Today's update: Vaccination rate at 91%

Oct. 13, 2021

Vaccination rate on campus is good news

This week we reported a 91% COVID-19 vaccination rate of students, faculty and staff.

This is thanks to everyone on campus who has been vaccinated and submitted proof of that to the college. In addition, nearly everyone not vaccinated has been coming in for weekly testing, as required. 

While we enjoy this good news, let's not relax too much. Last year, November was a month which saw a rise in infections. So keep up the good work by masking and distancing where possible, on and off campus. (The vaccination rate in Rock Island County is less than 50%.)

And remember what to do if you have COVID symptoms, or test positive, or are exposed to someone who tested positive: Call Augustana Public Safety, 309-794-7711.

It's Monica Smith Day!

We know how great she is, and now the Quad Cities knows, too.

Dr. Monica Smith is receiving the Women of Influence Athena Award today, recognizing her work as our vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion.

President Steve Bahls has proclaimed today her day on campus to recognize this honor

Augustana is well-represented at the annual awards. Haley DeGreve '20 won the Emerging Leader Athena Award for her work in suicide prevention.

The annual awards are given by Women Lead Change.

Important opportunity for juniors

The Texas Medical Center Summer Research Internship Program is for students completing their junior year. This is a paid full-time, 10-week research internship in Houston.

Students who have participated describe it as one of their peak college experiences. Any major can apply. You don't need to be a science major.

Informational sessions will be held at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 24 and Nov. 14 in Old Main 132.

#FallingForAugie photo contest

Two ways to enter:

Post a photo on your public Instagram account and use the hashtag #FallingForAugie or tag our Instagram account (@augustana_illinois). (Your Instagram account must be public for us to enter you into the contest.)

For employees only: Faculty and staff can enter to win via Instagram or email. Fifty photos (from employees and students) will be chosen randomly to receive a $5 Starbucks gift card. Entries must be sent to Kirby Stockwell or submitted via Instagram. (Complete rules and description) 

Today's updates:

• ICYMI: The deadline to submit a major declaration form (program change form) is 4:30 p.m. Friday if you want the new major to be added before registration for spring semester. (This does not apply to first-year students.)

• SAGA art and literary magazine is looking for students to serve on the art, poetry, prose and zine boards. If you love discussing art and literature, this might be for you.

• Flu vaccine clinics on campus are coming up: one for faculty and staff Oct. 19, and one for students Oct. 22. You don't need an appointment but you need to bring a form. 

 A men's hockey team is forming to play in the Quad City Adult Hockey League, which starts at the end of this month. Email Tyler Garborg if you are interested.

 The Augustana Chemical Society is looking for new members. The group meets every other Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. in Hanson 420. (Next meeting Oct. 19.)

 Congrats to Bree Turner and John Flannery, winners of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition. Turner, a junior, plays baritone sax. Sophomore Flannery is a pianist.