DMC president, others meet on regular basis
While the COVID-19 virus has changed life for many students at Del Mar, they aren’t the only ones being affected by the crisis. The college’s administrative team, and especially President Mark Escamilla, are also finding ways to adjust.
“Virtual meetings and telephone calls make up most of my workday right now” Escamilla told the Foghorn News. “I meet with the Crisis Management Team and Instructional Continuity Team on a regular basis.”
As essential workers, some key Del Mar officials are working around the clock. While the schedule can be hectic, they also are focusing on self-care when they can.
“I’m trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising when possible and taking breaks to manage stress,” Escamilla said.
Many of the college’s faculty and staff are working remotely from home, while some essential workers require strict campus access. It is top priority to ensure that all essential workers follow protocols established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Escamilla said.
“The DMC Environmental Health and Safety Department is providing disinfectant fogging services for areas that are regularly accessed by essential employees,” he said. “Additionally, items such as disinfectant wipes, hand wipes and sanitizer are provided.”
Escamilla said finding ways to reschedule or move important events online is one of the challenges he faces. The college recently announced it would not be holding the planned spring graduation ceremony at the American Bank Center. The event had been scheduled for May 15.
“We are exploring possibilities for a rescheduled ceremony, including the option of a virtual commencement ceremony,” he said. “We plan on communicating details with graduating students over the next few weeks.”
Escamilla said he also has been in discussions over how to handle future Board of Regents meetings.
Registration for Summer I, Summer II and Maymester courses, which is now underway, has been moved to online only. Classes will likely be taught online and in hybrid formats, which may include face-to-face classes, depending on evolving health precautions, the college recently said in an email. Maymester courses begin May 7, Summer I classes begin May 26, and Summer II classes will start on July 6.
For updated information on how the college is handling the COVID-19 changes, visit www.delmar.edu/offices/cro/cv/index.html.
