Examining the Back To Bricks Reopening Plan on Various Demographics Within Charleston

Student: Jody Bell and Brandon Alston

Major: International Business and Political Science; Theater

Mentors: Professor Lancie Affonso

Department: Computer Science

Examining the Back To Bricks Reopening Plan on Various Demographics Within Charleston

In our interdisciplinary study of the Back to Bricks plan, we will use current data to understand which communities within the Charleston area are most affected by COVID-19, and how the current reopening plan may unknowingly exacerbate this inequity. Working with members of the College we will better understand the relationship that our exposed and anticipated hot-spot campus has with the larger community, and levy how this may further the community spread in financially/physically vulnerable areas. We will then work with various stakeholders at the College to explore how we may be able to further support at risk communities. Not only will this add to the student's understanding of the multitude of socioeconomic demographics in Charleston, but it will provide the College with a more holistic understanding of the Back to Bricks plan. The information/research from this study will be used in mentoring the 2020 ELLC STEAM Cohort as they enter the realm of data storytelling through a political and bureaucratic lens.