Division of Student Affairs
Letter from our Vice President
Fellow Mustangs,
Greetings from the Hilltop! Please allow me to present the 2023-2024 edition of Impact, a report highlighting the SMU Division of Student Affairs and some of our most exciting experiences and achievements of the past year. Impact tells a story, first and foremost of our students, and it features individual and collective student experiences. Our student body is exceptional – an enterprising, diverse, and academically gifted group of young people, determined to use their SMU education to do good and change the world.
This year brought many changes to the Hilltop – some filled us with excitement while others challenged our community mightily. The October 7th, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and the ongoing, ensuing war in Gaza confronted all of us in numerous ways. Student Affairs worked to support our students and staff in expressing their grief and suffering and in advocating for their beliefs. I expect we will continue to grapple with these concerns as we approach the new year. As always, we will center the needs of our students and focus on their wellbeing while modeling our commitment to free speech and expression.
This year also brought incredible excitement as we learned that SMU would soon join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), creating a renewed energy around our athletic programs. Student Affairs also celebrated a historic gift to one of our beloved programs, the Connect Mentorship Program. David Huntley, SMU trustee and chair of the Student Affairs Committee of the Board, along with his wife Tracey Nash-Huntley, made the largest ever gift from an African American alumnus and from a former Student Body President. This transformational gift will allow us to reach more underrepresented students and support them as they transition to the Hilltop and begin their SMU journey.
You can also follow along with our progress towards fully implementing our divisional strategic plan, Cultivating Courageous Change. As we enter the final year of the plan, we look forward to celebrating its completion within the next year. As I reflect on the past year, I am so proud of the extraordinarily talented team of Student Affairs colleagues with whom I have the privilege of working. This dedicated team of selfless professionals is unified by our common mission to educate students and support their continued growth and wellbeing. You’ll have the opportunity to meet several of these dynamic Mustangs in the pages of Impact.
As we look forward to another dynamic year on the Hilltop, I hope you share the energy and enthusiasm of our students and our division. I am excited for all we will accomplish with, and for, our students. The Division of Student Affairs continues to cultivate courageous change through our shared purpose and commitment to our mission.
Pony Up!
K.C. Mmeje Vice President for Student Affairs
Welcome to Student Affairs
We are delighted to welcome two additions to the Division of Student Affairs: the Hunt Leadership Scholars Program and the Moms' and Dads' Club. These programs reflect our commitment to nurturing leadership, building community, and enhancing the student and parent experience.
Hunt Leadership Scholars Program
The Hunt Leadership Scholars Program transitioned to the Division of Student Affairs under the purview of the Hegi Family Career Development Center. Jade Weaver, Associate Director, oversees the daily operation and management of the program, under the supervision of Dr. Crystal Clayton.
This program offers up to 25 incoming students the opportunity to attend SMU by providing financial assistance to those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership ability and potential. Hunt scholars study abroad, participate in annual retreats, enroll in leadership courses with their peers, and attend lectures and other events with distinguished guests. Scholars are expected to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA, exhibit exemplary conduct, meet with their program advisor on a regular basis, and hold leadership positions in student organizations and within the Dallas community.
smu.edu/hunt
Moms' and Dads' Club
This past year, the SMU Mothers’ and Dads’ Club celebrated becoming an official SMU Affinity Group, housed under the Division of Student Affairs.
Previously, the club was its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity. By becoming a university affinity group, the club now has a stronger connection to the institution and receives even more university support. This transition continues to show SMU’s belief in the impact familial support has on student retention, persistence, and overall experience during the collegiate years. The Mothers’ Club was established in 1926, and the Dads’ Club followed shortly after. SMU is excited to continue preserving the almost 100-year legacy of this dedicated group of volunteers.
smu.edu/momsanddads
A Stylish Step into your Career Journey
In August 2023, the Hegi Family Career Development Center, Cox Career Management Center, and the Office of Social Change and Intercultural Engagement hosted SMU’s first-ever Career Closet event. This initiative was designed to provide students with free professional attire, ensuring they can make lasting impressions during interviews, networking events, and in their future workplaces.
The Career Closet offered a “shopping” experience in which students selected professional clothing at no cost. By participating, SMU students were able to step confidently into the professional world, dressed to impress.
The event's success was made possible through the generosity of alumni, faculty, staff, SMU families, and employer partners- who donated more than 2,000 articles of clothing. Over 750 students attended, with most finding items to enhance their professional wardrobes. A remarkable 90% of participants expressed interest in future events. The Career Closet is made possible through an Innovation Grant from the Division of Student Affairs, and the program is currently accepting donations to host the event again this fall.
“[The Career Closet] helped me expand my wardrobe and feel more confident. I now have a variety of professional outfits and don’t have to wear the same things repeatedly."
The Student Affairs Innovation Grant Initiative promotes and supports advancement of the division's strategic plan, Cultivating Courageous Change. Innovation Grant funds are allocated on a competitive basis towards new or significantly updated programs or services at SMU that make a measurable impact on students, faculty, staff, or the local community. Past Innovation Grants have been awarded to InterSections Retreat, Mustang PEP Talks, and R.I.T.U.A.L.
Attaining Strategic Achievements
Our Strategic Goals
1. Develop a Comprehensive Student Experience
2. Understand Diverse Perspectives
3. Develop Strategic Partnerships
4. Promote Comprehensive Wellbeing
5. Data-informed Decision Making
6. Advance Professional Excellence
As part of our commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for all students, the Division of Student Affairs has made significant strides in advancing our goals. Guided by our strategic plan, Cultivating Courageous Change, we have focused on enhancing student success, fostering a culture of wellbeing, advancing diversity and inclusion, and ensuring operational excellence. This progress report highlights key achievements across three of our six strategic goals.
Increasing Opportunities to Fulfill General Education Requirements
Within the division’s strategic plan, objective 1.9 aims to “increase the number of opportunities within the division that allow students to complete general education requirements.” To meet this objective, the division-wide Proficiency Project seeks to increase the number of undergraduate student activities within the division that are pre-approved to fulfill University Proficiency & Experience requirements.
In Spring 2024, five new division activities were approved:
• Honor Council: Civil and Individual Ethics
• Outdoor Leadership Training: Community Engagement and Oral Communication
• Civil Rights Pilgrimage: Civil and Individual Ethics
• Lavender Leaders: Human Diversity
• CORE: Human Diversity
These activities join the eight already approved for a total of 13.
Enhancing the Connect Mentorship Program
The Connect Mentorship Program, widely known as "Connect," aims to retain students of color at SMU through a year-long mentorship initiative. The program features two main components: the Connect Institute and Peer Mentorship. By pairing incoming students with mentors, the program supports their personal and academic development, and introduces them to various campus resources, learning opportunities, and co-curricular experiences.
Since its inception in 2019-2020, participation in the Connect Mentorship Program has surged by 108.3%, expanding from 84 participants to 175 in 2023-2024. In total, 552 students have benefited from the program. This growth is further supported by a historic gift from David Huntley and Tracey Nash-Huntley, which will enable the program to extend its reach and support more underrepresented students as they embark on their SMU journey.
Advancing Wellbeing Services
The SMU Division of Student Affairs has made substantial strides in enhancing wellbeing services and initiatives. New services introduced since the launch of the strategic plan include: Dentistry, Gynecology, Sexual Assault Nurse Exam (SANE), SMU Teletherapy through Academic Live Care, ProtoCall after-hours crisis line, mental health support via Togetherall and WellTrack, and Point & Click web booking for appointments.
These additions have improved support for students, addressing prevalent issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, and trauma. The average wait time for counseling services has been reduced to four business days, with students typically attending four sessions per year.
In Spring 2023, the SMU Wellbeing Commission was established as a collaborative effort involving Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, and students. The Commission focuses on substance use prevention, sexual misconduct prevention, mental health outreach, and hazing prevention. The mental health sub-committee has initiated the JED Campus process, conducting a baseline assessment and developing a strategic plan.
Regular assessments, including the National College Health Assessment (NCHA) and Healthy Campus Inventory, ensure ongoing evaluation and benchmarking of wellbeing services. The Dr. Bob Smith Health Center and the Office of Wellbeing Education utilize these assessments for quality assurance and improvement of medical and counseling services.
Additionally, the peer education team, known as the "WESTies," plays a crucial role in wellbeing education and outreach within the Residential Commons and SMU community. During the 20232024 academic year, the WESTies organized 66 Residential Commons events, a campus-wide event, and multiple workshops.
Our Year in Numbers
81% of the Division's strategic goals complete (One year to go!)
1,615 hours of community service completed through Engage Dallas
10th anniversary of the Residential Commons
5 Division activities approved to fulfill University curriculum requirements
70th anniversary of the M Awards
18 new Hunt Leadership Scholars start at SMU this fall
43% of undergraduates involved in Greek Life
24 Greek Chapters (Welcome, Alpha Delta Pi!)
Programs and Events
10
Ally trainings hosted by the Women and LGBT Center 21 students attending the Dr. Dennis Simon Civil Rights Pilgrimage
6,777 events hosted in the Hughes-Trigg Student Center
25 students participated in first annual Hegi Case Competition Support and Development
141 students participated in third annual #1DayforDallas
42 programs led by Spiritual Life Mentors
13 major football performances from Spirit Programs and Mustang Band
10,900 appointments completed at Dr. Bob Smith Health Center
248,404 visits to Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports
352 Student organizations registered in SMU360
100+ students employed by Campus Recreation
7 lunches hosted for transfer students
60 students in Leadership Programs
29 summer internships facilitated by Hegi Family Career Center and Engage Dallas
Next Steps for our Seniors
Every year, we celebrate the achievements of seniors who have been actively involved in Student Affairs and other campus activities. These students have not only excelled academically but have also shown leadership and dedication to the SMU community.
Ashish Doma
Plano, Texas Psychology
Ashish is starting the Masters of Education program at NYU in the fall.
• Orientation Leader
• South Asian Student Association President
• Caswell Leadership Fellow
• Cultivate "A Leadership Think Tank"
• Resident Assistant in Boaz Commons
Aline Nguyen Griffin Vail
Flower Mound, Texas Finance, Economics
Aline will be working at Hilltop Securities as a public finance investment banker analyst.
• Student Worker in the Vice President for Student Affairs Office
• Hegi Career Leader
• VPSA Student Advisory Board
• Member of Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity
Homewood, Alabama Music, Economics
Griffin is joining Kirkland & Ellis, a Dallas based law firm, as a junior paralegal.
• Hunt Leadership Scholar
• Dedman Senator and Student Organizations Chair for Student Senate
• Tate Forum Moderator
• Hilltop Scholar
Averyl Hartje Juan Silva Aparna Sridhar
Portland, Oregon Political Science, Theatre
Averyl is working at a law firm in New York while she pursues an acting career.
• Student Representative to the Board of Trustees
• Meadows Scholar
• Tower Scholar
• Meadows Senator and Student Organizations Chair for Student Senate
• Member of Alpha Chi Omega
San Antonio, Texas Creative Advertising
Juan is interning in New York City with David Yurman in digital design.
• Orientation Leader
• Student Director for Engage Dallas
• Vice President of Communications for Program Council
• Cultivate “A Leadership Think Tank”
• Art Director for SMU Look magazine
Plano, Texas Electrical Engineering, Math
Aparna is entering the SMU Engineering graduate program in the fall.
• Caswell Leadership Fellow
• Undergraduate Research Assistant for the SMU Lyle School of Engineering
• President of Society of Women Engineers
Capturing Campus Life
This past year, student organizations at SMU hosted over 1,300 events, enriching campus life and building community connections. With over 350 organizations, our campus was buzzing with activity.
This collection of photos captures just a few of the many events. Pony Up!
Peruna Palooza
Ça Phe
Family Weekend
The Big Event
Celebration of Lights
Holi
Solar Eclipse Watch Party
Diwali
Welcoming back Alpha Delta Pi
The SMU Panhellenic Council, under the guidance of the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life, successfully completed its first expansion process in over 30 years, bringing a new sorority to campus. Following the National Panhellenic Conference's guidelines, the Panhellenic community unanimously voted to open for extension in spring 2023.
An Extension Committee was formed, consisting of collegiate chapter leaders and advisors from the seven active sororities on campus. This committee reviewed extension materials, evaluated candidates based on SMU’s extension policies, and selected two finalists for on-campus presentations. Key criteria included new member education; chapter management; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and alumni involvement and support.
After a thorough review and feedback collection, Alpha Delta Pi was chosen to return to SMU. Originally founded as the Alpha Zeta chapter in 1915, Alpha Delta Pi presented a comprehensive plan to support members, student leaders, and campus partners, creating enriching opportunities for involvement. Alpha Delta Pi participated in the first round of Panhellenic’s primary recruitment process and conducted their own recruitment in early February, welcoming 64 new members. We look forward to their full participation in primary recruitment this fall.
SMU Hosts Inaugural Greek Life Leadership Retreat
In October, the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life hosted a regional leadership retreat for fraternity and sorority leaders from eight institutions: SMU, Baylor University, University of North Texas, UT Arlington, UT Dallas, Texas A&M Commerce, Texas Christian University, and Texas Woman’s University. Over 120 students attended this inaugural event, which featured a keynote speaker; breakout sessions; discussions on values alignment, identity and inclusion; and council-specific forums.
COURAGEOUS CHANGE LEADER
IMPACT AWARD
OUTSTANDING NEWCOMER
STUDENT AFFAIRS CHAMPION
Courageous Change Leader
Renée Gibson Renée Gibson
Renée Gibson exemplifies the Student Affairs commitment statements through her work every day. As an Associate Director for Residence Life, her dedication to enhancing Residential Assistant (RA) training has revitalized morale and engagement among RA staff leading to innovative programs that promote peer support and skill development. She has gathered feedback and shifted views so that RAs feel incorporated into the fabric of the training and are honored by celebrations of their work and accomplishments.
As co-chair for both the Honoring Our Professor’s Excellence (HOPE) Banquet and Hilltop Excellence Awards, Renée has helped enhance these events with creativity and attention to detail. Her commitment stems not only from her enjoyment of creating memorable experiences but also from her deep appreciation of their significance to students, families, staff, and faculty, ensuring everyone involved feels recognized and celebrated. When Renée hosts and supports an event, it is truly an event to remember.
A dedicated SMU employee for almost twenty years, Renée embarked on a new journey this year as an SMU parent to a first-year student. She has effortlessly balanced her responsibilities, nurturing her student’s independence while gently guiding him through his new journey at SMU. Known for her supportive nature, Renée extends this same care to numerous SMU students and staff, embodying the commitment to being a positive agent of change.
In addition to her official responsibilities, Renée is a sought-after leader across campus, representing Residence Life and Student Housing and the Division of Student Affairs with a positive spirit, integrity, innovation, and unwavering professionalism. Being a Courageous Change Leader reflects her profound impact and commitment to fostering a supportive community at SMU.
IMPACT AWARD
Brandon Kitchin, Social Change Coordinator, dedicates himself wholeheartedly to welcoming and supporting students within the SMU community, emphasizing mentoring, and fostering personal growth. Brandon’s leadership and involvement in programs such as InterSections, Real Talk, Barber Shop Talk, and the Connect Mentorship Program show his commitment to creating inclusive spaces where students can openly share their experiences and build meaningful connections. He serves as a welcoming face for all students, offering genuine support and stepping up to address challenging topics to guide their growth.
Brandon’s extensive involvement with student organizations outside his advisory roles underscores his relentless dedication to building a connected community. His positive demeanor and unwavering support for colleagues further underscore his exceptional contributions, making him highly deserving of the Impact Award.
OUTSTANDING NEWCOMER
Residential Community Director for Boaz Commons, has quickly made a significant impact on the residential experience and division. Under her leadership, Boaz has flourished as a community where students feel deeply cared for and supported. She revitalized the beloved tradition of “Wake Up Wednesdays” in the Boaz lobby, personally greeting residents with breakfast and coffee alongside her dog Goose, fostering a warm and engaging atmosphere that students eagerly anticipate each week.
Lauren actively engages with students through off-campus outings, supports student leadership initiatives with homemade meals, and provides encouragement at intramural games and community events. Her innovative approach to community-building has not only educated residents about Boaz traditions but also inspired similar initiatives across other Residential Commons. Lauren’s dedication to enhancing student experiences are further evidenced by her involvement in supporting commuter students and working closely with Boaz Faculty in Residence to ensure all residents feel welcomed and connected. Her positive energy and proactive support make her a valued colleague across the SMU campus.
STUDENT
AFFAIRS CHAMPION
Brenda Scott, Director of Inclusive Excellence for SMU Athletics, has been a remarkable ally to the division through her work in Athletics. She proactively reaches out to establish connections and explore collaborations, focusing on supporting the holistic student-athlete experience at SMU. She has forged many partnerships on campus that have allowed student-athletes to be involved in campus life outside their sport.
One of many examples Brenda's collaboration with the Women and LGBT Center to implement Ally Training sessions for Athletic staff, personally participating and ensuring engagement with both staff and students. Her dedication extended to planning LGBTQIA+ 101 and Ally Training sessions for over 30 Athletics members, with ongoing efforts to integrate these important workshops into student-athlete programs. Brenda’s collaborative approach and genuine care for the student-athlete experience exemplify her impactful contributions to SMU’s community. She is most deserving of recognition for her dedication to the Student Affairs strategic goals and values.
The Melody of Mustang Spirit
Celebrating Tommy Tucker
When your presence on the Hilltop spans five decades, there are many appropriate accolades for all your achievements and impact on students and staff. In the case of Thomas ‘Tommy’ Tucker, all of the usual superlatives are correct and yet none can wholly tell his story or convey the gratitude of every person who has known him. From his first student year in 1973 through today, Tommy has quietly led by example, embodying the true spirit and all that it means to be a Mustang. Whether you have met Tommy or not, you've felt his influence on the life of the University.
First as a student and then as Staff Arranger for the past 35 years, Tommy has provided numerous musical numbers for the Mustang Band to perform. Bill Lively, ’65, also a Band Alumni and later Assistant Director of the Mustang Band, encouraged Tommy's musical arranging and application to attend SMU. From the football field to the concert stage, Tommy’s charts have become some of the Band’s most well-known numbers
including ‘Gotta Get You Into My Life’ and ‘Old Devil Moon’. If you’ve sung along to ‘Varsity’, you’ve heard his talent. Former Director Bob Brandenberger, ‘66, worked alongside Tommy for 12 years. His family has fond memories of how Bob looked forward to Tommy’s "Mustang Band spin on tunes from the Great American Songbook. His Pigskin Revue theme tunes were always memorable, leaving the audience wanting more."
Across the years, and supported by his wife Pam throughout, Tommy participated in and led many trips and initiatives for the Mustang Band. Bowl games were played at the Aloha Bowl - Hawai’i, Mirage Bowl - Tokyo, and the Rose Bowl –Pasadena, CA, each featuring tunes he had penned. In 2001, along with then-Director David Kehler, Tommy took the Mustang Band to Washington, D.C. at the request of President-Elect George W. Bush to participate in his Inaugural Parade. Truly, Tommy has been a part of SMU history.
Stan Shipman, ’71, who served as the Alumni Band Director for many years, remembered; “Tommy ‘answered the challenge’ following former arrangers such as Bob Farrar, Doug Williamson and the inimitable Jack Rohr with his ‘special talent that gives the Mustang Band it’s unique and powerful sound. We are indebted to Tommy for keeping THAT SPECIAL SOUND alive and well over his years of service.”
Fellow students such as Keith Karnes, ’77, remember Tommy in the early ‘70s "leading by example" from the moment he stepped on the Hilltop. "We are all better people from our many experiences with Tommy." That sentiment is echoed again and again no matter whom you ask - students, alumni and administration. Lou Dorfman, former Band Business Manager, claimed, "Tommy is the reason the Band is what it is today." Ask any Mustang Band member from 1973 through today and they will tell you that Tommy Tucker has been the heart and soul of the Hub of SMU Spirit.
Judith Banes, Director of Recreational Sports and Spirit (1991-2011) worked with Tommy throughout her tenure. When asked to describe his impact upon the University, she said he was vital "to reuniting the Alumni and leading the Band in the right direction. His calm, selfless demeanor, musical ability, dedication to his students, and appreciation for all the supporters of the Band
leaves quite a legacy!" From Arlene Manthey, former SMU Leadership Gifts Officer: [Tommy’s]
"impact on the Hilltop is deep, lasting, and ignites the love and passion that makes SMU the very special place that we know it to be."
Throughout his tenure on campus, Tommy has served with four Directors of the Mustang Band. Current Director Charles Aguillon is grateful for the "smoothest transition to any job I’ve had in 30+ years due to Tommy Tucker. His leadership kept the Band moving forward. His knowledge and love of all things SMU and Mustang Band have inspired me to keep cultivating the rich traditions we all hold dear."
Well over 500 students have been a part of the SMU Mustang Band while Tommy has served as Arranger and Assistant Director. Each of these individuals have taken his legacy of passion, excellence and dedication across the globe as they serve in widely varied fields from music to business, military to education, and so much more. From one man, one campus, the world is ignited.
His gentle means of sculpting souls took me years to understand. I’m just a living legacy to the leader of the band.
- Leader of the Band, Dan Fogelberg, 1981 Hubba.
Home Grown Mustang
For Renée Gibson, SMU is not just a workplace; it’s a home filled with cherished memories and milestones. Since beginning her journey with Residence Life and Student Housing in 2004 as a Community Assistant in Martin Hall, Renée has played a pivotal role in shaping Residence Life and Student Housing. Her career trajectory saw her transition from a Graduate Hall Director in Perkins Hall to a full-time Hall Director and now Associate Director for Residence Life, marking two decades of commitment and service.
Professional and personal soon intertwined for the Gibson family. Shortly after starting her role, Renée discovered she was expecting her son, Dylan. Campus became the backdrop for many of his life experiences. He spent his early years in residential communities, including Perkins, Shuttles, SMU Apartments (now the location of the George Bush Library), and Ware Commons. SMU wasn't just a university for Dylan; it was home.
Dylan’s journey came full circle when he chose to attend SMU -the only school he applied to-seeing it as the perfect place to pursue his dreams in Applied Physiology and Sports Management. He started his residence life in Ware last year, and this fall, he will take on the role of a Resident Assistant in the newly renovated Smith-Perkins Hall, adding a new chapter to the Gibson family’s legacy at SMU.
Over the last academic year, construction crews worked diligently to update Smith-Perkins residence hall. This fall, new residents will make use of the new facilities.
Join us later this fall for a dedication and open house, one of many events we'll host next academic year as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our Residential Commons program.
Leading by Example
Written by Hannah Jacobbe '24
Mireya Sanchez '25 is a dedicated student and a veteran, committed to serving both her community and country. Over the past academic year, Sanchez organized a volunteer project for students in Mesquite ISD to donate items to homeless veterans. "I wanted to give back to the community and help homeless veterans," Sanchez shared. "But I also wanted it to be an opportunity for the students to ask me about my experiences in college and the military."
The project was predominantly student-led, with teachers providing guidance to help students develop leadership skills. Despite having less than a month to gather hygiene products, the students collected over a thousand items and packed around 100 backpacks, each with notes of encouragement. After assembling the backpacks, Sanchez held a Q&A session, answering questions about her life as an SMU student and a veteran, and offering advice on preparing for college or the military.
Sanchez balances her life as a college student and a National Guard member, which she describes as a significant challenge. "I've been in the National Guard for four years and I'm also in ROTC at UTA. When I graduate next year, I'll commission as a second lieutenant in the National Guard."
She explains that navigating these two distinct cultures requires a lot of "code switching" in her interactions and approach to different topics.
She is motivated by a desire to succeed in both her academic and military careers, and to serve as a role model for other women, particularly women of color, who might follow similar paths. "It's very rare to find someone who looks like me in the military. I want to be an example for other women who want to join or pursue both college and a military career."
Sanchez's advice to others is simple but powerful: "Don't be afraid to interact with the veteran community. You don't have to be in the military to give back." She emphasizes that anyone can make a difference, regardless of their background.
Reflecting on her role as the Military Veteran Senator at SMU, Sanchez acknowledges the progress in bridging the gap between military and non-military students. "There is sometimes a disconnect, but it has improved. The veteran community is more represented and supported now."
Despite challenges, Sanchez remains focused on her goals. "Even though it can be exhausting, I remember my 'why' and my drive to be successful. That's what keeps me going." Her story is a testament to perseverance and the impact one person can have on their community.
Balancing Business and Academics
Written by Hannah Jacobbe '24
Jude Lugo '25 is not just achieving his academic goals at SMU; he’s also a successful entrepreneur. From a young age, Jude’s fascination with business was clear. He fondly recalls being excited by office supplies and other business-related items. This early interest grew into a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation.
During his time at SMU, Jude noticed a significant trend: “Whether students are in class or not really impacts their academic success and can indicate if they are experiencing a crisis.” This observation led him to create Lecture Logger, an app designed not only as an attendance tool but also to connect struggling students with campus resources. The app serves as a bridge between professors and students, enhancing communication and support.
In developing Lecture Logger, Jude collaborated with various campus departments, ensuring the app met diverse needs. He consulted students about user experience, professors about attendance methods, and department chairs and associate
deans about software access. He also worked with the Office of Information Technology (OIT) on privacy and security matters, demonstrating his comprehensive approach to innovation.
Reflecting on his journey, Jude emphasizes the importance of balance: “I’ve realized that it’s okay not to have three majors and three minors or a perfect 4.0 while still doing well academically. It’s good to be well-rounded.” He manages his responsibilities by separating his work environments, studying at Fondren Library and working on his business at a coworking space.
Jude advises aspiring entrepreneurs to “be persistent and keep pushing ahead.” He believes that perseverance is key in the entrepreneurial world, where success often follows numerous challenges and learning experiences. His journey at SMU exemplifies how combining academic pursuits with entrepreneurial ventures can lead to a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience.
Jude will serve as the Student Trustee in the 2024-25 academic year
Summer of Opportunities
In the Summer of 2023, the Hegi Family Career Development Center facilitated the Engage Dallas and Hegi Diversity and Inclusion and Unpaid Internship programs. Through this program and partnership, the Hegi Career Center was able to support 25 student interns. Three Hegi interns shared the following about their experience in the program:
Javon Brown
Marketing Intern Heart House Dallas
“Working at Heart House this summer gave me the professional and leadership development skills that I needed. I was able to gain real-world marketing experience and help create a campaign for North Texas Giving Day. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities given to me through Heart House.”
Simran Misra Joyce Sun
Learning Program Intern Perot Museum of Nature and Science
“This internship was such a valuable opportunity for me to grow professionally. I was in a corporate setting, and I learned to adhere to a more professional sense of dress, conversation, and communication. By interacting with older employees, participating in meetings, and assisting various staff members, I got to expand my professional horizons greatly.”
Heroes Intern Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center
“The internship has provided me a lot of opportunities to get a foot in the door of the professional world such as how to build connections, manage and oversee projects, and conduct yourself in the professional world.”
SMU360: Campus Engagement Hub
SMU360 enhances the way student organizations operate, offering tools for managing and communicating with members. Organization officers can create surveys and forms, send group-wide communications via email and newsletters, and post updates in their group feeds. Departments and offices find SMU360 invaluable for connecting with students and promoting events and services. The platform enables departments to build forms, surveys, and polls, and advertise their events to the SMU community. Over 100 departments are already using SMU360, and there’s always room for more to join!
What does Greek Life mean to you? Scan the QR code to hear answers from our students
All Majors Career Fair
Crowchella
THE BEST MOMENTS
Over the past academic year, the Division of Student Affairs has hosted a variety of events that brought our community together. From recognition ceremonies and Commons festivities to volunteer projects and career fairs, these activities have enriched campus life and fostered connections among students. These photos capture some of the memorable moments from these events.
#1DayforDallas
FiRs and Furs
Stampede Fall 2023
Recognizing Excellence
Across the Division of Student Affairs, our dedication and excellence drive progress towards achieving our strategic goals, including Goal 6, to advance professional excellence. This year, we proudly recognize the numerous degrees, awards, and accomplishments of our staff, each reflecting our commitment to fostering a supportive and innovative campus community.
Terrie Fields received an M.A. in Dispute Resolution from the SMU Simmons School of Education and Human Development
Degrees Awarded
Dr. Julius Mwangi, D. Ministry
Dr. Jennifer "JJ" Jones received the Durward W. Owen Interfraternal Service Award from the Southeastern Greek Leadership Association
Dr. Brittany Billar, Ph. D. in Higher Education
Adjunct Faculty
Dr. Albert Mitugo
Dr. Dawn F. Norris
Dr. Jennifer "JJ" Jones
Dr. Kim Nelson Pryor
Presented or Published
Dr. Arthi Krishnan
Dr. Jennifer "JJ" Jones
Dr. Jon Carman
Joel Gatti
Dr. Kim Nelson Pryor
Nate Faust
Dr. K. C. Mmeje was recognized as a 2024 NASPA Pillar of the Profession
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Bob Smith Health Center, COLA Laboratory Excellence Award
Dr. K. C. Mmeje, SMU M Award
Dr. Melinda J. Sutton, SMU Student Senate Outstanding Administrator
Appointments
Amanda Bobo, NACE DEI Task Force
Evan Saperstein, SMU Staff Advocacy Council Representative
Lauren Searway, Co-Chair of SoACE Employer Relations Knowledge Group
Rev. Lisa Garvin, United Methodist Church University Senate
Sean Murphy, SMU Staff Association
President-Elect
Make an IMPACT
Supporting Student Affairs enhances SMU students’ college experience and creates treasured memories they will carry with them long after they leave our campus. Through robust learning and leadership programs, campus events and dedicated resources, we help students blaze new paths with opportunities to improve and enrich every aspect of their lives, both on and off campus.
By making a gift to Student Affairs, you are making a commitment that will spark change and open doors to new opportunities for our students, preparing them to be innovators, leaders and world changers. These are a few of the areas where your gift can make an impact:
Office of the Chaplain and Religious Life
Greek Life
Leadership Programs
Orientation and Student Support
Support
Scholarships and Grants
Spirit and Traditions
Sports Clubs and Student Organizations
Student Mental Health and Wellness
