Pandemic Pivot: Universities and the Rush to Reopen

This chapter examines the rapid shift of universities to online learning in March 2020 due to the pandemic and the pressing push by leaders for a return to in-person classes by fall. It explores the financial strain on institutions and the challenges of ensuring student safety amidst health concerns, highlighting case studies such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The discussion raises critical questions about preparedness, adherence to health guidelines, and the real implications of these decisions on student welfare.