VICE PRESIDENT ENEWS MESSAGES

As we embark on a new academic term, I find myself reconnecting with our core in Student Affairs: meeting the needs of students.
 
Like much of the world today, sometimes our work can seem far too complicated – so many individual perspectives, resources, technologies, and opportunities to consider. My mother used to have a saying: “there is merit in simplicity!” Although, as a youngster I did not understand the power of her words, I definitely can relate to them today. These words should be a motivating factor, at times, in our work. Focusing on our core calls on us to listen and not over complicate. Together we have lifetimes of experience in helping students to navigate and succeed in college and far beyond. Sometimes when we connect directly and humbly with students – in the simplest ways possible – we find what’s needed and can offer them so much.
 
It is a given that we will witness complexity and difficulty from time to time as we do our work. In this new year, I challenge us all to seek out and enjoy the “merits of simplicity” as we keep students first in mind.