Dear Chattanooga State Family,
The past 18 months have been a time unlike any that we have experienced in our lifetimes and will likely never experience again. The COVID-19 pandemic affected each of us in some way, with varying degrees of impact. Over the past 18 months, we experienced the fear of uncertainty and the unknown that came with the start of the pandemic. We experienced mask mandates, social distancing, remote work, remote learning, and delayed or canceled plans. We experienced a wide range of emotions and reactions. Some of us experienced the loss of family members, friends and loved ones to the virus. We experienced hope when the pandemic seemed to be ending, and disappointment when the end was not realized.
In Tennessee, there is a significant recent development in the pandemic. The Tennessee General Assembly has passed the Omnibus COVID Bill (HB9077/SB9014), which goes into effect on November 13, or upon the Governor’s signature, whichever comes sooner.
In order to comply with the Omnibus Bill, Chattanooga State will lift its mask requirement as of Saturday, November 13. As of this date, no one is required to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status; however, anyone who wishes to wear a mask may do so. This bill also limits authority to determine quarantine and isolation requirements to the Tennessee Commissioner of Health. Therefore, the College will no longer require anyone to quarantine, unless directed to do so by the Commissioner of Health. As always, we encourage all members of the campus community to stay home if you are feeling ill.
While COVID-19 vaccines are not required, I encourage anyone who is unvaccinated to protect your health and get vaccinated. The only way to end the pandemic is to increase the vaccination rates in our community.
I know this new legislation will be met with mixed emotions. As we have all learned in the last year and a half, COVID-19 brings about a range of reactions and feelings. However, despite any differences we may have, I know our Chattanooga State family will continue to support and care for one another.
We are resilient. We are innovative. We are united. We are ChattState.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Ashford, Ed.D.
President
Student Spotlight: Chad Mix
Chad Mix is the Challenge Coin recipient for the Chancellor's Commendation for Military Veterans 2021. Chad is a student in the Chattanooga State TCAT Surgical Technology Program. Chad is an excellent student and he is a leader among his classmates.
Chad joined the Navy in 2004 and after boot camp, he went into core school and worked at the Naval Hospital Balboa in San Diego. From there he had field medical service training advancing into laboratory school while he was stationed in Pensacola, FL at the Naval Hospital. Soon after, he was deployed to Iraq then to Bahrain. He finished out his career at the Naval Hospital Bremerton and retired July 2014. In addition, while Chad served his country. he completed his Associates’ and Bachelors’ in Health Science. After retiring from the Navy, Chad completed his Master's in Business. Chad wanted to continue his medical education in surgery so he enrolled in our Surgical Technology program. Once he finishes, he intends on applying for Surgical First Assistant School.
Chad is an accomplished leader. He is a veteran truly deserving of this commendation.
Registration Is Now Open
Be sure to schedule an appointment with your advisor to get your PIN so that you can register for the courses and times you want.
Save the Date: SGA Cabinet Meeting, November 12, Noon
Student Government Association (SGA) Student Cabinet is a chance for students to hear from Faculty and Administration. It is also a chance for students to express concerns about anything on campus—from classes to an idea you may have that will help students now and in the future.
Join the meeting via Webex.
Meeting number (access code): 2301 865 4989
Meeting password: e6Wgct5wpb3
TN Promise Community Service Deadline, December 1
Attention TN Promise Students! Your community service hours must be completed and submitted by December 1.