Division of Student Affairs Newsletter

Friday, March 14, 2025
March 2025

Dear Colleagues,

As we reach the six-week milestone of this semester, I want to pause and extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Your unwavering dedication, professionalism, and commitment have been instrumental in ensuring a successful start to this semester. It is through your collective efforts that we continue to foster an environment where students thrive, feel supported, and develop a strong sense of belonging.

Student Affairs has made significant strides in advancing our goals and enhancing student experiences across campus. Below are a few divisional highlights:

Director Search for Hazen Center for Integrative Care

We are currently in the final phase of selecting a new Director for the Hazen Center for Integrative Care. This search has been thorough and intentional, reflecting our commitment to identifying a candidate who aligns with our values and vision for integrative student wellness. Recently, we hosted three highly qualified candidates on campus. Each candidate brought unique strengths and perspectives, making this decision both challenging and exciting.

I want to extend my sincere appreciation to everyone who participated in the on-campus interviews and provided valuable feedback throughout this process. Your insights are essential in helping us make an informed decision that will positively impact our students’ health and well-being. A special thank you goes out to Dr. Kathy Peterson, Distinguished Service Professor and Chair of the Nursing Department, who graciously chaired this important search committee. Dr. Peterson’s leadership, attention to detail, and dedication have been instrumental in guiding this critical selection process forward. We anticipate making an official announcement in the near future—please stay tuned.

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of presenting to the College Council, sharing the exceptional work happening across our division. It was a proud moment for me to highlight our collective achievements and demonstrate how your efforts directly enhance student engagement, belonging, and success. Among several highlights presented were:

Key Achievements

• Guided Connections Initiative: The Residence Life staff conducted over 1900 guided connections conversation during the fall ’24 and have engaged approximately 90% of residential students this spring in intentional conversations fostering community within residence halls. These discussions assess roommate relationships, campus involvement, and overall student well-being. 

• Significant Growth in Pantry Visitation: Our Campus Pantry continues to serve as a vital resource for students experiencing food insecurity. The notable increase in student visits underscores the importance of this service and reflects positively on your outreach efforts and compassionate care.

• Expansion of Club Sports: Club sports participation has seen impressive growth this semester. More students are engaging in meaningful recreation opportunities that enhance physical health, foster teamwork, and build community.

• Annual Leadership Conference Success: Increased attendance, dynamic programming, and positive participant feedback have made this year’s conference a resounding success.

• Growth in Student Engagement: Our division has hosted or assisted with 190 events this academic year, reaching 2,397 student participants. Your dedication to creating meaningful experiences has strengthened student involvement and campus connection.

Residence Life/Learning Communities

• High Demand for On-Campus Housing – More juniors and seniors are choosing to remain in on-campus housing, signaling a positive residential experience.

• New Housing Software Implementation – Thanks to Carl O’Connor, Associate Director for Residential Life, and Sarah Roffe, Housing Assignment Coordinator, this system will streamline room selection and housing communication for students.

• Living Learning Communities (LLCs) Continue to Thrive – Our LLCs are experiencing increased student engagement through innovative programming and experiential learning opportunities. Faculty interested in collaborating on future LLC initiatives can contact Kara Corlett at kcorlett@brockport.edu.

Leadership & Civic Engagement

• LDP Green: Workshops have been enhanced with experiential learning activities.

• LDP Gold: Students are working on social action projects, including support for Trash to Treasure initiatives.

• Capstone Course: Special recognition to Orlensy Castillo-Brito for her leadership in revitalizing Omicron Delta Kappa.

• Annual Leadership Conference: Over 150 students attended the “Local Change, Global Vision” conference on February 23, engaging in experiential workshops and leadership discussions. Thank you to all faculty and staff who contributed to its success.

• Upcoming Deliberative Dialogues:

  • “Free Speech & The Inclusive Campus” – March 25

  • “A House Divided: What Should We Give Up To Get The Political System We Want?” – April 24

Saturday of Service – Applications Now Open!

Re-establishing a Campus Tradition

Saturday of Service is a long-standing tradition at SUNY Brockport that has not taken place since before the COVID-19 pandemic. We are excited to bring it back and invite you to participate in this meaningful event as we kick off the 2025-2026 school year!  This event provides an excellent opportunity for faculty and staff to engage with new students, helping them feel welcomed and supported before they even step into a classroom. By participating, we can empower students to build confidence and foster a strong sense of community.

Event Details

• Date: August 23, 2025 (as part of Welcome Week)

• Role: Team leaders will accompany student volunteers to service sites, coordinate with site supervisors, and facilitate discussions.

• How to Get Involved: Email serve@brockport.edu with any questions. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 4. Selected leaders will receive training in late April.

Spring Break Reminders

• Residence Life Spring Break Housing: More Info

• The Pantry: Open Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (accessible 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, M-F).

• Brockway Express: Open March 15 - March 22, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM & 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

• Fitness Center Hours:

  • Monday–Friday: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thank you for your commitment to our students and the Brockport community. Wishing you a restful and enjoyable Spring Break!