By Kyle Hobstetter on February 22, 2021
Towson University students pose in halls of the Capitol Building in Annapolis during
the 2020 Tiger Pride Day. While the 2021 Tiger Pride Day takes place virtually, students
will still get a chance to meet state lawmakers over Zoom. (Photo by Lauren Castellana
/ 2020).
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On Tuesday, Feb. 23, Towson University students, faculty, staff and alumni will take
part in the 22nd-annual Tiger Pride Day.
The event connects members of the Student Government Association (SGA) with members of the Maryland Legislature to discuss key issues concerning the TU
community. And for the first time, the entire event will take place on Zoom, because
of COVID-19 pandemic protocols.
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Initially, there was uncertainty whether the event would occur. But after months of
planning from the SGA and the Office of Student Affairs, they have found a way to accomplish Tiger Pride Day’s conventional goals in an unconventional
matter.
"The planning phase began with an immediate emphasis on what would be possible," says
Corey Bailey, director of student activities. "We knew we had already established
a good planning process and agenda but were uncertain about how the circumstances
would impact the outcomes of the event."
"We had to take a step back from the traditional approach and rethink how to build
a day-long agenda that was suitable for the current times but still accomplished the
same goals."
The event will begin with welcome messages from Towson University President Kim Schatzel,
Vice President of Student Affairs Vernon Hurte, University System of Maryland Chancellor
Dr. Jay Perman and Towson University SGA President Deguene “Maman” Ndiong.
Afterward, students will virtually observe that day’s session of the Maryland General
Assembly and watch either the Senate or the House floor via webcam. Maryland lawmakers
will also honor the SGA with a special proclamation honoring Tiger Pride Day.
Afterwards, students will have Zoom breakouts with legislators and members of their
staffs.
Following a quick lunch break, students will watch online committee hearings, including
the Budget & Taxation Committee; the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee;
and the Finance Committee along with several others.
The day will end with a special Zoom group photo, followed by ways that student can
stay engaged after Tiger Pride Day.
This press release was produced by Towson University. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
