Colleges, like many institutions are forging through the seemingly unending days that have led to weeks and months of online classes necessitated by the COVID19 pandemic. Students and faculty at Naugatuck Valley Community College find great inspiration the arts as a way to “keep going.”

Consistently through the communication of the College’s Weekly Bulletin, NVCC President Daisy Cocco De Filippis reminds students, faculty and staff. “Stay strong, remain generous and continue to confirm that we are a caring academic community of purpose.”

President De Filippis characterized the culture of NVCC’s virtual campus. “The spirit of rising to the occasion, overcoming frustration with technology, patience and purpose has become the hallmark of our online transition. I am bursting with pride and gratitude for the kindness and ingenuity that supports the progress our wonderful students are making in their academic pursuits.”

Megan Boyd, Assistant Professor of Dance at NVCC commented. “I know dance students are eager to reconnect with each other on campus and to present their dance works, many of them have transformed their dance pieces to reflect the feelings they are experiencing during COVID-19.”

Dean of Academic Affairs, Lisa Dresdner, Ph.D., sent “a big shout out to the cast of nearly student actors/singers who continue to meet in various ways online to practice the choreography created by Professor Boyd.“

Sasha Bratt, Assistant Professor of Theater, and Dr. Gil Harel, Assistant Professor of Music have continuously rehearsed singing and scripts with encouraging guidance to inspire students who look forward to sharing their talents in a musical this fall.

Associate Dean B.L. Baker who leads this group of faculty is a champion for their artistic expression and practice. The professors noted, “We are lucky to have Dean Baker as an ally in this. He has campaigned for ways to make these performances happen, championing our cause in many ways.”

Dr. Harel, commented.  “As artists we believe that the role of art in a post COVID-19 world will be perhaps greater than ever. And the students are committed to being prepared to take the stage when that time comes!”

Harel noted that, “despite the challenges of the current circumstances, a couple of mantras have kept these valiant performers going. For example, the show wasn't canceled - it was moved to a later date. The show is more than words, notes, and dance maneuvers. It is about the performers themselves, who they are and what they are capable of, both individually and as a group; Rather than meditate on the opportunities we've lost, we collectively pledge to focus instead on a bright future where many opportunities await. By focusing on what lies ahead rather than what ‘might have been,’ many students have reaffirmed their commitment to studying what they were learning, and to continuing that study while we are in quarantine.”