First Dialogue of the Year

By Chi Nguyen

Green River College President Suzanne Johnson talked about the college’s reopening plan in a Zoom session entitled “Dialogue with Dr. J.”

Johnson and host Dani Crivello-Chang, dean of campus life, sat down on Jan. 31 to have a chat with students and answer their questions regarding the school’s reopening plan. Many students participated in the event with 20 questions asked and answered.

According to the president, the college will return to in-person classes on Feb. 7. She said online learning this quarter was extended an additional two weeks because she was concerned about the possible transmissions of the coronavirus to large numbers of students in one classroom.

Many students attending the event also had questions about the college’s future plans.

Dr. Johnson answered that the college board decided to have more in-person classes in Spring Quarter.

She expected things to return to normal in the fall quarter.

“We need in-person social interactions in the long term,” Dr. Johnson said. “It’s time to get back together.”

The president expressed gratitude to the faculty providing online courses and the students who are continuing their education during these hard times. She also encouraged everyone to get their vaccines and booster shots to protect themselves and the people around them.

Alison Barlow, one of the student participants, said she found the event very informative.

“I am going to plan on going more to stay updated on where the college is with regards to COVID,” Barlow said.

The next Dialogue with Dr. J will be held from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 28 on Zoom.

Verification:

Alison Barlow: (206) 858-3582

Suzanne Johnson: (253) 833-9111 ext. 3340