Southern Miss Business April 2022 Newsletter

Public policy responses to COVID-19 had numerous unintended, negative consequences ranging from economic disruption to mental health challenges. Perhaps one consequence that may not materialize for some time is the learning loss because of disrupted learning. Nearly every school—K-12 to universities—either closed or moved classes online for an extended period during the height of the pandemic. While many schools have returned to normal or near normal operations, many across the globe have not. BBC News reports that schools in 23 countries with 405 million students are still partially or fully closed because of COVID. Over a period of roughly two years, students' lives were turned upside down and their learning environments became suboptimal. The impact of these learning disruptions is not completely known but one can surmise that it will not be good.

Globally, it is estimated that students are about eight months behind where they would have been without the pandemic, but this can vary to as much as over a year behind. The learning disruption also had a more significant effect on academic achievement along racial and socio-economic status, widening existing achievement gaps. The lack of socialization normally experienced in the academic setting resulted in social and emotional strain that could have long-lasting effects. Additionally, learning loss could result in lower future earnings potential and lower GDP. RAND Corporation estimates that the United States could lose between $14 trillion and $28 trillion in GDP because of lost learning from COVID-19. Coupled with the existing labor shortage, business schools and employers should be concerned about these consequences.

Although no one would have chosen these cards, this is the hand we have been dealt. So, how do business educators and employers address these challenges and help close the learning gaps that exist? While remediation is certainly part of the equation, the answer is not as simple as offering remedial classes. Rather, a holistic approach will be required. First, it is important to keep in mind that it is not the students' fault that they may be behind and make efforts to remove any shame or stigma that might be attached. Second, we have become adept at consuming material in online or hybrid forms, so we could provide short modules designed to help individuals understand more difficult concepts and material. Also, provide instruction that addresses actual gaps instead of simply reteaching content in mass. A catalog of review materials can be provided, and individuals can utilize those that are needed. Third, most business schools began to incorporate professional skills development into their curriculum some time ago. However, greater focus on these activities by both business schools and employers will probably be required. In addition to resume help and interview coaching, greater emphasis on things like making small talk, communicating effectively in email, practicing good meeting etiquette, etc. may be needed. Employers will likely need to do the same to address these skill gaps. Fourth, we should provide more opportunities for social interaction. These opportunities can be formal or informal but should be intentional and provide individuals with specific feedback about their strengths and weaknesses to promote learning and growth. Additionally, business schools and employers may need to provide more services to assist individuals with coping skills, stress management, etc. because many people are still struggling emotionally due to the pandemic. Lastly, employers will likely need to invest more in employee training and development in general and include a broader range of workshops and topics than typically provided.

These are just a few suggestions and there will certainly be new directions that surface as we learn more about the problems. However, it is important to be proactive and flexible. The learning deficits that resulted from the pandemic are reversible, but they will not correct themselves and it is in everyone's best interest to do what they can to help.

university STUDENT awards

Eight Southern Miss Business students were recognized for their leadership, campus involvement, and hard work during the annual campus wide 2022 University Student Awards Ceremony on the Hattiesburg campus.

Congratulations to:

Kennedy Hanna | General Business | Who's Who & Hall of Fame

Maxwell Greenough | Sport Management | Who's Who & Hall of Fame

Chipper Baudry | Sport Management | Who's Who

Cole Russell | Accounting | Who's Who & Hall of Fame

Bailey Bynum Jones | Finance & Accounting | Who's Who

Campbell Cave | Sport Management | Who's Who

Olivia Williams | Marketing | Who's Who

Dylan Littles | Entrepreneurship | Outstanding Freshmen

This month the Eagle Scholars had the pleasure of meeting Southern Miss Business alumna Julie Polk Breazeale. Breazeale recently became the owner of Polk's Meat Products, Inc. Mrs. Breazeale started as the director of special projects at Polk's. In 2011, Mrs. Breazeale became Polk's CEO and has served in that capacity since. Julie shared life experiences and thoughts about her journey as an entrepreneur. Eagle Scholar, Rachel Green Pittman, shares a few thought about her experience meeting Mrs. Breazeale:

Our visit with Mrs. Julie Polk Breazeale was one of the most special moments I have had in the Eagle Scholars Program. She shared how she endured challenging times that allowed her to get to the position she is in today. As a woman, it was inspiring to hear how resilient she has been through her obstacles and setbacks, just because she is a woman in a male-dominated field. Mrs. Julie was personable, relatable, and a great example of what it means to have grit!"