Greetings, Michener Alumni. I hope you are enjoying your summer. But more importantly, I hope that you and your loved ones are doing well in these trying times.
As I mentioned in my last update, our board reformatted our meetings so that we could better adapt to changes made from Michener regarding how we, as alumni, interact with the institution and the wider Michener community. Over the summer, we have been monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on Michener events in which we normally participate. The first of these is graduation, which was originally scheduled for June. It has now been rescheduled for a date in the fall. And at this point, although the shape of the event cannot but determined, we are confident that alumni will be present in some capacity. In the past, we hosted a reception held just before the graduation ceremony. It looks unlikely that we will reach the point where this scale of social interaction will be practical (or within the comfort level of participants). So, we are seeking alternative ways to be involved in the celebration including in-person (but distanced) activities, virtual receptions, pre-recorded greetings and others. As this event takes shape, we will let alumni know how our members can participate.
The second event is orientation, and that is just around the corner. This is another event which has had to be overhauled because of many in-person social components. I will still be welcoming the incoming class, adjusting to the new logistics of the supports assembly. And as opportunities become available to incorporate alumni in virtual gatherings, we will reach out to our members.
In the past few months, we have seen or experienced first-hand some of the hardships and challenges forced upon us by the pandemic. Share with us your experiences and thoughts. Visit us on the Michener Institute Alumni page on Facebook and post your story. And as always, if you have questions, comments or suggestions, you can reach us through email at alumni@michener.ca.
Best regards and good health to you,
Hollin Ng
