Student Life: The Year in Review 2016-17

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YEAR IN REVIEW 2016-2017

RUSSELL SAGE COLLEGE | SAGE COLLEGE OF ALBANY



2016-2017

Sage Student Life Executive Summary This annual report is meant to share with you the 2016-2017 accomplishments of The Sage Colleges’ Student Life Division. Using both direct and indirect assessment measures, we hope to demonstrate how students at Sage have benefited from a rich extracurricular experience flush with learning, leadership, and fun! This report allows us to reflect upon what we have done well and to welcome the challenges and opportunities to do better. As Student Life continues to evolve and our services become increasingly linked to learning both in and out of the classroom, we will continue to work to ensure the growth and satisfaction of students.

Sage Student Life Vice President’s Goals for 2017-2018 »» Design and implement programs, services, and systems that increase student persistence and retention. »» Offer co-curricular programming and services that support the core academic experience. »» Ensure that diversity and inclusion are hallmarks of student life planning, programming, and service delivery. Trish Cellemme Vice President for Student Life

Table of Contents

Executive Summary........................................................................ Vice President’s Goals.................................................................... Student Life Mission..................................................................... 1 Dean of Students Office: Sage College of Albany............................2 Sharon Murray; AVP Student Life; Dean of Students, SCA Student Activities: Sage College of Albany.....................................4 Kris Liebegott; Director of Student Activities, SCA Dean of Students Office: Russell Sage College...............................6 Stacy Gonzalez; Dean of Students, RSC Student Activities: Russell Sage College........................................8 Diane Angrisano; Director of Student Activities, RSC Wellness Center........................................................................... 10 Stacey Thayer; Director, Wellness Center, The Sage Colleges Residence Life.............................................................................. 12 Shylah Addante; Director, Residence Life, The Sage Colleges Athletics......................................................................................14 Recreation & Fitness.................................................................... 16 Jill Grebert; Director, Recreation and Fitness, The Sage Colleges Office of Disabilities Services.......................................................18 Katherine Norman; Director, Disability Services, The Sage Colleges Office of Career Planning..............................................................20 Carleen Pallante; Director of Career Planning, The Sage Colleges We Heard You...............................................................................22



Sage Student Life Mission

Sage is a community of scholars committed to empowering students.

To Be: To provide the individual student with the opportunity and means to develop and advance personally and professionally, and thus to be successful in achieving life goals. To Know: To contribute to the larger society a group of diverse, thoughtful, and competent citizenleaders who continue to be engaged in the pursuit of lifelong learning. To Do: To translate learning into action and application, recognizing the obligation of educated persons to lead and to serve their communities.

1


Dean of Students at Sage College of Albany

providing paths and support Our Mission

The mission of the Dean of Students Office is to serve as the hub for all issues concerning students. Our role is to provide paths and support for their involvement, development, and success. With a number of services and functions, the Dean of Students serves as a first stop for students when managing issues or concerns, and for faculty and administrators eager to assist students in need.

What We Do

What Students Are Saying “The best thing about Orientation was definitely the bond made with my team! We got to be pretty close throughout orientation and to this day we still call each other our squad.” “I have loved every second being a Gator and I would not trade the good or the bad for anything!” “All of the orientation activities were so much fun and the team I was on really got along easily. My orientation leaders were great at making sure we were all enjoying ourselves and had great personalities and approaches to things that needed to be addressed.” “I loved the cultural performances by the students and the staff during Food Fest.” “I was so happy that International Food Fest had vegan options this year!”

2

»» Oversee student development/student activities »» Act as the advisor to student government »» Educate students in community standards, including the Code of Conduct »» Serve as the liaison between students, faculty, staff, and the administration

2016-2017 Highlights

»» New Student Government (SGA) Discount cards offered discounts to local area businesses for all SCA students. »» The new NEST program for first-year students received the President’s Innovation Award. »» The Sage Centennial 5K brought together students, alumni and community members with SCA students Kristen Knockwood, Donald Edwards, and Marcus Patterson leading the way. »» Over 220 people attended a lecture by Wes Moore, author of “The Other Wes Moore” at SCA. »» TSC welcomed Dr. David B. Green as the new Director of Diversity and Inclusion. Dr. Green has already had a direct impact on students at SCA. »» Student Life held two retreats and received training on: »» Identities and Experiences of Transgendered Students »» Creating a Culture of Inclusion


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Create a more inclusive and culturally rich student experience at Sage College of Albany.

2

Inventory affinity groups at Sage College of Albany and investigate the connections between affinity groups and student success.

3

Improve the reach and impact of Sage College of Albany Student Government.

81%

of students who participated in Sage Select Capstone said they now have a greater understanding of their social responsibility to their community.

Sage College of Albany had a full slate of Student Government E-board officers for the second straight year – first time since 2010.

86% 79% 94

%

85%

of student participants found the Dean’s Summer Reading book, “The Other Wes Moore,” to be interesting, challenging, or enjoyable.

of responding 2017 graduates said that their experiences at SCA helped them develop an

appreciation of diversity and civility. of SCA student respondents feel that faculty and administrators are genuinely concerned about their welfare and treat students fairly. of student-athletes responded that they feel Sage has

provided a safe and inclusive experience for them.

2017-2018 Goals

1

Evaluate the new NEST program and its effect on affinity groups and persistence.

2

Expand the use of Campus Labs and assessment knowledge within the Student Life unit.

3

Evaluate the timeline, training, and roles of SCA Student Government E-Board.

4

Evaluate the student experience at SCA with a focus on inclusion.

92%

of families were Very Satisfied or Satisfied with the overall SCA Gator Day experience.

Research on Affinity Groups yielded the following connections to retention/persistence:

94%

SCA Orientation Leaders (2014 and 2015)

91%

SCA HEOP (FY 2013 to 2014)

91

First-Year Student-Athletes from fall 2015 returned to Sage in fall 2016 (13% higher than the average TSC student).

%

3


Student Activities at Sage College of Albany

a growing, active Sage community Our Mission

The mission of the Office of Student Activities is to create a well-rounded college experience by providing students with the opportunities to grow through community involvement, leadership, social, educational, and diverse programming from orientation to graduation.

2016-2017 Highlights

What Students Are Saying “I am pumped that we have new equipment in Freddie’s (Lounge)! The old pool and Ping-Pong tables were falling apart, so when we got new tables it just reinforced to me that the staff is listening and wants to make things better.” – Daniel Johnson, Class of 2019

“During the leadership retreat I learned that leadership, in its most effective form, is a group effort - not the work of an individual.” – Derek Larson, Class of 2018

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»» Freddie’s Lounge added a new billiards table and Ping-Pong table. »» 19 Orientation Leaders, 11 Resident Assistants, and eight Student Government representatives attended the 2017 Leadership Retreat. »» Sage College of Albany created a first-year experience program for incoming students. The program, entitled NEST, will serve as a gateway program for all first-year students and focus on the campus community, co-curricular education, and affinity group building.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Build tracks within Student Activities at Sage College of Albany that help students identify and choose affinity groups.

2

Embed succession planning as a priority within the leadership of Sage College of Albany clubs and organizations.

3

Increase co-curricular programming through collaborations with Academic Affairs.

Programming Committee The Programming Committee successfully built tracks in the following areas to support NEST and help students identify affinity groups: health // nutrition // balance

WELLNESS LEADERSHIP

INCLUSION

INNOVATION

development // teamwork // service

diversity // advocacy // empowerment

creativity // exploration // critical thinking

Clubs and Organizations

100% 37%

of club and organization leaders felt the SCA Club and Organization trainings were impactful, important, and relevant to them and their leadership role. of club and organization leaders reported improved

competencies in club management, membership, satisfaction, and impact after Club and Organization training in 2016-2017, a practice we look to improve and continue for 20172018.

95

%

2017-2018 Goals

1

Delivery and assessment of the first year retention and persistence initiative (NEST).

2

Enhance the student events, activities and cocurricular experience for all SCA students.

3

Embed sustainability as a priority within the leadership of SCA clubs and organizations.

of students surveyed agreed that “coding� events and activities will

help them identify potential affinity groups on campus, a

practice that will commence in the fall of 2017.

100

%

of students surveyed expressed interest in receiving additional

training on topics of club leadership and succession planning (this idea of

sustainability will be a focus for 2017-18).

5


Dean of Students Office at Russell Sage College

preparing students to be successful Our Mission

The Dean of Students Office at Russell Sage provides programs, services, opportunities, and outreach to engage students in educationally purposeful experiences that increase student engagement and prepare students to be successful leaders and responsible citizens. Specifically, the Russell Sage College Dean of Students Office: »» Oversees areas promoting successful student engagement including student activities, spirituality, orientations, traditions, and leadership »» Executes The Sage Colleges’ Commencement »» Serves as a liaison between students, faculty, staff, and administration »» Leads support and outreach to students in need

What Students Are Saying “Thank you so much for all you have done for us and for always being there for us!” – Parent of an RSC Student “LOVED the live link to the graduation! That allowed my relatives who weren’t able to come to see the graduation.” “I wouldn’t change anything about commencement. I love how everything was well organized.” “The commencement planners all did a terrific job and it was very well organized!” “The individual attention we receive is phenomenal. Our voices are heard and we listen to each other.”

6

2016-2017 Highlights

»» Extended efforts to increase collaborations within Academic Affairs to bring a variety of speakers, artists and information to students. Examples include: »» Peace Corps veteran and activist John Kucij »» Author and activist Phyllis Bennis »» “Upstate Girls” filmmaker Brenda Kenneally »» Created new timeline and procedure for Student Government Finance Committee allowing for improved budgeting and allocation process.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Improve graduation experience for May 2017 participants.

2

Increase, enhance, and improve communications with parents and family members.

3

Improve the transfer student experience.

4

Create a plan for delivering and assessing Community Standards for first-year students.

RSC Student Leaders met to identify a set of

2017 Commencement Survey

91

%

of respondents indicated that the information provided on the Commencement webpage was helpful.

94

of respondents who indicated that they read emails from the Student Life office about Commencement found them helpful.

93

of respondents indicated that they were satisfied (with a score of 3 or higher out of 5) with the overall outcome of Commencement.

% %

community standards. This list of 30 qualities will serve as a foundation for future discussions surrounding community standards at Russell Sage College.

RSC Transfer Student Survey

85%

of respondents indicated agreement with the statement “Transfer Orientation helped me connect with fellow students and faculty/staff.”

85%

of respondents indicated some level of agreement with the statement: “As a transfer student, I feel sufficiently aware of campus resources and services.”

88

of respondents indicated some level of agreement with the statement “I feel supported by the Student Life Office and staff.”

%

RSC Parent Survey

87% 87

%

of respondents indicated that they shared information from the Parent Newsletter to benefit their students.

of respondents indicated that reading the Parent Newsletter enhanced their connection with the college.

2017-2018 Goals

1 2 3

Facilitate the development of a set of shared community standards for students at RSC. Create a set of standards for RSC Student Government to promote financial literacy, fiscal responsibility, and succession planning. Improve the commencement rehearsal experience for participants.

7


Student Activities at Russell Sage College

entertaining, educational, and diverse Our Mission

The mission of the Student Activities Office is to provide students with the opportunity to attend programs that are entertaining, educational, and diverse, and to provide a student center space that is welcoming and engaging for our students.

What Students Are Saying “I really like when coffee and donuts would be in the lounge. Since parking is tough sometimes, breakfast can be put on the back burner because we have to leave really early to get a spot. So the food and beverage is a nice treat and takes away the stress of rushing.” “I think RSC does a good job at providing resources for commuters. I have noticed an improvement since I started here.” “More quiet study areas would be really nice. I am so grateful for all the school does for me though. Sage has been an amazing experience.”

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Specifically, the Office of Student Activities: »» Plans and implements events for Russell Sage College students »» Oversees all aspects of the McClellan Student Center »» Coordinates the Russell Sage College traditions with student leaders »» Coordinates and implements New Student Orientation »» Coordinates and implements Family Weekend »» Oversees all aspects of SageFest (Russell Sage College Annual Street Fair) »» Supports and guides student clubs and organizations »» Partners with other departments to design a rich extracurricular experience

2016-2017 Highlights

»» Over 250 RSC students attended the Female O presentation by professional facilitators Dorian Solot and Marshall Miller. »» RSC Habitat for Humanity Club spent spring break in New Orleans renovating houses and volunteering at an animal shelter with the United Saints Recovery Project. »» Rally 2017 raised $6,246 to be split equally between two charities: The Melodies Center of Albany Medical Center and Young People in Recovery. »» Sage’s Centennial celebration brought Astronaut Stephanie Wilson and Supreme Court Justice Sonya Sotomayor to RSC with close to 300 students attending these events.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Increase knowledge and skills of student club leaders by implementing training programs for budget and event planning.

2

Enhance the Stay & Play initiative for weekend activities.

3

Enhance commuter relations including services and programs.

Stay & Play Program

62% 85%

Increased Knowledge

2015-2016

Increased Participation

2016-2017

53% 61% 2015-2016

2016-2017

McKinstry Student Center visits per academic year

100%

of club, class and E-board members found the program planning and budget training helpful.

2017-2018 Goals

1

Establish, with the current social shair and the executive board of Student Government, a self-supporting and functional activities board.

2016-17

4,200

2

Create and implement a comprehensive training for Student Center staff.

2015-16

4,080

3

Establish a process for student leader recruitment to broaden the application pool.

2014-15

3,907

9


Wellness Center | Education and Violence Prevention

optimal level of health & wellness Our Mission

The goal of the Wellness Center is to assist all Sage students in reaching their optimal level of health and wellness through direct treatment and prevention including medical care, counseling services, nutrition advice and guidance, peer education, and other health promotion outreach programming. Most services are free for all Sage students.

Services include

What Students Are Saying “The Nurse Practitioner does a great job. She truly cares about her patients and wants them to get better as soon as possible.”

Counseling Mission

“The Nurse Practitioner listened to everything I had to say and addressed all of my health concerns. She then appropriately recommended me to a specialist.”

2016-2017 Highlights

“The counselor listened to my problems and helped me come up with solutions.” “The counselor was very caring and listened to everything I had to say and always had a question that helped me think about what to do and had the best advice to help me.” “I was super sick and I was seen very quickly and given medicine on site and was checked up on twice after my visit!”

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»» Mental health counseling »» Routine physicals, throat cultures »» Alcohol and drug education (mandated for some students with alcohol violations) »» Gynecological exams »» Health promotion and outreach

»» Medical care »» Nutrition advice and guidance »» Peer education »» Referrals to outside agencies »» Sexual assault care and counseling (partner with local agencies)

We provide short-term supportive services in order to maximize students’ academic performance and personal experience. Our therapists provide assessment, brief counseling, and referral to community providers when indicated.

Making Campus Connections: »» Annual Earth Day Paint a Potted Plant activity at SCA »» Wellness Happy Hour at RSC promoted positive thinking and mindfulness »» 300 bags were handed out on both campuses during finals week promoting our services and stress reduction techniques

Prevention Education and Violence Reduction: »» Take Back the Night »» Yards for Yeardley »» Escalation Workshop

»» The Sage Colleges Athletics Department and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) created their own It’s On Us video featuring Sage studentathletes. The video is part of a national movement to raise awareness of sexual assault, how to intervene safely, create a safe environment, and support survivors.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Develop targeted programming in order to foster the practice of self-inquiry and increase connections with the Wellness Center.

2

Develop and improve resiliency in students.

3

Increase effectiveness and efficiency in delivery of services to students.

86% of students

surveyed reported an

excellent or above average level of comfort with both the medical and counseling providers.

41% of RSC and SCA

We saw a 13%

increase

from 201516 in the number of students who received both medical and counseling services, illustrating our improved ability to work as a team and treat the whole student.

2016-2017 Haven Online Sexual Violence Training

93

%

of incoming undergraduate students who responded

agreed that they can identify concerning behaviors related to abuse in relationships.

95

%

95%

of respondents would reach out and offer support to a friend who they suspected was in an abusive relationship. of 2016-2017 incoming undergraduate students agreed that clear, verbal, and sober permission is the best way to make sure a person is okay with sexual activity. This is a 20% increase over last year.

95

received counseling at the Wellness Centers.

91

%

88%

of participants reported a better mood after participating in the drum circle at RSC. of first-year RSC students reported they “now have a

better understanding of the impact of resilience on academic performance� after attending a Grit and Resilience workshop.

95%

of RSC first-year Sage Seminar students reported that they feel more equipped to handle stress as a result of the Wellness Center workshop on stress reduction.

2017-2018 Goals

1

Encourage students to invest in their individual health and well-being.

of students responded they

2

Continue to initiate and evaluate programming to improve grit and resilience.

they learned helpful strategies to prevent sexual violence from occurring. This is a 11% increase from last year.

3

Fall 2016 Title IX/It’s On Us Training

%

students on the BETA (Behavioral Evaluation and Threat Assessment) list in fall 2016 and spring 2017

now think differently about their role as a bystander, and

Ensure that all services are accessible, accommodating, inviting, and meeting the distinct needs on both campuses.

11


Residence Life

safe, healthy, & comfortable living environment Our Mission What Students Are Saying “Being an RA has helped me further recognize my strengths and also has helped me to improve my weaknesses which has enabled me to grow as an individual.” “My RA is very understanding and has been there for me through several of my personal issues.” “My RA did a great job making me feel welcome and comfortable during my first year of college!” “My RA is concerned about her residents. She always motivates us and makes sure that we are having a great day.”

12

The Sage College’s Office of Residence Life strives to enhance the educational mission of the College by providing a safe, healthy, and comfortable living environment for all residential students. This experience includes fostering and appreciating diverse cultures and lifestyles, and teaching students the importance and role of community living and standards and personal responsibility. Other functions include: campus mailbox distribution, meal plan assignments and changes, room assignments, and overseeing Resident Assistants.

2016-2017 Highlights

»» Residence Life partnered with Athletics and Student Life on Yards for Yeardley, an event focused on raising awareness about relationship violence. »» The TSC BETA Team (Behavioral and Threat Assessment Team) used NABITA best practices in classifying cases and applying interventions. »» Partnered with Student Life on International Food Fest, an event geared toward increasing resident student connections to local and global cultural communities. »» Initiated use of Google Voice as a new way for students to connect and respond during emergency or crisis situations. »» Created a senior RA position offering a new level of leadership and responsibility for continuing RAs.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1 2 3

Collaborate with campus stakeholders to make improvements to the residence halls and improve resident experience. Continue to develop and evaluate the Leadership and Development program for Resident Assistants and Resident Directors. Evaluate Residence Life programming and implement recommendations to engage resident students outside the classroom.

82% of residential students believe that living on campus has been a positive experience.

85%

100%

of resident students attended a Residence Life program during the academic year.

of RAs agreed that training allowed them to better assist students with campus and community resources.

100% of Resident Assistants responded that the position helped them develop their leadership skills.

2017-2018 Goals

1

Assess and redesign the Student Conduct process.

2

Collaborate with the Office of Public Safety to assess and improve service to resident students.

3

Explore new ways to improve the residence experience for students.

86

%

of students eligible to return as resident students chose to live on campus for fall 2017.

13


Athletics

sportsmanship, leadership, pride, & development Our Mission

The mission of the Athletics Department is to strive for premier levels of competition for student-athletes, including the highest elements of sportsmanship, ethics, recognition, leadership, growth, development, success, pride, and dignity. Athletics strives to: »» Provide an outstanding Division III experience for student-athletes »» Establish the Athletics Department, its programs, and participants as an integral part of the Sage fabric and identity »» Lead Sage to be recognized locally, regionally, and nationally as a top-ranked academic and athletic institution

2016–2017 Highlights

What Students Are Saying “As a senior, I now understand that as a student-athlete, you will inevitably have a louder voice and broader impact than most “general” students. That impact can be positive or negative. It is up to the individual to determine his/her own impact and legacy.” “If I had to do it differently I would have come here for my freshman year rather than spending it at another institution and then transferring in!”

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»» In 2016-17, first-year student-athletes posted a combined GPA 3.01, the highest since we began tracking grades in 2011. »» Sage student-athletes have earned eight CoSIDA Academic All-America citations, including three by softball player Kristen Beikirch (2013, 2014, 2015) and most recently in 2017, by 1st team AllSkyline second baseman Alexa Silk. »» Sage will join the prestigious Empire 8 athletic conference in 2017-2018. »» The first “Gator Good Stuff” newsletter let the community know about Gators’ accomplishments in classrooms. »» Sage Athletics created an It’s on Us video to take a stance against sexual violence. »» In fall 2016, Sage student-athletes posted their 11th consecutive semester with GPAs over 3.0. Their combined average of 3.13 was the highest since 2008. »» 100 student-athletes attented the department’s Welcome Back, Gators evening.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Revise the First-Year‭Student-Athlete Development Program.

2

Create Life After Athletics Program for upperclassmen.

3 4

Develop a plan to add two teams for the 2018-2019 academic year including financials, and present them to the appropriate bodies for approval. Create a branding campaign to demonstrate Sage’s commitment to the Division III philosophy.

Social media followers continue to increase,

rising over 20%

End of Season Survey Results

75

%

90

%

82

%

feel that Athletics is a source of campus pride at Sage.

of first-year‭student-athletes responded that they were

aware of campus resources.

of first-year‭student-athletes

had used campus resources this year.

from 2015-16 figures.

End of Semester Workshop New Teams Approved

Men’s Lacrosse and Women’s Field Hockey were approved for 2018-2019.

Sage Welcomes New Coaches »» Gilllian McDonald (Women’s Field Hockey), former All-American at Bowdoin with 10 years of head coaching experience at Hamilton College. »» Ryan Lanigan (Men’s Lacrosse), former All American at Lebanon Valley and assistant coach at Misericordia University.

Athletics held an end of first semester meeting with Jay Privott (Academic Support Services), Joanie Cooney (Wellness/former student athlete) and sophomore student-athletes to talk about resources at Sage, preparation for finals and related topics.

97

%

93

%

2017-2018 Goals

1

Support Division III Mission - Discover, Develop, Dedicate.

2

Ensure new and under-performing athletic teams meet recruiting and staffing goals.

3

Guide and support student-athletes and athletic staff in transition to Empire 8 Conference.

4

Improve effectiveness and cohesiveness among athletic department staff, and between athletics and campus community.

of the first-year‭student-athletes that attended found the

workshop helpful.

of the first-year‭studentathletes said they had a better

understanding of the Wellness Center resources.

Life After Athletics Career Night

97

%

of students that attended felt

a greater connection with Sage alumni as well as a greater understanding of their transferable skills as a result

of attending.

92

%

of participants felt a greater

understanding of the value of their collegiate athletic experience to prospective employers.

15


Recreation and Fitness

fun and healthy competition Our Mission

The Recreation and Fitness Department at The Sage Colleges promotes lifelong health and wellness through diverse and comprehensive programs, while fostering a sense of identity for those in the Sage community. Through the Fit Stop, McKinstry Fitness Center, group fitness classes, intramural and club sports, and partnerships within Sage and with outside agencies, the Recreation and Fitness Department: »» Provides fitness opportunities for people of all abilities »» Creates an environment that promotes fun and healthy competition »» Promotes leadership and team building skills for all participants »» Challenges community members to try new activities »» Encourages positive lifelong health and wellness habits »» Educates community members regarding health, wellness, and safety »» Develops pride and sense of membership in the Sage community

What Students Are Saying “Thank you for the new Bosuball for the McKinstry Center!” “Loved the addition of Country Heat Beach Body, would like more!” “Sage Olympics is the best event of the year!” “Power Yoga in Albany is fantastic, please add more!”

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2016-2017 Highlights

»» 35 employees participated in the 2016 Corporate Challenge. »» Initiated the Healthy Heart Month fitness journal tracking activity. »» SCA seniors celebrated with a scaled-down version of Sage Olympics on Senior Day. »» Re-established open recreation time in gymnasiums on the Troy campus. »» Introduced four new group fitness classes: »» Beach Body Country Heat »» Boot Camp »» HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) »» Power Yoga


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Lead student and staff participation in the Centennial 5K with goal of 10% involvement.

2

Implement assessment tool for group fitness classes and intramurals.

3

Develop three-year strategic plan for Recreation and Fitness.

4

Hold monthly Recreation and Fitness staff meetings.

Intramural Sports

93

%

Monthly meetings garnered full staff participation resulting in more consistent student worker service.

of intramural participants said they were highly satisfied with their overall experience.

Centennial 5K

694 individual users of SCA Fit Stop This information will be used to target non-users and design programs to attract them.

2017-2018 Goals

1

Increase opportunities for all TSC students to participate in Recreation and Fitness activities.

2

Create a system to provide students with a more personalized Recreation and Fitness experience at The Sage Colleges.

3

Raise the profile of Recreation and Fitness to be embraced as a brand/lifestyle of The Sage Colleges.

Exceeded our 10% goal with 32% of recreation and fitness student workers and employee wellness participants joining the Centennial 5K.

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Office of Disabilities Services

providing equal opportunity Our Mission

The Sage Colleges is committed to providing equal educational opportunity and full participation for students with disabilities, as defined by the Americans With Disabilities Act and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Office of Disabilities Services is committed to providing support services and reasonable accommodations when requested by students who qualify for them, and to assist faculty and administrators in meeting the reasonable accommodation needs of students.

What We Do

What Students Are Saying “Disabilities Awareness Mindfulness Workshop event was informative, resourceful and provided opportunity for me to learn more about myself.” “I like that resources are available for all students in stress management, apps for studying, organizing and time management.” “I like the coloring sheets available to alleviate stress” “I like the revised forms, on one sheet!” “Online forms for testing come in handy, I can submit them at anytime.”

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»» Provide pre-admission counseling to respond to applicants’ inquiries about support services »» Assist students in developing self-advocacy skills »» Assist with suitable housing, alternative testing, and reasonable academic accommodations »» Provide auxiliary aids and services »» Assist with resolving issues and concerns and the development of an education plan »» Facilitate academic and career advisement

2016-2017 Highlights

»» Developed new housing and service/comfort animal policies. »» Revised accommodation letter format to provide clearer information to faculty. »» Redesigned the Office of Disabilities Services website.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Improve learning, engagement, and selfadvocacy skills of students with disabilities.

2

Evaluate disabilities services delivery to enhance and support The Sage Colleges disabilities students.

3

Strengthen faculty training and knowledge of disabilities services.

Workshops and Events

Disabilities Awareness events survey indicated that: of students stated they felt the workshops and resources were informative, helpful

100%

and made them learn more about themselves and others.

Faculty Awareness

88%

85%

Understood the test taking process

Understood the note taking process

94%

100%

Familiar with Disability Services & ADA in the classroom

Understand the ADA process

2017-2018 Goals

1

Support and engage students with disabilities as active participants in their cognitive, personal and professional growth.

2

Enhance understanding, provide consultation and serve as a resource for TSC faculty.

3

Provide exceptional service delivery to students with disabilities through reasonable accommodations.

100%

92%

of students surveyed stated they had a greater knowledge of Disability Services.

of Disability Students surveyed understood the policies, procedures and accommodation process.

100

%

of the students who attended the Mindfulness Workshop

planned to utilize the process to increase their awareness.

Testing Spaces and Online Forms

97

%

90

%

of the students who take exams in the testing rooms feel they are less distracted and feel calm and relaxed when they take their exams.

of students who use the online testing forms agree

they are beneficial.

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Office of Career Planning

assisting students in achieving goals Our Mission

The Sage Colleges Office of Career Planning supports students and alumni in their career development process as they seek local, national, and global internship and employment opportunities. Through collaborative and innovative programs and services, our office empowers students and alumni to become knowledgeable about themselves, explore industries of interest, and create a career plan to achieve their goals. The Office of Career Planning offers the tools and insight to shape meaningful internship and employment experiences and serves as a critical resource, assisting students in engaging their passions and achieving their personal mission.

2016-2017 Highlights

What Students Are Saying “Thank you so much for this incredible asset.” – Feedback on Career Closet “This event gave me confidence in my abilities. I learned a lot from these panelists.” – She’s a Boss event, spring 2017 “I’m honored to have had the opportunity to work with amazing people in the program, both administrators and fellow leaders. I’ve learned so much from them, making me excited to apply the skills I’ve learned in my future endeavors.” – Sage Select Leadership Program Graduate, fall 2017

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»» Hosted a variety of events with alumni and employers on-campus, each with a unique opportunity for students to network, ask questions, and enhance their skills necessary for career success: »» Professional Etiquette Dinner »» Mocktails »» Speed-Networking for Student-Athletes »» She’s A Boss »» Junior/Senior Crash Course for Student-Athletes »» 31 students completed the Sage Select Leadership Program, by participating in eight diverse leadership workshops and a group community service capstone project over three semesters. »» 38 unique workshops were implemented to faculty, staff, and student groups in the classroom and for specific populations such as First-Year Seminar, HEOP, CSTEP, Orientation, Residence Life, and Biology Club.

Career Planning Staff in the Community: »» Assistant Director Amanda Shaw led a service trip to New Orleans and volunteered with the United Saints Recovery Project. »» Assistant Director Shatoya Michel presented at the New York State CSTEP Conference on “Owning Your Path To Success.” »» Director Carleen Pallante became co-chair of the Capital Region Career Consortium consisting of 23 career centers at colleges in the area.


2016-2017 Goals and Outcomes

1

Career Planning will increase its visibility and utilization of services offered.

2

Career Planning will assist in the development of tools and skills needed for students and alumni to engage in the career planning process.

3

Career Planning will grow and strengthen its internal and external partnerships to increase its impact on the Sage community.

95%

of students surveyed who attended a career advising appointment said they

were confident in their ability to take ownership of their own career development.

We saw a

100

%

23% increase

of students

surveyed that attended Mocktails have a greater understanding

in the number of walk-ins at the Career Centers from fall 2016 to spring 2017.

of how to professionally introduce themselves to in a business setting.

100%

of faculty, staff, and student groups surveyed strongly agreed that as a result of working with Career Planning

they have an increased knowledge of services and

how it is useful to their classes, members, and alumni. Career Planning grew its external partnerships

and hosted 57 employers on-campus for recruitment and educational events

100%

including Peace Corps, Regeneron, CDPHP, FBI, and Uncommon Schools.

of faculty, staff, and student groups surveyed strongly agreed that their relationship with Career Planning through workshops benefit students and the Sage community.

2017-2018 Goals

100% of employers surveyed

agreed to return to campus for a similar recruiting or educational event.

1 2

Career Planning will use a four-year career guide as a template to direct activities and programs that support career readiness skills. Career Planning will improve its internal and external partnerships to increase its impact on the Sage community.

21


Sage College of Albany Dean of Students • SCA students wanted an “all you care to eat” option, so we worked with Sodexo to create “endless eats.”

• SCA students wanted discount movie tickets similar to RSC. SGA worked to make them available in Freddie’s student lounge.

Russell Sage Student Activities

Russell Sage College Dean of Students

• Based on student feedback we increased

• Students asked for more efficient and

the Commuter Luncheons and added a

better commencement information and we moved from a paper to an online method and provided more personalized and comprehensive outreach to students.

• RSC Student Government • Students looked to take action and the Dean of Students office facilitated

opportunities for RSC students to lift their voices in response to world events.

wanted to incorporate more inclusive language and greater transparency and collaboration in the club funding process and changes were made.

Sage College of Albany Student Activities • Based on student requests we expanded the Therapy Dog events from once to twice per semester.

monthly brown bag lunch with dessert and a craft activity for commuters.

• Students asked for Stay & Play activities to accommodate more student’s schedules so programs were adjusted to various weekend days and times.

Career Planning • In response to students’ requests for professional clothing, the Career Closet is open on Wednesday afternoons on both campuses.

• Students wanted more recruiters on-campus. Career Planning

• In response to student feedback Freddie’s Lounge purchased new gaming equipment including a new Ping-Pong and pool table.

brought 57 employers and 18 alumni to both campuses for recruitment and industry education events.

• Student-Athletes wanted more interactive programming with alumni. Career Planning hosted Speed Networking with Student-Athlete Alumni for small group and 1:1 interaction.


Recreation & Fitness

Athletics

• Students at SCA requested new attachments for the Cable Cross Machine and in spring 2017, we added three different attachments to the Cable Cross.

• Troy students asked for more balance and core stability equipment and we added a Bosu ball as well as a balance board in spring 2017.

• Upperclass student-athletes wanted more career preparation and the Office of Career Planning provided specific

SWAMP LIFE

guidance for junior and senior student-athletes.

• Student surveys told us that Sage Athletics was not well known on the Troy campus. In response, in 2016-17 we had the Gator mascot present for Opening Day along with student-athletes helping move in first-year students. Athletics added branded signage in dining halls and around campus in spring 2017, to tell the Gator story.

sage.edu/ athletics

Wellness Center • Based on 2015-2016 student feedback that all students should see the One Love Foundation’s film Escalation on the warning signs of relationship violence, this film and workshop were offered to both Albany and Troy students.

• Music therapy was an identified wellness based program of interest. The

Heart Beatz Drum Circle was introduced in fall 2016 and will continue next year.

• Based on 2015-2016 feedback from graduate students, we added the

• Based on 2015-16 feedback from students, student leaders, and employees, the Mentors

online sexual assault prevention education program, Haven Plus,

in Violence Prevention (MVP) program model was

which included scenarios and information more relevant to the graduate student population.

utilized in college-wide prevention programming throughout the 2016-17 academic year.

Residence Life

Disability Services • In response to student requests, RSC initiated

• A redesigned Disabilities website is based on student

policy allowing students to “squat” their room for the following year.

survey feedback and includes online testing forms for ease of use.

“same hall, same room”

• A new Google form was created in response to students requesting an

easier and better way to submit and track maintenance requests.

Your words, our actions! Thanks for your feedback!


Trish Cellemme, Vice President of Student Life Kahl Campus Center 145 | (518) 292-1753 | cellep@sage.edu


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