In her new position, Gerrior will spearhead strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the Women's Resource Center, working closely with staff, stakeholders, and community partners to advance its mission of supporting and advocating for women's rights, well-being, and empowerment. 

"Melissa Gerrior's return to Georgia Tech as the Director of the Women's Resource Center is a homecoming for both her and the institution," said Dr. Kim D. Harrington, interim associate vice president for Arts, Belonging and Community. "Her extensive experience makes her the ideal leader to guide the center's efforts to cultivate opportunities for community building, transformative learning, collaborative leadership, and identity development for graduate and undergraduate women.”  

For the last ten years, Gerrior has worked at Georgia College, and currently serves as the Assistant Director of the Women's Center & LGBTQ+ Programs. She started her career at Georgia College State University with Project BRAVE (Georgia College's sexual violence prevention and education initiative). In Spring 2019, she received Georgia College's Inclusive Excellence Award as well as the Faculty/Staff LGBTQ+ Community Impact Award, and in 2020 received the Bobcat Award for RSO Advisor of the Year for her work with GCSU’s Pride Alliance.  

“I am thrilled to serve as the next Director for the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) at Georgia Tech,” Gerrior said. “My own involvement with the WRC, Residence Life, and Student Engagement were highlights of my time at Georgia Tech as a student as well as the catalyst for my pursuing a degree and career in Student Affairs. I am honored to be able to give back to a place that was such an important part of my journey as an undergraduate student, and I’m excited to come home. Go Jackets!” 

Outside of academia, Melissa is a lifetime member and current volunteer for the Girl Scouts of the USA and serves as the Inaugural Vice President for the PFLAG Milledgeville chapter. In her free time, Melissa likes to read, play cozy video games like Sims, learn various types of arts and crafts, and spend time with her two cats, Charlie & Sally. 

Please join us in welcoming Melissa Gerrior to Student Engagement and Well-Being as the new Director of the Women's Resource Center. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter in our ongoing commitment to creating a more inclusive community. Melissa will start June 1, 2024, at the Women’s Resource Center in Smithgall Student Services (Flag Building) Suite 131. 

In May, Georgia Tech’s R. Kirk Landon Learning Center will officially close. This announcement was recently shared with all R. Kirk Landon families by Student Engagement and Well-being’s Auxiliary Services department. The decision came after consideration of a few key factors impacting Georgia Tech’s child care services. Previously, the Institute operated two child care centers: the Children’s Campus (TCC), situated in Family Housing at 10th and Home, and the R. Kirk Landon Learning Center, located a few blocks away in the Home Park neighborhood. Managed by Bright Horizons, both centers offer a 10% tuition discount to Georgia Tech families.

Since the reopening of both centers after the pandemic, occupancy rates have not exceeded 67% at either location. Furthermore, while the centers are primarily intended to serve Georgia Tech employees and students, the percentage of campus families using these facilities dropped to less than 50% since the pandemic. One contributing factor to this decline in enrollment is the shift to hybrid work schedules, prompting employees to seek child care options closer to where they live.

Lower enrollment led to increased operational costs and inefficiencies; as a result, a consolidation of operations to enhance effectiveness was needed. The decision was made to retain TCC due to its on-campus location and modern facilities. Most Georgia Tech families at R. Kirk Landon will relocate their children to TCC. Bright Horizons is also equipped to accommodate children and teachers at one of their other nearby facilities.

As a result of the consolidation, the Institute will be able to redirect resources to offer a new service for all benefits-eligible employees: Bright Horizons Enhanced Family Supports. This online platform provides access to discounted services that can support working parents.

Enhanced Family Supports includes:

• Child Care: Preferred enrollment at Bright Horizons centers, tuition discounts at partner facilities, and assistance in finding trained and screened nannies.
• Summer Camp and School Break Programs: Activities from performance arts to coding, provided by Steve & Kate’s Camp.
• Academic Support: Discounts for virtual and in-person tutoring services to support children's academic performance.
• A+ Enrichments: Programs focusing on coding and early childhood learning to boost STEM and literacy skills.
• Elder Care Planning and Support: Caregiver search tools and one-on-one guidance from senior care experts.
• Even More for Families: Search tools for sitters, pet care services, housekeeping assistance, and before- and after-school programs.

This transition will provide new support services from trusted providers to Georgia Tech families facing diverse family challenges. This initiative also has the potential to contribute to employees’ personal wellness and productivity in the workplace. As organizations strive to create supportive environments for their workforce, programs like Enhanced Family Supports emerge as a vital component in fostering employee satisfaction and retention. The new program will be available by July to all regular employees working 30 or more hours per week, with plans to extend the program to graduate students by September.

“I cannot express enough how much we look forward to having Elizabeth join our leadership team” said Dr. Luoluo Hong, vice president of Student Engagement and Well Being. “Her experience in higher education administration and broad skill set aligns perfectly with the needs of our still evolving cabinet area. I am confident she will add value in cultivating an environment where students can thrive and succeed.” Hong added, “I’d like to express my hearty appreciation to the search committee for helping us find such a vibrant leader for SEWB!”

Cox is no stranger to the world of academia. She is an accomplished professional with a proven track record of positively shaping student experiences and delivering on the campus strategic vision. Her career includes positions at both Emory University and the University of Alabama, where she consistently worked to advance a supportive and inclusive campus environment. 

“I am incredibly excited to join the Georgia Tech community as a member of the Student Engagement & Well-Being team”, Cox said. “I was drawn to this role by the vision and mission of the Institute and the Cultivate Well-Being Action and Transformation Roadmap.  I am looking forward to bringing the mission of Student Engagement & Well-Being to life, collaborate across campus, and support Georgia Tech students as future leaders who will undoubtedly change the world.”

Cox currently serves as the Chief of Staff for BaseCamp Student, a European student housing company with operations in Germany, Poland, and Denmark. She oversees organizational development, change management, internal communication, employee engagement, residence life operations, and the student experience across all BaseCamp properties. 

In her role as director of strategic initiatives and interim chief of staff, Cox will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of Student Engagement and Well-Being. She will be instrumental in leading the implementation of initiatives that drive innovation and excellence as well as respond to growth and student needs for belonging and well-being. She will work collaboratively with Hong, along with the SEWB administrative and leadership teams, to identify opportunities to expand and enhance impact with a diverse range of existing and desired stakeholders and constituents. Elizabeth Cox will start her new role on October 1, 2023, and her office will be in Suite 227 of the Smithgall Student Services Building. 

______________________________________________________________________________

About Student Engagement & Well Being 

Student Engagement & Well Being (SEWB) is an educational organization that develops diverse student leaders who advance technology and improve human condition, by enhancing engagement, promoting holistic wellness, and cultivating inclusive communities. SEWB recently launched a new division Arts, Belonging and Community, which will integrate existing departments and programs, as well as establish new ones in the coming year. The units comprising the new division will share a mission of actively engaging students through a wide array of strategies, arts, activities, intercultural dialogue, social events, student organizations and others. The unifying goal is to promote and sustain a sense of belonging and community for all students across all identities, in particular those students who come from historically marginalized or underserved communities.

Annan received his Ph.D. from Rutgers University in 2000 with a focus on cognitive processing and experimental psychology. After graduating, he worked for three years at the Rutgers University Center for Cognitive Science, researching visual perception and attention topics. Upon receiving his clinical license, Annan worked in several mental health and wellness areas, including K-12 schools and universities, youth development programs, hospitals, mental health consulting, and private practice.  

Luoluo Hong, vice president for Student Engagement and Well-Being, said, “Vidal Annan demonstrated a keen interest in Georgia Tech’s mission and strategic priorities during his campus interview. His record of service exhibits strong leadership, creativity, and commitment to students in his prior work, and I am confident that he will assist our team in meeting our goals and vision for the Center for Mental Health Care and Resources.” 

Over the course of his career, Annan has taught and presented at several colleges and universities, including Barnard College, Vanderbilt University, Kean, and Rutgers. He has received grants from foundations such as Autism Speaks, the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey, and the Prudential Foundation to conduct program development and clinical work on emotional intelligence, growth mindset, and socio-emotional learning with adolescents and young adults. 

“I am very excited that Vidal Annan will be joining us as the senior director for the Center for Mental Health Care and Resources,” said John M. Stein, associate vice president for Student Life and dean of students, and supervisor for this role. “He is an experienced and skilled practitioner and leader.”  

Annan regularly works with several other offices in the Wellness Center and across campus to support students’ well-being and embed evidence-based mental health practices in the university environment. As a clinician, he specializes in several treatment approaches, including acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered psychotherapy. His empathetic approach focuses on students’ lived experiences, and he works to empower them to set and work toward their personal, social, and professional goals. 

“I’m very excited to join the Georgia Tech team and look forward to working with these dedicated professionals to continue to bring high-quality mental health care to the students of the Institute,” said Annan, who will start in his new role July 17.  

These are two of the largest swim meets held in Georgia annually. The events will attract an influx of visitors to campus, so expect congestion in the area surrounding the Campus Recreation Center, including increased traffic on Tech Parkway and Ferst Drive. 

Participant dropoff will take place along Tech Parkway, resulting in intermittent traffic delays and closures for buses and northbound traffic during the following times on meet days: 7 – 9 a.m., noon – 1:30 p.m., 3:30 – 6:30 p.m., and 9 – 10:30 p.m.

Guests will park in the Campus Recreation deck (W10) and Student Center parking deck (W2).

Be advised that the morning hours will see the largest crowds due to the number of athletes competing in preliminary races. In addition, other areas of campus may be affected on meet days as guests visit retail and dining locations.

For more information about the events, to purchase tickets, or to watch live, visit the GHSA Swimming website or the GIAA website.

We continue to recognize that Covid-19 vaccines and boosters offer safe, effective protection and urge all students, faculty, staff, and visitors to get vaccinated and boosted either on campus or at a local provider. Stamps Health Services continues to conduct vaccine clinics for those who are eligible. You can learn more here: health.gatech.edu/coronavirus/vaccine.

As part of Georgia Tech’s continued monitoring of the overall health of the campus community, we have transitioned from individual surveillance testing to wastewater surveillance testing. Over the past 18 months, Georgia Tech’s Covid-19 testing team has validated the use of wastewater testing for Covid-19 detection and has put in place the infrastructure necessary to conduct broad-based wastewater surveillance. As such, Georgia Tech has created new dashboards to track and report the status of wastewater testing as well as symptomatic positives (students only) from Stamps Health Services. The previous dashboard, that has tracked cases since 2020, will be archived but remain publicly available. Access to the new dashboards can be found here: health.gatech.edu/coronavirus/monitoring-covid.

“Many health experts agree that Covid-19 is with us for the foreseeable future, and, while the severity of cases is much less overall, we continue our commitment to track overall trends of the virus in our community,” said Will Smith, director of Emergency Management and Communications for the Georgia Tech Police Department. “We have been exploring the use of wastewater testing during the pandemic, and it has proven to be an effective and reliable method of tracking the prevalence of Covid-19 in our population.”

About Wastewater Testing:

• Wastewater testing, or wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE), is an emerging field used to understand infectious disease transmission and other human health trends evident in sewage or wastewater.
• While wastewater testing has existed for more than 40 years, it has rapidly come to the forefront of disease surveillance with the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Wastewater testing detects and quantifies the presence in sewage of the genome (RNA genetic material) from the virus that causes Covid-19, SARS-CoV-2.
• This data helps identify trends of increasing or decreasing community spread of the virus as well as potential “hotspots.”
• Higher SARS-CoV-2 genome counts reflect higher rates of Covid-19 infections and, hence, an increased risk to public health.

Beginning this summer, Georgia Tech deployed eight autosamplers across campus that are programmed to pump small volumes of sewage from a given site at regular time intervals throughout the day, yielding a composite sample of sewage that represents a sample collected over multiple days. Currently, samples are taken for analysis on Monday and Thursday mornings. More information about wastewater testing, including FAQs, may be found here: health.gatech.edu/coronavirus/monitoring-covid. 

“As with Georgia Tech’s response to Covid-19 from the beginning, we remain vigilant and will use scientific data to support how we operate to protect the well-being of our community,” added Smith. “As we move forward, every one of us will need to continue to make informed decisions for the sake of our own health and the health of others.”

To help keep yourself and the community safe, there are many actions you can take to help protect yourself and mitigate the spread of Covid-19.

1. Follow the Covid-19 Daily Self-Screening Checklist. This offers important guidance for those who are experiencing symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19. 
2. If you test positive or have been diagnosed with Covid-19, you must isolate away from others to avoid spreading the illness to anyone else. Follow these steps to get help, stay healthy, and help protect those around you.
3. Practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently.
4. While not mandatory, the University System of Georgia encourages people to wear masks based on their preference and assessment of personal risk.
5. If you don’t feel well – even if you don’t think it is Covid-19 – please stay home and take care of yourself. Employees should reach out to their supervisor or Human Resources Business Partner for more information. Instructors should demonstrate appropriate flexibility with students who need to isolate or quarantine due to Covid-19 in the same way they would have accommodated ill students before the pandemic.

Stay informed, healthy, and well by visiting health.gatech.edu/coronavirus for the most up-to-date guidance and resources.

“Over the last few years, we have seen an increase in ridership of scooters, e-bikes, and skateboards on campus,” said Aaron Fowler, Director of Transportation with Parking and Transportation Services. “This has made alternative transportation more accessible to the Georgia Tech community and getting around campus much easier.” 

With the increase in the use of different riding devices, along with walking, traffic in some parts of campus will have a wide variety of commuting. 

The Division of Student Engagement and Well-Being departments of Stamps Health Services, Parking and Transportation Services, Health Initiatives, and Campus Recreation have collaborated to share tips to make your campus commute safer. 

Take a Class  

Get comfortable traveling by bike with a free city cycling instructional group ride sponsored by Propel ATL on July 28 at 4 p.m. This in-person class meets behind the CRC on Tech Parkway, near the turnaround parking area, and is expected to occur monthly. This class is designed specifically for members of the Georgia Tech community, including students, staff, and faculty. After a few quick drills, riders will hit the city or campus streets for a 45-minute ride of three to four gentle miles. Class attendance requires a liability waiver and registration. 

Ride Smart is a twelve-minute online class that offers an introduction to riding safety in an urban environment whether by bike or scooter. Participate in the comfort of your home and you can even receive a free helmet.  

“Riding is great for physical and mental health and can be very safe, but, just like driving, safety increases with knowledge and experience,” said Becky James, chair of Bike Georgia Tech. “The Ride Smart class introduces riders to the basics of riding in an urban environment, and the City Cycling class offers the opportunity to practice handling skills and ride on the road with an experienced rider, which is the best way to learn and build confidence.” 

Protect Your Brain & Body 

We have some of the best minds at Georgia Tech, so why not do everything you can to protect it! One of the best ways to prevent injuries while riding a bike, scooter, or skateboard is to wear a helmet. Did you know Parking and Transportation Services sells helmets for only $12? Visit their customer service center located on the Ground Level of the E81-Tech Square (the Georgia Tech Hotel) parking deck just inside the Spring Street entrance. 

“While wearing a helmet is one way to protect yourself, so is modifying how you use a riding device like reducing your speed, stopping at intersections, and riding in designated lanes,” said Dr. Benjamin Holton, Senior Director of Stamps Health Services. “This past academic year, we saw a significant number of riding injuries coming into Stamps, some of which were very serious. Equipping yourself with resources that teach you how to use your riding device, follow laws, and share the road can have a substantial impact on injury prevention.” 

Engage with Student Groups  

There are student organizations that you can engage with that provide resources and support riding on campus. Starter Bikes sells used bikes and teaches students how to repair and maintain their bikes. On Fridays, they are open from 4-7 p.m. in the CRC parking deck. On most Thursdays from 5-7 p.m., Starter Bikes offers workshops and group rides. Follow them on Instagram @starterbikesgt or on Facebook to learn more.  

Outdoor Recreation Georgia Tech (ORGT) offers mountain biking and bikepacking trips for beginning and intermediate riders. Visit crc.gatech.edu/adventure-trips-0 to learn more. These student organizations provide the opportunity to ride with experienced riders and gain time and experience in the saddle. 

Make Sure Your Ride is in Tip-Top Shape  

Aztec Cycles brings its mobile repair shop to the Community Market each Wednesday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters.  Maintenance of your ride is essential because often there may be students riding on bikes that are not fit for the road, which can cause accidents or injury. To learn more, visit www.aztec-cycles.com. 
 
Complete the ABC Quick Check! It only takes 10 seconds to check the air, brakes, chain, and quick releases before each ride. This is especially important with shareable scooters and bikes. Watch this short video to learn the steps to take to keep you safe. 

Tips for Riders  

While there are plenty of on-campus resources for you to take advantage of, here are the top tips to keep in mind:  

• Per Georgia law, bikes are considered vehicles, and riders must obey traffic laws. Stop at stop signs and red lights, yield to pedestrians, and don't ride distracted. 

• Riding on sidewalks can be more dangerous than riding on the road. Drivers are not expecting someone going as fast as a cyclist on the sidewalk.  

• When riding on a shared-use path, ride at the same speed as people walking; when passing, ring a bell or say, “on your left,” and give ample space. 

For more Smart Cycling tips, visit www.bikeleague.org/content/smart-cycling-tips-0.   

Tips for On-Campus Drivers  

On-campus drivers play an important role in the safety of all modes of transportation. Here are a few tips to increase safety for everyone: 

• Obey all traffic laws, including Georgia’s Hands-Free Act, and watch for people using all modes of transportation - bikes, scooters, skateboards, and walking.  

• When riding on a road with a bike lane, before turning, glance behind and beside you for a rider in the bike lane and check the crosswalk for pedestrians. 

• When passing a rider, slow down and pass with care. Per Georgia law, drivers must give 3-feet space when passing a person on a bike.  

• Bikes are allowed on all roads except limited-access freeways. Make sure to share the road respectfully with other users. 

Although you might commute to campus using various modes, PTS recommends finding alternative ways to get around campus once you’re here. Whether it is walking, taking the Stinger buses, or renting a bike or scooter, you can make it across campus without having to get back into your car. Move Georgia Tech shows you how long it takes to get from one part of campus to another and talks about the impact of active transportation on the environment and your health. 

Secure Your Ride  

Protecting your ride from theft is also important in maximizing your campus commute.  You can register your scooter or bike through the Georgia Tech Police Department (GTPD) at police.gatech.edu/registration or by bringing it to the police station in person. 

Use a U-lock. U-locks offer the best theft deterrence, as they better resist prying and cutting than a cable. U-locks are available on campus with Aztec Cycling. Lock your bike to a rack as they are designed to deter theft, and secure it through the frame or rear triangle. On-campus bikes may only be locked to bike racks, not to trees, railings, signs, etc. 

If you need to store your bike after your commute, overnight, or over a campus break, you can use one of the bike rooms on campus. The Dalney (W22) and Tech Square (E81) parking decks feature secure, covered bike parking for commuters. Students, faculty, and staff can access the bike rooms using their BuzzCard, however, bikes must be registered with GTPD. For information about bike storage over a campus break, email commute@gatech.edu. 

To learn more about steps to take to stay safe on every ride, the rules of the road, how to properly adjust and wear a helmet, and what to do if you are involved in a crash, check out this Bicyclists Pocket Guide produced by the Georgia Bikes. You can also visit bike.gatech.edu and pts.gatech.edu/bicycling-georgia-tech to learn about riding at Georgia Tech. 

SHIP is available to enrolled undergraduate and graduate students and their eligible dependents who do not already have insurance. The plan includes comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription, and worldwide travel benefits administered by United HealthcareStudentResources (UHCSR). Fall Open Enrollment for the 2022-2023 Academic Year opens on July 25, 2022, and closes on September 26, 2022. The Plan coverage begins August 1, 2022, and ends July 31, 2023.

There are no changes to plan benefits for the upcoming year. There will be a premium increase of 10.1% across all categories of students and enrollees. This increase is due to the increase in claims costs related to Covid-19 testing, treatment, and pharmacy services.  Additionally, the use of benefits remained high in some categories, and there was an increase in costs for the treatment of serious medical conditions.

Georgia Tech was part of a USG advisory panel that worked closely with the USG and United HealthcareStudentResources to negotiate the lowest premiums possible. Premiums are charged on a per-semester basis. The updated semester rates are available here and complete SHIP information at health.gatech.edu/finance/insurance.

Tech students fall into one of two coverage groups: mandatory and voluntary. Students in the mandatory group like students on a fully-funded fellowship or that have a tuition waiver are required to carry health insurance coverage during their program at Tech. These students are automatically charged for SHIP through their student account along with tuition and fees. Mandatory students who have an alternative plan that meets USG requirements, like an ACA-compliant plan, can waive SHIP coverage to avoid being charged. Students can enroll or waive during the semester open enrollment periods (Fall, Spring/Summer, or Summer only).

Students who are not in the mandatory group and are taking at least four credit hours fall into the voluntary group and may enroll during the open enrollment periods. Voluntary students are not charged for SHIP as part of tuition and pay online during the insurance semester open enrollment periods.

To determine which group you are in, summer and fall enrollment dates, and learn how to enroll, visit health.gatech.edu/finance/insurance.

Graduate students holding a Graduate Research or Teaching Assistantship (GRA/GTA) are also eligible for a health insurance subsidy. More information on subsidized rates (when available) can be found on the Bursar's website at bursar.gatech.edu/tuition-fees.

SleepWell@Tech runs from October 21 - 25 in various locations in the Student Center and brings awareness to the importance of sleep for your overall health and well-being. HI health educator and event co-creator JaPeera Edmond’s said, “Lack of sleep or poor sleep habits can lead to a host of negative health outcomes. ... It is important that students know what these outcomes are and how they improve their sleep, which in turn can improve their quality of life.”

But First, Sleep - Monday October, 21st 

Location - Healthy Space

Time - 11am-2pm

Description - Sleep is a key building block to your success and health. Learn everything you need to know about sleep to keep you healthy, including how caffeine can impact your sleep. 

From Zzz to A's - Tuesday, October 22nd

Location - Student Center Kiosk 4 (Next to DePoe Eye Center)

Time - 10am-1pm

Description - Don't let sleep take a back seat to your studies, sleep is essential for memory consolidation which you need to pass those exams. Learn about how sleep is key to your academic success.

The Art of the Nap - Wednesday, October 23rd

Location - Student Center Kiosk 3 (across form Chick-Fil-A)

Time - 11am-2pm

Description - You heard naps are bad, right? Not quite, napping the RIGHT way can help you get refreshed and ready to tackle your to-do list. Learn the proper way to nap and adding it to your schedule.

Setting the Scene for Sleep - Thursday, October 25th

Location - Student Center Kiosk 3 (across form Chick-Fil-A)

Time - 10am-1pm

Description - Studying and working in your bedroom can cause restlessness and poor sleep quality. Learn about ideal bedroom conditions for sleep and make a DIY potpourri satchel.

Find Your Circadian Rhythm​​​​​​​ - Friday, October 25th

Location - Healthy Space

Time - 11am - 2pm 

Description - Fighting your body's natural rhythm is only setting yourself up to fail. Learn about circadian rhythm and kick off your day with a quick snack to keep you energized.

“The academic environment at Georgia Tech can have a negative impact on students that cause them to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as sleeping less, which can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression,” said Edmonds. “It is important that we teach students to engage in positive sleep behaviors to improve overall health and academic performance.” Don’t let Georgia Tech’s crazy environment interfere with you getting the healthiest sleep you can. For additional event information and to learn more about healthy sleep patterns go to  healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.

Healthy Jackets is a new peer education program introduced to the Georgia Tech campus last fall. Edmonds said, “the peer educator model is shown to be more effective in creating positive behavior change in college students than an administrative approach. Students don’t always feel like they can connect with staff as easily as they can with their peers. It allows peers to connect with their community through shared goals and experiences.” In addition to creating a more supportive community peer educators will receive the benefits of mentorship and training from current health professionals while building essential resume skills like developing, implementing and evaluating health programs, project management, strategic planning, communications and public speaking.  

Peer educators commit approximately 8-10 hours per month to the program through trainings, presentations and meetings.  You will work directly with health professionals developing and tailoring presentations for various campus organizations and groups with a peer to peer approach.  If you are interested in learning more about this program HI is hosting the final interest meeting Tuesday, September 17 from 11 am - 12 pm in the Student Center room 301 or Tuesday, October 8 from 11 am - 12 pm in the Student Center room 301. If you know this program is for you apply today at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/healthyjacket.

The President’s Walk is a time-honored tradition where President “Bud” Peterson guides students and employees through campus along the Tyler Brown Pi Mile. The walk is a great opportunity to network with students, faculty, and staff from across campus, including the President himself! Health Initiatives (HI) senior director, Stacy Connell said, “This is the 10th anniversary of our President’s Walk, a signature event that President Peterson has led for the past 10 years.  It is certainly bittersweet as we take this final walk with President Peterson as he ends his presidency and enters into his retirement.  He has been such a compassionate champion for the health and well-being of the entire Georgia Tech community.  I’m glad we have this moment to honor his legacy and celebrate the health of our campus together one more time.”

Pre-registration check-in for the event and day of registration opens at 3:45 pm and you must have your BuzzCard to check in. The walk begins with opening ceremonies by President Peterson himself and HI Senior Director, Stacy Connell at 4:30 pm. The first 50 people to check in and complete at least one loop of the course will receive one of the last President’s Walk t-shirts. To register for the event go to crc.gatech.edu/presidents-walk. We look forward to seeing you at this year’s walk rain or shine!

The President’s walk is part of the employee well-being week which is focused on “showcasing our commitment to the health and well-being of our hard-working faculty and staff.  During the school year, it can be easy to forgo taking care of ourselves. We want to kick-off summer by providing events that remind us to do just that. We are focused on cultivating a work culture at Georgia Tech that supports the whole person so that employees are engaged, satisfied and able to thrive,” said Connell. This inaugural week takes place from Monday, May 13^th – Friday, May 17^th at various locations across campus.

The week features different workshops, a health expo, FREE access to the CRC and more! This week is a great time to learn more about health and well-being on campus while also connecting with your coworkers! For more information about this week-long event go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/wellbeing-week.

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The week invites first-years, new transfers, and new graduate students to become acquainted with campus, their peers, and Atlanta the week before classes start with the goal of a stress-free transition to college. First-year students begin to move into campus residence halls on Friday, August 12, with new transfers and new graduates moving in on August 13, and 15 – 20. 

Week of Welcome kicks off on Sunday, August 14 at Rock, Ramble, and Roll, a large outdoor kick-off dinner event full of food and fun after move-in. This will be the first official event held in the new Student Center when it reopens in the Fall after two years of renovations. The event is a partnership between Student & Campus Events Centers, Student Center Programs Council (SCPC), and Tech Dining. 

From August 15 to 20 new students will have the opportunity to participate in workshops, events, and outings organized by the campus community. Departments, colleges, campus offices, and student organizations are invited to host engaging, and informative workshops during business hours to help share information with the new students. Workshops can be informative about the work that an office or organization does on campus or about particular topics of interest to students. 

“Week of Welcome was an amazing, stress-free way for me to transition to college and become familiar with campus, my peers, and Atlanta,” says Jeffrey Kramer, SCPC’s 2022 Week of Welcome Committee Chair. “From the moment I set foot on campus, I felt like I was a part of the amazing Georgia Tech community. Week of Welcome inspired me to join SCPC and get involved, and now I have the incredible opportunity to help organize it for future students.” 

Student organizations and groups are not the only people who can plan and implement workshops for new students during Week of Welcome. Faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in workshop offerings, as well.  

“The Georgia Tech Library hosted our historic Week of Welcome event, RATS Night, along with 7 other workshops and tours during the 2021 Week of Welcome,” said Public Programming & Community Engagement Librarian Catherine Manci. “We had over 1,300 students come to the Library for RATS Night alone. While pulling off these events took lots of coordination, the payoff was worth it to welcome students into our Library buildings and familiarize them with our services.” 

The Georgia Tech Library will once again be hosting its signature event for the week, RATS Night, for Recently Acquired Tech Students or RATS again this year.  

“Students are truly our top priority, and kicking off the year with an exciting Week of Welcome event like RATS Night set the tone for the semester,” said Leslie Sharp, Dean of Libraries. “While the Library is a focused academic space, it can also be a space of joy and community.” 

Afternoons and evenings during the week will be filled with social events for new students to engage with one another and get to know their community. GT Athletics’ House Party at Bobby Dodd, Taste of Tech Square, CRC’s RecFest, and other large signature events and small events are being planned for the nights that week to allow students variety in their experiences. 

If you are interested in planning an event or facilitating a workshop to help introduce our incoming students to life at Georgia Tech in August, fill out the Week of Welcome Program Submission Form by July 15, 2022. Events and workshops will be featured on the Week of Welcome Guide through the Georgia Tech Guidebook app that students download to attend FASET. 

For the latest about Week of Welcome as planning evolves, visit welcomehome.gatech.edu. For questions about Week of Welcome, please email Brett Hulst at hulst@gatech.edu or Carly Bloomingdale at carly@gatech.edu.

“Victims and survivors of sexual violence come from a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences, and identities. In order to effectively support them, we have to offer an array of options for them to reach out for assistance and support at Georgia Tech. This partnership with RAINN helps us expand beyond GTPD and other existing avenues for seeking help,” said Luoluo Hong, vice president for Student Engagement and Well-Being, who is herself a campus rape survivor. 

RAINN has a national reputation for its 24/7/365 hotline that is used by peer institutions as a university-branded service. RAINN volunteers responding to calls will identify themselves as representatives of the VOICE hotline. They receive extensive training in the areas of sexual violence, trauma, and crisis intervention. They also receive training about Georgia Tech and Atlanta-specific resources. If students need to access additional services such as transportation to a rape crisis center or police department, assistance with a time-sensitive academic accommodation, or resolution of safety concerns, RAINN will convey those needs to the VOICE Advocate. 

As part of Georgia Tech Health Initiatives, VOICE is a confidential resource, independent from law enforcement or the Title IX Office. During the summer of 2020, VOICE moved to enhance its system so that all students would feel safer and more comfortable accessing VOICE services.

VOICE will continue to provide the same services to students who experience any form of sexual violence, including sexual assault, sexual harassment, intimate partner violence, or stalking. Classmates, friends, family members, and others who support survivors can also reach out for services and information on how to help. 

VOICE commemorates Sexual Assault Awarness Month (SAAM) in April with Teal Ribbon Day today, April 14. All Yellow Jackets are invited to pick up a teal ribbon on Tech Green and wear it on April 14 in honor of all sexual violence victims and survivors.

For more information about Georgia Tech VOICE : https://voice.gatech.edu. To connect with a VOICE Advocate any time of day or night, call 404.894.9000.

The practice reopened last week with a new provider on staff, Dr. Brittany Buchanan, DDS. She received her dental degree from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in 2011 and joins the Tech Dentistry team from private practice. Dr. Buchanan is in-network with the Georgia Tech employee and student dental insurance and those enrolled in those plans. 

With the reopening, hours have been expanded to Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. To make an appointment, call 404-733-2022. For more information about Tech Dentistry, visit techdentistry.com. 

While Stamps Health Services primarily serves Georgia Tech students, other services are also open to the campus community. Pharmacy services and travel visits are available to the campus community. All members of the Tech community can get Covid-19 vaccination through the Covid vaccine clinics offered by Stamps at no cost. Flu vaccinations are available to employees through the Stamps Pharmacy with payment through an accepted insurance plan. For more information about the services for students, staff, and faculty, visit health.gatech.edu. 

Unlike last year, when spectators were not allowed, these events will likely increase the number of people and traffic in that area of campus. Participant drop-off will take place on Tech Parkway at the back entrance of the CRC, while spectators will enter through the main doors on Ferst Drive. The campus community should exercise extra caution when driving through this area and expect delays as Tech Parkway will be periodically closed for athlete arrival. 

During these meets, the McAuley Aquatic Center will be closed to patrons Feb. 3-5 (GHSA meet), Feb. 14-19 (ACC Championship meet), March 14-19 (NCAA Women’s meet), and March 21-26 (NCAA Men’s meet). The Crawford Leisure Pool will remain open with adjusted hours, which will be posted at crc.gatech.edu/aquatics.

Each swim meet is expected to run from 7:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. To accommodate the influx of swimmers and fans, Parking and Transportation Services will use the W10-CRC deck and the W2-Student Center decks for swim meet guests. 

Affected permit customers will receive emails with specific parking instructions for this event. For those who don’t need to park or drive in these areas, walking or taking campus transit is encouraged. The Georgia Tech Police Department will set up checkpoints and direct traffic to ease congestion.

Completed in 1995 to host the 1996 Summer Olympics swimming and diving competitions, the McAuley Aquatic Center in the CRC is considered one of the fastest pools in the world. The CRC hosts several swim meets throughout the year, keeping the Olympic spirit alive.

For CRC aquatics special events and closures, visit crc.gatech.edu/aquatics. For more information about parking and transportation changes, visit pts.gatech.edu.

1. Schedule a weekly walk with a co-worker or friend. Follow the Pi Mile course or learn more about the sculptures and history of campus through tours available on the Campus Map. 
2. Switch to an alternative commute one day per week. From regional bus service to riding your bike or MARTA, explore your transportation options with PTS's Commute Concierge and learn more about incentives for choosing a cleaner commute from Georgia Commute Options.  
3. Incorporate local, seasonal produce into your meals with the new Farm Share program, which delivers personalized boxes of produce and much more from Rise N Shine Farm to campus each week. 
4. Volunteer in your community. STAR (Students' Temporary Assistance and Resources) is a network of programs dedicated to connecting students with the resources that they need to thrive, and they need volunteers to participate in food recovery shifts, sponsor food collection events, or you can contact Steve Fazenbaker for help with facilitating a service project. 
5. Join one of Georgia Tech's seven Employee Resource Groups (ERG), organized around common dimensions of diversity. ERGs are designed to offer forums where like-minded employees can enhance their employment experiences. 
6. Try the CRC's recreational fitness classes. Discover classes that help develop strength, get you moving, or provide a time to release tension and focus on the breath. 
7. Conduct a meeting or class outside once per week; consider the EcoCommons and different gardens and green spaces throughout campus. 
8. Deepen your appreciation and understanding of the universe by attending a public night at the Georgia Tech Observatory. 
9. Learn more about the dimensions of well-being by participating in a workshop through Be Well, Georgia Tech’s Benefits Education and Wellness series, or exploring their library of past presentations. 
10. Join a Tapping Circle for Stress and Calm. Tapping Circles are offered weekly online. 
11. Make sure that your bike is ready to ride. Learn to repair and maintain your bike with Starter Bikes on Fridays from 4 - 7 p.m. or bring it to Aztec Cycles at the Community Market on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
12. Go meatless one day a week and prioritize seasonal produce; use the Nutrislice app to explore Dining's daily vegetarian options and explore recipes from Health Initiatives. 
13. Watch a two-minute video to learn about office recycling through the AWARE (Actively Working to Achieve Resource Efficiency) program and empty your desk-side containers each afternoon. 
14. Each day, walk or ride to one place that you would normally drive. Consider using a Relay Bike for a meeting across campus. 
15. Try 3-5 minutes of meditation each day. Browse the Counseling Center's list of free podcasts and apps for options. 
16. Try a new adventure outdoors. ORGT (Outdoor Recreation Georgia Tech) rents camping and boating equipment to the Georgia Tech community. 
17. Explore learning opportunities through the Campus Learning Directory and participate in a program, event, or activity that excites or inspires you. 
18. Connect with co-workers each week at $5 Friday in North Ave and Brittain Dining Halls, where employees can enjoy a reduced door rate of $5 for lunch. Open to faculty and staff using Faculty/Staff Dining Dollars. 
19. Identify your personal strengths and opportunities as a people leader with PLAT (People Leader Assessment Tool). PLAT provides a personalized learning roadmap, which serves as a year-long professional development plan. 
20. Create a self-care plan and schedule the time into your week. Consider a yoga class, walk, or schedule a massage therapy session at the CRC.
21. Write a letter of support to a fellow Yellow Jacket. Each week until Feb. 15, Georgia Tech Arts will be partnering with a different group on campus to uplift our community through a campus-wide letter-writing campaign. 
22. Commit to volunteering to support fellow Yellow Jackets this semester. Whether it's through Commencement, Move-In, Week of Welcome, or events like Midnight Breakfast, find a way to engage with the campus community.

Improving Housing’s Campus Footprint 

Housing and Residence Life has the largest carbon footprint of any Campus Services division and therefore has the biggest opportunity to make an impact. Efforts to retro-commission older buildings to improve their efficiency and indoor air quality, and long-term plans in the new Housing Master Plan will ensure that a sustainability lens is used when looking for improvements to current buildings and future development. 

Several residence halls now have options for composting, with plans to expand the program. Residents are encouraged to consider their utility consumption through energy competitions and a peer-to-peer educational program called the EcoReps that trains RAs on sustainability topics to inform their residents through programming. Learn more about Sustainability in the Halls here. 

Sustainability through Well-Being 

"Good health and well-being" was one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations in 2015. The Center for Assessment, Referral, and Education (CARE) offers programming that promotes mental health and well-being and provides practical skills and resources that support sustainability. The CARE Student Ambassador program allows students to partner with CARE to increase the utilization of mental health and well-being resources on and off-campus. The program amplifies students’ voices in reducing mental health stigma on campus and promoting help-seeking behaviors among peers. CARE Ambassadors create outreach events for the Tech community. 

Coffee with CARE is a drop-in opportunity for students to learn about campus and community resources and ask questions in a non-clinical setting. This outreach focuses specifically on Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities to help reduce barriers to access to mental health resources for traditionally marginalized groups. Events are hosted throughout the school year on a variety of topics. 

Learn more about CARE’s offerings at care.gatech.edu.  

Sustainability Opportunities in Dining’s New Operation 

Georgia Tech’s new in-house dining program began in July of this year. Tech Dining’s operation presented new opportunities to prioritize sustainability. The department has committed to sustainability by hiring a sustainability specialist and student employees to support the implementation and growth of its sustainability program across campus. 

Tech Dining prioritizes local, sustainable, and ethical purchasing whenever possible, supporting the local economy and community farmers while increasing the availability of fresh, nutrient-dense produce across campus. Additionally, they work to purchase compostable to-go wares and cutlery as much as possible and seek to identify recyclable alternatives when necessary. Dining also manages institution-wide composting collections at the Exhibition Hall, Brittain and North Avenue Dining Halls, and West Village. 

Through regular sustainability tabling at the Community Market, Tech Dining’s local, ethical, and plant-forward offerings are highlighted and often sampled, during regular sustainability tabling at the Community Market. This approach allows students to learn about Tech Dining’s sustainability practices while exploring opportunities to incorporate sustainable habits into their own lives.

Learn more about Tech Dining’s sustainability operations at dining.gatech.edu/sustainability-dining.

Serving Students Sustainably 

The Students’ Temporary Assistance and Resources (STAR) program provides stability for students to pursue a fulfilling college experience. The program collaborates across campus to support students and increase campus awareness of its resources. Klemis Kitchen is an initiative that serves as a food pantry for Georgia Tech students with dietary needs and financial concerns that limit their access to proper nourishment. Tech Dining provides regular donations to Klemis Kitchen, thereby directly increasing the accessibility of fresh, wholesome meals to students who are experiencing food insecurity. 

Campus Closet is another initiative that lends appropriate clothing to students who are prospective hires without proper business attire. Learn more about the STAR program at studentlife.gatech.edu/content/star-services. 

Options for Commuters and Planning for Transit’s Future 

Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) has implemented and planned several initiatives to increase energy efficiency and reduce Tech’s impact on greenhouse gasses. Through updating the existing infrastructure with more efficient LED lighting, energy costs have been reduced by up to 80%. When campus transit brings its new fleet to campus, a portion of the new transit fleet is expected to be hybrid electric.

PTS primarily uses virtual permitting without a physical hangtag, is considering all-electric options for parking enforcement vehicles, and allows campus commuters flexible options to support teleworking and alternative work schedules. Alternative commute programs, like Commute Concierge, help the campus plan different ways to get to and around campus by encouraging biking, walking, transit use, carpooling, and ridesharing. 

Click here for more information about PTS’s sustainability initiatives.  

Encouraging Active Transportation 

Move Georgia Tech is a new initiative from Campus Services seeking to encourage the campus community to choose “active,” or human-powered transportation for traveling to, from, and around campus. By choosing active transportation, the initiative hopes to connect the community through an increased sense of well-being and belonging. Learn more about Move Georgia Tech at crc.gatech.edu/move  

Green Goodbyes 

Through a partnership between Housing and Residence Life, the Students’ Temporary Assistance and Resources (STAR) program, and the Office of Campus Sustainability, materials donations drives are held around move-out to ensure that residents can donate the reusable clothing, food, and household goods they no longer need instead of throwing them away. These items are then donated to local charities or given back to the student community before the fall semester. Learn more about Green Goodbyes here. 

Sustainability Alignment with the Campus Center Project  

The Campus Center project has been an important opportunity for the Student and Campus Event Centers team to realign sustainability efforts throughout their portfolio of buildings and services. As each of their facilities is built or renovated, the design-build team focuses on meeting ASHRAE standards by opting for a low-finish design that uses fewer materials, outdoor elements that support natural water management, and flexibility of program so that facilities can fulfill multiple needs to maximize space-efficiency.  

Waste and recycling practices are also being standardized across the portfolio to ensure that the composting or waste sorting experience is consistent and optimized in all of their buildings. As the project concludes this summer with the completion of the Student Center's transformation, the community can expect to see more examples of sustainable practice in action. 

Savings at the Bookstore 

Barnes & Noble @ Georgia Tech has made efforts to improve energy savings in the bookstore and paper savings for students. The lighting has been replaced with high-efficiency bulbs to reduce energy consumption. More ebooks and digital course materials were provided than in previous years, reducing the need for paper to produce the materials. The Bookstore is also saving water bottles in two ways, by implementing touchless water filling stations and providing graduation regalia that is made from recycled water bottles.  

Upgrades at the CRC 

The Campus Recreation Center has undergone and is planning future upgrades to the facility to support its sustainability goals. Lighting in the Fitness Center, Basketball Courts, and the Leisure Pool were converted to LED in 2017 with plans to convert the Competition Pool and Stamps Recreation Fields in the future. All program waivers and transactions for patrons have gone digital. Stamps Recreation Fields is a rainwater infiltration area that allows 44,500 cubic feet of water to be gradually released into the ground, recharging the basin’s groundwater system. 

To support sustainable transportation, the CRC launch the Commuter Shower Pass to expand access to showers on campus for active commuters. Learn more about the CRC’s sustainability efforts here. 

FASET Goes Green 

New Student and Transition Programs (NSTP) has made an effort to go digital with FASET schedules since 2019. Before Covid-19, approximately eight thousand schedules were printed for FASET. Other programming for FASET, like resource fairs and information sessions, also went digital due to the pandemic. NSTP is evaluating the shift to digital resources and programming as they plan to support new students in the coming year. 

This module began as a student-led initiative, spearheaded by Georgia Tech's Mental Health Network (MHN) in July 2020. The MHN, formed in November 2019, is an ad hoc committee in the Student Government Association dedicated to convening all student leaders and Tech administration in the well-being space for collaboration and advocacy. After launching a social media campaign to require this module for the entire University System of Georgia (USG), the Mental Health Network's chair, Charlie Wood, was able to meet with Dr. Chip Reese from USG's Mental Health Task Force, who lent his support and advice to initiate a pilot program at Georgia Tech. Following these meetings, MHN and Georgia Tech formed a successful partnership with EverFi. MHN hopes that this pilot program inspires a mental health education requirement for all schools in the university system.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five teens and young adults live with a mental health condition, and three quarters develop one by age 24. Mental Well-being for Students equips first-year students with essential skills and information to navigate the stressors and emotional challenges associated with college life. The 45-minute online course starts with short videos introducing how college life can present unique obstacles to well-being. It will teach students enhanced strategies for self-care and allow them to practice techniques for bolstering their mental health. 

The module will also instruct students on identifying when outside help may be needed, as well as exploring mental health stigmas and other barriers to seeking help. This course aims to help students practice self-care strategies, recognize when they or their peers are in distress, and take action to find additional support. Georgia Tech is excited to offer this online module as part of comprehensive health and well-being programming designed to empower students and promote the safety, health, and well-being of our community.  

Contact the Office of Health Initiatives at onlinehealthprogram@gatech.edu if you have any questions or concerns.

Students, if you are experiencing signs and symptoms of any mental health concerns, please visit care.gatech.edu or call (404) 894-3498 to schedule an appointment with a licensed counselor.  

“There is no better way to welcome our newest students than through a wide variety of events that reflect the diversity of our incoming student body,” said Runyi Wang, Student Center Program Council’s Week of Welcome Committee Chair. “We hope that incoming students will be able to find their community at Georgia Tech. By working closely with our campus partners, we are excited to offer events that cater to students’ varying interests and needs to do exactly that.” 

The second annual Week of Welcome kicks off with first-year move-in on Saturday, August 14, and Sunday, August 15, with events and programming starting the night of August 15. Second-year, new transfer, and new graduate students are invited to move in on Wednesday, August 18, with remaining upper-class residents moving in August 20 – 21. 

From August 16 – 22, students will have the opportunity to participate in workshops, events, and outings to help get acclimated to life at Georgia Tech. New programming will be offered for second-years, new transfers, and new graduate students beginning Thursday, August 19. 

Afternoons and evenings will be filled with opportunities for students to engage with one another and get to know their community. RATS Night at the Library, FASET Social, RecFest at the Campus Recreation Center, student organization fairs, Greek Recruitment, Grad Expo and Convocation, are some of the many events planned for the week.  

“I loved the experience of presenting workshops in 2020 and can't wait to do it again this year,” said Bryan Gomez, Residence Hall Association President. “As upper-class students, we sometimes forget how much we know about this campus and how much we have to share with the incoming class. Week of Welcome is the perfect time to share the experiences you've gathered over your semesters here, calm a few nerves, and excite the next group of Yellow Jackets about all that there is to offer here at Tech!”  

Departments, colleges, campus offices, and student organizations are invited to host engaging and informative workshops to help share information with students. Programming will be featured on the event schedule in Guidebook. 

Dr. Chris Reaves, Executive Director of the Center for Academic Enrichment and Director of the Undergraduate Research Opportunities & Student Innovation Programs held a workshop during Week of Welcome last year that was so well-attended it was offered multiple times throughout the week. 

“Week of Welcome was a great way to kick off the fall semester. We had 680 students attend the workshops we offered in the Office of Undergraduate Education. Though mostly virtual, the week was a wonderful way to welcome our students back to campus after being mostly away from Tech for five months.” 

To follow along as Week of Welcome planning evolves, visit welcomehome.gatech.edu. 

Plan Programming for Week of Welcome 

If your office, department, or organization would like to create events and workshops to welcome our incoming first-year, second-year, and transfer students, fill out the Week of Welcome Interest Form by July 6. Programming will be featured on the event schedule in Guidebook. 

For organizations that want to plan an event for incoming students during Week of Welcome but are unsure about how to proceed, email weekofwelcome@gatech.edu. 

Volunteer to Help with First-Year and Upper-Class Move-In

Housing and Residence Life invites campus partners and student organizations to sign up to help students and their families move into their residence hall communities for first-year move in August 14 and 15, second-year, new transfer, new graduate move-in on August 18, and upper-class move-in August 20-21. 

Students, faculty, and staff who are interested in volunteering can sign up through the Volunteer Interest Form. 

Student organization volunteers for move-in who will live on-campus this fall have an opportunity to move in early on August 13. Interested organizations should complete the Student Org Move-In Volunteer form by June 20. 

Health and safety precautions will be stringent and heavily enforced. Most of the additional safety measures will only affect meet participants, but Yellow Jackets planning to use the facility next week should be aware that:

• No spectators will be allowed. The stands in the McAuley Aquatic Center where spectators typically would sit will be used for spacing out participants awaiting their events.
• Masks must be worn at all times by participants and coaches. The only time masks may be removed is to enter the water for warmup, competition, or warmdown. Failure to comply will result in ejection from the meet for that athlete and possibly their team.
• Participating teams will have timed arrivals to space out the number of people in the building.
• Temperature and symptom checks will be performed for every GHSA participant an hour prior to their arrival.
• Aquatic Center locker rooms will be for GHSA participant use only during the meet.
• There will be signage around the CRC entrance to guide participants to their designated areas and remind them about mask wearing and other rules.

Beyond the safety protocols inside the CRC, the impact of the event to campus will be limited. Participant dropoff will take place to the north along Ferst Drive in the parking spaces on the west side of the street. The campus community should exercise extra caution when driving through this area.

While in-person spectatorship will not be allowed, live coverage will be accessible on the GHSA website.

Edwards was first hired in 1992 by former Georgia Tech President John Crecine to help prepare campus for the 1996 Olympics. President Wayne Clough hired him to deliver cutting-edge programming at the newly built CRC, one of the very facilities Michael had worked to complete for the Olympics previously.     

Putting Georgia Tech Campus Recreation on the Map

As early as 2000, Michael recalls writing notes about campus well-being and sketching out ideas – many of which are recognizable in how the CRC operates today. As the facility transitioned to Georgia Tech’s portfolio, Michael’s ideas and passion were critical to the Center’s establishment as more than building, but a place for all dimensions of wellness to be activated. That said, his efforts also ensured that the new recreation center was a word class facility, including solar paneling and the first ceiling of its kind built above the Olympic swimming pool used in the games.

Knowing there was a connection between health, well-being and student success, he collected data that demonstrates a link between higher GPAs and students’ regular fitness at the CRC.With complete confidence and little room for anyone to challenge years’ worth of data, he built the case for further investment in the CRC and eventually built a twelve-million dollar endowment that allowed significant improvements in services without corresponding increases in student fees. He has been a strong proponent for dadding experiences and updating facilities based on user experience data, not merely the latest industry trend.

President Wayne Clough reflected, “There is no doubt in my mind that the CRC, under his leadership, was a significant factor in demonstrating Georgia Tech really cared about students and their well-being.”  He recalled, “When I first arrived at Georgia Tech the Princeton Review regularly trashed us in their reviews, and with some cause. The tide turned when the CRC opened.”

Expanding CRC impact

Throughout his career, Michael encouraged expanding boundaries. Michael continuously challenged his team of professionals and students to foster further connections between their work, campus well-being, academic and personal success for students, and Georgia Tech’s strategic plan. 

“Opportunities for students that complemented [student] education were front and center in his mind.  The magnitude of his impact is enormous” says Larry Jacobs, interim Dean and Professor with the College of Engineering. Jacobs lauds Edwards for having the vision to partner with a diverse range of people and departments across campus. “Tech students graduate with a balance of intellectual, leadership and emotional skills that’s unmatched at our peer institutions.  This balance has been enhanced and enriched by all that Michael Edwards has done for Georgia Tech.”   

Michael drives his team of professionals at the CRC to ask questions like, “how do we make the CRC a place that turns out better engineers?”  This empowerment of his team to take the idea of campus recreation beyond fitness has led to several notable outcomes:

• The Georgia Tech Community has access to world-class workout facilities 115 hours per week (in a conventional year).
• Sport clubs and intramurals are inextricably linked to learning and leadership on campus.
• Outdoor Rec @Georgia Tech (ORGT) is among the most comprehensive outdoor programs nationally, having facilitated thousands of adventure trips including student-led expeditions to all seven continents.
• The CRC is the largest student employer on campus, where job skill development complements their academic training.
• In partnership with the Student Government Association (SGA) the Stamps Recreation Fields were established.
• The Princeton Review regularly ranks the CRC among the top campus recreation facilities in the country, even naming it #1 in 2014.

Leaving a Legacy

As Edwards’ reflects on his career with Georgia Tech, he takes pride in the progress of those who have served with the CRC professional and student team.  Seeing them thrive after departing the CRC team, knowing that the CRC prepared them with skills and perspectives to flourish in future roles is perhaps the greatest demonstration of his leadership and impact.

As a student, Ahsan Khan (AE ’13), chaired the CRC Advisory Board and served as President of ORGT.  He remembers Michael working “tirelessly to improve the lives of every student and member of the Tech community … His impact on the entire community during his tenure at Georgia Tech, as well as his direct impact on my life and career, are a legacy that will extend beyond his years of incredible service.” Ahsan, now in his second year of medical school, can tie every step of his career journey back to experiences with the CRC.

What will Michael Edwards miss most? According to him, he’ll miss walking through the CRC in the early evening and seeing the building humming with activity – classrooms 100% full, every racquetball court and exercise machine in use, every lane in the pool supporting swimming and diving and kayaking roll schools, intramural fields packed, and facilities like the indoor running track and the fitness floor filled to capacity.

He takes pleasure in knowing he has influenced health and well-being on campus in what he calls a “relatively small way”. The team at the CRC, and indeed all of Georgia Tech, will be forever grateful for it.

Additional Testimonials:  
Michael Edwards’ Impacts at the CRC, Georgia Tech, and Beyond

From His Team:

“There’s nothing outlandish about a claim that Michael Edwards has had meaningful impact on every student, faculty member and staff person who has been part of the Tech community in the last twenty-eight years. While Michael’s preference is that his success be measured in terms of positive impact on students, other measures can’t be overlooked: 28 years of service; direct impact on 500,000+ individual faculty, staff, and students; lasting change to the campus’ identity; and enduring influence on an entire industry.Thanks, Michael Edwards, for caring about the health and well-being of Georgia Tech students, faculty and staff. You will be missed, but your legacy will endure.”
David Knobbe, CRC
 

From Campus Leaders:

“The CRC is the cornerstone of physical wellness at Tech, and Michael’s steady leadership and management of his dedicated staff is a big reason why it has been so successful. He has collaborated closely with students to be sure the CRC experience is up on par with expectations.”
James Black, Assistant Director of Strategic Initiatives and Graduate Life, who was the President of the Graduate Student Senate

“He has helped shape the way we view health and well-being on our campus and helped to provide outstanding opportunities for our students, faculty and staff that range from personal fitness to outdoor experiences.  Under his direction and leadership, the CRC continues to be one of the finest facilities of its kind in the country and one that has played a meaningful role in the life of our campus.”
President Bud Peterson

From Industry Leaders:

As part of multiple professional associations (NIRSA, ACC, AORE, and Athletic Business, etc.) and as a board member and frequent presenter at conferences, Michael pushed his perspective on the role of campus recreation to the entire industry.  His peers had this to say about his impact on the industry nationally:

• Tim Mertz, formerly with MIT, describes Michael as “one of the most progressive and forward-thinking leaders” in campus recreation.  “He was never satisfied with the status quo and continually aspired to push the envelope of what was possible.” 
• Chris Wise, VP of Student Affairs at Virginia Tech, observes that under his leadership, “Georgia Tech was always out front in revenue generation, technology enhancements, facility design and operations, etc.”  He credits a summit Michael hosted at Georgia Tech in 2016 that led to campus recreation departments across the country taking a more comprehensive look at student well-being and how recreation programs could be more than just a leader in promoting physical health.  They had a significant role in promoting mental health and well-being, too.  “Michael was never about putting himself out there as a national leader, but he certainly was in many circles!”
• David Bowles from the University of Florida added, “Contemporaries like me became better professionals by examining his success at Georgia Tech.”

But you can prepare for the challenges of finals week this year by following these tips:

Plan in advance

We all know finals are going to look different this semester. Minimize some of the additional stress of doing finals remotely by preparing for these changes in advance and not waiting to the last minute to begin studying.

Schedule breaks

Our brains are incredible, but they still need a break from time to time. As you plan your study sessions, be sure to include breaks. Taking a step back can help you relieve stress and better retain information.

Listen to your body

When we become preoccupied, it can be easy to forget to fulfill our most basic needs. During this time, it’s important to listen to our bodies and address our needs. You can do this by using the HALT method:

• H: Are you hungry? If the answer is yes, grab a snack or sit down for a meal to help relieve any distractions or frustrated feelings you may have. Eating regular meals can also help you feel more energized, improve your mood, and increase your concentration. 
• ​A: Are you angry? If the answer is yes, identify why and ways you can address it. Take a step back and allow yourself time to process your emotions.
• L: Are you lonely? Being lonely doesn’t necessarily mean you’re alone. Even if you’re around other people, you can still feel distant, isolated, withdrawn, or disconnected. If you experience any of these emotions, it may be time to ​message a friend, call a parent or family member, or have a conversation about what you’re going through with someone you trust. 
• T: Are you tired? Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. If so, it may be time to take a break, do a quick meditation, stretch, lie down,​ spend a moment outside, or simply close your eyes and take a deep breath.

Avoid comparing stress levels

Stress feeds off of stress, especially around finals. During this time, it is common for people to talk about how little sleep they’re getting, among other sacrifices. Instead of comparing how much additional stress you’ve taken on in the name of finals, work to prioritize self-care as a part of your finals plan and encourage others to do the same. 

Ask for help

Asking for help can be difficult, even when we need it. It’s important to remember, however, that your friends, family, peers, and professors all want you to succeed. ​We suggest reaching out before finals to establish that line of support​. You can also reach out to the Center for Assessment, Referral, and Education (CARE) for resources to help you get through end of the semester stress.

In the last decade alone, ORGT has engaged 14,000 students on 1,400 regional adventures and filled 1,200 spaces on 116 student-led expeditions to 22 countries. ORGT expeditions have even taken students to each of the seven continents.  

In 1970, Jay Wickson, Student Center recreation coordinator and an outdoor enthusiast, purchased a small amount of outdoor gear and provided a closet in which to store it. Shortly thereafter, Wickson left Georgia Tech and responsibility for that closet full of gear and for outdoor activities was transferred to Miller Templeton, assistant dean of students.

In the early days, there was little to suggest that the cache of gear in the Student Center would be the start of something big. Since then, however, ORGT has become one of the premier campus outdoor programs in the nation. Despite lacking a name, the fledgling organization grew and steadily attracted more and more committed students, many of whom happily signed on as long-term volunteers and enthusiastically trained as trip leaders.

Unaware of copyright law and the existing program in the United Kingdom called “Outward Bound,” students adopted the name Outward Bound Georgia Tech (OBGT). Soon after labeling their equipment with the new acronym, OBGT, the organization received a “cease and desist” letter from Outward Bound International, demanding they stop using the name. The students had to come up with another name and unfortunately, every piece of equipment had been labeled OBGT. Being adept at problem-solving, they grabbed steel wool scouring pads, scrubbed off the bottom of the letter “B” which left an “R” where the “B” had been. OBGT became ORGT and Outward Bound Georgia Tech became Outdoor Recreation Georgia Tech.

From that point forward, ORGT continued to thrive as a student favorite for weekend trips and weekly kayaking roll schools, first in the Student Activities Center pool, and later in the Campus Recreation Center (CRC) pool.

Under Templeton’s direction, ORGT adopted what they called the “SST” model. It established the three priorities of Safety, Structure, and Training as foundations for the organization. Volunteer leaders embraced these pillars and continued to build the organization, engage more students, and to push boundaries in the field. The SST model made a splash with campus programs when presented at several national conferences in subsequent years. 

In the late 1970s, as ORGT grew quickly, only Georgia Tech staff could drive Institute vehicles. In order to serve more students, volunteer trip leaders needed to be able to drive Institute vehicles. Students worked with Templeton to submit a formal proposal to the state-level risk manager, which was not only rejected but also accompanied by an order to stop “inherently dangerous” outdoor activities. ORGT offerings ground to a halt.  

The ORGT students took their case to Tech President Joseph Pettit who sided with them, laying out the case for why outdoor recreation was vital for students. Not only were students granted permission to drive Institute vehicles, but the University System of Georgia's Board of Regents, impressed with the scope and impact of the outdoor program at Georgia Tech, encouraged the expansion of activities like those offered through ORGT.  

Through the years, it became clear that being an ORGT volunteer was a powerful complement to a Georgia Tech education. Getting off campus and immersing in the out of doors had health benefits for participants, too. The language of the organization changed from solely being about outdoor activities to being about building leadership-related skills like coaching, teaching, managing risk, leading effectively, planning and preparation, and problem-solving.   

ORGT Today

ORGT has grown through the years and continues to offer formative experiences for Tech students. Even during a global pandemic, ORGT volunteers are busy training to lead their next adventures in adventure sports — caving, climbing, cascading, backpacking, sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking, bike-packing, and mountain biking. ORGT recently added a ninth sport, Mindfulness Outdoors, which engages students in the outdoors in a unique and restorative manner. ORGT has fully embraced its role in well-being, healthy lifestyles, and promoting positive mental health on campus. 

Fifty years after its founding, ORGT continues to profoundly impact students. While travels in the last decade have taken students around the globe, and outdoor recreation experiences impacted 5,000 individuals in the year before Covid-19, ORGT’s success is the product of 50 years’ worth of effort and generosity by thousands of student volunteers and alumni who have invested significantly in creating healthy opportunities for other Tech students.

These excursions – paddling, hiking, climbing, caving -- add value to the Tech experiences of so many.  

ORGT currently rents camping gear, is leading self-directed day and overnight adventures, operate the CRC climbing wall, and the GT Leadership Challenge Course, and offers a variety of specialty adventures. Visit crc.gatech.edu to learn more.

Special Recognition

This month, Campus Recreation recognizes generations of ORGT volunteers for inspiring others, for working tirelessly to plan and manage trips, and for making campus life at Tech just a little richer. Current ORGT volunteers and participants stand on the achievements and contributions of the earliest student volunteers.

Miller Templeton can name a thousand “giants” from the early days: Bobby Gaar (ME c.1972), David Flanagan (IE c.1976), Bruce Cox (Architecture c.1972), and Clint Thompson (ME c.76). 

David Knobbe, current assistant director of Outdoor Recreation at the CRC, recognizes John Traendly (ME ’68), Ahsan Khan (AE ‘14), Austin Ward (ECE ’13), Sid Agarwal (AE ’13), Erin Hayward (Ph.D. NE ‘12), Rob Hayward (Ph.D. NE ‘12), Rebecca Morrissey (Bio ‘18), Shawn Gregory (Ph.D. MS In progress), and Mark Jones (EE Ph.D. ’94). Thousands more have contributed to ORGT over the last fifty years in both big and small ways. 

John Traendly (ME ’68) still consistently out-paddles students a quarter of his age – every single one of them! Since 2012, he has led more than 100 sea kayaking and stand up paddleboarding day trips, overnights, and expeditions with ORGT. Not only is John likely the most prolific ORGT trip leader of all time, but we’re still waiting for the student who can match his prowess. 

David Flanagan (IE ’76) was one of the original ORGT students and established an endowment early in the 2000’s supporting ORGT’s pursuit of “the extraordinary.” Since then, every individual who has participated in an ORGT-led expedition to places like Alaska, Montana, Iceland, Corsica, Croatia, Nepal, Ecuador, and one-hundred other locations, in part owes part of their experience to David Flanagan. Thanks to David’s investment and vision, over 1,200 students have caught glimpses of other ways of living both domestically and abroad that chip away at narrow-mindedness and build better leaders.

Clint Thompson (ME’76) continues to support culture-building efforts. Not only does he make quarterly awards dinners possible for current “ORGTeers,” but he attends and sometimes tells stories at these important events.

Michael Edwards, current senior director of the CRC, has been an important advocate for and supporter of ORGT. As early as 1994, when part of Capital Planning and Space Management at Tech, Edwards worked with students to build ORGT’s first climbing wall in the O’Keefe Gym. In 2010, he spurred an explosive expansion when he asked full-time ORGT staff David Knobbe and Matt Marcus two questions — “If what you do is so important to health and well-being, why don’t we do more of it?” and “What’s stopping us from leading expeditions on all seven continents in the next seven years?” By 2018, ORGT was able to claim to have visited all seven continents in seven years and to have led over 100 one to two-week expeditions. In 2019 alone, ORGT had 243 active volunteers and over 180 day and weekend trips engaging almost 2,000 students.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the creation, sustainability, and future of ORGT. Here's to fifty more years.

Cases of Covid-19 have risen slightly in the past week, both on campus and in the greater community. Dr. Ben Holton, senior director of Stamps Health Services, indicates a few reasons why that may be.

“The pattern we’re seeing as we do contact tracing is that people seem to have others in their friend group — roommates, suitemates, or close friends — who are also testing positive,” Holton said. “Transmission seems to be occurring in smaller friend groups as opposed to large gatherings or random exposures.”

With the weather turning cooler, people are spending more time indoors, and some may be less diligent about measures such as mask wearing and social distancing in comfortable settings.

“Even with small friend groups, you need to wear masks when around others and maintain social distance,” Holton said.

When spending time indoors, Holton recommends finding larger spaces with good ventilation where you can spread out and make sure there is appropriate physical distancing. Activities that require a lot of talking or singing are higher risk — as are places where people may have to speak more loudly or be closer to one another to hear each other, such as in a restaurant.

Transmission can also be prevented by limiting interactions in the community in high risk settings, such as in bars, restaurants, and large gatherings. Holton indicated that Georgia Tech may be seen as a bubble, but it’s a porous bubble. Students, faculty, and staff also live and interact off campus.

Prevention After Infection

Additionally, Holton said they are seeing some people who have had Covid-19 no longer taking precautions. Even if they may not be at risk for reinfection right away, taking precautions for those around them is still important.

“It doesn’t help the community effort to see people not wearing masks, not distancing,” Holton said.

For those who have tested positive for Covid-19 and since recovered, the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendation is that they not be retested for three months following the initial infection if they remain asymptomatic. Should they develop new symptoms, though, they should seek care and be retested. And, after three months, they should begin testing again at Tech’s asymptomatic surveillance testing sites.

Preparing for the Flu

As Covid-19 cases rise, flu season is also setting in. Two more large flu clinics will take place next week, Oct. 28 and 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at McCamish Pavilion. All students, faculty, and staff are invited to stop in to get their flu shot.

Aside from receiving a flu shot, prevention for the flu and Covid-19 is similar: maintain distance from others, wash your hands, wear a mask to prevent transmission, and don’t go out if you don’t feel well.

“You can’t distinguish a cold or flu from Covid-19,” Holton said. Students with any kind of symptoms should seek care and get tested for Covid-19 at Stamps Health Services. Those without symptoms should continue weekly asymptomatic surveillance testing at locations across campus.

For more information about prevention, the CDC offers guidelines for both Covid-19 and seasonal flu.

The challenge gives participants an opportunity to set up teams, encourage each other to ride, and win prizes for their mileage. Last year, a Georgia Tech team won the citywide challenge.

It’s also a chance to learn about or get reacquainted with on-campus cycling resources. That includes a Ride Smart class offered by the Georgia Tech Police Department, Campus Recreation, and Parking and Transportation Services, which is now available online. The 12-minute course highlights bicycle and scooter safety and can be accessed via the Bike Georgia Tech website. At the end of the video, class participants will be directed to complete a short quiz, which will make them eligible to receive a free helmet. The Atlanta Bicycle Coalition is also offering virtual classes during the pandemic.

This month, Starter Bikes will host a bike tear-down event on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the group’s storage area in the Campus Recreation Center parking deck. Volunteers are sought to help break down bikes for reuse and recycling . The event will help keep frames and parts out of landfills, and allow them to be used in new bike builds someday. Volunteers will be spread out, are required to wear masks, and are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Those interested can email bike.gt@gatech.edu.

Georgia Tech’s campus continues to become more bike friendly each year — with validation from the Bicycle Friendly University program, which gave Tech a gold rating in 2016. Tech now has indoor bicycle parking in multiple buildings, bike paths encircling and crisscrossing campus, and several stations of the citywide Relay Bike Share program. Construction projects continue to improve the riding experience — right now, a project at Ferst Drive and Sixth Street is providing better connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians to West Campus housing.

To learn more about campus bicycling resources, including maps and other information, visit bike.hwb.gatech.edu.

"Tech Ends Suicide Together is happy to host Georgia Tech's second Suicide Prevention Week,” said Julia Rizzo, suicide prevention and crisis response coordinator for the Counseling Center. “The past several months have been particularly challenging for many individuals and the Georgia Tech community. We hope that the events during this week will help students, staff, and faculty join together to connect, learn, share, and heal without experiencing virtual event burnout."  

In addition to the online events, there will be other virtual opportunities for participation. Georgia Tech Arts will host an online mural space for students to creatively express their feelings or offer messages of hope throughout Suicide Prevention Week. Health Initiaitves will host a Social Media Takeover, allowing people to share their stories online. By using the hashtags #GTsuicideprevention and #TechEndsSuicide, everyone has the opportunity to share why mental health is important to them. 

The entire Tech community is encouraged to attend the virtual events and participate in the social media takeover to gain more awareness and become a positive force in the lives of others. More details on the week’s events can be found below.

Invited Speaker: Jordan Burnham

Tuesday, Sept. 22

7 – 8 p.m.

Listen in as Jordan Burnham, a nationally recognized mental health advocate, shares his own mental health journey. His presentation is meant to inspire, educate, and let others know they’re not alone. Click here to attend. 

QPR Trainings

Monday, Sept. 21

9 – 11 a.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 23

Noon – 2 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 24
10 a.m. – noon

QPR is designed to help people learn how to recognize the warning signs of suicide, offer hope, and help save lives. Participants will learn how to intervene with an individual at risk, persuade them to get help, and guide them to the appropriate resources. The two-hour QPR training at Georgia Tech includes an hour of instruction, followed by role play exercises and time for questions and discussion. Register here.   

Georgia Tech Student Mural 

Ongoing throughout the week

In collaboration with Georgia Tech Arts, the Georgia Tech Student Mural will give students the opportunity to visually express themselves. In an effort to destigmatize discussing mental health, participants are encouraged to use the mural space to express their feelings and share their healing journey. To access the mural, please click here.

Related Links:

endsuicide.gatech.edu 

August 8 through 16 was to be the first to see students move in a week earlier than in years previous, allowing students to build greater familiarity with the campus and a stronger sense of community with a full week of programming and events before classes begin. Now those extra days are proving critical for spacing out the move-in process and adapting other traditionally high-volume activities to maintain social distance.

Following move-in on August 8 and 9, the week will include virtual and in-person workshops and events from FASET, Campus Services, Student Engagement, and other campus partners to introduce students to resources and traditions while building community.

Despite the absence of large scale and in-person events like the involvement fairs and spirit festivals typically associated with weeks of welcome, the team of departments has still found ways for students to get to know their hallmates, the campus, and the resources available to them.

“Given the new campus partner collaboration for programming, Week of Welcome was already going to be a big shift from previous move-in experiences,” said new Housing Executive Director Jenny Cotton. “The need to adjust our plans for safety is even more possible within this new model. Our partners are working to find creative ways to still provide as rich and robust of an experience as these distanced times allow.”

Many in-person programs will be self-guided or in small groups that will allow students the flexibility to go at their own pace, while other elements will be virtual to limit contact. Plans for large events that can be done at a social distance, such as an outdoor movie screening, are being carefully worked out. In recognition of the still-evolving state of campus operations during the pandemic, organizers note that many aspects of the week are still subject to change in the interest of the safety of the campus community.

“We’ve learned through our on-campus resident surveys that some students are craving more connection and community building and need more time to engage with resources to support their time at Georgia Tech,” said Associate Vice President for Campus Services Kasey Helton. “With an opportunity to interact with all of our on-campus services both in person and virtually, participate in job and student organization fairs, learn campus traditions, and interact with their peers and support systems all before classes begin, we believe first-years will have a stronger foundation to set themselves up for academic success.”

Learn more about Week of Welcome at welcomehome.gatech.edu.

Get Involved with Week of Welcome

If you are interested in offering a virtual or in-person open-house, information session, or event during the Week of Welcome, or are interested in volunteering for first-year move-in August 8 and 9, please fill out this form or email weekofwelcome@gatech.edu.

Move-in Focus on Safety

Week of Welcome begins with first-year move-in on August 8 and 9. Details on the process are being finalized now to maximize safety when the expected 3,000 residents arrive on campus.

• Students will have an assigned move-in time and appointments for move-in will be widely spaced out to allow Housing to limit the number of people in one space at any given time.
• There will also be a drive-through check-in process that will minimize contact and touchpoints.
• Sanitizing stations and enhanced surface area cleaning will also be incorporated into this year’s move-in process.
• Volunteers will be present to assist and will be wearing masks.

Students who are planning to move in can find details at housing.gatech.edu.

“Students, faculty, and staff often depend on the CRC and its programming to support their well-being,” said Caroline Dotts, associate director of Healthy Lifestyle Programs for Campus Recreation. “Wellness and self-care have been incredibly important to focus on during the Covid-19 pandemic and we wanted to make sure we can still offer similar programming, even though we are closed.”

Content is uploaded regularly and includes workouts of the day, on-demand fitness classes from boot camp to yoga, as well as other online resources for the Tech community to check out. The workouts of the day, also available on Instagram at @crcatgeorgiatech, offer participants quick, 20 minutes-or-less challenges that get the heart pumping with minimal to no equipment. There is even a virtual leaderboard where participants can submit their scores or times and see how they stack up to fellow Yellow Jackets. 

“We have found that these challenges and a little competition have helped students maintain some connection to campus and their peers,” Dotts said.

On-demand fitness classes have been added to the CRC resource library, offering 20- to 60-minute classes from some of CRC's favorite instructors. Participants can take a yoga class with Will, a HIIT class with Becky, Muay Thai Kickboxing with Troy, and Zumba with Dana. Saidah, one of the CRC's Level 3 Personal Trainers and fitness instructors, also shares fitness tips. 

Visit crc.gatech.edu/virtual-fitness to get started. Check back regularly for new classes and content or let us know what you would like to see next from the CRC. Follow the CRC on Instagram and Facebook.

To better support a reduced student, faculty, and staff population on campus and follow the recommended social distancing guidelines, here is what you need to know about Campus Services changes.

Dining

This week, Dining Services will provide meal delivery services for both residential and non-residential students at two on-campus locations in accordance with social distancing recommendations.

Students can order lunch and dinner meals here, and food will be delivered to Brittain Dining Hall and Woodruff Hall South from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m.

This service is in addition to the remaining dining locations that are open for meals. Hours are available here.
 

Postal Services

The Georgia Tech Post Office continues to operate. The postal services team has enhanced its daily cleaning of both the Post Office and 711 Mail Processing Center in accordance with CDC guidelines and has provided personal protection equipment for staff at both locations.

Post Office, Student Center 1^st Floor:
Monday – Friday
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (retail window)
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (package window)

711 Mail Processing Center (711 Marietta St)
Monday – Friday
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• Residents with mailboxes need to clean out their mailbox and pick up any packages remaining at the Post Office to assist with the Student Center’s impending closure for renovation.
• Residents are asked to forward their mail (using this link for those living in the residence halls, and this link for those living in Greek housing — please do not attempt to forward through USPS), and to have any critical packages such as perishables and medications redirected to their current place of residence.
• Faculty and staff are asked to call 404-385-4174 and arrange for pickup of their packages at the Mail Processing Center as soon as possible. To ensure the health of our team, mail and packages will be delivered curbside.

For questions about package pickup, mail forwarding, or for alternate arrangements, email postofficeask@po.gatech.edu or visit postoffice.gatech.edu. 
 

Parking and Transportation

Parking permit registration has been rescheduled to accommodate the on-campus changes to our services.

• Permit Renewals: June 1 – 10, 2020
• Wait List Awards: June 12 – 17, 2020
• General Permit Sales: June 19 – July 10, 2020

Visit pts.gatech.edu for more information.

MARTA Transit pass
Monthly MARTA pass sales for April 2020 will be offered online at driverseat.gatech.edu instead of in the Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) office. Online sales will be available Wednesday, March 25, through Tuesday, March 31. Customers will receive an email confirmation with a date and time to pick up passes from the PTS office.

Until further notice, monthly MARTA passes will not be available for purchase from the PTS office.  Customers who want to purchase passes for May and beyond should work directly with the transit provider. Customers who purchase monthly MARTA passes via payroll deduction will receive a pass for April as these have been already processed by Human Resources.

Learn how to purchase MARTA passes online or cancel payroll deduction here. Questions about MARTA passes may be directed to commute@gatech.edu.

Campus Transit
Beginning Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Stingerette will operate on a modified schedule from 6 p.m. until midnight seven nights a week. Reserve rides at stingerette.com or via the Stingerette mobile app.

Additional transit services are in place to help students who are on campus:

• Grocery Shuttle — provides trips to Publix at Atlantic Station Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. View route information here. Track the Grocery Shuttle at bus.gatech.edu or with the Passio GO! mobile app.
• Airport Shuttle — offers direct transportation to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (South Domestic Terminal only) through Tuesday, March 31, 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. View route information here. Track the “Airport” shuttle at bus.gatech.edu or with the Passio GO! mobile app (no time predictions will be available).
• MARTA/Airport Access via Campus Transit — Airport access is also available via MARTA. Students may use the Tech Trolley to access the Midtown Station or the Tech Square Route to access the North Avenue Station. Use the Red or Gold rail lines heading south to travel to airport.

All other transit services will operate on a reduced schedule, which can be viewed here.

Operations
The PTS office will be closed starting Wednesday, March 25, 2020. The PTS Customer Service team will be available to assist customers via email at info.parking@parking.gatech.edu during normal business hours (7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday). Parking account management is available at driverseat.gatech.edu.
 

Bookstore

Barnes & Noble @ Georgia Tech will close until further notice. Here is what you need to know about the bookstore’s various services:

• Online orders: We will continue to fulfill online orders within a 24-48-hour period. We will offer store pickup via appointment only from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. We will notify you to schedule an appointment. Orders to be shipped will not be affected, and will continue to be sent via ground shipping.
• Regalia orders: We will accept returns on unopened master's and bachelor's regalia until April 30, 2020, with a receipt or order number. All online orders for bachelor's and master's regalia will be processed unless you notify us to cancel. Reply to your order confirmation to request cancellation. Please ship your unopened regalia back to us via trackable means and notify us via email by replying to your order confirmation. We will not provide shipping labels for a return.
• Ph.D. regalia orders: All Ph.D. rental orders will be canceled. Ph.D. custom regalia purchases will be fulfilled and are not returnable.
• Textbook rental returns: You can print a prepaid label to return your textbook rentals to us by April 30, 2020. See our Textbook rental FAQs page for details.
• Faculty textbook orders: Faculty should continue to place their book orders for Summer and Fall via facultyenlight.com.
• Mac service and repair: We will continue to offer repairs for Mac and iPad via appointment. Please send an email to techstore@gatech.edu to schedule an appointment.
• Starbucks: Our Starbucks cafe is now closed to the public as well.
• Free online textbook access for students: In partnership with VitalSource, Barnes & Noble Education will offer access to free eTextbooks for the remainder of the Spring 2020 term. Visit VitalSource at their help page to get started.
• Free online academic support: Through June 15, students will have access to 10 free, step-by-step solutions and tutoring, per month, from bartleby learn, as well as free premium access to a 24/7 virtual writing center through bartleby write. Visit bartleby.com to get started.
   Please contact us at sm225@bncollege.com for all other questions or concerns.

For more information, visit our customer service page.
 

Campus Recreation Center (CRC)

The CRC has closed all recreational facilities and programming until guidance is given for it to reopen. Many of our students, faculty, and staff depend on the CRC to support their well-being. During this closure, there are several on-campus and virtual resources to take advantage of. From outdoor options like the Tyler Brown Pi Mile and Roe Stamps Recreation Field and Track to workout facilities in the residence halls, there are plenty of ways for students to stay active on campus.

The CRC has launched eIntramurals for students to stay connected to other Tech students in their Intramurals. Registration is now open and closes Friday, March 27, at noon. Sign up here.

A full list of resources is available here.  
 

Student Center

The Student Center is open with limited operations to allow access to the Post Office and dining options inside the building. The Student Center administrative office and information desk are currently closed. A valid BuzzCard is required to access the building before 11 a.m. or after 1 p.m. West Village remains closed until further notice.

If you have art pieces in Paper & Clay, you can visit Tuesday, March 24, and Thursday, March 26, from 3  to 6 p.m. to pick them up. Due to our limited operations and efforts to maintain appropriate social distance, you will only be able to collect your things; you will not be able to work on incomplete projects or start a new one.

If you are not able to pick up your pieces during this time, you will have another opportunity at the end of the semester. Details on additional dates and options will be announced in the future. If you have any questions, email gtpaperandclay@gatech.edu.

Stamps Health Services

Mon. March 16 – Wed. March 18 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thurs. March 19 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Fri. March 20 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Georgia Tech Dining

Meal swipes can only be used as Ferst Place in the Student Center.

Full hours are available here.

Georgia Tech Bookstore

Sun. March 15 | CLOSED
Mon. March 16 – Fri. March 20 | 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat. March 21: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Starbucks Tech Square

Sun. March 15 | 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Mon. March 16 – Fri. March 20 | 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat. March 21 | 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

BuzzCard Center

Sat. March 14 – Sun. March 15 | CLOSED
Mon. March 16 – Wed. March 18 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thurs. March 19 | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Fri. March 20 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. March 21 – Sun. March 22 | CLOSED

Burdell’s

Mon. March 16 – Thurs. March 19 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Fri. March 20 | CLOSED

Campus Recreation Center

Sat. March 14 | 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sun. March 15 | 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Mon. March 16 – Fri. March 20 | 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sat. March 21 | 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sun. March 22 | 12 p.m. – 12 a.m.

Student Center Building                              

Fri. March 13 | 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sat. March 14 | 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sun. March 15 | 9:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Mon. March 16 | 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Tues. March 17 | 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Wed. March 18 | 7 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Thurs. March 19 | 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Fri. March 20 | 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sat. March 21 | 10:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sun. March 22 | 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

The building is accessible 24/7 with a valid BuzzCard.

West Village Building

Fri. March 13 | 7 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Sat. March 14 - Sun. March 22 | Closed
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

Information Desk

Fri. March 13 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. March 14 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sun. March 15 | CLOSED
Mon. March 16 – Fri. March 20 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. March 21 – Sun. March 22 | CLOSED
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

Tech Rec

Fri. March 13 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. March 14 – Sun. March 22 | CLOSED
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

Paper & Clay

Fri. March 13 | Noon – 6 p.m.
Sat. March 14 – Sun. March 22 | CLOSED
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

Under The Couch

Fri. March 13 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. March 14 – Sun. March 22 | CLOSED
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

Post Office

Fri. March 13 | 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. March 14 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (package window only)
Sun. March 15 | CLOSED
Mon. March 16 | 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tues. March 17 | CLOSED for staff training
Wed. March 18 – Fri. March 20 | 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. March 21 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (package window only)
Sun. March 22 | CLOSED
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

Transit

Reduced Service:

The following routes will operate using reduced schedules:   

Red Route: 7:10 a.m. – 9:50 p.m., Monday-Friday, arriving approximately every 28 minutes

Blue Route: 7:10 a.m. – 10:05 p.m., Monday-Friday, arriving approximately every 30 minutes

Green Route: Monday-Friday

• 6:45 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. arriving approximately every 36 minutes
• 8:00 a.m. – 6:10 p.m., arriving approximately every 18 minutes
• 6:10 p.m. – 8:50 p.m., arriving approximately every 36 minutes

Tech Trolley: Monday - Friday

• 5:45 a.m. – 7:25 a.m., arriving approximately every 35 minutes
• 7:25 a.m. – 9:25 a.m., arriving approximately every 10 minutes
• 9:25 a.m. – 4:25 p.m., arriving approximately every 14 minutes
• 4:25 p.m. – 6:40 p.m., arriving approximately every 10 minutes
• 6:40 p.m. – 7:35 p.m., arriving approximately every 14 minutes
• 7:35 p.m. – 9:25 p.m., arriving approximately every 18 minutes
• 9:25 p.m. – 10:15 p.m., arriving approximately every 35 minutes

Saturday: 10: 00 a.m. – 6:40 p.m., arriving approximately every 35 minutes
Sunday: 3:00 p.m. – 9:50 p.m., arriving approximately every 35 minutes

The following routes will operate on their normal schedules:

Midnight Rambler: 8:00 p.m. – 2:20 a.m., Sunday - Saturday, arriving approximately every 15 minutes

NARA/TEP Shuttle: 7:20 a.m.-6:20 p.m., Monday - Friday, arriving approximately every 18 minutes

GT-Emory Shuttle: 7:15 a.m. – 7:15 p.m., Monday-Friday, as scheduled

Grocery Shuttle: 10:17 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Saturday - Sunday, as scheduled

Stingerette

Stingerette service will be available for rides between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. each night.  To schedule a ride, please use the Stingerette web interface, mobile iOS or Android app.

Parking

Normal parking regulations will be in effect during Spring Break. Please be sure that your parking permit is displayed properly to avoid citations or towing.

Housing

Assignments Office

Mon. March 16 – Fri. March 20 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Area Offices

Mon. March 16 – Fri. March 20 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Georgia Tech Library

Sat. March 14 | 12 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sun. March 15 | CLOSED
Mon. March 16 - Friday, March 20 | 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sat. March 21 | CLOSED
Sun. March 22 | 8 a.m. - 12 a.m.
Mon. March 23 | Regular hours resume

Full list at library.gatech.edu/hours.

While the majority of students are away during summer, campus departments remain buzzing with activity. If you plan to be on campus this summer, here are the top ways to stay engaged through Campus Services.

Work for Us!

Campus Services departments employ the highest number of students on campus. Almost 1,000 students work in the areas of Housing, Dining, Campus Recreation, Parking and Transportation, the Student Center, BuzzCard, and Conference Services. They are a critical part of running many of our operations during all semesters. Our services depend on student staff to keep things moving. Here are five ways to work in Campus Services this summer:

• Campus Recreation Center (CRC) – The CRC employs about 150 students over the summer, and almost 400 in the fall and spring semesters. You can apply to be a camp counselor, swim instructor, or for many of the other CRC positions by visiting crc.gatech.edu/about/employment.
• Housing and Residence Life – Housing employs almost 80 resident advisors (RA) every summer to support the students who live on campus. Positions are available for current RAs and for those who want to be an RA during the 2020-21 academic year. You can apply in March at housing.gatech.edu and click on ‘My Housing.’ Housing also hires students to support the area offices. Apply now by submitting your resume at one of the area offices.
• Conference Services – About 25 students are employed over the summer to support summer conferences. On-campus housing is provided for full-time staff. If you feel like you’re outgoing and reliable, apply by April 15 at conference.gatech.edu/apply.  
• Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) – Interested in the inner workings of PTS? Apply to be a student worker and support some of our summer functions while the campus is quiet. Applications go live at the PTS office in April for roles beginning May 18.
• Student Center - The Student Center is now hiring for a small number of positions as we prepare to move out this summer. If you'd like to join the best team on campus to learn useful skills and support your campus community, complete this application to apply by Friday, April 3. Visit our student employment website for more information. 

Take a Trip

Outdoor Recreation, a part of Campus Recreation, hosts many opportunities where students can venture outdoors to learn important life skills and create community.

First-Year Students

Incoming first-year students can take a Tech Trek! Tech Treks are multiday summer trips to Alaska, Montana, or to the Southeast (in Georgia, Alabama, or Tennessee) that help you build decision-making and critical thinking skills — and establish friendships before the first semester at Tech. Staff and student guides offer advice and information for success at Georgia Tech and assist you in familiarizing yourself with the Tech culture.

In general, Tech Trek adventures challenge you to push yourself and to think about the traits that make you strong in tough situations — all in an effort to prepare you to thrive at Tech. These trips, which include visits to incredible locations, build skills in backpacking, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and more! Trips take place in June and July. Sign up today at crc.gatech.edu/outdoor/treks.

Current Students

Current students can take a summer adventure trip! Led by skilled Georgia Tech students and alumni, adventure trips are outdoor experiences that challenge you and connect you with peers. Whether you’re a beginner or are more advanced, you will have the opportunity for caving, cascading, backpacking, kayaking, rock climbing, and more!

Summer adventure trips will be updated in April. Registration opens 30 days before the start date. Trips  are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis and fill quickly. Prices range from $35-$45. Learn more at crc.gatech.edu/adventure-trips.

If you need gear for your outdoor adventure, the Wilderness Outpost located at the Outdoor Recreation office (at the back of the CRC) has everything you need to rent equipment for your upcoming trip.

Check Out the New Campus Center Buildings

Phase I construction of the new Campus Center buildings wraps up this summer, and these spaces will serve as the temporary location for important functions and offices while the current Student Center is renovated in Phase II starting in July. Visit the new Exhibition Hall, Pavilions, and Cafe to find the post office, food court, and more. Stay tuned for details about our soft opening events in late summer. Learn more at c.gatech.edu/CampusCenter.

Get Physical

The CRC is still fully operational during summer — but with slightly modified hours. Here are some ways for you to stay active during your summer at Tech:

• Swim Lessons — The CRC offers instructional swim programs for members and non-members. Classes are available for children ages five and older, and adults. Learn more: crc.gatech.edu/aquatics/lessons
• Group Fitness Classes — The CRC offers non-credit group fitness classes ranging from boot camp, to cycling, HIIT, Pilates, power yoga, Zumba, and more. Students, faculty, and staff holding a membership and who are current on the group fitness fees can attend. Learn more: crc.gatech.edu/fitness/group
• Massage Therapy — Georgia Tech offers full-service massage therapy in the CRC. The program is designed to offer supreme massage services at affordable prices. Enjoy a 30- or 60-minute massage therapy session from licensed massage therapists. Learn more: crc.gatech.edu/services/massage
• Personal Training — This is available to members of the Georgia Tech CRC community. Trained staff provide fitness programs designed to meet your goals. Learn more: crc.gatech.edu/fitness/training
• Summer Intramurals — Georgia Tech Competitive Sports, a part of Campus Recreation, provides students, faculty, and staff with the opportunity for competition and fun in a variety of team and individual sports activities. With 20 intramural sports and over 40 sports clubs, you’re bound to find one that suits you. Registration begins in May for summer intramurals. Learn more: crc.gatech.edu/sport/intramural

Vote for and Watch Your Favorite Movies

Flicks at Tech is the Student Center’s campus summer movie series. The series screens three movies in June and July, hosted in the best outdoor venues on campus including the CRC Stamps Recreational Fields and Bobby Dodd Stadium. Voting to select the films for this summer will start in April. Visit studentcenter.gatech.edu for more information.

Eat on Campus

During summer, Georgia Tech Dining Services will modify their hours to better serve the reduced student population on campus and decrease food waste. Additionally, the food options in the Student Center will close in preparation for the renovation starting in May, and several dining concepts will transition to service in the new Exhibition Hall. Specific locations and hours for select dining halls and other food options over the summer will be available at dining.gatech.edu.

Block meal pass and dining dollar summer meal plans for students will be available for purchase starting in April. Select summer programs for first-year students have a pre-defined meal plan. Meal service begins May 10 for the summer semester. Learn more at georgiatech.campusdish.com/MealPlans.

Dining

Dec. 16 - 22 | Hours available here
Dec. 23 - 29 | All locations closed
Dec. 30 - Jan. 5 | Hours availale here
Jan. 6 - 12 | Hours available here

Wing Zone

Monday, Dec. 16 – Monday, Dec. 23 | Regular Hours
Tuesday, Dec. 24 – Wednesday, Dec. 25 | Closed
Thursday, Dec. 26 – Tuesday, Dec 31 | Regular Hours
Wednesday, Jan. 1 | Closed
Thursday, Jan. 2 | Return to regular hours

Campus Recreation Center

Monday, Dec. 16 – Thursday, Dec. 19 | 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 20 | 5:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 21 – Sunday, Dec. 29 | Closed
Monday, Dec. 30 | 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 31 | 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 1 | Closed
Thursday, Jan. 2 - Friday, Jan. 3 | 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 4 | 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 5 | 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Housing and Residence Life Offices

Dec. 23 – Dec. 27 | Closed
Jan. 1 | Closed

Student Center Building              

Monday, Dec. 16 | 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec 17 | 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 18 – Friday, Dec. 20 | 7a.m. - 10p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 21 | 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 22 | 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 23 | BuzzCard access only
Tuesday, Dec. 24 | 6 - 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 25 | BuzzCard access only
Thursday, Dec. 26 | 8 - 10 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 27 | 5 - 10 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 28 | 8 - 10 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 29 | 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 30 | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 31 | 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 1 | 6 - 8 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 2 | 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 3 | 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 4 | 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 5 | Return to regular hours
*Outside of the listed times, the Student Center will be accessible with a valid BuzzCard 24 hours a day.

West Village Building                   

Saturday, Dec. 14 – Thursday, Jan. 3 | Closed
Friday, Jan. 3 | 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 4 | 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 5 | 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 6 | Return to regular hours

Information Desk

Monday, Dec. 16 – Friday, Dec. 20 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 21 – Wednesday, Jan. 1| Closed.
Thursday, Jan. 2 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 3 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 4 – Sunday, Jan. 5 | Closed
Monday, Jan. 6 | Return to regular hours

Tech Rec

Saturday, Dec. 14 – Sunday, Jan. 5 | Closed
Monday, Jan. 6 | Regular hours of operation resume

Paper & Clay

Friday, Dec. 13 – Sunday, Jan 5 | Closed
Monday, Jan. 6 | Regular hours of operation resume

Under The Couch

Monday, Dec. 9 – Sunday, Jan. 5 | Closed
Monday, Jan. 6 | Regular hours of operation resume

Post Office

Monday, Dec. 16 | 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 17 | Closed for staff training
Wednesday, Dec. 18 – Friday, Dec. 20 | 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 21 – Sunday, Dec. 29 | Closed (departmental mail pickup available at 711 Processing Center by appointment)
Monday, Dec. 30 – Tuesday, Dec. 31| 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 1 | Closed
Thursday, Jan. 2 – Friday, Jan. 3 | 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 4 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Package Pickup Window Only)
Sunday, Jan. 5 | Closed
Monday, Jan. 6 | Normal hours of operation resume

Stamps Health Services

Dec. 16 – Jan. 3 | Closing at 4:30 p.m.
Dec. 23 – 27 | Closed
Jan. 1 | Closed

Parking and Transportation Services

Dec. 14 – Jan. 4 hours are available here.

BuzzCard Center

Dec. 16 - 19 | Regular hours
Dec. 20 | 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Dec. 23 - 27 | Closed
Dec. 30 | 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Dec. 31 | 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Jan. 1 | Closed
Jan. 2 | Regular hours resume

Burdell's

Dec. 16 – 20 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Dec. 21 – 29 | Closed
Dec. 30 – Jan. 3 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Closed on Jan. 1
Jan. 6 | Regular hours resume

Georgia Tech Bookstore

Dec. 16 - 20 | 8am-6pm
Dec. 21 - 22 | 10am-4pm
Dec. 23 | 10am-6pm
Dec. 24 | 10am-4pm
Dec. 25 | CLOSED
Dec. 26 - 27 | 10am-6pm
Dec. 28 - 29 | 10am-4pm
Dec. 30 | 8am-6pm
Dec. 31 | 8am-4pm
Jan. 1 | 10am-4pm
Jan. 2 | Regular hours resume

Starbucks Tech Square

Dec. 16 – Jan. 6 | Open 7 a.m. weekdays, 8 a.m. weekends/holidays. Closes same time as main store.

This plan includes comprehensive covered benefits (medical, dental, vision, prescription, and worldwide travel) for the 2019-20 policy year administered by United HealthcareStudentResources (UHCSR).

If you are currently enrolled in the SHIP for Fall 2019, you must re-enroll for Spring/Summer coverage which begins January 1, 2020 and ends on July 31, 2020.

Eligible dependents, including domestic partners of enrolled students, may participate in the SHIP and must enroll during this period. Eligible dependents include a student’s spouse and eligible children up to 26 years of age (including stepchildren, foster children, and legally adopted children, providing the student is fully enrolled and eligible for coverage).

There are two classifications of students:

• Mandatory - Fall 2019 coverage period ends on 12/31/19.  You must enroll during the Spring/Summer 2020 open enrollment period (12/16/19 – 2/9/20).  To determine if you fall under the mandatory groups, please visit www.studentcenter.uhcsr.com/gatech. Students who are charged for mandatory student health insurance who have existing health insurance coverage that meets/exceeds insurance requirements can receive a waiver (12/16/19 – 2/9/20). Students can waive/enroll using the same link: www.studentcenter.uhcsr.com/gatech. 
   
• Voluntary - Students taking at least four credit hours (including Postdoctoral Scholars, J1 Scholars, and OPT) may also enroll during the Spring/Summer 2020 open enrollment period (12/16/19 – 2/9/20). Go to uhcsr.com/GaTech to begin the enrollment process.  If you purchased 2019-2020 annual coverage, you do not need to re-enroll for Spring/Summer 2020.

If you miss the Spring/Summer 2020 open enrollment period, you will not be able to enroll until the next enrollment period in Fall 2020.

Coverage terms ends on July 31 every policy year and all eligible students must enroll each Fall to keep the coverage active from one policy year to the next as the coverage does not “roll over” from policy year to policy year.

For more information, visit http://health.gatech.edu/finance/insurance.

On behalf of the Institute, Campus Recreation Center, Student Center, CEISMC and the Ferst Center we thank you in advance for your cooperation in hosting these campus events that will take place on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 through Sunday, December 8, 2019.  Please do your part to provide parking spaces for our off-campus guests by adhering to the following instructions:

SWIMMING U.S. OPEN

The 2019 Toyota U.S. Open Championships will take place in the CRC on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 through Sunday, December 8, 2019. Several parking locations will be used for guest parking.

W10 Customers: During this event, there will be uncommon congestion in W10.  You are welcome to park in the following alternate locations during this event.

• W02: Student Center deck
• W22: Dalney deck
• Any ungated, nonresidential parking lot (E or W lots)

Note: E44, ER51, W06-Habersham/781 Marietta are no longer alternate parking areas

Please be sure your permit is displayed properly. Access will be added to your BuzzCards or Carpool Permit for gated locations.

W22 Customers: During this event, there may be uncommon congestion in W22.  You are welcome to park in the following alternate locations during this event.

• Any ungated, nonresidential parking lot (E or W lots)

Note: E44, ER51, W06-Habersham/781 Marietta are no longer alternate parking areas

W01 Customers: Please remove your vehicles from the marked W01 spaces (on Ferst Drive between Regents and 6^th Street, CRC side only) by 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2019. You are welcome to park in the following alternate locations during this event:

• W01: any unmarked W01 spaces
• W02: Student Center deck
• Any ungated, nonresidential parking lot (E or W lots)

 Note: E44, ER51, W06-Habersham/781 Marietta are no longer alternate parking areas

Please be sure your permit is displayed properly.  Access will be added to your BuzzCards or Carpool Permit for gated locations.

W06 Customers: Please remove your vehicles from the marked W06 spaces (on Tech Parkway between Northside Drive and the CRC Service drive) by 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2019. You are welcome to park in the following alternate locations during this event:

• W06: any unmarked W06 spaces
• W01: Tech Parkway, Wallace Street & State Street ONLY
• Any ungated, nonresidential parking lot (E or W lots)

 Note: E44 and ER51are no longer alternate parking areas

Please be sure your permit is displayed properly.

W02 Permit Customers: You do not have to move your vehicles for this event. However, there may be uncommon congestion in these parking locations. If you cannot find a parking space in your assigned area, you are welcome to park in the following locations:

• W22: Dalney deck
• Any ungated, nonresidential parking lot (E or W lots)

Note: E44, ER51, W06-Habersham/781 Marietta are no longer alternate parking areas

NOTE: To avoid heavy traffic, we encourage you to walk or use campus transit. Due to the large number of attendees, Trolleys and Stingers are expected to be congested.  

Questions on the CRC events may be directed to the Campus Recreation Center at 404-385-7529.

GATE CONFERENCE

The Gate Conference will take place at the Student Center on Friday, December 6, 2019. Guests will park in W02-Student Center Deck.

W02 Customers: You do not have to move your vehicles for this event. However, there will be uncommon congestion in these parking locations. If you cannot find a parking space in your assigned area, you are welcome to park in the following locations:

• W22: Dalney deck
• Any ungated, nonresidential parking lot (E or W lots)

Note: E44, ER51, W06-Habersham/781 Marietta are no longer alternate parking areas

Questions on the Student Center event may be directed to the Student Center at 404-385-4275.

KIDS CLUB

The CEISMC-KIDS Club will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2019. Guests will park in W21: Physics/Boggs lots

W21 Customers: During this event, there may be uncommon congestion in W21. You are welcome to park in other open spaces in W21.

Questions about this event may be directed to CEISMC at: 404-894-0777

RHYTHM DANCE

The Rhythm Dance event will take place at the Student Center on Sunday, December 8, 2019. Guests will park in W02-Student Center Deck.

W02 Customers: You do not have to move your vehicles for this event. However, there will be uncommon congestion in these parking locations. If you cannot find a parking space in your assigned area, you are welcome to park in the following locations:

• W22: Dalney deck
• Any ungated, nonresidential parking lot (E or W lots)

Note: E44, ER51, W06-Habersham/781 Marietta are no longer alternate parking areas

Questions about the Ferst Center event may be directed to the Ferst Center at: 404-894-2787

We understand that these events may be an inconvenience to you. On behalf of Georgia Tech, Campus Recreation Center, Student Center, CEISMC and the Ferst Center we appreciate your patience, cooperation and continued support.

Starting Tuesday, December 26, the operational hours for Campus Services departments will be adjusted for Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend. Read on for the changes from Dining, Student Center, CRC, Bookstore, Parking and Transportation, Stamps Health Services, and BuzzCard Center.

Dining

Operational hours for dining are available here.

Student Center Building                             

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. (BuzzCard access only after 9 p.m.)
Thursday, Nov. 28 - BuzzCard Access only
Friday, Nov. 29 - 1 p.m. – 10 p.m. (BuzzCard access only after 10 p.m.)
Saturday, Nov. 30 - 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. (BuzzCard access only after 11 p.m.)
Sunday, Dec. 1 - 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. (BuzzCard access only after 11 p.m.)
Monday, Dec. 2 - Regular hours resume

West Village Building

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - 7 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  
Thursday, Nov. 28 – Saturday, Nov. 30 - Closed
Sunday, Dec. 1 - 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 2 - Regular hours resume

Information Desk

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 28 - Sunday, Dec. 1 - Closed
Monday, Dec. 2 - Regular hours resume

Tech Rec

Tuesday, Nov. 26 - 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 27 - Sunday, Dec. 1 - Closed
Monday, Dec. 2 - Regular hours resume

Paper & Clay

Tuesday, Nov. 26 - 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 27 - Sunday, Dec. 1 - Closed
Monday, Dec. 2 - Noon – 6 p.m. (finals hours begin)

Under The Couch

Tuesday, Nov. 26 - 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 27 - Sunday, Dec. 1 - Closed
Monday, Dec. 2 - Regular hours resume

Post Office

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 28 – Sunday, Dec. 1 - Closed
Monday, Dec. 2 - Regular hours resume

Campus Recreation Center (CRC)

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - 5:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 28 – Saturday, Nov. 30 – Closed
Sunday, Dec. 1 – 12 p.m. – 12 a.m.

Georgia Tech Bookstore

Thursday, Nov. 28 – Closed
Friday, Nov. 29 – 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Satruday, Nov. 30 - 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Burdell's

Tuesday, Nov. 26 - 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 27 - 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 28 - Closed
Friday, Nov. 29 - Closed
Saturday, Nov. 30 – 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 1 - Closed

Stamps Health Services

Wednesday, Nov. 27 – 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 28 – Closed
Friday, Nov. 29 - Closed

Parking and Transportation Services

If you are leaving your vehicle on campus during the break, please move your vehicles from the following lots to accommodate for football parking by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27: 

• E40
• E44 
• E45
• E46
• E48
• E49
• E52 
• E65 (Softball Field)
• E65 (Coliseum Lot; including all state and ROTC vehicles/trailers)
• E63 (including all service and government vehicle spaces)
• ER51: 4th Street
• ER51 (Techwood Drive from North Avenue to 5th Street; Brittain Drive; both sides of Fowler Street from Bobby Dodd Way to 5th Street)
• ER55 (Fowler Street from 5th Street to 10th Street)
• W01 (Ferst Drive between Cherry Street and the driveway to Student Center deck)
• W01 (Disability/service lot outside Student Center Commons)
• W02
• W04: Procurement/Business Services
• W04: OHR
• W10: CRC
• W21
• Visitors Areas 1, 2, 4, 6, 9 and 10 (8th Street Meters)
• Service vehicle spaces on 8th Street

For special exceptions, please call 404-385-7275. 

Transit

Wednesday, Nov. 27

• All GT transit services will operate reduced schedules starting on Wednesday, Nov. 27.
• Midnight Rambler will continue as normal until 2:00 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 28.
• Stingerette Nighttime will operate until 3:15 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 28.

Thursday, Nov. 28 and Friday, Nov. 29

• There will be no GT transit or Stingerette services during this time.

Saturday, Nov. 30– UGA Football Game

• Tech Trolley will operate regular transit service.  Grocery Route will not operate due to football road closures. Stingerette will operate starting at 7 p.m. Saturday.

Sunday, Dec. 1

All GT transit services will operate their normal schedules and routes.

BuzzCard Center

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 28 - Closed
Friday, Nov. 29 - Closed

The opportunity to make changes begins in just a few weeks with Open Enrollment running from Monday, October 28 through Friday, November 8.

It is important to know this is an active open enrollment which requires action. You must make benefit elections in order to have coverage in 2020. You can begin to review 2020 options and plan changes by visiting https://usg.edu/hr/benefits.

There are two significant changes to be aware of:

1. Working Spouse Surcharge: There will be a surcharge of $100 per month applied to spouses covered under the plan who work and receive an offer of coverage through their place of employment.
   1. As part of this change, the “Employee + Child” coverage tier is changing to “Employee + Children.”
   2. In 2020, an employee covering two or more children without a spouse can enroll in the “Employee + Child(ren)” tier and pay less than they would today in the “Family” tier.
2. Tobacco Surcharge: A $100/per month tobacco surcharge will be added to your monthly premium if you (and/or any of your dependents) use tobacco products.
   1. Employees and dependents age 18 and older covered by a USG medical plan are required to certify tobacco use.
   2. Free smoking cessation classes and support are offered by Georgia Tech, Anthem, and Kaiser.
   3. Once an employee or dependent is tobacco-free, a certification can be completed, and the surcharge will be removed the first of the following month.

Additional information will be mailed to home addresses in the coming weeks.

The annual Benefits Fair will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.

To view premium changes and full benefits guide you can visit: https://www.usg.edu/assets/hr/benefits_docs/2020_USG_Comparison_Guide.10.2019.pdf

This program runs from October 21 - 25 in various locations in the Student Center and brings awareness to the importance of sleep for your overall health and well-being. “Lack of sleep or poor sleep habits can lead to a host of negative health outcomes,” said health educator and event co-creator JaPeera Edmond. “It is important that students know what these outcomes are and how they improve their sleep, which in turn can improve their quality of life.”

The following events will take place during SleepWell@Tech Week.

But First, Sleep – Monday, October, 21st 
Healthy Space in the Student Center from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Sleep is a key building block to your success and health. Learn everything you need to know about sleep to keep you healthy, including how caffeine can impact your sleep. 

From Zzz to A's - Tuesday, October 22^nd
Student Center Kiosk 4 (Next to DePoe Eye Center) from 10:00 am - 1:00pm
Don't let sleep take a back seat to your studies, sleep is essential for memory consolidation which you need to pass those exams. Learn about how sleep is key to your academic success.

The Art of the Nap - Wednesday, October 23^rd
Student Center Kiosk 3 (across from Chick-Fil-A) from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
You heard naps are bad, right? Not quite, napping the RIGHT way can help you get refreshed and ready to tackle your to-do list. Learn the proper way to nap and adding it to your schedule.

Setting the Scene for Sleep - Thursday, October 25^th
Student Center Kiosk 3 (across from Chick-Fil-A) from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Studying and working in your bedroom can cause restlessness and poor sleep quality. Learn about ideal bedroom conditions for sleep and make a DIY potpourri satchel.

Find Your Circadian Rhythm​​​​​​​ - Friday, October 25^th
Healthy Space in the Student Center from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Fighting your body's natural rhythm is only setting yourself up to fail. Learn about circadian rhythm and kick off your day with a quick snack to keep you energized.

“The academic environment at Georgia Tech can have a negative impact on students that cause them to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as sleeping less, which can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression,” said Edmonds. “It is important that we teach students to engage in positive sleep behaviors to improve overall health and academic performance.”

For additional event information and to learn more about healthy sleep patterns go to  healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.

Dining Services

Fall Break hours are available here.

Campus Recreation Center

October 13 | 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
October 14 | 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
October 15 | 5:30 a.m. – 12 a.m.

Stamps Health Services

October 14 & 15 | 8 a.m. – 5 pm.

Georgia Tech Bookstore

October 12 & 13 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
October 14 & 15 | 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Student Center (Staffed)                             

Friday, October 11 | 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday, October 12 | 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday, October 13 | 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Monday, October 14 | 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Tuesday, October 15 | 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Accessible 24 hours a day with a valid BuzzCard.
Regular fall hours resume on Wednesday.

West Village (Staffed)                  

Friday, October 11 | 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday, October 12 | 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday, October 13 | 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Monday, October 14 | 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Tuesday, October 15 | 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Accessible 24 hours a day with a valid BuzzCard.
Regular fall hours resume on Wednesday.

Information Desk

Friday, October 11 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday, October 12 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Sunday, October 13 | Closed
Monday, October 14 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Tuesday, October 15 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Regular fall hours resume on Wednesday.

Tech Rec

Friday, October 11 | 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday, October 12- Tuesday, October 15 | Closed

Regular fall hours resume on Wednesday.

Paper & Clay

Friday, October 11 | Noon - 6 p.m.
Saturday, October 12- Tuesday, October 15 | Closed

Regular fall hours resume on Wednesday.

Under The Couch

Friday, October 11 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday, October 12- Tuesday, October 15 | Closed

Regular fall hours resume on Wednesday.

Post Office

Friday, October 11 | 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday, October 12 | Closed
Sunday, October 13 | Closed
Monday, October 14 | 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Tuesday, October 15 | 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Parking and Transportation Services

Normal hours and operations.

“This outbreak is particularly concerning because it affects otherwise healthy young people, in the age group of the majority of our students,” said Dr. Benjamin Holton, senior director of Stamps Health Services.

Approximately two thirds of the lung injury cases reported to the CDC have occurred among 18 to 34 year olds; three quarters of cases have occurred among males. Locally, the Georgia Department of Public Health has confirmed eight cases of severe respiratory illness in individuals who reported a history of vaping, with additional cases being reviewed. Symptoms of the illness include cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, all of which worsen over time.

“This is a complex investigation,” explained Dr. Ann Schuchat, principal deputy director of the CDC, during a telebriefing on Sept. 19. “This may turn into finding multiple issues that are of concern rather than a single product or substance.”

Until more is known about these lung injuries and their causes, the CDC recommends that individuals consider not using e-cigarette or vaping products.

Beyond this specific public health crisis, e-cigarettes are not considered safe for children, young adults, pregnant women, or adults who do not currently use tobacco products.

“There is still so much we don’t know about the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes or vaping products,” Holton said. “E-cigarettes can contain other harmful substances besides nicotine.”

Ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deeply into lungs, flavorings, volatile organic compounds, and cancer-causing chemicals are just some of the other substances that one may inhale when using e-cigarettes.

“We strongly encourage students to avoid using them,” he concluded.

For more information about e-cigarettes, vaping, and the outbreak, visit the CDC's website.

“Getting the flu shot every year is important for two reasons,” shared Dr. Benjamin Holton, senior director of Stamps Health Services, “the circulating strains of flu change every year and your body’s protection from having gotten the flu or the flu shot last year declines over time.”

While flu activity in the United States is currently low, there have already been diagnosed cases in the metro Atlanta region this season.

“Getting the flu vaccine not only helps protect you from the flu virus, but also those around you,” continued Dr. Holton. “The best way to protect Georgia Tech from the flu is for everyone who can get the flu shot to get one.”

Students who have paid the health fee can get their flu shot for free at a flu shot clinic, at an appointment in the allergy, immunization, and travel clinic, or during a physical or injury/illness visit with primary care. Flu shot clinics are held on the following Wednesdays from 9am to 3pm on the second floor of Stamps Health Services:

• October 2
• October 16
• October 30
• November 6
• November 20

There will also be additional clinics in the spring semester.

Faculty and staff can also get their vaccine at the Stamps Health Services through the pharmacy. The pharmacy is available to give flu vaccines from 9am to 4pm Monday through Friday. Faculty and staff with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield can receive the vaccine at no cost. Faculty and staff with who are enrolled in Kaiser Permanente or other health insurance plans can still receive their vaccine at the Stamps Health Services Pharmacy but will be charged up to $32 depending on coverage. Healthcare-enrolled Georgia Tech employees who receive their flu vaccine can earn $25 toward their USG Well-Being credit.

For more information about the flu and getting your flu shot on campus, go to health.gatech.edu/flu.

“More people are biking on and around campus, and we want to encourage the use of greener transportation methods,” said Lisa Safstrom, campus transportation planner with PTS. “We are supporting this trend by including high-quality bike parking in new campus development opportunities.”

Located just inside the deck from the Dalney Street entrance, the bike room features 36 Dero Swerve bike racks built to hold two bikes each. The room also includes benches and a fix-it station with a pump.

Users can swipe their BuzzCards to enter and secure their bikes to the racks using their personal locks. Bikes may be stored day-to-day during the fall and spring semesters and for longer periods during the summer.

PTS included the bike room in its construction plans for the deck in response to the campus community’s request for larger and protected bike storage. The concept of enclosed bike rooms is trending among peer universities and housing developments in metro-Atlanta. The Dalney Deck’s bike room is the first bike storage facility outside of Georgia Tech on campus residential housing. PTS plans to implement a second bike room in the Tech Square parking deck later this year.

For more information about bicycling, visit http://pts.gatech.edu/bicycling-georgia-tech.

Bike Commuter Shower Pass

The CRC now offers a Bike Commuter Shower Pass that will allow riders to have access to locker rooms from 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. Monday through Friday for $5 per month. Smart Park pass holders and those that do not have a parking permit are eligible for the shower pass. To get more information and sign up, visit http://bike.hwb.gatech.edu/active-commuting.

Riding Safety Classes

Bike Georgia Tech, Georgia Tech Police Department, and PTS offer one-hour classes in bike and scooter safety. Attendees receive a free helmet and lights. The next classes take place on:

• October 10 at 11 a.m. in CRC Room 240
• November 14 at 11 a.m. in CRC Room 240

Bike Helmets

PTS encourages students, faculty, and staff to travel to, from, and within campus by some form of alternative transportation, including bicycles, to reduce traffic congestion, limit the need for automobile parking, and preserve the environment.

Helmets can be purchased for $12 at the PTS front desk located at 828 West Peachtree St. NW using credit, check or BuzzFunds. Rules and regulations are available here.

PHA’s Healthier Campus Initiative was implemented to provide college students, faculty, and staff with the necessary tools and tips to promote a healthy environment. PHA has worked to become partners with more than 50 colleges and universities across the nation who have committed to completing specific healthy campus guidelines. Georgia Tech was recognized last year as one of PHA’s completing partners.

Healthy Campus Week will be held September 23-27, 2019, with daily wellness events and activities that all students, faculty, and staff are invited to participate in. Below you will find a schedule detailing what can be expected for the week.

Mindful Monday, September 23

• Chair Massages 
  CRC Lobby, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
• Mindful Moments
  Student Center Juniper Room, 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
• Hydration Station
  CRC, 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
  *While supplies last

Tuesday, September 24

• Free HIV Testing
  Tech Walkway, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Power Yoga
  CRC Front Lawn, 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  *In the case of inclement weather, yoga will be held in Studio C of the CRC.

Wind Down Wednesday, September 25

• Blender Bike @ the Community Market
  Tech Walkway, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Mindfulness Book Club
  Student Center, Cypress Room, 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Thursday, September 26

• Pet Therapy
  Molecular Science Building 2^nd Floor, 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Fruits & Veggies Friday

• #FNVFriday Sweepstakes
  Participants will have the opportunity to win a swag bag of Fruits & Veggies apparel and gifts.
• Fruit Bar Friday + Q&A with Dietitians
  Student Center Healthy Space, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Throughout the week, the CRC will hold Group Fitness Classes for all members with group fitness passes.

The fun doesn’t stop there! All students will have the opportunity to enter PHA’s Healthy Campus Week Photo Sweepstakes for the chance to win a $100 Target Gift Card, Columbia gear, and other giveaways from MindBody. Simply post a photo and use the hashtags #HealthyCampusSweepstakes and #ColumbiaRaffle and follow   @Columbia1938 AND @HEALTHIER_CAMPUS to enter.

Finally, a food drive will occur throughout the week for Klemis Kitchen. Students can find drop boxes for non-perishable foods at the CRC, Stamps Health Services, Student Center Healthy Space, Brittain Dining Hall, North Ave Dining Hall, and West Village.

Georgia Tech students who are required to or would like to enroll in the student health insurance program (SHIP) must do so by September 15^th. Georgia Tech offers SHIP to enrolled undergraduate and graduate students and their eligible dependents who do not already have insurance. This plan includes comprehensive coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription, and worldwide travel) for the 2019-2020 policy year administered by UnitedHealthcare StudentResources (UHCSR).

The University System of Georgia (USG) requires certain groups of students to enroll in SHIP. Students who fall into these mandatory groups are not automatically enrolled and must enroll in or waive coverage by the September 15^th deadline. Those students who are not in a mandatory group, but are taking at least 4 credit hours including postdoctoral scholars, J1 scholars and OPT, may also enroll in the voluntary SHIP. Students enrolling in the voluntary SHIP must also enroll by September 15^th. Distance learning students or other online degree programs are not eligible.

Students may also choose to enroll their dependents. Eligible dependents include a student’s spouse and eligible children up to 26 years of age, including stepchildren, foster children, and legally adopted children.

SHIP coverage begins August 1, 2019 for one academic year only and all eligible students MUST enroll each fall and spring semester for coverage continuation from policy year to policy year. If you miss the open enrollment period, you will not be able to enroll until the next enrollment period in the spring.

For more information, as well as a step by step enrollment guide, go to health.gatech.edu/SHIP.

This event will feature interactive expo booths, mental health resources, King of Pops, giveaways and more! “The goal of Fresh Check Day is to create an approachable atmosphere where students will feel comfortable engaging in dialogue about mental health and becoming knowledgeable about the mental health resources available on campus, in the community, and nationally,” said Joi Alexander, Director of Health Promotion in HI.

Suicide Prevention Week is part of Georgia Tech’s commitment to the health and well-being of its campus community. This week takes place from September 7^th – September 13^th. For more information about this event go to, endsuicide.gatech.edu.

For additional information about mental health and well-being resources on campus, go to care.gatech.edu, counseling.gatech.edu or healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.

Suicide is the 10^th leading cause of death in the U.S. for all ages. These signs act as a beacon of hope to those struggling with grief and a reminder that they are not alone, and the entire Georgia Tech community stands behind them.

What makes the message on these signs unique is that the meaning behind them is in the eye of the beholder. Whether the viewer is struggling with depression, or a class project these signs are a reminder that you are enough, and you are worthy.

We all have a role to play in ending suicide on our campus and in our community. Suicide Prevention Week is part of Georgia Tech’s commitment to health and well-being on campus. For more information about the various events scheduled throughout the week go to endsuicide.gatech.edu.

Students seeking mental health support can visit the newly opened Center for Assessment, Referral and Education on the first floor of Smithgall Student Services (Flag) Building or visit care.gatech.edu for more information.

Barnes & Noble @ Georgia Tech

From August 31-September 2, the bookstore we will be open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

BuzzCard Center

The BuzzCard Center will be closed on Monday, September 2.

Georgia Tech Dining Services

Full list of hours from August 29 – September 4 is available here.

Campus Recreation Center

Friday, August 30 – 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, August 31 – 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday, September 1 – 12 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Monday, September 2 – 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Parking & Transportation

Trolleys, Stingers, Student Paratransit, NARA-TEP, Tech Square and Emory Shuttles will not operate on Monday, September 2.  Services will resume their normal operations on Tuesday, September 3. 

The Stingerette Nighttime Service will operate on Sunday, September 1 from 7:00 p.m. until Monday, September 2 at 7:00 a.m. It will not operate the night of Monday, September 2. Service will resume Tuesday, September 3, at 7:00 p.m.

The Midnight Rambler will operate on Sunday, September 1 from 8:00 p.m. until Monday, September 2 at 2:00 a.m.  It will not operate the night of Monday, September 2. Service will resume Tuesday, September 3, at 8:00 p.m.

Stamps Health Services

Stamps Health Services will be closed in observance of Labor Day. If you need care, please see after hours care resources: http://health.gatech.edu/after-hours.

Student Center

Friday, August 30 - 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday, August 31 - 8 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday, September 1 - 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Monday, September 2 - Noon - 11 p.m.
Tuesday, September 3 -regular hours resume

*The building will be accessible with a valid BuzzCard 24 hours a day*

West Village:

Friday, August 30 - 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday, August 31 - 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday, September 1 - 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Monday, September 2 - 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Tuesday, September 3 - regular hours resume

*The building will be accessible with a valid BuzzCard 24 hours a day*

Post Office

Friday, August 30 - 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday, August 31 – Closed
Sunday, September 1 – Closed
Monday, September 2 –Closed
Tuesday, September 3 - regular hours resume

Tech Rec

Friday, August 30 - 10 a.m. - 2 a.m.
Saturday, August 31 – Closed
Sunday, September 1 – Closed
Monday, September 2 –Closed
Tuesday, September 3 - regular hours resume

Paper & Clay

Friday, August 30 - Noon - 7 p.m.
Saturday, August 31 - Noon - 7 p.m.
Sunday, September 1 - Noon - 7 p.m.
Monday, September 2 –Closed
Tuesday, September 3 - regular hours resume

Under the Couch

Friday, August 30 - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday, August 31 – Closed
Sunday, September 1 – Closed
Monday, September 2 –Closed
Tuesday, September 3 - regular hours resume

What makes club baseball at the CRC unique?

Our club generally consists of guys who have played high school baseball, but it's by no means a requirement. We have skill levels ranging from guys who used to play varsity here or at other colleges to guys who are just picking the game back up… We do not have official tryouts or cuts in either the fall or spring.

In the fall we typically schedule games against other Georgia schools and will schedule one away series. The fall season is much more relaxed and we aim to ensure everyone receives equal field time. The spring season is much more competitive. We participate in the Division I National Club Baseball Association (NCBA). This acts similar to the NCAA, but for club baseball. We play against other college's club baseball teams in a three-game weekend series. We usually play 18-24 games a year, and some of our participants may play in the all-star game or home run derby that I believe is held in Tampa Bay, Florida. Practice is still free and we do not cut anyone in the spring, but instead, we release a depth chart to the team.

When does your season take place and what is your typical schedule? 

We have both a fall season and a spring season. We typically begin in the fall in mid-late September and will play 2 games each weekend. The fall season ends in November before Thanksgiving break. We begin our spring season in early February and will play 3 games each weekend until the beginning of May.

What are some reasons for joining club baseball?

The club baseball team is a great way to connect with a group of guys who share a love for the game. It's also a great way to continue playing the game you loved as a kid. Not to mention getting to travel and visit other schools is a blast. 

What advice do you have for people interested in baseball?

To anyone interested in club baseball I recommend coming to practice on weeknights. Practice is 100% free and there is no commitment required.

As a member of the team, do you have a favorite memory or experience?

My favorite club baseball memory has to be beating UGA in Athens in a tight ball game.

What was the greatest lesson you've learned from baseball that has helped you succeed in college?

The great lesson I've learned from baseball is perseverance. The game of baseball is funny in that the outcome is never predetermined or set in stone. That's why you can't give in early.

What athlete do you admire the most and why?

The athlete I admire most has to be former club president, Luke Bumgardner. He has an appreciation for the game like no other I've had the opportunity to play with. 

How can students join the Baseball Club?

Students can join the baseball club by signing up for our email list gtclubbaseball@gmail.com and attending practice.

The need for a single pathway was identified by Georgia Tech’s Mental Health Task Force, and reiterated as part of the Institute’s A Path Forward — Together initiative. CARE’s mission is to provide easier access to campus resources for undergraduate and graduate students at no cost.

Students seeking mental health support or services from the Counseling Center or Stamps Psychiatry clinic need to first visit CARE for an initial assessment appointment and referral. During the initial visit, students will be asked to complete paperwork, and then will immediately be given an appointment with a licensed therapist who specializes in college mental health and assessment. Once the intake process is completed, students will receive an individualized treatment plan that will include referrals to on- and off-campus resources.

“We are excited that CARE is opening ahead of schedule and to welcome Tiffiny Hughes-Troutman back to the Division of Student Life as the new director of CARE,” said John M. Stein, vice president for Student Life and the Brandt-Fritz Dean of Students Chair. “Her expertise and passion in the mental health field are exactly what we need to direct the opening of the center and support our students’ mental health and well-being.”

Hughes-Troutman is no stranger to Georgia Tech. She worked for eight years as the assistant director for outreach and wellness and as a staff therapist for the Counseling Center. She then served as director of health behavior with Health Initiatives for two years before accepting the role this summer as CARE director.

“I am thrilled that CARE offers a pioneering solution to the mental health demands on campus by providing immediate access to high-quality assessment and care, reducing barriers to treatment through a focus on mental health equity, and promoting help-seeking for the bright and resilient students we serve at Georgia Tech,” said Hughes-Troutman. “Mental health and well-being is our top priority, and we are committed to helping students thrive and meet their academic and personal goals.”

Students who have already been seen by someone in the Counseling Center or in Stamps Psychiatry before the fall 2019 semester and are established in those systems for the past six months do not need to start over again with the CARE process. Faculty and staff are also encouraged to consult with CARE staff about on-campus mental health resources and individual student concerns. Staff members will then work with other offices on campus to ensure that the concerns are addressed.

CARE’s grand opening will be celebrated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 9, 2019, at 1 p.m. in the Smithgall Student Services (Flag) Building atrium. All students, faculty, and staff are invited to join the Division of Student Life and CARE as President Ángel Cabrera introduces the new facility to the campus community.

For more information about CARE, visit care.gatech.edu.

 “Many people believe that all of life’s discomforts basically equate to toxic, negative, stress, but that’s not true,” said Dr. Hughes-Troutman. The first step in embracing stress is to promote a healthy mindset surrounding this emotion. “The secret is to remember that stress is not out in the world but lives in our mind. It is our own subjective response to our experiences,” remarked Dr. Croft. Because stress affects each person differently, there is no exact way to change your mindset. Dr. Hughes-Troutman suggested that it is important “to recognize that your body’s stress response is helpful, see that you are resilient and can handle it, and acknowledge that everyone deals with it.”

Changing the stigma around stress is the first step to embracing the power of our body’s natural response to danger. “We can see from Professor McGonigal’s research, individuals who viewed stress as a positive were more productive in their relationships, schoolwork and had better overall health,” stated Hughes-Troutman. Using stress as something to encourage you can help you rise to the challenge, focus more, and maintain better mental and physical health. Dr. Croft said that, “if we keep stress at a low-moderate level, we can use this manageable level of stress to hone our focus and improve our memory.”

Even with a healthy mindset, there can be a point when stress turns into a negative stressor. “Stress that occurs without relief is distress, which is a negative stress reaction,” said Dr. Hughes-Troutman. It is important to maintain a handle on our stress.  “If we let ourselves become overwhelmed, usually by focusing on catastrophic thinking, our subjective sense of stress can be overwhelming,” said Dr. Croft. Remembering that everyone deals with stress and that stress lives within our brains, can help us put the emotion into perspective. Stress also takes on a negative connotation “when we are hungry, intoxicated, isolated or exhausted,” stated Dr. Croft.

When we let stress build to a high level, it no longer becomes beneficial. In order to manage stress, it is important that you “don’t view your stress as a sign that you’re a failure or that you can’t handle situations,” remarked Dr. Hughes-Troutman. She suggested, “when you find yourself under stress, reach out to others and find healthy ways to cope, adapt and transform your stress.”

There are many resources on campus that help students manage and cope with stress. Dr. Hughes-Troutman recommended attending a pet therapy session, signing up for Fit to Thrive classes or connecting with Health Initiatives through wellness coaching if you are struggling with viewing stress in a positive light.  If things ever get to be too much, remember that “you are here at Tech because you are capable and bright,” concluded Dr. Hughes-Troutman. For more information on stress management resources go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.

The Campus Recreation Center (CRC) is committed to offering different swim programs to fit every interest level and need. CRC Aquatics and Fitness Coordinator, Stephanie Belcher said, “Water safety and knowing how to swim is important for everyone.  We offer beginner and intermediate level group swim lessons and private lessons for all levels of swimmers to feel confident and safe in the pool.” The CRC offers instructional swim programs for both members and non-members with classes available for children 5 years or older and adults.

You can schedule private, semi-private or group lessons to create the most inclusive and comfortable environment for you. Our group lessons are offered Mondays and Wednesday or Tuesdays and Thursdays to ensure that lessons are available to fit every schedule. The small group lessons consist of at most, six participants with four 30 minute sessions. Private classes are scheduled separately by contacting Stephanie Belcher. Semi-private classes consist of two students per instructor and include two 30 minute lessons. Private lessons are customized to the swimmers' abilities and include two thirty-minute lessons. Group lessons typically include six students per instructor. 

Lessons start as early as the week of August 19 and run through the end of November. Go to crc.gatech.edu/lessons for cost and registration. Whether you are new to swimming or looking to fine-tune your stroke, the CRC is the right starting block for you!  

Midtown Alliance is a non-profit organization that works every day to keep Midtown clean, safe, accessible and interesting. This gives students and staff, premium access to the IN*MidtownATL mobile app, which rewards you with discounts, unique offers, and experiences around the city.

For years, the Meet Me in Midtown discount card has helped employees and students access special discounts, and now there is a digital counterpart to the card! With the app, you will have instant access to 100+ unique offers and experiences ONLY available for Midtown Alliance members. Both the card and the app provide you with 10% off at all participating venues, but only the app gives you access to even more offers such as BOGO free lunches, complimentary beverages, and free pastries with purchase in the Midtown area.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity! To gain access to this incredible deal, download the IN*MidtownATL mobile app in the Apple or Google Play stores. Unlock your access by creating an account and logging in with your organization name (choose “Georgia Institute of Technology" from the list). Be sure to turn on location services so you can find all the great offers based on your location.

If you have any issues registering, email appsupport@midtownatl.com.

All CRC lockers will be replaced with new antimicrobial, GreenGuard℠ water resistant and mildew proof lockers. The current lockers from the 1996 Olympics will be retired during this upgrade. The shower partitions will also all be replaced during this renovation. Due to this change, locker usage will be limited. Find the full schedule of renovations below:

• July 22–August 2: male and female aquatic locker rooms will be closed. Patrons can utilize the lockers in the main area.
• July 31–August 11: fourth floor restrooms will be closed.
• August 2: all items in the male and female room main locker area must be removed by 10 p.m. otherwise contents will be removed and bagged and unavailable until August 14.
• August 3–11: CRC will be closed for annual maintenance week. Men and women’s main lockers and shower partitions replaced.
• August 12–14: male and female aquatic locker rooms available as day lockers for free usage. Main locker room will be closed.
• August 15: all locker rooms will reopen.

In addition to locker renovations, the CRC will be closed on August 1 from 7:30 a.m. – noon for all staff training. Additionally, the CRC will be fully closed for the annual maintenance week from August 3–11 with a partial opening from August 12–14. During this closure, CRC staff will remove all equipment, deep clean, paint, and perform yearly preventative maintenance before the new semester kicks off. For up to date information on hours and closures go to crc.gatech.edu.   

The open enrollment period is Monday, July 22, 2019 – Sunday, September 15, 2019. Eligible dependents, including domestic partners of enrolled students, may participate in the SHIP and must enroll during this period. Eligible dependents include a student’s spouse and eligible children up to 26 years of age (including stepchildren, foster children, and legally adopted children, providing the student is fully enrolled and eligible for coverage).

There are two classifications of students:

• Mandatory - Students who do not already have an existing health insurance policy must enroll in this insurance. To determine if you fall under the mandatory groups, please visit www.studentcenter.uhcsr.com/gatech. Students who are charged for mandatory student health insurance who have existing health insurance coverage that meets/exceeds insurance requirements can receive a waiver. Students can waive/enroll using the same link: www.studentcenter.uhcsr.com/gatech.  

• Voluntary - Students taking at least four credit hours (including Postdoctoral Scholars, J1 Scholars, and OPT) may also enroll during the open enrollment period. Go to uhcsr.com/GaTech to begin the enrollment process.  

Coverage begins August 1, 2019, for one academic year only, and all eligible students MUST enroll each fall and spring semester for coverage continuation from policy year to policy year. If you miss the open enrollment period, you will not be able to enroll until the next enrollment period in the spring. If you currently hold SHIP insurance from the 2018-19 policy year, your coverage ends on July 31, 2019. For more information about this new program, including current rates, go to uhcsr.com/GaTech.

When does your season take place and what is your typical schedule? 

Our season takes place in the spring and usually consists of two regional tournaments.  At those regional tournaments, we can qualify for nationals, which we have been able to do for the past four years, including winning the national championship last year. We usually practice three times a week in the fall and spring, with tryouts occurring in November.

Can you tell me about the Women’s Basketball Club?

The women’s club basketball team is a group of girls that love competing and having fun together. Many of us become good friends and we spend time together outside of practice as well.

What are some reasons for joining the Women’s Basketball Club?

The number one reason to join the club basketball team is to get to compete against other schools at a fairly high level. We have a lot of fun, especially when we travel for tournaments, but it’s still a club sport, so we’re there to compete first and foremost.

What advice do you have for people (girls especially) interested in basketball?

If you’re interested in basketball in general, you can always find space up at the CRC to shoot around on your own at any time. It takes a lot of hard work and practice to develop good form and skills, but once you get there it’s a really fun game.

As a member of the team, do you have a favorite memory or experience?

My favorite memory on the team is definitely nationals this past Spring. Not only did we win the National Championship, we also had a very fun time in Wichita celebrating one of our teammates’ birthday.

What was the greatest lesson you've learned from basketball that has helped you succeed in college?

The biggest lessons I’ve learned from basketball have to do with leadership and patience.  This comes in very handy while working on group projects in school. Patience also helps when I have to work through tough problems in school or have to memorize a bunch of information for tests.

What athlete do you admire the most and why?

I don’t have one specific favorite athlete, but my favorites are those who do just as much if not more in their communities as they do in their respective sports.

How can students join the Women’s Basketball Club?

If you are interested in joining the women’s club basketball team, please email gtwcball@gmail.com to get added to the email list.  The practice schedule will be sent out at the start of fall and tryouts will be sometime in November. The more practices attended, the greater the likelihood someone has of making the team come tryouts.

Seek shade

The sun’s UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try limiting your exposure during this time or exercise in the shade.

Wear protective clothing and accessories

Wear light-weight long sleeves and pants, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses that block 99-100% of UV rays.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen

Aim to use sunscreen that is ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) protected. Make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 (blocks 97% of UVB rays) or more and is water resistant.  

Check the UV Index

Check the UV Index before stepping outside. The UV Index Scale ranges from 1 to 11+.  A higher number means a greater risk of exposure to UV rays and a higher chance of sunburn and skin damage that could ultimately lead to skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

Stay hydrated

When the temperatures rise, getting enough to drink is important whether you’re playing sports, traveling or just sitting in the sun. According to the American Heart Association, “Dehydration can be a serious condition that can lead to problems ranging from swollen feet or a headache to life-threatening illnesses such as heat stroke.”

Whether you are running on the Pi Mile or scoring goals on the Campus Recreation Center (CRC) fields take precautions to protect your self during these summer months. For more health and well-being, tips go to hw.gatech.edu/.

Georgia Tech club rowing recently showed their finesse on the national stage at the American Collegiate Rowing Association (ACRA) Championships. The team walked away victorious with first in the varsity men’s double, second in the varsity women’s pair, and third in the freshman men’s 4+ event. This is the third year in a row that Tech walked away with medals. While many of the rowers were competitive high-school athletes, more than 90 percent of the team had no previous rowing experience prior to joining the program.

As one of the largest Campus Recreation Center (CRC) competitive clubs they compete against both club and varsity teams across the country during a fall head race season and spring sprint season. “It takes a serious commitment from the athletes who choose to stick around and compete for ACRA, especially at a school like Tech where almost every person has an internship or study abroad opportunity over the summer,” said Sutton.

For the men’s double the season doesn’t stop at ACRA’s. They will continue training throughout the summer to compete at trials to join the National under 23 team and represent the United States at the World Rowing under 23 Championships.

No experience is necessary to join this award-winning club! The experienced coaching staff will build you to become national champions as you make lifelong friendships, push yourself to new limits, and represent Georgia Tech nationally. You can learn more about this club and all other CRC sport clubs at crc.gatech.edu/sportclubs.

 Fit to Thrive was developed to incorporate new health challenges and explore different campus resources every week. Participants learn about health and well-being opportunities on campus while also setting their own personal goals and working with a health educator to reach them. This group program takes a very individualized approach through personal goal setting. Previous attendee and Stamps Health Services Pharmacy Tech, Jennifer Ayers said, “my favorite part of the program was the hands-on approach to activities. We went to West Village with the nutritionist as well as took a yoga class.” This interactive program is not restricted to a classroom but instead goes out and explores health opportunities across campus.

 Fit to Thrive explores on-campus programming in a safe and inclusive environment. Healthy living is more than just diet and exercise and this five-week series addresses a different component of health every week. Ayers said, “my biggest takeaway was learning about myself and how I react to different life stresses. It taught me how to be more mindful of my actions.” Created for both students and employees, Fit to Thrive will spend this fall focused on nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness, understanding your strengths, and stress management.

Registration is now open and required for this free series. CRC membership is not required to join this program. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/thrive to register and learn more.

The event provides an opportunity for Atlanta-area standout swimmers to compete where former Olympians have shattered records and made a name for themselves. It will also bring some closures and inconvenience for the Tech community.

McAuley Aquatic Center will be closed to patrons June 26–29. The Crawford Leisure Pool will remain open with adjusted hours, which will be posted at crc.gatech.edu/aquatics.

To accommodate the influx of swimmers and fans, Parking and Transportation Services will use the W10-CRC deck for swim guests. Parking spaces in W01 (Ferst Drive from Regents to Sixth Street) will be closed. Permit holders are required to move their vehicles from W10 and this section of W01 by 6 a.m. Wednesday.

The swim meet is expected to run from 7:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. Parking congestion is expected during these hours in the following locations, which will be used for overflow guest parking and alternate permit parking:

• W02-Student Center Deck
• W06-Marietta Street lots/Tech Parkway
• W21-Physics/Boggs
• W23/Area 5-North Campus Deck

Affected permit customers will receive emails with specific parking instructions for this event. For those who don’t need to park or drive in these areas, walking or taking campus transit is encouraged. The Georgia Tech Police Department will set up checkpoints and direct traffic to ease congestion.

Completed in 1995 to host the 1996 Summer Olympics swimming and diving competitions, the McAuley Aquatic Center in the CRC is considered one of the fastest pools in the world. The CRC hosts several swim meets throughout the year, keeping the Olympic spirit alive.

For CRC aquatics special events and closures, visit crc.gatech.edu/aquatics. For more information about parking and transportation changes, visit pts.gatech.edu.

The POP Pilates class was just added this semester and “is a total body, equipment-free workout that sculpts a rock-solid core and a lean dancer’s body like
nothing else,” said Smith.  

If class times are a concern class availability has been expanded upon this semester to optimize convenient times before, during and after the work or school day to provide more flexibility with your schedule. According to Smith, a number of popular classes, including Treadfit and Zumba, added additional time slots to keep up with the high demand.

If you are looking for an opportunity to kick up your workout, the prorated membership is a great opportunity to test out classes at a very low price! CRC members can register for group fitness courses at the Member Services desk, which is located at the CRC entrance, or at mycrc.gatech.edu.

Popular media often romanticizes stalking behaviors with romantic comedies that involve manipulation and wearing down the defenses of an unsuspecting victim to show that “love” knows no boundaries. The romantic storyline of slowly wearing someone down over time through repeated and unwanted interactions is one that is inexplicably held up and admired as unrequited love. Planchard said, “The portrayal in the movies of one character persistently pursuing another who has rejected them perpetuates the notion that if you just put the time in to woo them, you are entitled to them.”

At least 1 in 6 women and 1 in 17 men have experienced stalking victimization at some point during their lifetime severe enough that they feared they or someone close to them would be harmed, according to The Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC). Stalking is defined as a pattern of behavior directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. It is also common to feel anger, frustration, hopelessness or despair.

Planchard categorized stalking as often falling into two categories at Georgia Tech: stalking that occurs after a breakup and repeated unwanted attempts to get someone to be in a relationship or friendship with you. “A student may think they can handle the situation on their own and continue to try to reason with the person, delaying when they seek help,” said Planchard. Stalking often occurs as a larger pattern of intimate partner violence and can be an indicator of escalation and danger. Many abusers use stalking behaviors to intimidate and control their partners or to try to convince them to return to the relationship. Stalking in real life can manifest in more subtle ways than a John Cusack movie and it’s important to understand the behaviors and red flags. HI VOICE Advocates, Jennifer Gagen and Planchard compiled the following tips to consider:

Trust your instincts. Survivors of stalking sometimes feel pressured by friends to downplay the person’s behavior, but stalking can be dangerous and it has a serious impact on the survivor’s day to day life. Remember that your safety is the most important.  Friends and family members are often the first people who a victim tells about what’s going on, and their response heavily influences whether or not the victim seeks further help. 

Call the police if you feel you may be in any immediate danger. Explain why the stalker’s actions are causing you fear. GTPD is available 24 hours per day to help keep you safe. They can contact the other person and tell them to leave you alone and also take further action as needed. You don’t have to go alone – bring a friend or have a VOICE Advocate join you.

Get connected with a VOICE Advocate.  They can assist you in exploring your reporting options as well as safety planning and connecting you to resources.  VOICE Advocates are confidential and available 24 hours per day. They can be reached at (404)385-3351 or (404)385-4464. After business hours, call GTPD at (404)894-2500, ask for the on-call advocate, and provide only your phone number.

Keep a record or log of each contact. Be sure to document all attempts to contact you, follow you, or spy on or monitor you, including any police reports or restraining orders filed. Stalkers can escalate quickly or sometimes stay quiet for a while, making you think they stopped. A record like this will help you remember details and track their patterns, even if you choose not to report.

Stalkers often use technology to contact their victims. Save all emails, text messages, photos, and postings on social networking sites as evidence of the stalking behavior. You may also want to consider ways to use your technology and your devices in a safer manner to limit someone’s access to your personal information. For more information, please visit the National Network to End Domestic Violence Safety Net Project’s Tech Safety Site. Especially at Tech, perpetrators find creative ways to monitor and contact the people they are stalking. Spoofing, spyware, and making fake accounts are just a few. You can get creative too to track and document what’s going on.

Every January is National Stalking Awareness Month and acts as a reminder to recognize and respond to the serious crime of stalking. Stalking is a terrifying and psychologically harmful crime in its own right as well as a predictor of potentially lethal violence. For more information regarding stalking and other forms of sexual violence visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/voice.

For many, swimming is considered a difficult activity, but for Jake Grant, swim club president, and his teammates, it is a lifestyle.

Q: When does your season take place and what is your typical schedule?

A: The Georgia Tech Swim Club season goes from the first week of school until April, when our national championship meet takes place. We practice four times a week, Monday through Thursday, from 7:30-9:00 PM at the McAuley Aquatic Center at the CRC. Additionally, many swimmers practice in the mornings or weekends for dryland, or for additional swimming, if they feel like it. Throughout the season, we compete at least three times a semester in meets ranging from our annual kickoff intrasquad meet, which is where we race one another just for fun and to get to know each other, to the national championship meet I mentioned earlier. In fact, the past two seasons, Georgia Tech has been crowned College Club Swimming national champions and have hosted the meet many times in the past. Our other meets take place at schools usually in the Southeast, be it against one team, like our annual home-and-home dual meet with Auburn, or many schools, like the Clemson and Florida State invitationals.

Q: Can you tell me about the Swim Club?

A: As far as the club itself, it's one of the larger sport clubs, with over 100 dues-paying members from all walks of life on campus. We have undergrad, masters, and Ph.D. students representing most majors on campus, and people involved in everything from SGA to Greek Life to research and the like. 

Q: What are some reasons for joining the Swim Club?

A: I think two things really define what it means to be in the Georgia Tech Swim Club: the culture and the sport. The two have to go hand-in-hand, really, and that's what makes the club so special. We kinda joke that everything is optional, but, that still rings true. We do what we do because we love it. There's a super low barrier to entry - just show up and be a part of it - but whether it's in the pool, like at practice, at meets around the country, or doing fun things like trivia nights and tailgates, Swim Club is about it all. It's super important to have work-life balance at Tech, and I think joining Swim Club has given me that. And, in the same sense, the club itself has a nice internal sport-social balance. It's more than just getting in and swimming laps. And it's not goofing around all the time, either. We won the national championship, after all. I think a good way to put it is that it's a bunch of passionate athletes who are also invested in each other. I joined the club because I love the sport, but I stayed because I love the people. 

Q: What advice do you have for people interested in swimming?

A: As for advice for people interested in the club, I'd say absolutely just do it. We take any and all comers. We had a kid last year swim at nationals who had never swum competitively before his sophomore year of college. We have national-caliber athletes. And everything in between. The swimming is great, and the family is better. So if you're thinking about it, by all means, we can't wait to see you around.

Q: As a member of the Swim Club, do you have a favorite memory or experience?

A: My favorite memory? That's almost unfair. It's so cliché to say this, but I literally have so many. From training trips to Florida, meets in fun other cities, our intramurals, meals together, going home and away sporting events...there's so many to count. But I think the single greatest memory is when it first dawned on me that "oh my, we could actually win this meet," the first year we won the national championship. I get pretty animated on the pool deck, what with my cowbell and such, and I don't think I've ever had more fun than being part of an exec board that hosted a national championship that we won, and that I got to swim in the meet. From top to bottom, everyone on the team, from the people that swam, timed, volunteered, and cheered, had such a huge part in pulling that weekend off, and they did it all to perfection, and we all had a lot of fun doing it. But, like I said, I rarely have a day when I'm not making more great memories with the team. Really has had a massive impact on my college experience, personally. 

Q: What was the greatest lesson you've learned from swimming that has helped you succeed in college?

A: The greatest lesson I've learned from swim that has helped me in college is mental toughness, I think. Swimming is a pretty thankless sport. Unless you're really good at having ten second long conversations in the middle of sets, it's a lot of time in your own thoughts, especially before college when things are super intense. You can have a race that feels great but swim a subpar time. You spend a lot of hours in a big chlorinated pool. But, the attitude of a swimmer - stick-to-it-ive-ness, perseverance - that has paid off dividends. Tech is not an easy place, in or out of the classroom. But whether it's doing one more homework problem, or writing a paper deep into the night, I'm thankful to have the grit to get things done. And, in a broader sense, it helped me stick with the sport, which I'm really thankful for, because it brought me to this team at this school, and I owe my best friends, best memories, and biggest athletic achievements to joining Swim Club in the first place.

Q: What athlete do you admire the most and why?

A: Javier Báez. Easy. For those that don't know, Javy Báez is an infielder for the Chicago Cubs. The man started with a dream - play major league baseball - from a young age. He had a tattoo of the MLB logo years before he was in the pros, that's for sure. And even when he got there, in all honesty, he was awful. He could hit for power and he was a slick fielder, but every swing, it was like he was trying to hit a five-run home run and so he struck out like 40% of the time or something crazy like that. But, thing is, he stuck with it, refined his approach, and didn't give up. Now, he's one of the best all-around hitters in baseball, stunning in the field, and one of the slickest base runners you'll ever see. Truly a great player. And, at the same time, he has so much fun doing it. Sports are games; they're supposed to be fun. If they're not, then why do them? That's kinda the same way I see swim club. We're successful, national champions, yeah, but we also have a great time with each other, we enjoy what we do, and have fun.

Q: How can students join the Swim Club?

A: As for joining the Swim Club, you can join our email list to stay in the loop, email me at president.gtsc@gmail.com for more questions, I'm always happy to answer, or stay tuned to us

Applications Open for Fall student Hiring! If you are a Georgia Tech student looking for your next on-campus job the CRC is looking for you. With over 300 student staff the CRC provides a fun and flexible environment for you to earn resume building meta-skills and connect with other Tech students.  Learn about all open positions and hear from current student staff at the July 9^th hiring expo. For more information go to crc.gatech.edu/employment. 

Currently hiring for lifeguards. Spend your summer by the pool as a CRC lifeguard. We are accepting applications all semester for lifeguards! Both already certified and not yet certified applicants are eligible to apply. Got to crc.gatech.edu/lifeguard to learn more and apply today.

If sports are your calling summer intramural registration opens this month. Intramurals provide students, faculty, and staff the opportunity for competition and fun in a variety of team and individual sports activities. Registration opens June 25^th for sand volleyball, and 4 v 4 soccer. Register at crc.gatech.edu/intramural.

Adventure awaits! Outdoor recreation offers a variety of trips and gear rentals throughout the month of June. Trips include backpacking, vertical caving, cascading, rock climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking. All trips include gear rental, instructions, and transportation, not to mention an expert guide to take you on the journey. These trips are available to all Georgia Tech students, faculty, staff, and alumni. You can also venture out on your own with equipment rentals at the Wilderness Outpost. Find out everything you need for your next adventure at crc.gatech.edu/outdoor.

Cool off with indoor swim lessons. The CRC offers instructional swim programs for both members, and non-members. Classes are available for children, minimum age of five years, and adults. If you are new to this sport swim lessons are a great way to build up your stamina, learn the different strokes, and most importantly get comfortable in the water. For lesson types and pricing go to crc.gatech.edu/swim-lessons.

Throw your next pool party at the CRC. Start your summer early with a CRC pool party. Party reservations include full use of the Crawford Pool, adjacent locker rooms, spa, current channel, water slide and lap lanes in accordance with pool rules. In addition, lifeguard supervision, life jackets, toys, tables and chairs are provided during all pool party reservations. For more information check out crc.gatech.edu/parties.

In addition to all of the above, the CRC is a world-class facility offering aquatics programs, fitness classes and programs, competitive sports, and outdoor recreation all semester long. Whatever your style, the CRC has a program, activity, or service for you that will best fit your journey to becoming a healthy Yellow Jacket®! For a full list of updated programs and events go to, crc.gatech.edu.   

Cayenne

You may not know it, but cayenne is actually a type of chili pepper. It is commonly found in Southwestern American, Mexican, Cajun, and Creole cuisine. Its spicy kick comes from a substance called capsaicin. Capsaicin can actually provide pain relief.  It works by reducing the number of pain signals sent to the brain.

Garlic

Common in most Mediterranean dishes, we all know the unique and familiar taste and smell of garlic. Garlic is an everyday spice that truly does not receive enough credit. It can add some serious flavor to so many different dishes, but did you know that it can also boost heart health? Research has shown that consuming garlic may help to keep blood vessels flexible, reduce cholesterol, and reduce triglycerides. 

Ginger

Used for thousands of years, ginger is a tropical plant that comes in a variety of different, consumable forms- including candies, teas, cookies, even lollipops. Since we’ve all likely had a stomach ache at least once in our lives, we figured it’s a no brainer to add ginger to our list. Ginger has been shown to help provide relief for upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting. Research has also found that ginger can significantly reduce the severity of motion sickness, and may oftentimes prevent the symptoms entirely.

Turmeric

You may recognize this trendy food used in many Indian dishes. Curcumin, a substance found in turmeric, is what makes turmeric the wonder that it just so happens to be. The substance has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body and decrease pain and swelling in people with arthritis.

Cinnamon

Yes, this is the same spice used in your pumpkin spice lattes from Starbucks. Without adding sugar, cinnamon can still add a sweet taste to your food, this is especially beneficial to people with high blood sugar or type 2 diabetes. Some research shows, cinnamon can aid in lowering blood sugar levels and reducing high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. 

Want to learn more about how you can add all of these healthy ingredients to your dishes? Check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/tuesday-tastes for recipes, tips, and professional support. If you are considering taking one of these spices as a supplement, talk to your doctor or a dietitian about what may be right for you as they are not replacements for medical or nutrition recommendations. For more information about dietitian services at Georgia Tech go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition-counseling.

You came to Georgia Tech to pursue your passions, make a change in the world, and eventually…make some big bucks. But why not start now? A dollar may not seem like much money, but did you know that if you doubled that dollar every day for just 20 days you’d be a millionaire? As a matter of fact, Albert Einstein once said that “Compound interest is the 8^th wonder of the world.” Now there isn’t just one way to make your money work for you, and there are a lot of money making techniques that we know will align best with your student lifestyle and ramen budget.

To help students with a better understanding of their finances and how to successfully transition in and out of their college experience, Health Initiatives has designed a course just for you. It is a highly personalized and self-paced experience. The interactive experience will help you learn key financial decision-making skills and apply them to important real-life scenarios. The three main topics of this course are as follows: school expenses, personal expenses, and career/post-graduation decisions. Here is some of the key information that you will be trained on through the Transit Financial Wellness online course:

• Understanding and managing financial aid
• Comprehending spending, banking, and credit decisions
• Managing school expenses and avoiding unnecessary debt
• Setting long-term savings goals
• Understanding credit scores, mortgages, and investing
• Managing a budget and differentiating “needs” from “wants”
• Student loan repayment options and responsibilities

78% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck and the average American household carrying over $137,000 in debt. This isn’t necessarily because of how much Americans make, but more so because of how they spend and their poor financial literacy. So, if you’re ready to break this cycle and control your money, rather than have it control you, take the next step and register for the Transit Financial Wellness course now by visiting healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/transit.

June 5^th is global running day and a great reason to introduce you to the CRC group fitness class TreadFit. Taught by Becky James at the CRC, this group class focuses primarily on running and takes place on treadmills. TreadFit uses high-intensity interval training to create a more structured class with consistent running and recovery periods as well as higher intensity during the sprint intervals.  Starting with a warmup, Becky leads the class through intense periods of sprints and recoveries until they have finished the workout, ending with a cooldown and stretching.

Lauren Stover, CRC Leadership Challenge Course Coordinator, initially took this class to accomplish her goal of becoming black belt certified. As she continued to take the class, Lauren learned that she grew to love running!  Stover said, “because we are using a treadmill, we can all work our hardest without ‘outpacing’ each other, which creates a great culture of supporting one another. It allows everyone in the class to workout at the same intensity even if they are not at the same speed.”  

This segued into Stover training towards a goal of running up Stone Mountain in 25 minutes.  “This course is incredibly steep, almost all uphill, and about a mile long.  Although it took hard work, I did it,” said Stover.  She also received her black belt certification and is currently working towards her second degree. TreadFit trained her to accomplish these goals and learn to enjoy running. 

At CRC, our instructors are committed to creating inclusive workouts that encourage people of all fitness levels to participate. Elisha Smith, CRC assistant director of fitness said, “we employ inclusive trainers from all different backgrounds to create a comfortable environment for everyone who takes one of our classes. We see students, alumni, faculty, and staff of all ages in our different classes.” If you have a goal in mind the group fitness classes are a great way to reach them. Memberships are available for all CRC members and can be purchased online or at the member services desk. For a list of the classes currently offered this summer or for more information about TreadFit, go to crc.gatech.edu/group-fitness.

Mindfulness provides many benefits for academic success!  Practicing this can lead to greater resilience, better sleep, heightened focus, and increased confidence.  Likewise, it is beneficial for health and well-being.  If practiced consistently, it can lower levels of stress, depression, or anxiety, lift moods, boost the immune system, and make you happier! We sat down with Dr. Hughes-Troutman and put together a guide for those unfamiliar with the term and how to start practicing it.

How you can start practicing mindfulness:

At Georgia Tech, it is not uncommon for students to believe they don’t have enough time to implement new routines, however, this is one that can really benefit you!  Dr. Hughes-Troutman explained, “For many, starting a mindfulness practice is challenging due to a perceived lack of time, impatience over a need to feel different immediately, and doubts or perfectionism about ‘practicing it in the right way.’ It’s important to realize that it’s natural to initially feel restless when practicing mindfulness and it may be difficult to focus due to wandering thoughts and our a tendency to focus on ‘doing and not thinking.’” 

So, what are the steps in practicing this?

1. Start being more aware of your breathing.  Take the time to focus on the ins and outs of your breath--like in yoga!
2. Take a minute in between the activities you are doing to pause and think.  An example of this would be taking a few moments in between bites when eating or pausing before picking up the phone (this one is definitely an impulse, but try to control it!).
3. Find a time in your day when you can devote 10-15 minutes to be completely mindful.  Try to reduce distractions including TV and phones.  For instance, if you have scheduled a 15-minute walk, take the time to decide what your route will be, what time you will be least distracted, and the things you can do to stay focused.
4. Once you have started practicing, make this something you do consistently so that it becomes a part of your routine. If you need extra help with routine, mindfulness apps and podcasts are extremely helpful!

What resources are available on campus to exercise mindfulness?

• Health Initiatives- Every Wednesday, May 15^th-July 26^th from 3:30-4:00, Health Initiatives hosts “Mindful Moments: Drop in and Relax” in the Student Center Juniper Room.  Drop in to relax and de-stress with short guided mindfulness exercises and coloring!  Join this relaxation space to learn and practice simple mindfulness techniques and stress management skills that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.
• Honors Program- Meditation, Mindfulness and Mental Acuity program’s GT 1000 course
• Meditation Club- A community of students interested in learning about and practicing meditation as a way of improving mental well-being. They meet during the summer on Wednesday and Thursdays, DM Smith 015, 6:00 p.m.
• SKY at Georgia Tech- Promotes a stress-free campus at GT.  There are weekly activities including meditation, workshops, and yoga.

Mindfulness is a process and it’s never too late to start. For more information about mindfulness and events on campus go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness.

Book your appointment with Stamps as soon as you can- A variety of immunizations may be needed before you travel, and different immunizations have different requirements. Some may require multiple doses over the span of multiple weeks.  Vaccines also have unique half-lives, and the immunities may not start working until a specific amount of time has passed. Other vaccines are taken orally right before you travel, so it is better to go early and get everything organized than waiting until the last minute and struggling to get an appointment!

Map out where you will be traveling- Different countries will require different vaccines, so mapping out where you will be traveling allows nurses to fully protect you from the various diseases you could be exposed to. Most students that come in travel to 4+ countries, many in different areas, so it is important to disclose everywhere you are traveling.

Bring an itinerary for each country- Depending on what you’re planning on doing in each country, you will need different immunizations. Taking a tour through the rainforest would expose you to different things than sitting in a conference room would.

Make sure to keep the printout provided- During the consultation, nurses will pull up a medical map of where you are traveling to and recommend certain vaccinations depending on the location. This printout includes information on contact numbers of nearby U.S. Embassies. This could be useful if you choose not to get immunization and then end up needing one!  There are typically clinics at the embassies that can help.

Be prepared for vaccine reactions- Some vaccinations may cause mild symptoms such as fatigue and a slight fever. Doctors recommend to take it easy for a few days, however, if these symptoms persist, you may be experiencing an allergic reaction and should come back to Stamps to consult with a doctor. Rashes are the most common allergic reaction, and these may prevent you from getting the next dose of certain vaccinations.

Be aware of the financial costs of immunizations- Depending on what immunizations recommended, there is a wide margin in the cost of the vaccines offered. Likewise, different immunizations could require multiple doses, which would be more expensive than a single dose. Although some may be more expensive, paying for the vaccine is much safer than risking a life-threatening illness.

If you are traveling outside of the country, make sure to book an appointment as soon as you can!  SHS staff will make sure you are safe and ready for your best summer yet!  You can find more information about booking your appointment and the immunizations available on at health.gatech.edu/travel.

Sunburns:

Almost all of us have fallen victim to this. We all enjoy soaking up some sun, but just make sure you don’t soak it all up. Dr. Holton recommends that you avoid prolonged time in the sun, while also diligently wearing sunscreen and frequently reapplying- yes, you still have to reapply it even if it’s waterproof. Make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 (blocks 97% of UVB rays) or more and is water resistant. Check out this story for more sunscreen tips.

Heat Illness:

Yes, there is such a thing as heat illness- and it’s just as awful as it sounds. The good news? It’s not too difficult to avoid. Dr. Holton recommends that you drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after heat exposure. You should also take frequent breaks to get out of the sun, while also avoiding being outside during the hottest part of the day. Don’t forget to also wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and to take the time to get acclimated to the heat.

Scooter Injuries:

Scooter injuries, who would’ve thought these could be so common?  We’ve all seen someone wipe out while flying down freshman hill, so here are some of Dr. Holton’s recommendations to avoid this surprisingly common injury. Step one: wear a helmet! Wearing a helmet or some other type of head protection should be a no brainer. Also, try to avoid excessive speeds, be diligent in watching for road hazards and other vehicles, and avoid being distracted by an electronic device while riding.

Sexual Transmitted Infections (STIs)

A quick decision can hold lifelong consequences. Dr. Holton recommends practicing safe sex at all times. This doesn’t only include using protection, but also knowing your partner, and knowing yourself. For more information on safe sex tips go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sexual-health.

Skin Rash:

As if pesky bug bites and irritating sunburns weren’t enough, you need to also be aware of the serious threat of getting a rash this summer. There are many things that cause rashes, especially in the summer. Dr. Holton recommends that you try to wear long pants and long sleeves anytime that you are hiking or walking. This will help you avoid getting dermatitis from contact with poison ivy and poison oak.

This summer make smart, informed decisions to stay out of the patient’s waiting room and spend time outside. You can find more tips on ways to stay healthy go to health.gatech.edu.

Where did you go to school?

I graduated from a liberal arts school called Spring Hill College, located in Mobile Alabama. 

You have been at Tech for over 10 years, how have you seen the CRC transition and progress through the years?  

I have seen it improve in so many areas. From upgrading fitness equipment, building Stamps Field, to sustainability improvements. Our technology continues to improve providing better services for the many students and patrons that utilize our facility on a daily basis.

What does your role as an operations manager entail?  

I wish there were a start and an end to this job, but primarily my job is to make sure the building is functional 24 hours a day. From replacing light bulbs to ensuring contractors are adhering to the scope of the project they are responsible for. The operations team is here to make this a great place to be. 

What is your favorite part about working at the CRC?  

That is easy. Seeing the daily faces of our patrons and students. I may be a little prejudice when I say this, but I have never met so many young kids that are so wonderful in all my life. To me, students “learn” to be smart, but they are “taught” to be polite and respectful.  That part of them I see and enjoy seeing on a daily basis. The Adults/Patrons that come into this building are very friendly and kind. It is amazing seeing them on a daily basis and as you get to know them, you learn that this is so much more for their lives than just a gym. 

What is something CRC patrons would be surprised to know about the CRC building and operations?  

We never sleep...when there is a problem in the building, operations get the information the same day. One Sunday I got a text while I was in church and had to leave the service to call a facility staff member who was also at home, to contact the gas company ...on a Sunday morning!  There are no days off, like my director (Michael Edwards) likes to say “we are like an airport” we are open 7 days a week. When there is a problem, no matter what day it is, it is “all-hands-on-deck” from the building supervisors to operations and sometimes facilities, until the problem is resolved... I mean everyone, is really going at a breakneck pace to resolve issues. 

What have you learned through your time here?  

I have learned that there has to be patience in the process.  In operations, funding is a process that you learn to be patient about. However, that does not stop us from getting all of our pieces together prior to, so when the funding comes in, we are ready to go!

What is your favorite campus spot and why?   

This may sound corny, but I LOVE watching the band practice in the evenings at Stamps Field. It reminds me of my high school days at my school in the evenings. On a beautiful sunny day on Stamps Field, you can see all these beautiful different cultures enjoying their time together. I love what this field brings to campus. 

What do you like to do when you aren’t at Georgia Tech? 

I like playing golf in my spare time and I love to travel with my family. 

How do you think the CRC fosters health and well-being for Georgia Tech?  

We live it first. You shouldn’t work at Krispy Kreme and not like doughnuts. Once you live and embrace it, promoting or encouraging others to use this facility is easier.  We have a great product that stands against any facility in the country.  We have tremendous programming services here as well as our incredible outdoor recreation program, which has reached all 7 Continents in the past 7 years! How would you like to swim in a pool where Olympians swim?  We believe so much in this facility, we use it just as much…People are truly committed to making sure that you do your best to achieve your goals, reduce your stress and most of all, dedicate themselves to trying to make sure you have a better day…I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!

What interested you in working at Georgia Tech and what do you enjoy most about your job? The best part of my job is working with the students! I learn something new from my patients every day. I feel fortunate to work at an institution like Georgia Tech that recognizes the importance of holistically addressing the mental health and well-being of its community.

What do you think is the most valuable thing that you have learned as a psychiatrist? There is a misconception that psychiatrists are too quick to medicate problems. But I have learned that if you take the time to really listen to someone, many situations can be effectively addressed with interventions that don’t involve medication.

What can a student expect from an appointment with you? The first appointment in psychiatry is an extensive visit with a care coordinator to obtain detailed information and history about current problems.  Many students will then consult with a psychiatrist to clarify diagnosis and determine whether medication is appropriate. The students will also receive comprehensive treatment recommendations to address their health, well-being, and academic issues.  The psychiatry team consults with the Counseling Center to ensure that students receive comprehensive care.

What do you feel is the most common topic that students discuss with you? Students come to psychiatry for a variety of reasons, but a common request is for help with effectively managing stress.

What is the biggest challenge you encounter in your role? While much progress has been made to decrease stigma around mental health, there are still negative attitudes and beliefs about mental health which prevent people from seeking treatment and adhering to recommendations.

Are there common misconceptions about the mental health of young adults that you would like to address? Two common misconceptions to come to mind: the first is that having depression is a choice or a character flaw, which implies that people lack willpower or are lazy. The second is that people in college are too young to experience depression.  Depression is a legitimate medical condition related to brain chemistry, function, structure, and involves environmental or biological factors. Depression can happen at any age but often begins in the teens or early 20s. Depression is treatable with psychotherapy, medication, and other interventions to address stressors.

SHS offers general psychiatric services to undergraduate and graduate students and their spouses. This includes thorough psychiatric evaluations and medication management for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and other mental health issues. These services are provided by board-certified psychiatrists and care coordinators who collaborate with the Georgia Tech Counseling Center to ensure that students receive comprehensive care. For more information about these services and to schedule an appointment go to health.gatech.edu/psych.

Demyanek led employees and students in this year’s walk around campus along the Tyler Brown Pi Mile.  In his speech, he said, “This is an incredible way for the community of Georgia Tech to come together and bond. The Institute strongly supports this and all the other wonderful Health and Wellness initiatives led by our great staff.”  This signature event celebrates the end of the spring semester while also incorporating fitness and comradery on campus. 

“Fall and spring semesters are busy- everyone’s in their dorms, or friends are too busy to exercise with you, so it is hard to stay motivated.  Having a huge event helps remind students to stay active” said Kyle Yang, Georgia Tech second-year mechanical engineering student.  Second-year mechanical engineering student Joseph Ashley enjoyed last year’s walk so much that he came back for a second time.  Ashley said, “I was a summer freshman last year.  I loved seeing Buzz and President Peterson promote fitness.  It helped motivate me to have a great first year at Georgia Tech.” Thank you to all of this year’s participants and we’ll see you again next year!

Do you want to learn about more events like this? Stay connected with the Health and Wellbeing newsletter. Subscribe today!

1. Plan Ahead

These days, you can find healthful foods almost everywhere. Many restaurants have their menus online — some with nutrition information readily available. You'll be able to choose the destination with the most appropriate options for yourself and go in ready to order the best meal and ask for substitutions where necessary.

Make a commitment to eat slowly. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get the message from your stomach that you are no longer hungry. Faster eaters can easily eat past fullness, while slower eaters tend to be more satisfied.

2. Remember the Plate

Be deliberate when ordering. Balance your meal by including healthful selections from all the different food groups such as lean protein foods, calcium-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. For sandwich toppings, go with veggie options including lettuce, tomato, avocado, and onion; if using condiments, choose ketchup, mustard, relish or salsa.

Round out your meal by considering healthier side dishes, such as a side salad, baked potato or fruit. Boost the nutritional value of your baked potato by topping it with vegetables, salsa or chili.

3. Add to Your Meal

Think eating healthfully is all about what you can't eat? Focus on what healthy items you can add to your plate instead of only what foods to avoid. Look for whole-grain bread, pasta, and sides; opt for foods with healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds; be sure to order lots of fruits and veggies; and go for lean meats or plant-based proteins like tofu, beans, and lentils..

4. Don't Go Overly Hungry

You sit down ravenous, and before you know it you've eaten several portions of bread or chips before your main meal arrives. If you're hungry before you leave for the restaurant, enjoy a snack such as a piece of fruit or a small portion of nuts. Or, at the restaurant, order a cup of broth-based soup or small salad before your entrée arrives.

5. Watch for the Wording

The way a dish is described on a menu can give you clues to how it's prepared. Look for words including "grilled," "broiled" or "steamed," meaning the food is cooked with moderate amounts of fat, and be mindful of dishes with descriptions such as "fried," "breaded," "smothered," "alfredo," "rich" and "creamy."

6. Ask, Ask, Ask

Don't be afraid to ask your server to help you healthy-up your meal. For example, you could ask for a salad in place of the usual fries or chips with a meal. You can also ask for items to be prepared with less oil or cheese, ask the server to take away the bread basket and serve salad with dressing on the side and request an appetizer portion of the main meal.

You can even often order "off-menu" — for example, ask what vegetarian dish the chef can prepare for you or if it's possible to make grilled chicken and steamed vegetables. Many restaurants are happy to comply. View the menu as a list of all the available options you can use to build the meal you want!

“If you enjoy dining out, don't think you have to stop if you want to choose more healthful options. With some preparation and savvy substitutions, you can order meals that are as nutritious as the ones you prepare at home,” said Johnson. For more information on intuitive eating go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/intuitive-eating.

Q: Can you tell me about the Women's Water Polo Club?

A: Women’s Water Polo is in its fourth year as a competitive team and is comprised of undergraduate and graduate women with a range of water polo experience. We are currently in our second season with the Collegiate Water Polo Association southeast division, and are looking to expand our membership! Our 15 girls practice twice a week in the CRC diving well from 8-10pm and compete in tournaments in Florida, Atlanta, and North Carolina.

Q: What are some reasons for joining the Women's Water Polo Club?

A: Our team is diverse in its water polo/swimming experience, which means that the team welcomes both beginner and advanced athletes.  Plus, joining the team is a great way to relieve stress with a silly, energetic, and loving group of women. We have team potlucks, dinners, scavenger hunts, and have a blast traveling to our tournaments! By joining the team, you will gain a group of amazing friends and be a part of a wonderful, supportive community [even as an alumnus!]

Q: What advice do you have for people interested in water polo?

A: If you’re interested in joining our team, please reach out (email below)! We’d love to have you join our family. As someone who joined the team with no knowledge of the sport, I found it to be a very welcoming environment regardless of my experience. Feel free to try us out and see what fun water polo can be!

Q: As a member of the Women's Water Polo Club, do you have a favorite memory or experience?

A: Our team’s spring scavenger hunt is a favorite event of mine! We drive around campus and Midtown to find funny objects, answer questions, and complete strange tasks. Every year, we meet after to determine a winner, but end up sharing stories about the day’s adventures. These always lead to new team traditions, jokes, and memories, and will be missed when I graduate.

Q: What was the greatest lesson you've learned from water polo that has helped you succeed in college?

A: Joining GTWWP has allowed me to explore a new sport but has also provided me with a devoted support network. I have been able to utilize water polo as an outlet for my stress and anxieties and find strength in my teammates when I am overwhelmed. This team has shown me that even when school has me feeling my worst, I am guaranteed to feel appreciated and fulfilled when I go to practice and am surrounded by my best friends.    

Q: What athlete do you admire the most and why?

A: Growing up without any local water polo programs, I was only able to watch the sport on TV. I was always in awe of the USA women’s national team and their tenacity and teamwork. They served as my introduction to the sport during the 2012 Olympics when they won gold, and have been exciting to follow ever since!

Q: How can students join the Women's Water Polo Club?

A: Anyone interested in joining our team should email us at gtwomenswaterpolo@gmail.com or come talk to us at the diving well during practice! Many of us started out with no polo experience, and have fallen in love with the sport, so we’d be happy to introduce some new players to it as well!

How long have you been biking to Georgia Tech? What got you started?

I have been biking to work at Georgia Tech for just over six years. I started when I moved to Midtown, as my two-mile trip takes twelve minutes by bike and twenty by car….on a good day.

What is your favorite part about biking to work?

Riding is my meditation, my happy place. I put away distractions and focus on where I am. The bike allows me to start each day with a sense of contentment, adventure, and time outside so that I arrive at work full of energy and ready to go.

What advice would you offer someone who is interested in starting?

Anyone new to bike commuting should take the bike safety class from GTPD and PTS and ride with an experienced and safety-conscious rider to build experience, knowledge, and confidence on the road. Cyclists love to ride and talk about riding, so don’t think it’s an imposition to ask someone to ride with you but most of us would be thrilled to help you discover the joy of the bike.

Any interesting stories about your commute you would like to share?

The bike turns every trip into an adventure, if for no other reasons than it allows you to interact with the world around you. For two years, I biked my son to school every day, where I met a bike commuter and member of the GT community member, Wayne Whiteman, and whether we would ride together or pass one another with a cheerful “good morning,” seeing him always made my day. Last week, I was walking down a hallway on campus and found myself staring at a familiar face, but one I could not place; it was Wayne, and though I had known him for years, I did not recognize him without his bike and helmet!     

What is one thing you can’t bike to work without? 

My helmet.

What are some safety tips you recommend for new bikers? 

Wear a helmet that is properly adjusted, make yourself stand out with bright colors and flashing lights, know the rules of the road, and use your eyes and ears to be fully aware of your surroundings. 

For more information about biking to work safely as well as how to get started go to bike.hwb.gatech.edu/. 

Blood Pressure Screening:

Women between ages 18 and 39 should have their blood pressure regularly checked once every two years. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to have your blood pressure checked more often, at least once a year.

Cholesterol Screening:

This screening is recommended for women ages 20 to 45. Women with normal cholesterol levels do not need to have the test repeated for 5 years. Repeat testing sooner than needed if changes occur in your lifestyle (including weight gain and diet). If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely by your physician.

Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear:

Pap tests (or Pap smears) look for cancers and precancers in the cervix. Precancers are cell changes that can be caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). If not treated, these abnormal cells could lead to cervical cancer. Beginning at age 21, women should have a pelvic exam and Pap smear every 3 years to check for cervical cancer. If you are over age 30 and your Pap smear and HPV test are normal, you only need a Pap smear every 5 years.

Dental Exam:

According to the American Dental Association, you should have a regular dental visit at least every 6 months or as recommended by your dental professional.  The preventative benefits range from detecting dental disease to identifying oral cancers. For a full list of the benefits of a routine dental checkup check out this previous story here.

Eye Exam:

Regular eye checkups from an ophthalmologist or optometrist are important screenings. They can detect different eye problems that often have no symptoms. If you have vision problems, have an eye exam every 2 years or more often if recommended by your provider. If you have diabetes you should have an eye exam every year.

Immunizations:

It is important to reduce the spread of the flu by receiving a flu shot every year. Stamps Health Services provides flu clinics for students, faculty, and staff beginning in the fall semester for the Georgia Tech community. If you want to learn more about how you can reduce the spread of the flu or for future clinic dates go to health.gatech.edu/flu.

If you have any additional concerns or questions about these or other screenings it’s important to always bring these up during your office visit. This National Women’s Health Week recommit to your health and consider taking these preventative measures to help live a long healthy life. You can find more tips on ways to stay healthy go to health.gatech.edu.

The plan benefits under United Healthcare for the 2019-20 Academic Year will remain the same as under Student Blue for the 2018-19 Academic Year. The only changes to the plan include:

• Increase in student premiums by 1.2%.
• Dependent coverage priced at a 10% premium differential compared to student premiums.

Below are the annual rates, which include dental and vision coverage:

Mandatory Rates*

• Students Only - $2,095.76
• Spouse Only - $2,281.60
• One Child Only - $2,324.80
• All Children Only - $4,442.80

Voluntary Rates**

• Students Only - $2,682.76
• Spouse Only - $2,926.60
• One Child Only - $2,969.80
• All Children Only - $5,734.80

Semester rates and plan details are not yet available, but will be by June 1. Once available, rates, plan details, and enrollment and waiver details can be accessed at health.gatech.edu/finance/insurance.

How do you incorporate foam rolling into your client’s workouts?

Foam rolling is part of my clients’ warm-up. I need them to be able to move with some fluidity, and not feel sore, stiff, or lacking in flexibility. The foam roller falls under a category called Self Myofascial Release (SMR). Myo means muscle, and Fascial is just fascia (like Plantar Fasciitis for example) ... It allows the muscles to be smoothed out, from any tightness and/or adhesions. I always give the example of... a pair of pants, wrinkled still, after coming out of the dryer, you still need to iron them. It seems to paint a picture in their minds. Corny, but it works.

If a client is still sore or feeling any discomfort during the actual workout, then we can use the roller in the middle of the session to ensure they don't tighten up anymore or to work out an adhesion that is hindering their movement(s). Lastly, the roller can be used as a cool-down as well, to help alleviate some soreness that may come later on that day or the next. Foam rollers can be incorporated in multiple ways!

What would you say are the main benefits of foam rolling?

Foam rolling works out tighter muscles to help you to move better in daily life reduces adhesions which hinder the muscles from performing and allows the muscles to work together correctly. Foam rolling can also help increase flexibility and aid with recovery.

How should someone use a foam roller?

You want to pick a specific muscle group, start at the top of that muscle, work your way down to the bottom of it, but roll slowly. If, you find an adhesion (a knot, bump, etc.), then stop and keep the roller right there for about 30 seconds, while maintaining your breathing (holding your breath makes it hurt more), and then continue on with that muscle. You can work your way down, back up, and back down again, and you should be able to tell a difference- some tightness is gone, and/or adhesion isn't as noticeable. Also, NEVER foam roll over a joint. Only use on a muscle, then move it or yourself to another muscle. Rollers were never meant to hit bone, ligaments, or tendons, as this is painful and dangerous.

What benefits do you think there are to having a personal trainer?

The benefits of having a real fitness professional are endless. The trainer can help you to realize what your actual goals are, make them realistic, set time frames for reaching these goals, and help you to stay on track. They can also educate you on what to do/not do, assist with making better/healthier decisions, push you harder than you'd push yourself, aid in building your confidence, and teach you how to do this all on your own. The one thing a trainer shouldn't be doing is motivating someone. Motivation comes from within, so if you're not already motivated to exercise, the trainer isn't going to be able to assist you in all the areas I mentioned above. This one is just my personal opinion though.

Foam rolling is a healthy habit with many day-to-day benefits that anyone can pick up. The CRC personal training program is a great way to learn more tips and tricks like this! Trained staff provide participants with a fitness program tailored to their specific needs- one which helps them set reachable goals, motivates them, and educates them in fitness conditioning through the advanced training method. If you want to take advantage of this program go to crc.gatech.edu/training to meet the trainers and learn more about this program.

Use Sunscreen

“Everyone should wear sunscreen as anyone can get skin cancer regardless of age, gender, or race”, says Health Initiatives health educator, Sarah Morales. When looking for an effective type of sunscreen, there are multiple characteristics to consider. First, make sure that you choose a broad spectrum sunscreen which protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause cancer, however, UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin. Also, make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 (blocks 97% of UVB rays) or more and is water resistant. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the sun's UV rays can penetrate your skin. Make sure to apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before heading outside and don't forget to reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating excessively!

Seek Shade

An obvious, but important way to reduce sun exposure is to avoid staying in direct sunlight for long periods of time. Keep in mind that UV light is the strongest from 10 am to 4 pm, but if you are unsure about how strong the sun’s rays are, you can use the shadow test! Simply find your shadow and see if it is shorter than you are. If it is, then the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

Wear Protective Clothing

Put on your hat, shirt, and shades. With additional clothing, you are able to create a barrier between yourself and UV rays. Dark, tightly woven, and dry fabric typically provides the most protection. Also, keep in mind that a hat with a wider brim will be able to protect not only your head but also some parts of your neck as well! When finding an effective pair of sunglasses, look for the “Meets ANSI UV Requirements” and “UV absorption up to 400 nm” labels which signify that the glasses block 99% to 100% of the sun’s rays.

Avoid Tanning Beds and Sun Lamps

Tanning lamps give out both UVA and UVB rays which can cause long-term skin damage. Tanning bed usage has been linked to an increased risk of melanoma, especially if started before the age of 30. If you want a tan, consider using a sunless tanning lotion instead, which can darken your skin without the increased risk of skin cancer.

The sun can affect your skin in many ways which is why it is important to protect yourself from both UVA and UVB rays! Before you step outside during these warm summer months, remember to protect your skin.

This week celebrates the 4 million registered nurses making vast contributions and positive impacts nationwide thanks to the contributions of Nightingale. Stamps Health Services (SHS) is proud to have almost 10 nurses who contribute to the health and well-being of Georgia Tech students every day. We spoke to several of the SHS nurses to learn more about the challenges of their job and what they love most about working at Georgia Tech.

Denise Fair, SHS registered nurse (RN) said, “I love being a nurse at Georgia Tech because of the students I serve. I have the pleasure of meeting people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world…There are highs and lows of being a nurse. It is not always fairytale endings and sometimes I have to deliver information to patients that is not the outcome I would like it to be. I try to always provide care with an intelligent mind, a caring touch, and mostly a compassionate heart.”

Ina Collins, SHS Nurse Manager said, “working here gives me an opportunity to see the students start off completely unaware of how to take care of themselves and at the end of the school year, we have the pleasure of watching them transition into adults taking care of their healthcare needs. We also teach our patients how to do this and it is very gratifying to watch the process.”

Melanie Thomas, SHS RN said, “As an alumnus, employee, and parent I know that the students of Georgia Tech have such a positive impact on the world we live in.  The healthier they are, the better they can realize their potential, which benefits all of us… I am blessed to work for Stamps with these people.  I am blessed to work at Georgia Tech.”

Nurses are members of the largest healthcare profession in the nation and provide frontline care for patients. They are a vital part of all healthcare teams, especially SH. Make sure to take time out of your week to recognize and thank them for their selfless work all year long. Thank you SHS nurses!