Students and families may tune in to watch digital town hall

After this summer's announcement that the University of North Georgia (UNG) will resume face-to-face instruction in August, students and their families want to know how courses, classrooms and campus life will differ.

UNG administrators plan to address courses, the revised academic calendar, preparations to return to campus, and more in a virtual town hall session from noon to 1 p.m. July 27. Geared toward students, their parents and families, the online town hall may be accessed on Zoom.

"As all of our students return for the fall, whether virtually or face to face (or a combination), UNG is committed to providing an engaged student experience that will enhance their learning environment," said," said Dr. James Conneely, vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. "Even though some of our programs and services may look different, we are committed to the same quality and variety that will help students to be successful at UNG! I strongly encourage all students to take advantage of the opportunities being provided and to build connections that will enrich their educational experience."

Students, parents and family members may submit their questions in advance or during the town hall to enrollment@ung.edu. Questions will be compiled and asked during the question-and-answer portion, which will conclude the online session.

Before the Q&A, several UNG officials will speak about various aspects of the fall 2020 plan, which are covered on the website Nighthawks Together: UNG's Fall Reopening Plan. Topics will range from academic advising and enrollment to the student life experiences and financial challenges and scholarships available.

"We will also talk about health, wellness and safety on campus. We want our students and their families to know that we are taking every precaution to protect our campus community during the pandemic," said Michelle Eaton, director of enrollment management for student success. "We will touch on resources available to help students be successful this fall."

Eaton believes this digital platform will allow students, parents and their families to voice their questions and concerns about the health care crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I think the students and their families deserve to be heard and to hear UNG's plan for the fall," Eaton said. "Plus, they deserve the opportunity to have their questions addressed."

Eaton said holding another online town hall in the fall has been discussed.

"First-time students at UNG may not have questions before they start their courses, but I expect they will have some once classes begin," Eaton said.

For students, parents and family members unable to attend, a recording of the digital town hall will be available on the Nighthawks Together website.