Message from the Editor

You’ll notice that this issue of The Shield is a little bit different than usual—unless it’s your first, of course, in which case, welcome! We’ve decided to stray from our usual format of spotlights focused on alumni, parents and students. We figured that since we’re in such a different time, we’d go for something a little bit different in an effort to document and share the RSGC community’s incredible response to unprecedented times. The theme of this issue is Resilience and Adaptability. We’ve focused on five moments in time in five different people’s lives between March 5 and October 19, 2020. How were these people’s lives affected by the global pandemic? How did they adapt? What have they had to overcome? For example, we followed a new graduate who missed out on the pomp and circumstance of a normal graduation, but has since made it to Oxford. We get to know an alumnus whose Georgian bonds come through as he bends heaven and earth to keep his family restaurant afloat. I can’t promise you won’t cry when you read that story, and I hope you won’t fight the urge to run out and order some food from his restaurant. On a personal note, I remain working from home, which feels bizarre while life at school happens without me. I miss it, but I’m reminded that I would still be doing all of my interviews over Google Meet since the cohorts are so tight. I miss campus, but I’m happy that everyone remains healthy and safe. Happy holidays and enjoy the issue.

Lauren Alpern

Editor

lalpern@rsgc.on.ca