Purpose: The purpose of this work is to reflect on the impact COVID-19 has had on my career in academia as a research professor through my research, teaching, and service. In particular, I note the shift in my own approach to may research and service work as being more deeply connected to student advocacy and the student experience. Methods: Drawing from interdisciplinary background in both humanities and social sciences, this scholarly essay draws from research approaches that include narrative inquiry and action research. Results: This work demonstrates my own evolution as an academic during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, with a particular emphasis on shifts in my approach to educational ethics and academic integrity, which are my areas of research and scholarly expertise. Implications: This work may help to inform and support others who find their approach to research and scholarship shifting as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Our work as researchers is inherently intertwined with our identity as scholars. During the pandemic, my epistemological and axiological foundations have evolved to have a deeper connection to academic activism in support of student learning. Additional materials: 6 references Keywords: academic integrity, COVID-19, coronavirus, academic misconduct, activism