Page 7 - Kentucky State University - Onward & Upward

ONTHEHILL
What has been the greatest challenge about this scenario for you? What do you feel like you’ve handled the best since this began?
President Brown: The greatest challenge has been encouraging others to accept the uncertainty of time and the need for all of us to wait patiently for this crisis to pass. There is a desire to announce grand schemes and bold visions today that are needed for future dates and times. I prefer slow, steady, deliberate and judicious steps. There is no need to declare in March ambitions or intentions for June, especially given the complex and rapidly changing realities we are encountering. We must plan and strategize for the future while only implementing for the present. To date, my best decision has been ensuring constant communication with the Kentucky State University Emergency Management Team (EVP Douglas Allen, SVP Clara Stamps, Acting Provost Beverly Schneller, Director Tymon Graham, and myself) and regular engagement with the Board of Regents and the governor’s staff. I have kept the train on the tracks and my eyes on the rails. Although I am engaged with many others, relying on the strength and counsel of my team has been immeasurable.
Any wise words for Thorobreds – from faculty and staff to students past and present – during this unprecedented time?
President Brown: My best advice to the Thorobred Nation is to be obedient to the guidance of the CDC and state government of cials. Everyone must self-quarantine, sanitize and stay vigilant. It is critical to stay busy and active by reading, walking, listening to music, writing and being tempered in the volume and sources of news we intake. The human mind is extremely powerful – and unbridled can create angst and unrest. Generations before us have endured enslavement, world wars, atomic cataclysms, natural disasters and nuclear fallout. We can survive this.
Is there a way to support students from afar?
President Brown: Absolutely. To learn more about our Emergency Relief Fund for students, please visit KYSU.EDU/COVID19FUND. Any student can use this resource to reduce the nancial barrier associated with life circumstances during the COVID-19 outbreak. We appreciate your continued support and concern for our students during this time. More importantly, we thank you for demonstrating to the world the true essence of what it means to be a Thorobred and living #KSUForward.
How can our Thorobred community stay engaged with the University and updated on developments while at home?
President Brown: If anyone has questions, advice, or recommendations for how we can continue to move #KSUForward during these tedious times, they should never hesitate to speak up and be heard. Some of our best achievements and innovations have been spurred by the insights of our alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends.
I ask all Thorobreds and stakeholders to continue to monitor of cial Kentucky State email and social media accounts, as well as KYSU.EDU/COVID19. These will serve as the de nitive resource for of cial news and up- to-date information on the COVID-19 pandemic. Though self-quarantine and social distancing means we may be physically apart, I encourage everyone to stay connected through other avenues. Give a friend a call, keep in touch with your teachers or coworkers through email and do what you can to surround yourself with support. Though the days ahead may feel uncertain, I am con dent that our Thorobred family will emerge on the other side of this crisis stronger than ever.
KYSU.EDU 4