Physical and geographical distance have long existed as factors that may impact student success in online learning. Now, in the age of a global pandemic, these factors have coalesced with social distance to intensify feelings of isolation that online students may experience. The deliberate use of social and emotional learning (SEL) strategies post-COVID-19 aligns with the humanistic perspective of teaching espoused by learning-centered community colleges. Incorporating SEL practices in the instructional delivery of the online curriculum provides viable strategies for mitigating the specific problem of social distance. This article proffers the case for embracing SEL practices and provides concrete, practical ways instructors can build a supportive online learning environment.