COVID-19 Story Project

The COVID-19 Story Project is a collection of images, written works, and audiovisual works that document the experience of LaGuardia Community College members throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic.

As the pandemic continues we are still collecting materials. If you would like to contribute something that represents your experience during this difficulty time, please visit our submission form here: https://shortlib.org/s/covidstories

Pages

: 50 Days; Tomorrow marks 50 days since I have been under quarantine. March 12 was the last day I physically went to work. Coincidentally, the following day- the first day of quarantine, fell on a Friday the 13th. To be honest, this whole quarantine feels like one long unlucky day. But, then again, I can't rea lly say that since I have air in my lungs and I possess the ability to speak/hear my loved ones. There have been so many lives lost and so many scary moments that have been close calls--butl am glad that I have also been able to see a movement where strangers look out for each other, where Mother Nature has been able to heal itself, where empathy& advocacy towards mental health is on the forefront of everyone's minds, and where creative expression has been thriving. Here's to you, to me, to us ... and to light at the end of the tunnel, whenever that may be ... Photo taken on: 4.28.2020, Woodside, Queens

: Alexandra Chang; Alexandra Chang, RN - Class of Spring 2014 - ER, Bellevue

: Anaïse É. Ikama; Anaïse É. Ikama, RN - Class of Spring 2011 -ER, Bronxcare Health System

: Ang Yankey Sherpa; Ang Yankey Sherpa, RN -Class of Fall 2010 - Mt. Sinai West

: Beata Grill; Beata Grill,RN, NP - Class of Fall 2009 - Lenox Hl Hospital

: Bodega; Photographed in Woodside, Queens

: Colville D. Holt, P.E.; I lost my Father, Colville D. Holt P.E., to this terrible virus. I can't believe he's gone. Re-opening will not be so sweet for me. Obituary: Colville "Collie" Delano Holt came into this world, April 10, 1934. He was one of four children born to Caribbean immigrants Iris and Andrew Holt. Colville’s family consisted of a twin brother named Elvin, older sister Elinor, eldest brother Valmore and Cousin Norma. The family moved to New York City from Jamaica West Indies when Colville and Elvin were two years old. The family has lived in the Bronx, Washington Heights, Jamaica and East Elmhurst, New York. After graduating from Jamaica High School, Colville joined the workforce, taking a job in the garment district. After a few months, he expressed his dislike for the job with his brother Elvin, who convinced him to enroll in community college. Following his studies, Colville became a draftsman and that was the beginning of a fulfilling career in construction. While working for the New York City Housing Authority, Colville decided to go to school at night and study Civil Engineering at Pratt Institute. He later got his Masters in Urban Planning at Long Island University. During the course of his studies, Colville also obtained his Professional Engineering license to practice in both New York and New Jersey. Colville had a very successful 33 1/2 year career at NYCHA. He retired in 1989 in the title of Engineering Audit Officer. Colville later co-founded a construction consulting firm, with his twin brother Elvin (Holt Associates). Colville was married in 1957, and three children were born of that union Marilyn, Elizabeth, and David. Colville was a faithful member of The First Baptist Cathedral of Westbury, New York. He loved God, his church family, innumerable friends, and helping others. Despite his failing sight and hearing, he was never discouraged and inspired us all. Colville was preceded in death by siblings Norma, Valmore and twin brother Elvin, as well as his former wife Barbara. He leaves behind his children Marilyn, Elizabeth, her husband Anderson and David; grandchildren Amethyst, her husband Joseph, Codi, Isaiah and Dante. Colville is also survived by his beloved sister Elinor, a host of nieces and nephews and longtime sweetheart Marcella.

: Delivery; Photographed in Woodside, Queens

: Dispatch From a Prior Pandemic: HIV Meets COVID-19; A personal essay about Martina Clark's experience with the HIV pandemic and similarities to the current COVID-19 pandemic. The essay is also posted on her website https://martina-clark.com