Only one day out and we’re feeling good.

Happening in the World: Scientists have recently discovered a way to count African elephants from space. UK-based researchers used an Earth-observation satellite and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to capture images of the elephants traveling through the grasslands. Animal populations that span international borders are difficult to track, and the COVID-19 pandemic has become an obstacle in monitoring these threatened populations. This new method is expected to vastly improve animal conservation and anti-poaching efforts. (BBC)

Happening in the US: Hours after being sworn in, President Joe Biden swiftly moved to sign executive orders, memorandums, and directives to undo some of the Trump administration’s key policies. Among the day’s seventeen executive actions are the President’s first steps to address the COVID-19 pandemic, including a social distancing and mask mandate on federal property. The Biden administration has also reversed the Trump administration’s positions on climate change and immigration. (CNN)

Happening in NYC: A growing number of New York City school principals are objecting to this year’s upcoming Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT). The test is administered to eighth and ninth-grade NYC residents for admission to eight of the city’s Specialized High Schools. The principals, citing the risk of coronavirus spread at testing centers, have requested that the exam move to an online portal or be canceled altogether. This test will still be held in person, despite schools remaining online, amid concerns that remote-testing may disadvantage students from underserved areas. (WSJ)

Happening in Our Community: Being Barnard’s first Friday Focus of 2021 will feature Jennifer S. Hirsch and Shamus Khan, authors of Sexual Citizens: A Landmark Study of Sex, Power, and Assault on Campus on Instagram Live. Tune in this Friday on January 22nd at 3:30 pm EST for a conversation on the concept of  “sexual citizenship,” consent culture, and more!

Joe via Wikimedia Commons