Summer 2021 ‘TU Magazine’ looks forward
Next issue features arts research, Commencement, COVID-19 response
By Megan Bradshaw on July 18, 2021
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Towson University has followed federal, state and local health guidelines to keep the campus community safe, always planning on welcoming everyone to campus again in the fall 2021 term.
With Gov. Larry Hogan lifting most pandemic-related restrictions as of July 1, campus will come alive again in August with students, faculty and staff returning to TU to teach and take in-person classes, eat in dining halls, exercise in Burdick and attend sporting events.
The summer issue of TU Magazine shares the university’s optimism as we move forward.
The cover article, “Bringing Lena Back to Life,” delves into research by piano professor Eva Mengelkoch uncovering lost music by a member of the Mendelssohn family that scores a remarkable story of resilience.
In “Coffee with…,” you’ll learn how the university addressed challenges presented by a full return to campus from Anthony Skevakis, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students and chair of TU’s CARE Team.
The “Caring for the Community” feature introduces you to Army Brig. Gen. Adam Flasch ’95, who became Maryland’s first dual-status commander and coordinated the state National Guard’s pandemic response with that of the federal government.
One of the biggest symbols of TU’s return was the first in-person Commencement ceremony held since December 2019. Read about our first outdoor Commencement—held on Minnegan Field at Unitas Stadium—since 2005, in “What’s Old is New Again.”
Alumna Alena Auyoung’s ’12 favorite spots in and around Honolulu can help you plan a post-pandemic vacation (“My Town”), and you’ll meet the pets that Cody Boteler ’17 and Lori Marchetti adopted during the pandemic who will keep them company for years to come.
In April, TU launched RISE, a $100 million comprehensive campaign that looks to secure the university’s bright future by continuing to build on its present excellence. In “A Responsibility to Help Others,” Todd ’87 and Melanie Feuerman share their stories and why they supported the campaign.
Finally, check out the alumni news and events sections to see what your fellow alumni have been up to and learn about some of the events and activities Alumni Relations has planned for the coming academic year, in person and online.