Dr. Sharon L. Blackman
We are just a few weeks from the close of another semester and another year. Sometimes it seems as though it will be a long time before we see the end of the semester and then we blink and its almost over. Thank you to all who have worked to help our students be successful.
Some of this semesters events include the continuation of the “Success Seminars” scheduled and implemented by Nita Drescher, with the assistance of other faculty members. Kudos for the “Women in Politics” series developed by Linus Spiller and the Student Leadership Institute facilitated by Yasaman Contractor and Joy Arndt. Also significant were the Communication Lecture Series presentations by Hurshel Burton and Greg Jacobs and the Perspectives on Human Rights series coordinated by Trish Dodd.
Congratulations to our athletic teams and coaches. Although our Lady Bears Volleyball team did not make it a three-peat, it was quite an accomplishment to return to the national playoffs for a third consecutive attempt at the title. The basketball team members continue to pursue wins this season and request your support with your presence at their remaining games.
Task forces have been formed to address areas that will help the college in its quest to accomplish its mission. Thanks to all who have volunteered or accepted appointments to serve on these teams. Although many are just beginning to meet, we expect to see some reports in the very near future. Two were formed after the Appreciative Inquiry Summit and will address developing activities to build community and design an e-arena registration process. Other task forces will help create the visions, goals and strategic objectives for the college. Another has been formed to recommend a permanent location for the Early College High School.
We continue our focus on the retention and recruitment of our students, especially during this funding base year. The work of the Achieving the Dream Student Services team has led the effort this year with the “Take Care of Business Week.” Faculty and staff members encouraged students to prepare for the upcoming semester. Marketing campaigns were designed to reach out to students that may have stopped out and to those who began the application process but did not complete the process. But the most important effort is that of connecting with our students by personally engaging them inside and outside of the classroom.
Students know when they have a high quality educational experience. From the time students first contact the college to their departing steps, it is imperative that they have an inviting, welcoming and supportive experience and understand that we are here to help them achieve success. As we enter this enrollment period, remember that everything you do, whether it is answering a question over the telephone, giving directions in the courtyard or sharing information about the next class to take, has an effect on whether a student decides to enroll or continue their education with us. Every employee plays a role in the recruitment and retention of our students. Keep our mission in the forefront of your work as we move closer to the end of the semester. Everything you do must demonstrate that “Brookhaven College is Dedicated to Student Success!”
