Allen University Provides Tablets and Keyboards to Students

Allen University provided 700 tablets and keyboards to students as the institution transitions to online instruction for the remainder of the semester in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The $200,000 project was provided to Allen students through various contributions from the Board of Trustees, President Ernest McNealey and his cabinet members, alumni, leadership of the AME Church, and the Columbia (SC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. “At Allen University, the safety of our students is our number one priority,” said President McNealey. “As we moved to online instruction, we wanted to make certain that all students had access to the best possible tools that could enhance their performance. While our student population is not homogeneous, our commitment to their success is,” he added. 

The Acer Chromebooks and keyboards were sent overnight to students. They are eager to receive their tablets and keyboards to finish the semester strong. “As I’ve been talking to my peers, many have stated these tablets will help with attending their Zoom class meetings. Many do not have computers at home, and many do not have enough data on their phones,” said Valencia James, a senior majoring in English. “This gesture of Allen sending students tablets and keyboards shows us that our institution really does care about our education and well-being. As students, it feels good to know we are not in this alone during these trying times, and the administration fully supports us,” she noted.

Caption: President Ernest McNealey and Dr. Keiona Middleton, vice president for information technology, preparing tablets and keyboards for mailing.