With a solar eclipse overhead, communications faculty and staff looked to the sky

With protective sunglasses in hand, the School of Communications faculty and staff were prepared to view Monday’s near-total solar eclipse. Unfortunately, the skies — or rather the nearby clouds – weren’t exactly accommodating.  

As the best viewing time approached – approximately 2:43 p.m. – Communications Deans Paul Parsons dismissed the school’s scheduled meeting early to allow faculty and staff a chance to catch a glimpse of the once-in-a-century sight. (It was the first time that a total solar eclipse passed from one U.S. coast to the other in 99 years.)

​But as the time arrived, so did a blanket of clouds covering campus. A few lucky early birds on Citrone Plaza did get a peek or two, but they were in the minority. Most of the onlookers stared into overcast skies hoping for just a little sunlight.  

While the solar eclipse viewing party was somewhat of a disappointment, the occasion did provide a wonderful photo op during the annual school photo shoot held earlier in the afternoon. Associate Professor Amanda Sturgill and Lecturer Kelly Furnas look especially captivated by the possibility of an eclipse sighting. The chances that this image is photoshopped for some future gag is 100 percent.

For a closer look at how the university community celebrated the near-total eclipse, check out this E-net release titled “Elon turns out for the solar eclipse — and so do the clouds.”