parsley arrived at Bethel on August 1, 2019 to take over as the head coach of the cross country team, he found the college had a team in name only. A year ago, there were only three runners (one woman and two men) associated with the program. This sorry state of affairs was nothing new. However, the team has been in a near constant state of decline for the last decade. Since 2012, Bethel has only had a single competitive season – which is to say there was only a single year when Bethel competed outside of the annual conference meet. A squad was assembled once a year for this solitary event, pulled together from all of the other collegiate teams. The best finish for the Bethel team in the past ten years has been third to last.
Parsley was not dismayed by this – he has been coaching college cross country for twenty years and has built programs from scratch before. “Bethel has the potential to become the best cross country team in the conference,” Parsley said. He sees plenty of reasons for optimism, even during the early stages of this immense overhaul. He believes that Bethel has not been utilizing its resources fully, and describes the college’s facilities as “second to none” in the state. Bethel’s on-site cross country course is a huge asset, almost unique in the conference, and the college will be hosting a high profile meet there on September 19. After a single round of recruitment, Parsley has put together both eight men and seven women teams respectively. Kansas offers an enormous pool of runners and Bethel’s academic
The Sideline JADIN KALTENBACH Opinion Editor
Photo courtesy of Jadin Kaltenbach
POE BRYANT BASKETBALL ALUMNUS How has the pandemic affected your efforts to pursue basketball? The cross country practices on the track in the heat of a sunny Kansas afternoon. Photo by Jessica LaRocque
Cross country runners will record their time during practice runs in order to measure improvement. Photo by Jessica LaRocque
SPORTS 9
reputation has allowed Parsley to bring in some international recruits as well. The opening race of the season took place at McPherson College on September 5, and was the team’s first competitive appearance since 2014. Whilst he is hopeful for the future, Parsley nonetheless urges caution this season. Training endurance teams and recruiting athletes will take time, and Parsley expects Bethel to steadily rise through the conference rankings over the next four years. “Every school has its different challenges. Bethel has come a long way for one year, but we still have a way to go,” Parsley said. Above all, the new coach is determined to ensure that his
teams have a great experience whilst training and competing for Bethel. “Success on the field can only come if the athletes are happy – you can’t train hard or race well if you’re not happy,” Parsley said Looking to the years ahead, Parsley has already lined up four or five talented recruits for Fall 2021 and he is confident the team will only continue to improve as the effects of their hard work in training begin to show. However the community looks at it, all the signs seem to be pointing to the same conclusion: this i s the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for the cross country team.
“This summer, overseas teams are only allowing a number of Americans to come play so it’s been difficult but you just have to stay the coarse.”
Where do you see yourself in five years? ten? “Playing basketball overseas [then] in the NBA.”
What does a day in the life of Poe Bryant look like? “Morning workouts, sleep, afternoon workouts, sleep, hanging out with family, sleep and do it all over again.”
10 ENTERTAINMENT
Student Activities Council prevails despite regulatory complications MASON WILKINS Staff Writer
There are a wide variety of on-campus activities at Bethel College becoming virtual, and one group that is making major adjustments to plans set in place is the Student Activities Council. Ana Parra, coordinator of student activities and engagement has been working on making accommodations for new regulations. Activities will look different for the fall semester, but SAC has a vision in place for this school year. First, the stress of COVID-19 on all members of the community is palpable. No matter how you may feel about the social distancing or the masks, every student is feeling some kind of pressure right now. Trying to foster a sense of community during all of this stress is difficult, especially when there are limits now to how many people can be in one room. Parra says that this year will present challenges to bring about the sense of community that Bethel College has had in the past. She is confident, however, that this Student Activities Council will rise to the challenge. “I think that the virtual stuff [is what’s possible]... These performers, hypnotists, mentalists, rappers and comedians, they’re usually really pricey. But because it’s gone virtual and they don’t have the travel expenses...their rates have gone down a lot. So something
that maybe in the past the Student Activities budget wouldn’t be able to afford have become a lot more affordable,” Parra said. The future for student activities this year is pretty heavily relying on technology and student engagement in take-home kits or meeting on a Zoom call for an activity. For the most part, according to Parra, it looks like it is going to stay that way if the plans do not change for SAC this semester. “If we’re not in the green, then yeah. Take-home kits are kind of on your own, but if you have a group of friends then you can do it together,” Parra said.
The vision for the Student Activities Council this year looks vastly different than in years past, but that does not mean that the vision does not exist. “I think it’s just going to be small gatherings once we’re in green. I think we’re going to do more take-home kits is what I would think…[we’re] definitely keeping the virtual activities for the students in quarantine. It’s definitely gonna take some coaching and students kind of trying it out and seeing ‘well this is our new reality, let’s just go with it’ before we start seeing larger attendance,” Parra said.
Students play Jenga during the block party thrown by SAC on Sunday, September 6th. Photo by Rachel Geyer
Pandemic creates opportunity for artistic innovation ARTHUR MAHRER Staff Writer
The Bethel College Fine Arts is very important to many people on campus and for the surrounding community. Because of COVID-19, departments have had to come up with creative solutions to make activities like performing music, acting and showcasing art safe for students and those around them. COVID-19 brings the challenge of finding new and creative ways to practice different forms of art at Bethel College. Courses offered within the sphere of fine arts may often require a lot of interaction, whether it be, the physical use of tools or group participation in projects. Professors have had to virtualize the creative process of art, and this has limited the quality of its educational output. However, some courses like Art History and 2D-Design have emerged unshaken by the transition to virtual learning. Rachel Epp Buller, associate professor of visual art and design, affirms that the situation has not negatively affected classes that emphasize drawing. Her reasoning was that students can draw, not only inside a classroom, but anywhere. However, classes that require special equipment, like sculpture or ceramics, have struggled to adapt. “The situation has not helped in any way and online instruction is impossible,” David Long, professor of visual art and graphic design said. Because of social distance requirements, class sizes have decreased dramatically, as there now needs to be more space between work stations.
Access to the studio’s equipment, such as a kiln for firing clay, is necessary to achieve a holistic understanding of the processes involved with sculpture. “Students take a bag of clay and work outside the Art facilities, without access to firing... pictures of sculpture are uploaded for assessment. The fine arts department has effectively adapted to the COVID-19 situation, however, the art facilities haven’t,” Long said. On a more theatrical note, the Theatre Practicum class has shifted to an online format where design ideas are discussed in virtual meetings and online discussion forums. Videos on the technical aspects of professional theatre are also shown to students. “Normally we would be learning how to use tools in the scene shop, drafting set designs, and getting to work building a set for the show,” Damon Klassen, technical director of theater, said. The Fall Fest theatre production is also not being performed in its conventional way. Despite the pandemic, Karen Robu, assistant professor of communication arts, has dedicated herself to achieving a production. “We will take videos of individual actors delivering historic speeches, and individual actors narrating from a modern and sometimes comical perspective,” Klassen said. This offers another positive change to the creative process, as the fall play will be created as a film to safely follow social distancing guidelines. This opportunity expands the reach of the fall play, as more people will have access to it, due to its video format.
ENTERTAINMENT 11
Temporary exhibit returns to Kauffman Museum MASON WILKINS Staff Writer
Kauffman Museum brings back one of its most unique exhibits in the form of “Sorting Out Race: Examining Racial Identity & Stereotypes in Thrift Store Donations,” where the theme of the entire exhibit is based on the idea that racial prejudices and stereotypes are displayed in thrift shop exchanges. The entire exhibit is meant to be an educational exhibit, according to Andi Schmidt Andres, director of Kauffman Museum, showcasing how racial stereotypes have been strategically present over time in products and advertising. Andres believes that the current exhibition contributes to current conversations on social justice and is a valuable resource for Bethel students. As a caution to students and other visitors of the museum, there is a trigger warning listed outside of the entrance to the exhibit. This exhibit is meant to start a conversation about how these stereotypes are still relevant to educate on and explore in today’s society, even though there are some racist displays showcasing harmful stereotypes to many disadvantaged groups like African Americans, Native Americans, and Latino Americans.
THE
Andi Schmidt Andres Kauffman Museum community believes that this exhibit is have been using different methods something that is relevant to to promote the display during the right now in society. The ultimate pandemic. goal is making sure that the “We have a number of conversations that are already classes coming [from Bethel]... ongoing in society continue to We’ll also start letting students persist. know through email that they “...Almost everything [in the can come... Maybe we can have a exhibit] is incredibly relevant to college night where we invite the today’s society. Just think of some students to come see the exhibit,” of the things like the Washington Andres said. NFL team changing its name... Kauffman Museum Really, what we want to do is admission is free to Bethel start conversations,” Andres said. College students. “Sorting Out Race” will be displayed at the Kauffman Museum until November There are a wide variety 29, 2020 and is available for students to view during regular museum hours. of stereotypes displayed in the Photo by Nathan Garber exhibit, all of which are very informational for people that visit the exhibit. One major question that many people ask is about the significance of thrift shops and what brought this exhibit to life. “It’s really just where the idea started,” Andres said. The manager of the local Et Cetera shop in Newton found these items and did not feel right about putting them back out into the world. The manager asked her if there was another museum that could use these items or just a different place that could hold these items. From that, the exhibition idea was born. If no one sees the exhibit, the message is limited to the Jessie Thomas is a junior from Halstead. Her aspiring major is English Education. She has a passion for art, with a love people who made the exhibit. of digital media, and creating characters like Amos. This comic, featuring Amos, was inspired by mask mandates. If Andres and other member of the you would like to contribute a piece of artwork to a future issue of the Collegian, email us at collegian@bethelks.edu!
COLLEGIAN
The Bethel College Collegian is a student-run nrewpaper published bi-weekly during the fall and spring semesters. The Collegian is funded by advertisement revenue and student fees. The Collegian will be digitally available to Bethel faculty, staff, students and community members for the 2020-2021 academic year. Feedback may be sent to:
collegian@bethelks.edu The Collegian, Bethel College, North Newton, KS, 67117
BETHANY POWLS
STAFF
ALLISON WEAVER
NATHAN GARBER
CHRISTINE CROUSE-DICK
JADIN KALTENBACH
CHARLOTTE EHRMANN
KRISTA LOOMIS
SCHYLER ENTZ
MIKINZIE HARKINS
CAPRI STEVENSON-BISOM
JESSICA LAROCQUE
EMILY BRANDT
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
FACULTY ADVISOR
BUSINESS MANAGER
DESIGN/LAYOUT EDITOR
NEWS EDITOR
OPINION EDITOR
FEATURES EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR COPY EDITOR
WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR PHOTO EDITOR
THE BETHEL COLLEGE COLLEGIAN
PHOTO FEATURE 12
Graduated Seniors of Class 2020 Share Their Graduation Photos
Many of Bethel’s graduating seniors from the 2019-2020 school year did not have the opportunity to take photos with their peers at an in-person graduation. However, several submitted individual photos of themselves in graduation gear. For a full gallery of graduate submissions, follow The Bethel Collegian on Facebook , Instagram, or Twitter. Photos courtesy of Jadin Kaltenbach