CREATIVE STRATEGIES IN NAVIGATING THE NEW NORMAL: ADVANCING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE ISPRS STUDENT CONSORTIUM AS AN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION

Abstract. The International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing Student Consortium (ISPRS SC) is an international student organization representing the youth in the ISPRS. The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected students and young professionals around the world because of country-wide lockdowns and comprehensive quarantine and social distancing measures. This situation led to the implementation of distance learning and remote work. The Consortium organized different activities in support of students and young professionals during the global health crisis. Despite the challenges and necessary adjustments, the unprecedented situation helped the organization adapt to change and encouraged us to revisit our roles as an international organization. The ISPRS SC hosts and coordinates activities and events both in person and online, including the Webinar Series, the publication of the SpeCtrum and the summer schools. During the pandemic, we improved our existing activities to provide support to our members and to the scientific community in general as we navigate major lifestyle changes and become more adept in using technology in our day-to-day lives. We also introduced new initiatives such as the Virtual Rooms and the GeoMixer, and continued to work in partnership with different organizations in remote sensing, photogrammetry and spatial information science. Moreover, we continued to strengthen our connection to the ISPRS through a collaboration with the ISPRS White Elephant Club and for a special event honouring one of the most important figures in the Society and in the profession. With all these activities organized during this challenging time, the Consortium experienced growth in terms of organizing and improving its activities, our roles as an international organization, and our online presence. The Consortium has also taken steps for continuity and sustained relevance to both the youth and ISPRS.