Author: Emily Gautreaux

Harvard Moves to Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory Grading for Spring 2020

News out of Harvard College’s TheCrimson.com recently announced that the institution was adopting a universal satisfactory-unsatisfactory grading system for the Spring 2020 semester as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.  This news was announced via email to faculty and students from Claudine Gay, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, and Amanda J. Claybaugh, Dean of Undergraduate Education, on March 27, 2020.

The new system will provide grades of either “Emergency Satisfactory” or “Emergency Unsatisfactory” to all undergraduates for their spring classes. There is an option for faculty to provide additional information to accompany these grades with what is being referred to as a “qualitative assessment of student learning” in their proprietary system, “my.harvard”.

Harvard’s University President, Lawrence S. Bacow, announced in a March 10 email that all classes would be moving online and that students would not be allowed to return to the campus after spring break.  After a review commissioned by Dean Claudine Gay, the decision to shift the grading system came after weeks of discussions conducted by the Committee on Undergraduate Educational Policy, a standing committee overseeing undergraduate education, along with other school officials.  The council ultimately granted the change with a “unanimous endorsement”.

Gay commented, “We of course remain committed to academic continuity, but we cannot proceed as if nothing has changed. Everything has changed. This new terminology is purposefully chosen to indicate the unique nature of this semester in the archival record and to distinguish this semester’s grades from Harvard College’s standard grading system.” Gay indicated she believes the adoption of this universal grading policy, as opposed to an opt-in approach, was important for reasons beyond “the apparent equity concerns.”

In her email, she referenced additional colleges and universities that have started similar temporary grading policies for the Spring 2020 semester, and that fellowship and graduate programs have assured those doing so that they will accept these universal grading changes if they were instituted for all students, revealing that times have indeed changed since these programs historically have always relied on a letter grade system.

Dean Claybaugh emphasized in her email to students that the role of students played a crucial role to the decision that was made, writing, “Our thinking was informed by The Harvard Crimson editorials, by Undergraduate Council proposals, by consultation with the Honor Council, but it was informed just as much by the individual emails sent by so many of you. We have tried, in this new policy, to address the needs of all of our students, while also responding to the enormity of the situation we find ourselves in.”

While the administration empathizes with students who aren’t pleased with the new system, with some engaging in passionate debates advocating for the grading systems they prefer, especially given the entirely uncharted conditions they are studying in, the decision was made in order to adjust the expectations of all students as the institution faces this unprecedented challenge.

“This grading policy better meets the needs of today, and I hope prepares us to face challenges to come as this situation continues to evolve,” Gay concluded.

For more education related information, click here.

Grilling Tips and Tricks For Everyone

Chef John’s 7 Laws of Grilling has something for everyone if you’re looking for tips, tricks or recipes to make your backyard grilling the talk of the town (or at least the neighborhood).  We thought we had it all down just right, and boy were we wrong!  Summer quickly approaches, and now is the perfect time to take some continuing education to be sure your grilling game and recipes are in tip-top shape to wow your family… and your friends once we no longer have to be socially distant.

Let’s face it – there’s very little that beats a warm, clear Louisiana day manning a smoky grill preparing your friends and family to be impressed with your primitive fire-meets-meat skills. Of course, grilling isn’t just about meat – like we said, there’s something for everyone, so these recipes also cover vegetables and even bread.  Fire was one of mankind’s greatest discoveries, and now with these tips and recipes, you can consider yourself above the pack as you continue the tradition of facing off with fire to provide a delicious dining experience for those you hold dearest.

  1. Temperature Check!

Don’t guess, use a thermometer! Nothing is going to kill your grilling reputation than undercooked Grilled Greek Chicken– make sure it’s 165° before you serve it!

  1. Bread Meets Grill

That’s right – you’re not dreaming.  While your grilled meats rest, toss your bread over those hot coals and impress your guests with your grilling mastery. Try grilled bread with these Lamb Merguez Sausage Patties.

  1. Watch the Fat!

Meat on its way for grilling is great with internal marbling, but fat not trimmed down to under ¼ or less is going to flare up and cause a fire. Unless you want your guests running for the extinguisher, be sure you trim down your meat when you hook up these Grilled Flap Steaks.

  1. Don’t Spend Tons on Tongs

As fun as fancy, futuristic tongs might be (and make you look), nothing works better than a long, durable, CHEAP pair of metal tongs. Ask a line cook if you don’t believe us – these are available at restaurant supply stores & are ready for your Grilled Spanish Mustard Beef.

  1. Skip Oiling Veggies

No one likes that fuel aftertaste – Chef John explains that excess oil drips and vaporizes causing that turn-off.  So instead, try wiping the grates with a little oil, skip it on the veggies and then drizzle later.  Try it with our favorite, Mexican Grilled Corn.

  1. Aprons are Out

You wanna look like a pro at the grill, right?  Unless you’ve got a funny apron to improve the cool factor, stick to an old t-shirt if you’re worried about stains.  Your guests will love you even more if you dare to wear only a t-shirt when grilling up this Barbecue Chicken.

  1. Mind Your Manners

Don’t be that person that offers unwanted advice when someone else is making your dinner.  There’s a code, folks!  Rather than stepping on your host’s feelings, maybe share this article with them.  But a word to the wise – do it a week or so after you eat.  If you do it while they’re grilling, it’s your fault if you get burnt chicken… or worse, exiled from the next cookout!

For more delicious recipes, click here.

 

Social Distancing Activities To Enjoy

While practicing social distancing, it can be challenging to find fun ways to enrich yourself and your family. These uncharted waters have given way to remarkable creativity.  If you are looking for ways to lift your spirits, enrich yourself, and keep healthy and sane these days, look no further than these 8 activities from Tripwishlist.com.

  1. E-Adventures

How about a “trip” somewhere you’ve never been? Setup a slideshow of prior trips and take a journey back into vacations past.  What didn’t you do that you wish you had?  What would you love to do again?

Or, use Google Maps to explore a city/landmark you’ve yet to visit.  With StreetView, you can walk up and down city streets and see various photos of landmarks from others who have visited.  Or, check out various YouTube videos or video blogs (vlogs) of those destinations.  There’s a world of entertainment just waiting for you to e-explore.

  1. Shake Your Groove Thing

While social distancing, you don’t have to leave the house with friends for a dance party – create a Spotify playlist and get moving, or enjoy the music of others!  Dancing to music is a time-tested way of boosting your spirits.  If you’re with family, take turns picking the music. We recommend checking out different types of music from around the world – you won’t believe all that there is in store!

  1. Video Chat with Friends and Family

Technology has a lot of perks, including the ability to connect with anyone, anywhere, anytime, through video chat.  Whether it be free via social media apps like Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Zoom, you can stay connected in various ways with those you hold dear to break up the dull parts while being socially responsible.  We’re a big fan of morning coffee chats – try it out!

  1. You’re Never Too Old to Learn

It’s time to dust off that book you’ve put or explore a new podcast or audiobook.  Audible.comhas a free 30-day trial for new users – there’s no excuse to put off learning with an offer like that!

5.Parlez-vous Français?  Hablas español?

You won’t believe the options available online to learn foreign languages! We recommend Babbel, Duolingo, and Rosetta Stone, but there are many, many more!

  1. At-Home Fitness

Your body and mind work hand in hand, and there’s never been a better time to improve your physique. From social media, virtual workout classes, and downloadable workout programs, there are limitless opportunities to work off those extra calories from quarantine snacks.  Need a change of scenery?  Walk, run, or take a bike ride around the neighborhood.

  1. Chicken Soup for the Quarantined Soul

If you’re like us and find cooking therapeutic, why not take some time to perfect an old recipe, try out a new one, or just throw together whatever you have.  Check out our recipe page here if you’re short on ideas!

8.  Looking Forward

Eventually, these days will be in our rear-view mirrors and we’ll be free to roam the countryside and visit friends near and far once again.  While social distancing, why not dream up your next vacation. Keep up to date on travel deals through services like DollarFlightClub.com and TravelZoo.com so you can find those competitive flight prices and plan that vacation you’ve been putting off.

If you know where to look, there’s a world of activities and opportunities you may have missed without all this extra time at home. Make the most of it!

For more travel related news and information, click here.

 

Cross Enrollment Agreement Reached Between Nicholls and Fletcher

According to Nicholls State University, they have recently reached three agreements that will pave the way for cross-enrollment of their campus with Fletcher Technical Community College.  Although the agreements cover several areas, one main emphasis reached between the two institutions is to prepare students that are studying early childhood education to enter their chosen field.

Meeting earlier this month at Fletcher’s main campus in Schriever, were Dr. Jay Clune, Nicholls State’s President, and Dr. Kristine Strickland, Chancellor of Fletcher.  The collaboration of cross-enrollment between the institutions was designed with the goal of ensuring credits were mutually transferable for the betterment of students. These agreements pertain to various programs, of which early childhood education and petroleum engineering are noteworthy.

Nicholls Dr. Clune stated, “Chancellor Dr. Strickland and I decided early on that we were not going to compete.  We decided we were going to benefit one another, complement one another, be completely transparent with one another and share everything. There are so many things we can work on together to better the Bayou Region.”

Fletcher Technical’s applied science program in care and development of young children is anticipated to complement the birth-to-five/early interventionist program available through Nicholls State.  Another set of complementary programs will be that of Fletcher’s integrated production technology program and Nicholls’ petroleum engineering technology and safety management program.

“Across the board in the state of Louisiana, birth to five education as a major is a top priority,” said Dr. Scot Rademaker, who is the Dean of the Nicholls College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. “I think this agreement between Nicholls and Fletcher will help bolster that and help us prepare students ready to go into the early childhood education field a better understanding.”

Fletcher Technical’s Dr. Strickland commented, “This program is perfectly timed to align with that new emphasis and the importance of educating our youth. Investing in and focusing on early childhood is where we create opportunities for our children and their futures.”

“We know people want a pathway to achieve not only an associate’s degree but a baccalaureate degree and beyond,” Dr. Strickland said. “And it is through the strong foundation that has occurred over the years and continues in our partnership with President Dr. Clune and his entire staff that we can say to our community, that all the options you need for education are right here in your backyard.”

Details and instructions on the cross-enrollment program are available on Fletcher’s website at: http://www.fletcher.edu/service/cross-enrollment/.  Instructions are provided for students with Fletcher as their home institution, as well as for students with Nicholls as their home institution.  Home school is identified as where the student is enrolled for the majority of credit hours.

Of importance is that students in the program are eligible to take one credit hour at the host institution for each hour at the home institution.  No more than six credit hours may be taken at the host institution per semester/session. Consideration for exceptions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and both institutions must approve.

For more information or questions, interested students can visit Fletcher’s website above or contact the Fletcher’s Registrar’s office via phone or email:

Alexis Knight, Registrar

(985) 448-7939

alexis.knight@fletcher.edu

Trey Clark, Assistant Registrar

(985) 448-7970

trey.clark@fletcher.edu

The deadline to submit a cross-enrollment application for Spring 2020 was January 13, 2020.  The Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 application will be available April 6, 2020.

For more education related information, click here.

 

Meal Prepping Made Easy

Do you really feel like standing at the stove three times a day? NO.  So it’s the perfect time to plan your shopping and dive into the world of meal prepping.  You’ll be surprised at how many delicious meals there are that you can prep ahead, toss into a storage bag and freeze for later.

Thankfully, Parade has compiled dozens of the best recipes designed to save us all time and effort. The beauty of these recipes is that they last in the freezer for months and most can be tossed into the slow cooker and forgotten about.  Talk about a time-saver!

Another great aspect of prepping freezer-friendly meals ahead of time is that if you prepare multiple meals for freezing at a time, you can cut down overall prep time following recipes that call for the same ingredients.

These are the recipes I can’t wait to try, but definitely check out the whole list.  I was impressed at all the options, and I think you will be too when you see what awaits in the world of freezer-friendly meals.

Black Bean Mexican Chicken

If you’re a Mexican cuisine lover, this one is just for you. Not only does this look delicious, but this is definitely on the healthier side, too!  If you have some extra time, maybe top with diced avocado and pair with spanish rice. If you like it spicy, toss in your favorite diced peppers.

Chicken Broccoli Bacon Potato Bake

They had me at BACON!  This one is probably not making it into my freezer, but if you have the willpower, you just layer the ingredients a few times and off it goes until you’re ready to enjoy.  Top with sour cream for the ultimate baked potato experience.

Chicken Cacciatore

What’s better than homemade Italian?  Homemade Italian that’s easy to make.  No tricks here – seasoned chicken breasts, chopped veggies, and a jar of your favorite marinara. Cook spaghetti noodles right before it’s done and “buon appetito”… or stay on the couch – you deserve it!

Homemade Freezer Garlic Bread

On second thought, do yourself a favor and get off the couch to make the noodles because while that’s happening, you can pop in a few slices of this garlic bread for your chicken cacciatore. Crusty, garlicky goodness, and the prep and cook time are both only 15 minutes!

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Creamy, cheesy, easy – 15 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to cook.  Does it get much better?

Breakfast Burritos

Grab & go breakfasts can’t be beat – pop one into the microwave while getting ready and hit the road. Easy to switch it up, too – try different meats, veggies, sauces and cheeses. Perfect for picky eaters or just to have a little variety in your daily meal routine.

Chicken Taquitos with Cilantro & Pepper Jack

Perfect for on-the-go lunches, these easy-to-make taquitos are likely to be in high demand.  Just as good for a light dinner… or a late-night snack (we won’t tell). Be careful you don’t eat them all in one sitting. Works with corn or flour tortillas – but for best results, homemade guacamole!

For more delicious recipes, click here.

Help is on the Way for Service and Hospitality Industry Families

The New Orleans Saints recently announced that the Greater New Orleans Foundation (GNOF) has launched an initiative to help Louisiana service and hospitality workers that have been adversely impacted by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Launched In partnership with the Louisiana Restaurant Association, the Louisiana Service and Hospitality Family Assistance Program will provide vital assistance to workers in the affected service and hospitality industries so that they can meet the basic needs of their children and elderly parents.  This program is a critical first step in providing resources and is made possible by Mrs. Gayle Benson, team owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans and board member of the GNOF. Initial funding for the program totals $600,000, which is thanks to contributions of $500,000 from Mrs. Gayle Benson and $100,000 from the McIlhenny Company, maker of Tabasco®

“Service and hospitality workers are the backbone of this region’s economy,” said Andy Kopplin, GNOF President & CEO. “Thanks to the generosity of Mrs. Benson, the Tabasco® brand and the McIlhenny family, we have the opportunity to support hospitality workers and their families and help them make ends meet in these difficult times.”

Mrs. Gayle Benson added, “Every day, it is these individuals who do whatever it takes for our restaurants, bars, and hotels to operate at peak performance, and now we must do our part to return the favor. ”

McIlhenny President and CEO Harold G. Osborn said, “In this current state of emergency, the service and hospitality workers so essential to our local economy are among the most adversely affected, particularly those who are caring for children and elderly family members,” and invited those that could donate to do so.

The Louisiana Restaurant Association’s CEO, Stan Harris, said, “Thanks to the Greater New Orleans Foundation, Mrs. Gayle Benson, and McIlhenny Company, some of the most vulnerable families who depend on the earnings of service and hospitality workers will get much needed help.”

Applicants seeking assistance from this program should visit the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s portal for online grants at www.gnof.org/grants. The portal opened on Wednesday, March 25, 2020.  There will be a 10 day window for review of applications, and awards are to be disbursed within 14 days.  Applications are available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

Applicants will also be required to submit an electronic copy of their state-issued driver’s license or another government-issued identification card, as well as their pay stubs for the  preceding 30 days and a copy of either their 2018 or 2019 federal tax return.

Additional requirements for applicants include:

  • Must have earned below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) prior to the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Must have worked for more than 32 hours per week in restaurants, bars, or hotels in the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s 13-parish region prior to March 9, 2020

Donations to support the expansion of this program are greatly appreciated and can be made to the Gayle Benson Community Assistance Fund at the Greater New Orleans Foundation by visiting www.gnof.org/benson.

For more Louisiana related articles, click here.