2020 Archive

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OPINION: Oxford College dean seeing hope, healing in purple Georgia

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution | December 1, 2020

Oxford College Dean Douglas A. Hicks has surveyed Georgia’s political landscape and finds himself in the enviable place where he sees a lot of purple.

Melissa Hage examines cross bedding of a former sand dune on San Salvador.
Digging into the deep past

Oxford College | December 16, 2020

Emory researchers discover the first known fossil iguana nesting burrow on an outer island of the Bahamas, filling in a gap of scientific knowledge for a prehistoric behavior of an iconic lizard.

Six Atlanta artists came into Emory classrooms this semester, working with faculty to help students translate their learning into creative action and activism in the name of social justice. Learn about the work they created in an online showcase Dec. 15.
Online showcase to share work from inaugural Arts and Social Justice Fellows program

Emory University | December 14, 2020

Six Atlanta artists came into Emory classrooms this semester, working with faculty to help students translate their learning into creative action and activism in the name of social justice. Learn about the work they created in an online showcase Dec. 15.

Newly admitted Emory students holds sign
Emory selects first members of Class of 2025

Emory University | December 11, 2020

In December, 769 students were admitted to Emory College, Oxford College or both. These outstanding Early Decision I applicants join 56 students who matched to Emory through QuestBridge, which links talented low-income scholars with leading universities, to start the Class of 2025.

Zhiyuan “Dwight” Ma, Roda Kesete, and Sadie Statman
Emory seniors, recent graduate named 2021 Schwarzman Scholars

Emory University | December 10, 2020

Two Emory seniors with deep experience in public policy and a recent alumnus now working in global business will represent Emory as Schwarzman Scholars, joining 140 other remarkable international scholars at Tsinghua University.

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Politicians and Symbols

The Academic Minute | November 20, 2020

Symbols send a powerful message in American society. Oxford College Dean Douglas A. Hicks examines how politicians use these symbols to convey their own messages.

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Influence of Colonial Legacies on the Rule of Law

The Academic Minute | November 19, 2020

Salmon Shomade, associate professor of political science at Oxford College, discusses how colonial legal structures still hamper African citizens to this day and why the rule of law doesn’t work for those it’s supposed to benefit.

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Documentary Filmmaking

The Academic Minute | November 18, 2020

David Resha, Oxford's associate professor of film studies, explores the beginnings of handheld filmmaking and why this style has become the norm in today's society.

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The Violence of the Law in Early Modern England

The Academic Minute | November 17, 2020

Artists have been commenting on the laws of the land for centuries. Sarah Higinbotham, assistant professor of English, looks back at one time period that parallels today.

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Remote Learning and School Friendships

The Academic Minute | November 16, 2020

Friends are not just nice to have; rather, they are developmentally fundamental, says Catherine Bagwell, professor of psychology.

Audrey Ruan and Sarah Higinbotham at Yale's Beinecke Rare Book library
Oxford student makes rare discovery

Oxford College | November 24, 2020

Oxford pre-med undergraduate finds unpublished manuscript by poet and physician William Carlos Williams

Kimberly Wallace-Sanders
Wallace-Sanders to give virtual presentation on 'Framing Shadows'

Oxford College | November 11, 2020

Oxford College welcomes Kimberly Wallace-Sanders for a virtual presentation on "Framing Shadows, Framing Silences: African Americans in Domestic Portraiture" on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 7:30 p.m.

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Emory president updates actions university is taking for racial justice

Emory University | October 26, 2020

In a community message, President Gregory L. Fenves discusses progress on the path to make Emory more inclusive. Steps include reappointing the Task Force on Untold Stories and Disenfranchised Populations, establishing the Descendants Endowment and launching the University Committee on Naming Honors.

Pearl Dowe
Decision 2020: Emory experts weigh in on the 2020 presidential race

Oxford College | October 16, 2020

While all elections shape history, the 2020 presidential race is poised to be one for the record books. With early voting now underway in Georgia, five Emory election experts pinpoint the key issues and what’s at stake.

In-person classes at Emory follow guidelines for physical distancing and face coverings.
Emory announces plan for spring 2021 semester

Oxford College | October 16, 2020

President Gregory L. Fenves announces the university’s plan for spring semester, including class formats, the academic calendar, a modest increase in residential students, changing to saliva-based COVID-19 testing and more.

Emory Student Telehealth services
Emory expands access to free, anytime health services for all students

Emory University | October 9, 2020

Whether on campus or off, all Emory students can now gain support through Emory Student Telehealth, which provides free, 24/7 access to licensed medical and mental health professionals.

Meet this year's class of 40 Under Forty.
'40 Under Forty' celebrates outstanding Emory alumni

Emory University | October 2, 2020

They are innovators, educators, entrepreneurs and social justice advocates; leaders in health care, government, community service and more. Meet this year's class of 40 Under Forty, representing the diverse achievements and impact of Emory alumni.

Coach Pernilla Hardin
Coach Pernilla Hardin inducted into Georgia Collegiate Hall of Fame

Oxford College | September 21, 2020

Pernilla Hardin, Oxford College men's and women's tennis head coach, is the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association (GCAA) Athletic Hall of Fame’s newest member, inducted during a recent virtual ceremony.

Four Oxford students in Cuba
Students experience Cuba as pandemic changes everything

Oxford College | September 15, 2020

Fourteen Oxford College students had the chance to visit Cuba in early March before the island nation reported cases and closed its borders.

Chalk art that is part of Healing Through Art online gallery
'Healing Through Art' invites Emory community to share experiences of grief, loss

Emory University | September 14, 2020

Members of the Emory community are invited to share art representing their experiences of grief, loss and hope during recent months by contributing to the "Healing Through Art" online gallery.

Students do lab work in their homes as part of remote learning
Professors become students to prepare dynamic remote instruction

Emory University | September 14, 2020

To prepare for fall remote learning, more than 800 undergraduate faculty completed intensive training in online course design and teaching. Learn about their creative approaches, from home lab kits in chemistry to digital “movie trailers” to help students connect concepts in American Studies.

Donté Flanagan
Breathing Room

Oxford College | September 8, 2020

Donté Flanagan 04Ox 06N brings critical expertise to help coronavirus patients.

Signs on Emory campus about COVID-19 safety measures
Help slow the spread of COVID-19 'For You. For Us. For Emory.'

Emory University | September 4, 2020

A new public health campaign encourages members of the Emory community to take care of each other by continuing to wear face coverings, wash hands and follow physical distancing guidelines.

Quad in front of Seney Hall
Outstanding students selected as new cohort of Woodruff Scholars

Oxford College | September 2, 2020

Emory’s new Woodruff Scholars bring intellectual accomplishments and servant leadership to the Oxford and Atlanta campuses.

Patti Owen-Smith and Camille Cottrell retired after the spring 2019-2020 academic year
Retired faculty represent Oxford's academic excellence

Oxford College | September 1, 2020

Two Oxford faculty members retired at the end of the 2019–20 academic year. While the current pandemic prevented the Oxford community from honoring their retirement in person in the spring, their contributions to Oxford’s academic excellence are celebrated.

Oxford College welcomed first-year students.
Meet the Class of 2024

Emory University | August 30, 2020

Eager to begin their Emory experience, members of the Class of 2024 launched their academic journeys this week, prepared to embrace the adventure of college life — even as they know that it will be a year like no other.

Emory President Gregory L. Fenves
Oxford hosts town hall with new Emory president

Oxford College | August 27, 2020

Emory President Gregory L. Fenves held a town hall meeting for the entire Oxford College community as he made his inaugural visit to campus. Fenves brings an extraordinary set of skills and experiences to lead Emory through extraordinary times as its 21st president.

Students sit on the Oxford quad.
Virtual orientation introduces students to college life

Oxford College | August 19, 2020

In a nod to a longstanding and much-beloved Oxford College orientation activity, this year's week-long New Student Orientation program celebrates the theme of “Oxford Olympics.”

Oxford Dean Douglas A. Hicks welcomes students back to the start of the fall semester.
Oxford dean welcomes students to new academic year

Oxford College | August 19, 2020

Oxford Dean Douglas A. Hicks introduces a video to welcome students back for the start of fall semester.

Emory President Gregory L. Fenves
Emory’s new president connects with community through online forum

Emory University | August 7, 2020

President Gregory L. Fenves engaged the Emory community through an online forum as part of his first full day of activities. From safety on campus amid COVID-19 to new initiatives planned around racial justice, Emory’s 21st president offered candid insights on key issues.

U.S. Rep. John Lewis walks toward the gym for Oxford's Commencement.
Remembering John Lewis: A dear friend and inspiration to Emory

Emory University | July 24, 2020

Emory lost one of its dearest friends and fiercest inspirations with the passing of civil rights luminary and longtime U.S. Rep. John Lewis. As an activist, member of Congress and Emory Commencement speaker, Lewis forged strong connections with the university.

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Emory University announces fall semester plans

Emory University | July 17, 2020

Plans for returning students to campus for the 2020 fall semester have been revised to lower the number of students allowed to live in residence halls and take in-person classes, due to the current COVID-19 conditions in Atlanta.

The estates of Emy and Duane Blair have given funds to Oxford College in the amount of $8.4 million.
Largest individual gift in Oxford’s history will have lasting impact

Emory University | July 7, 2020

Oxford College has received an estate gift of $8.4 million, the largest individual cash gift in its history. Funds will support student financial aid and capital and infrastructure improvements on campus.

Entrance to Emory University
Emory suspends SAT/ACT requirements for 2020-21

Emory University | June 26, 2020

Emory University will not require standardized tests for first-year applicants for the 2020-2021 academic year. The disruptions to testing availability caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are the impetus for this decision.

Students listen to farmer and educator Daniel Parson.
Food: Farming for the Future

Oxford College | June 16, 2020

Find out how Emory and the Conservation Fund are working together to empower the next generation of sustainable food growers, like the Oxford College Organic Farm.

Oxford College campus
Emory announces plans for fall semester

Oxford College | June 11, 2020

Emory will offer both online and in-person classes this fall, allowing the university to provide the excellence of an Emory education to all students. Our new Emory Forward site (www.emory.edu/forward) will have the latest updates and resources.

Entrance to Emory University
Message from President Claire E. Sterk

Emory University | June 1, 2020

President Claire E. Sterk urges the Emory community to unite June 5 for an online solidarity vigil to mourn victims of racist violence and lift our hope for an anti-racist world.

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A Big Youth Baseball Tournament Was Played in Missouri. Was It Too Soon?

The New York Times | May 12, 2020

Zach Binney, epidemiologist and incoming fall 2020 assistant professor of quantitative theory and methods, is quoted in a New York Times article. Binney also appeared on an issue of the podcast The Full 48 with Howard Beck of Bleacher Report to discuss the return of professional sporting events and specifically the NBA games.

Michael Rogers
Classes that click: a semester to remember

Emory University | May 20, 2020

Staying focused on academics amidst the COVID-19 pandemic brought lessons during class times and beyond. As Emory moves into remote learning for summer courses, faculty and students reflect on what they learned this spring.

Jordan Hasty
First-generation student makes the most of his time at Oxford College

Emory University | May 8, 2020

At Oxford, Jordan Hasty embraced the community that reminded him of home yet offered opportunities to grow in new directions with kindred spirits, including apprenticing at the organic farm and supporting other students from first-gen or low-income families.

Although studying from home was not how Michelle Mugo envisioned completing her senior year, her takeaways include lessons in adapting to change that will help carry her through life.
Classes that click: The making of modern South Africa

Emory University | May 7, 2020

Although Michelle Mugo had not envisioned completing her senior year from home, her takeaways include lessons in adapting to change that will help carry her through life. History professor Clifton Crais believes the pandemic can help us become better teachers, students and citizens.

Oxford College Awards recognize the outstanding academic achievement and extraordinary leadership accomplishments of our students.
Oxford College Awards recognize student achievement

Oxford College | May 7, 2020

At the end of each academic year, Oxford recognizes the outstanding academic achievement and extraordinary leadership accomplishments of our students. Despite its challenges, this year is no different.

Oxford will celebrate its 175th Commencement exercises virtually.
Countdown to Emory's 175th Commencement

Oxford College | May 6, 2020

As Oxford's and Emory’s May Commencement ceremonies near, learn how you can join in the celebrations. Share memories and messages, read about outstanding graduates, and meet students and faculty receiving awards and honors.

Samah Meghjee
Meghjee garners undergraduate Brittain Award for service and artistic impact

Emory University | May 6, 2020

The undergraduate recipient of Emory’s highest student honor, filmmaker Samah Meghjee has been a creative, consistent voice for improving student mental health and supporting diverse communities.

Oxford helped provide food and supplies to people with food insecurity.
Oxford boosts community initiatives in fight against COVID-19 pandemic

Oxford College | April 30, 2020

When Emory University decided to transition to remote learning for the remainder of the 2020 spring semester due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Oxford College continued to prioritize its community partnerships.

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What's the point of cooking at home anymore?

Adam Ragusea's YouTube Channel | April 22, 2020

Deric Shannon, associate professor of sociology, appeared on You Tuber Adam Ragusea's series. Shannon was interviewed on Oxford's Organic Farm.

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Teens are wired to resent being stuck with parents and cut off from friends during coronavirus lockdown

The Conversation | April 22, 2020

The typical changes that come with adolescence and the developmental tasks that confront adolescents help explain why they’re having a particularly hard time with social distancing, says Catherine Bagwell, professor of psychology.

Chaplain Lyn Pace
All hands on deck: Spiritual health across Emory’s hospitals and campuses

Emory University | April 17, 2020

Dozens of spiritual health staff provide support to patients, families and staff across Emory Healthcare, while campus chaplains and staff help communities stay connected during remote learning.

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HBCUs are rooted in a space that is edifying, nurturing, and empowering

The Chronicle of Higher Education | April 10, 2020

Pearl Dowe, Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Political Science and African American Studies, is the author of an opinion piece published as part of the larger article "How Will the Pandemic Change Higher Education?".

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Personality Plus Plus Plus

Observer Magazine | April 8, 2020

Ken Carter, Charles Howard Candler Professor of Psychology, was interviewed for a Q&A Personality Plus Plus Plus appearing in the April issue of Observer Magazine, a publication of the Association for Psychological Science (APS).

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Quarantine Writing Hour Tips for Writers

Quarantine Writing Hour | April 1, 2020

Ken Carter, Charles Howard Candler Professor of Psychology, appeared on the April 1 Quarantine Writing Hour hosted by Amy Cuddy on her social media accounts.

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Should My Family Wear Face Masks to Prevent the Coronavirus?

Parents | April 6, 2020

Should you wear a mask to prevent the transmission of COVID-19? Sarah Fankhauser, assistant professor of biology and infectious disease expert at Oxford College, offers her expertise in this article.

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Here’s why it is important for India, US to strengthen educational ties amid Covid-19 outbreak

India Today | April 10, 2020

Oxford College Dean Douglas A. Hicks explains why we must keep our eyes on the importance of strengthening India-US educational ties, even in the midst of COVID-19.

Oxford student Sareena Sethi
Classes that click: Introduction to sociology

Emory University | April 8, 2020

For student Sareena Sethi, decorating her room at home to be more like her college room is helping ease the transition; for sociology professor Devon Goss, a four-legged assistant helps brighten the days. “Classes That Click” explores how Emory is adapting to remote learning.

Gregory L. Fenves has been elected as the 21st president of Emory University by a unanimous vote of the board. niors were selected to receive the Bobby Jones scholarship.
Emory Board of Trustees names Gregory L. Fenves as 21st president

Emory University | April 7, 2020

Gregory L. Fenves, president of The University of Texas at Austin, has been elected as the 21st president of Emory University by a unanimous vote of Emory’s Board of Trustees. Fenves will assume office on August 1.

Oxford will host two innovative virtual lectures as part of its Oxford Studies program.
Lectures keep students engaged through virtual interaction

Oxford College | April 2, 2020

As Oxford College has transitioned to remote learning for the rest of the spring semester, campus leaders are finding unique ways to keep students engaged through learning and interaction.

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Residential Liberal Arts Faculty and the Dissonance of Moving Online

Inside Higher Ed | March 26, 2020

Oxford College Dean Douglas A. Hicks wrote an op-ed piece about how liberal arts college faculty now face the challenge of teaching via modes and methods that they have largely spurned.

Stephanie Maddox and Frad Barry, residence life coordinators at Oxford College, welcome students to Emory’s Atlanta campus on Saturday, March 28.
All hands on deck: Welcoming Oxford students to Atlanta

Emory University | April 1, 2020

Staff at Oxford College come together to help students who can’t return home for remote learning transition to living on Emory’s Atlanta campus.

Medea brings one of world drama’s most infamous characters to controversial new life.
Spring play updates Euripides’ ancient narrative

Oxford College | March 18, 2020

Play adaptation conjures an ancient mood while focusing on a contemporary divorce.

Emory is taking active measures to contain the spread of the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
COVID-19 updates for the Emory community

Oxford College | March 18, 2020

As we take active measures to contain the spread of the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), Emory University has instituted remote learning effective March 23.

One of the entrances to the Oxford campus
Social distancing key to keeping yourself and others safe

Emory University | March 20, 2020

Although everyone in the Emory community is disappointed about changes related to the COVID-19 outbreak, the best way to keep yourself and others safe is through social distancing, including moving out of residence halls as soon as possible.

The final students admitted to Emory's Class of 2024 are among the most academically talented students in the world.
Welcoming the Class of 2024

Emory University | March 27, 2020

As they finish their senior year sheltering at home, 5,925 high school students learned March 25 that they are the final students admitted to Emory's Class of 2024. Leaders inside and outside the classroom, they are among the most academically talented students in the world.

Emory established a fund designed to support our students facing financial hardships as a result of COVID-19
EmoryTogether Fund provides financial support for students affected by COVID-19

Emory University | March 24, 2020

Undergraduate, graduate and professional students facing financial hardships as a result of COVID-19 can apply for assistance through the new EmoryTogether Fund. Assistance may include help with a range of challenges such as basic needs, educational support needs and family/medical needs.

Four seniors were selected to receive the Bobby Jones scholarship.
Emory announces 2020 Bobby Jones Scholars

Emory University | March 5, 2020

Emory College students Samah Meghjee, Adesola Thomas, Sarah Hunter and David Kulp have been selected to spend a year studying at the University of St Andrews in Scotland as part of the prestigious Robert T. Jones Scholarship.

Horace Johnson, Superior Court Judge for Georgia’s Alcovy Judicial Circuit, will deliver Oxford's Commencement address.
Canceled: Horace Johnson to speak at Oxford College Commencement 2020

Oxford College | February 27, 2020

Emory University President Claire E. Sterk announced the cancellation of Emory's traditional May commencement activities.

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Vaccines didn’t cause my daughter’s arthritis, they saved her life

Healthline | February 5, 2020

Sarah Fankhauser, assistant professor of biology, was interviewed and heavily quoted for an article by Leah Campbell discussing Campbell's 4-year-old daughter's autoimmune condition and vaccines.

Black History Month events at Oxford kicked off February 3 with a National Pan-Hellenic Council Showcase.
Emory to mark Black History Month with lectures, films and more

Emory University | February 17, 2020

Numerous events on campus will commemorate Black History Month, ranging from lectures on racial issues to film screenings and the opportunity to hear from the first black woman to graduate from Emory's School of Medicine.

Black History Month events at Oxford kicked off February 3 with a National Pan-Hellenic Council Showcase.
Emory to mark Black History Month with lectures, films and more

Emory University | February 14, 2020

Numerous events on campus will commemorate Black History Month, ranging from lectures on racial issues to film screenings and the opportunity to hear from the first black woman to graduate from Emory's School of Medicine.

Oxford students, alumni, and faculty on a recent trip to the Smithsonian Institute.
Students, faculty visit Smithsonian to aid in study of Oxford whale jawbone

Emory University | February 13, 2020

A mysterious whale bone housed at Oxford for more than a century led a group of faculty and students to confer with alumnus Nick Pyenson at the Smithsonian in their quest for answers.

Celebrating 30-plus years of MLK Scholars
Oxford celebrates 30 years of MLK Scholars, 50 years of African American graduates

Oxford College | February 10, 2020

For some, 50 years may seem like a long time, and for others, 50 years is not nearly long enough.

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3 quotes that defined the first Democratic debate of 2020

The Conversation | January 15, 2020

Pearl Dowe, Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Political Science and African American Studies, co-authored an article that originally ran in The Conversation and was picked up and appeared in the Beaumont Enterprise, EconoTimes, The Hour, Patch, Salon, Raw Story Pennsylvania Capital-Star, and Wall Street Window.

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Review: Buzz!: Inside the Minds of Thrill-Seekers, Daredevils, and Adrenaline Junkies

San Francisco Book Review | January 29, 2020

Charles Howard Candler Professor of Psychology Ken Carter's book "Buzz!: Inside the Minds of Thrill-Seekers, Daredevils, and Adrenaline Junkies" is reviewed by San Francisco Book Review.

A large fireplace and hearth are built into the south wall, with comfortable seating that invites conversation and group interaction.
Oxford College opens new student center

Oxford College | January 30, 2020

New buildings are frequently referred to as game-changing, but there is none for which that is more true than the Oxford Student Center (OSC).

Volunteers glean vegetables from the Oxford Organic Farm.
Emory to honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy with King Week

Emory University | January 17, 2020

The life and legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. will be honored with Emory's King Week. A series of events featuring lectures, service awards and volunteer opportunities will be held Jan. 20-26.

Alumnus Hugh Tarbutton Jr. 84Ox presented a gift to the college to establish the Tarbutton Leadership Fellows Program in memory of his father, Hugh Tarbutton Sr. 52Ox 55B (above).
Inaugural Tarbutton Fellows reflect on experiences

Oxford College | January 9, 2020

A group of student leaders at Oxford College is ready to help continue a program that in its inaugural year has already had an important impact on leadership education at Oxford.