SGSC Alerts - South Georgia State College

SGSC Alert Center

10/17/2024 UPDATE: Douglas Students to Return to Class on Monday, Oct. 21

Dear Hawks,

As you prepare to return to face-to-face classes on the Douglas campus on Monday, Oct. 21, we want to extend a warm welcome and share some important reminders.

Online classes resumed on Wednesday, Oct. 9.
Face-to-face classes on the Waycross campus resumed on Monday, Oct. 14.
Douglas campus face-to-face classes transitioned to online during the week of Oct. 14-18.
The SGSC Entry Program has followed the guidance of VSU.
Residence Hall students will return on Sunday, Oct. 20. Specific guidance on move-in will be communicated through email from the Office of Housing and Residence Life.
Some class locations on the Douglas campus may change. Be prepared to move to another space if a class location is still under the restoration process.
Student workers will need to contact their supervisor on work assignments once they return to campus.
If you don’t have internet at home for your classes, feel free to use the available WiFi locations on campus.

While we are excited to have you back and are doing everything we can to ensure a smooth transition, please remember that things may not be 100% as they once were. Flexibility and adaptability will be key as we navigate classroom locations and residence hall accommodations. We appreciate your patience as we work through any adjustments that may arise.

Our goal is to create a supportive environment where you can focus on your academic pursuits and personal growth. Remember to reach out to your professors, the Academic Success staff or other SGSC employees for assistance as needed. We are here for you!

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together for the remainder of the semester to make it successful.

We can’t wait to see you on campus!

10/14/2024 Important Update on Return to Campus and Classes

Dear SGSC students,

We know that the past week and a half has been very trying for everyone, and we appreciate your perseverance. You may still be without power, water, and/or internet service. Both campuses now have power, water, and internet, even though some of the buildings on the Douglas campus are not safe to enter.

Online classes resumed Wednesday, 10/9. We understand that many students may not be able to connect. SGSC will work with students who through no fault of their own are still having challenges.

Face-to-face classes resumed on the Waycross campus on 10/14.

Due to previously unknown structural and water damage issues, we will not be able to resume face-to-face classes on the Douglas campus until 10/21 at the earliest. Instructors have been asked to put face-to-face classes and their materials on the Douglas campus online to cover instruction for the week of 10/14-10/18. Students are strongly advised not to come to the Douglas campus due to safety concerns, but if WiFi is not available, they may bring their own devices to access WiFi or use computer labs in Engram Hall between the hours of 8 AM and 6 PM on Monday through Thursday. They may also access WiFi in student areas and available computer labs on the Waycross campus.

Valdosta Entry Program students will follow the guidelines provided by VSU.

Douglas residence hall students will not be able to return until after the all-clear is given for the buildings. Residence hall students will receive information about a new move-in date and information on retrieving items from their rooms needed for online classes soon.

Make-up class meetings are still being planned and will be shared with students once they are finalized.

Calendar adjustments that will be made as of now are as follows:

A term will end 10/24; B term will begin 10/28
Full-term last day to withdraw will be 10/31; mid-term grades will be entered 10/22-10/24
B-term midterm will be 11/21
Spring 2025 Registration will now open on 11/11
The college will have the following in-person registration events in November:
- Waycross – Tuesday, November 19, 2024 – Education Building, Room 112 from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM
- Douglas – Thursday, November 21, 2024 – Engram Hall, Room 212 from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM

Thank you for your patience as we transition back to campuses and classes.

10/8/2024 Important Update on Return to Campus and Classes

Dear SGSC students,

Online classes will resume Wednesday, 10/9. We understand that many students may not be able to connect. SGSC will work with students who through no fault of their own are still having challenges.

Face-to-face classes will resume on the Waycross campus on 10/14.

Due to previously unknown structural and water damage issues, we will not be able to resume face-to-face classes on the Douglas campus until 10/21 at the earliest. Instructors have been asked to put face-to-face classes and their materials on the Douglas campus online to cover instruction for the week of 10/14-10/18. Students are strongly advised not to come to the Douglas campus due to safety concerns, but if WiFi is not available, they may bring their own devices to access WiFi or use computer labs in Engram Hall between the hours of 8 AM and 6 PM on Monday through Thursday. They may also access WiFi in student areas and available computer labs on the Waycross campus.

Valdosta Entry Program students will follow the guidelines provided by VSU.

Make-up class meetings are still being planned and will be shared with students once they are finalized.

Calendar adjustments that will be made as of now are as follows:

A term will end 10/24; B term will begin 10/28
Full-term last day to withdraw will be 10/31; mid-term grades will be entered 10/22-10/24
B-term midterm will be 11/21

Thank you for your patience as we resume operations.

10/6/2024 Return to Operations Oct. 7 and Town Hall Meetings

TOWN HALL MEETINGS

Town Hall Meetings for all available faculty and staff
Dr. Tanner will be available Monday on the Waycross campus in the auditorium at 10 AM and on the Douglas campus on the second floor of Engram at 2 PM.
This is a voluntary meeting for those who are able to attend. The purpose is to receive updates on the recovery process and other areas of concern.

REMINDER:

We are excited to announce the return to campus operations! Employees will return on Monday, October 7 followed by the start of online classes on October 9. Full on campus operations and in-person classes will resume on October 14.

Power was restored on the Douglas campus and earlier in the week on the Waycross campus. Our facilities team who has worked relentlessly during recovery efforts will assess any electrical and HVAC issues while IT will evaluate network and Wi-Fi connectivity. After ensuring campus is safe for limited access, we will transition to modified work arrangements.

During this time, all employees are expected to return to work, either in person or remotely. The Douglas campus remains a construction zone, with ongoing tree removal posing safety hazards. While the Waycross campus will continue to have grounds work, it will be to a lesser degree. As a result, Douglas employees will be allowed some flexibility to telework or work from the Waycross campus.

TAKE NOTE:

• The Library, Stubbs Hall and Richey Hall (except for the IT wing) are not open. Employees cannot return to work as normal in these spaces.

• Employees may park in the following areas: Engram lot and the lot between Tanner and Richey.

• Employees with offices in areas that are not fully operational have the following options:

o Temporarily work remotely

o Temporarily relocate to the eSports lounge in Douglas (limited options are available).

o Temporarily relocate offices to the Waycross campus.

o Have your supervisor contact Carmen James if temporary office space is required.

• Employees who work in the Library, Stubbs Hall and Richey Hall (except IT) and who need temporary access to your office should contact your supervisor and VP for further instructions.

• ALL EMPLOYEES – Your supervisor must approve your option for working anywhere other than your assigned office.

Please be aware that both campuses are construction zones. You will see contractors and heavy equipment both inside buildings and on the grounds. It is very important to follow the safety precautions below:

· Be mindful of fallen trees, hanging limbs, and uneven pavement.

· Maintain a safe distance from all construction zones and heavy machinery, whether it appears to be operating or not.

· Do not go anywhere on campus except your office building or assigned work location. This is not the time to tour campus or damaged areas.

· Park only in designated parking areas.

· Quickly report any damage to campus property through the work order system. Only contact facilities or IT directly if there is an immediate safety concern.

Throughout the upcoming months, we will continue to experience disruptions to our workspaces. Employees may need or want to temporarily relocate as buildings are repaired. We will make every effort to provide adequate notice and flexibility in the days ahead.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate this transition.

10/4/2024 Return to Classes for Students

Dear SGSC students,

Good news, Hawks! It is time to plan our return to campus and to start our classes again. We know it’s been a difficult time for many of you, and we hope getting back in the routine of course work and being around your classmates and friends will help.

On-line classes will resume on Wednesday, Oct. 9. In-person classes begin on Monday, Oct. 14. Residence hall students will receive instructions on move-in before the first day of class. (Updates will be given as soon as possible if changes are made.)

SGSC is committed to supporting you as you transition back to your classes and academic routine. Here are a few key items:

Class Locations: Please be aware some classes may have adjusted their locations because of the recovery process. Watch for information if you will be meeting in a different location on campus.
Coursework Concerns: Your professors will be able to assist you on coursework challenges associated with storm related challenges such as lack of power, internet or other needs. Adjustments are being made on A Term and the withdrawal date for full session courses. Those details will be communicated to you next week.
Dual Enrolled Students: Dual enrollment classes meeting in the high schools will resume whenever the high school classes resume.
Support Services: We understand that many of you may need additional support. Visit the Academic Success Center on either the Douglas or Waycross campus to help you navigate any challenges. Be sure to reach out to them. They are available to help!
Scheduled Financial Aid Refunds: Due to delays with the mail service and service/internet challenges because of the storm, there will be delays in refunds. We appreciate your patience and will get those to you as soon as possible.
Campus Resources: More information will be sent soon on the availability of campus resources such as the library. All buildings are currently being assessed for damages and will be completed by the time you return. We will keep you updated. Student workers will contact their supervisors once they return to campus on Oct. 14 for instructions.
Athletics: The SGSC coaches will be in contact with their teams with specific information as students are back on campus.
Community Assistance: If you are still in need of basic necessities, please contact Sandra Adams, Dean of Students at sandra.adams@sgsc.edu. We have resources available to assist you and can guide you in the right direction of items needed.
Reminder: Remember to check your student email, SGSC’s social media and the Alert page at https://www.sgsc.edu/quicklinks/sgsc-alerts for updated information.

Your safety and well-being have been and will continue to be our top priorities, and we are here to support you. Let’s come together as an SGSC family and make the most of this semester.

Take care, and see you soon!

10/3/2024 Return to Operations

Power was restored this afternoon (10/3) on the Douglas campus and earlier in the week on the Waycross campus. Our facilities team who has worked relentlessly during recovery efforts will assess any electrical and HVAC issues while IT will evaluate network and Wi-Fi connectivity. After ensuring campus is safe for limited access, we will transition to modified work arrangements.

Once the “All Clear” is given:

• The Library, Stubbs Hall and Richey Hall (except for the IT wing) are not open. Employees cannot return to work as normal in these spaces.

• Employees may park in the following areas: Engram lot and the lot between Tanner and Richey.

• Employees with offices in areas that are not fully operational have the following options:

o Temporarily work remotely

o Temporarily relocate to the eSports lounge in Douglas (limited options are available).

o Temporarily relocate offices to the Waycross campus.

o Have your supervisor contact Carmen James if temporary office space is required.

• Employees who work in the Library, Stubbs Hall and Richey Hall (except IT) and who need temporary access to your office should contact your supervisor and VP for further instructions.

• ALL EMPLOYEES – Your supervisor must approve your option for working anywhere other than your assigned office.

· Be mindful of fallen trees, hanging limbs, and uneven pavement.

· Maintain a safe distance from all construction zones and heavy machinery, whether it appears to be operating or not.

· Do not go anywhere on campus except your office building or assigned work location. This is not the time to tour campus or damaged areas.

· Park only in designated parking areas.

· Quickly report any damage to campus property through the work order system. Only contact facilities or IT directly if there is an immediate safety concern.

We will send a follow up by Sunday evening if anything changes so please continue to monitor your emails and communications.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate this transition.

Dr. Greg Tanner

Interim President

South Georgia State College

10/2/24 9:30 AM Thank You

As we reflect on the challenges we have faced together in the wake of the recent hurricane, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each of you—students, faculty, and staff. Your patience, resilience, and unwavering support during this difficult time have been truly inspiring.

While many of you have faced considerable challenges in your own communities and at our own places of residence, you still have contacted each other, cared about those around you, and continued to keep SGSC in your thoughts and prayers.

The recovery process has required and will continue to be a collective effort, and it is heartening to see how our community has come together. Whether you offered a helping hand, provided guidance, or simply checked in on one another, your contributions have made a significant difference.

I would also like to extend a special thank you to all the community helpers—first responders, volunteers, and local organizations—who have selflessly dedicated their time and resources to support those in need at the college and in our local communities. Their commitment to our well-being is a testament to their strength and compassion.

We are also grateful for those who have reached out to us from far and wide to check on us and see what can be done to assist. The University System of Georgia and Chancellor Sonny Purdue, our partners in state and local governments, and the many who know and love the college through academic and athletic events and programs have been a tremendous help. There are too many to name, but please know every kindness shown to us is appreciated. I'm sure many others have reached out but with our lack of communication services in and around the area, making contact has been difficult as would be expected.

As we move forward, we will encounter various uncertainties that require our patience and careful attention. We remain committed to keeping you informed about our progress, whether through updates from me or your area vice president.

Let us continue to support one another in the recovery process. Together, we will emerge stronger and more united than ever.

Thank you for your dedication and kindness.

Dr. Greg Tanner
Interim President
South Georgia State College

10/1/24 2:30 PM Update

SGSC remains closed, and a decision regarding next steps will be made over the weekend. The factors under consideration for reopening include safety concerns due to remaining debris on campus, the expected timeline for full electricity restoration at both locations, SGSC internet access, and ongoing communication challenges via email and phone.

Daily evaluations are being conducted to assess a potential return date to campus. Entry Program students and staff will follow guidance from Valdosta State.

Key updates include:

SGSC will assist students enrolled in A-Term courses regarding the implications of the campus closure.
An extension for withdrawals from full-session classes will be granted until October 31.
The GCAA will collaborate with the SGSC athletics department regarding the upcoming fall soccer season.
Cleanup efforts are progressing on both campuses. Until it is deemed safe, no individuals without permission should access the Douglas or Waycross campuses.
Once the campuses are deemed safe, faculty, staff, and students will recieve information on getting into offices and dorm rooms to collect belongings they may need before classes start.

9/30/24 11:45 AM Update

SGSC campuses will remain closed the remainder of the week through Friday. Oct. 4th. Entry Program students and employees at VSU will follow the guidance of Valdosta State.

9/29/24 2:50 PM Update

SGSC campuses remain closed in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. SGSC students are not expected to complete classwork, submit assignments, or complete exams during this time, as power and internet outages are widespread and restoration could take several days. Deadlines that were set online before the storm occurred may still be posted because instructors cannot access the course to change them, but adjustments will be made. More information will be posted here in the coming days. Your safety is our priority. Stay safe!

9/28/24 3:15 PM update

SGSC will be closed through Wednesday, October 2, 2024. An update will be given Wednesday afternoon concerning return to work and the next steps for classes in the coming weeks. Only essential personnel directed by their supervisors will be on the Douglas and Waycross campuses at the beginning of the week. Residential students will not be allowed on campus until notified. Entry Program students and employees at VSU will follow the guidance of Valdosta State.

9/25/24 2:30 pm update

After closely monitoring Storm Helene’s path and potential impact on the region, South Georgia State College has made the decision to close the Douglas and Waycross campuses on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, and Friday, Sept. 27, 2024. Only essential personnel as directed by their direct supervisor will be on each campus. Employees and students at the SGSC Entry Program at VSU will follow the guidance provided by Valdosta State University.

All SGSC classes on Thursday and Friday will be canceled. ECore students will need to contact their instructor for instructions.

The Residence Halls will remain open and dining service will be available. Residential students should check their SGSC email for further information.

Further instructions for employees regarding payroll will be sent from the SGSC Office of Fiscal Affairs.

Any additional updates will be announced via SGSC email, SGSC social media platforms and on the SGSC webpage at www.sgsc.edu.

9/24/24 5:30 pm update

South Georgia State College is currently monitoring Storm Helene. Updates will be posted to this page and SGSC social media channels as they become available.

In the event of an emergency or severe weather affecting South Georgia State College operations or safety, announcements will be posted to this website.
Students, faculty and staff will also receive SGSC email notifications.