This past Spring, the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, as well as the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Veterans Affairs, were moved under the Division of Student Experience. The addition of these offices prompted a restructure within the Division to improve efficiency and align with the University’s strategic planning process, using three critical components.
First, the restructure was fiscally responsible, as it takes existing positions and collapses those salary savings into new priorities. The Board resolution, “Take Charge of our Future,” speaks to optimizing budgeting and financial management as well as performance.
Secondly, positions identified will support enrollment and retention strategies with the creation of an Executive Director of Student Enrollment Services. This addition also relates to the Board resolution, as it ensures someone will pay “attention to the enrollment of new students.”
Finally, the restructure has implemented some internal changes with the department of Housing and Residence Life to enhance the profile of residence life to ensure that our Housing Coordinators are keenly focused on community building as a key retention strategy.
As a result of the restructure, the following individuals were re-classed to assist in realizing these goals and to provide leadership within key areas.
Mrs. Elaine Ruse will serve as the Executive Director of Student Enrollment Services. She will oversee the Offices of Financial Aid and Scholarships and Undergraduate Admissions and will assist with the development of an integrated enrollment strategy.
Mr. John Young will serve as the Executive Director for Auxiliary Services. He will oversee Kilcawley Center; Wick Primary Care; Barnes and Noble Bookstore; University Courtyard; Dining; University Housing; and our housing partners; the Enclave, University Edge, Flats at Wick, and Erie Terminal.
Mrs. Joy Polkabla Byers will serve as the Executive Director for Campus Recreation and Wellbeing. She will oversee Andrews Student Recreation and Wellness Center, Student Counseling Services, Wee Care Day Care, and the Office of Veterans Affairs.
Ms. Erin Driscoll will serve as the Executive Director for Student Experience and Residence Life. She will oversee the Office of Student Activities, Greek Life, Student Diversity Programs, Student Government Association, Student Media, and Residence Life.
Please join me in congratulating these individuals in their new appointments. As a Division, we are excited about the opportunities to impact the lives of our students as we strive to create the best campus experience possible.
Thanks for your continued support,
Eddie Howard
