Division of Student Affairs
2016
UC6900
table of contents Introduction Message from the Vice President for Student Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The Division of Student Affairs Mission Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Departmental Listing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Unit Highlights Commencement & Convocation, Parents & Families Association. . . 3 African American Cultural and Resource Center (AACRC). . . . . . . . . . 4 Bearcat Bands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Center for Community Engagement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Disability Services Office (DSO). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ethnic Programs & Services (EPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Gen-1 Theme House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Learning Assistance Center (LAC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 LGBTQ Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 McNair / STARS Scholars Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Office of the University Ombuds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Resident Education & Development (RED). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Student Activities & Leadership Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Student Conduct and Community Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Student Wellness Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Testing Services Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Veterans Programs and Services (VPS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Women’s Center (UCWC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Future Directions: Divisional Strategic Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Division of Student Affairs Organization Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Dear Colleagues and Friends, The Division of Student Affairs is pleased to present the 2015–16 Annual Report. Student Affairs staff provide services and programs to enhance student success both inside and outside of the classroom. Our objective is to create a vibrant and supportive learning community in which students can develop and thrive.
Debra Spotts Merchant, JD
Vice President
Divison of Student Affairs
As the University of Cincinnati welcomed the largest new student class in history, Student Affairs responded by offering new programs, improving services, and planning for the future. On behalf of the Division, I am so pleased to provide you with this Annual Report; it serves as a snapshot of our student outcomes for the aforementioned year. I also want to highlight and congratulate the following offices for their outstanding team accomplishments:
• The Center for Community Engagement, in partnership with the College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services, received a three year, $600,000 21st Century Grant, which will provide afterschool programming—After Hours at the Tower—at Hughes STEM High School.
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Counseling & Psychological services received a gift of over $300,000 to support free counseling sessions for students.
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The Gen-1 Theme House received a combined $75,000 from the Woodward Foundation, the Lumina Foundation, and a generous donor to support the retention and success of our first generation students.
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As we look to the 2017 academic year, you’ll notice some exciting changes in the Division of Student Affairs:
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Increased services related to prevention and response of sexual assault and gender-based violence, including a new partnership with Women Helping Women, the local rape crisis center.
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Opening of the Bearcats Pantry—a food distribution center for students with food insecurities.
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Creation of the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life; a new unit with three full-time staff to provide direct support to our fraternity and sorority community.
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Completion of the Division of Student Affairs strategic plan, which will guide our work moving forward. I want to thank our staff for their hard work, and I look forward to our continued success in reimagining the student experience at the University of Cincinnati.
Debra Spotts Merchant, JD Vice President of Student Affairs
DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS Continuously reimagining the student experience.
MISSION
DEPARTMENTAL LISTING
Through our engagement with students, they progress academically, discover their values, develop their identity, and realize their full potential.
Commencement & Convocation, Parents & Families Association African American Cultural and Resource Center (AACRC) Bearcat Bands Center for Community Engagement Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Disability Services Office (DSO) Ethnic Programs & Services (EPS) Gen-1 Theme House Learning Assistance Center (LAC) LGBTQ Center McNair / STARS Scholars Program Office of the Dean of Students Office of the University Ombuds Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Resident Education & Development (RED) Student Activities & Leadership Development Student Conduct and Community Standards Student Wellness Center Testing Services Office Veterans Programs and Services (VPS) Women’s Center (UCWC) 2
Commencement & Convocation
180%
increase in membership of the Parents & Families Association.
BREAKING RECORDS The Commencement office hosted 7,533 graduates and their families at 7 ceremonies during 2015-2016 academic year.
COLLABORATED This year, COMMENCEMENT COLLABORATED by inviting the Golden Bearcats to Commencement for the first time. Golden Bearcats are those alumni that graduated from the institution 50 years ago–in this case, Bearcats from the class of 1966 returned to campus!
Parents & Families Association MISSION
1,000
Over 1,000 families participated in the benefits of membership to this organization that supports engaging our families on campus and around the city.
80
families attended Fall Family Weekend 2015, which included a welcome dinner, ghost tour, adventure at Newport on the Levee, and a B&B Riverboat cruise.
The Parents & Families Association connects students’ families to the institution through engaging events and communications.
360 Over 360 families participated in the October Homecoming tailgate and November football tailgate! Families and students participated in games, ate food, and cheered on the Bearcats to victory!
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African American Cultural & Resource Center (AACRC) MISSION The African American Cultural & Resource Center (AACRC) supports the mission of the university by recruiting and retaining students of diverse identities at the University of Cincinnati. The AACRC’s primary focus is to address the academic, social, spiritual, and cultural needs of the African American student population.
KEY MOMENTS • Akwaaba (Black Student Welcome) Every year the AACRC welcomes new, incoming African American students to the university. This program is designed to be informative and serve as an introduction to campus services and student organizations in an effort to keep students connected throughout the school year. • Kuamka “Kuamka”— the Swahili word for the phrase “in the beginning”— is a week-long celebration which includes the Rites of Passage ceremony for Transitions students, the coronation of Mr. and Miss Kuamka, and the recognition of students who have excelled academically or Kujifunza. • Ushindi “Ushindi,” which is Swahili for “victory,” takes place towards the end of academic year. Ushindi celebrates the achievements of the students from the Transitions program, the AACRC Choir, and also recognizes other students who have demonstrated leadership on and off campus. • Tyehimba Tyehimba is an Afrocentric graduation celebration designed for graduates to acknowledge their achievements. This cultural celebration is an expression of thanks to family, friends, and to the community for their assistance with helping the student matriculate. The word “Tyehimba” means “we stand as a nation.”
41% of STEER students made Dean’s List Fall Semester 2015 and 31% in Spring Semester 2016.
42% of Transitions graduates from the 2015-2016 cohort were elected to campus leadership positions for the 2016-2017 school year.
75.9%
of Spring Break Tour participants strongly agree that they were “personally and professionally changed by the Black history (they were) exposed to,” an increase of nearly 12% from the pre-assessment.
FUTURE DIRECTION The AACRC will house an office/lounge for the Black Graduate and Professional Student Association in the next phase of the space renovation, slated to be finished in 2017. This will assist in connecting graduate students to the institution and to the undergraduate population.
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Bearcat Bands DID YOU KNOW? The Bearcat Bands is comprised of several performing groups, including: • Bearcat Marching Band, with over 250 students
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Membership in Bearcat Bands has quadrupled over the last 20 years with membership at 65 students in 1994.
• Bearcat Pep Bands (4), with 50 undergraduate students each • Bearcat Concert Bands (2), with 100 students each • Bearcat Military Band, with 45 students • Bearcat Jazz Ensembles (2), with 20 students each • Percussion Ensemble • Winter Color Guard • Bearcat Alumni/Community Band, with 100 alumni/community members
300 The group now boasts over 300 students and hosts two leadership programs (the Band Council and Tau Beta Sigma honorary)
NATIONAL RECOGNITION The Bearcat Band was invited to perform at the Bands of America National Band Championships in Indianapolis. They performed to over 10,000 high schools students and their families. This is a distinct honor, as the Bearcat Bands were recognized as a national power among university bands.
85% graduation rate with a grade point average of 3.4.
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Center For Community Engagement (CCE) MISSION The mission of the Center for Community Engagement is to inspire students to make a positive impact on their community through service opportunities based on mutually beneficial reciprocal partnerships.
PARTNERING WITH OUR FUTURE CCE joined into a new partnership this year with the College of Education, Criminal Justice and Human Services, Center for Innovation and Opportunity, by accepting the lead role in the 21st Century Grant from the Ohio Department of Education. This grant has allowed CCE to lead the design, coordination and supervision of “After Hours in the Tower” an educational enrichment program for student’s 7th–12th grades at Hughes STEM High School. 152 students tutored, mentored, led, and supported the Hughes students in science, math, music, art, dance, literature, sports, and leadership.
CONNECTED This year, CCE CONNECTED with students by launching a new online volunteer connection portal, volunteer.uc.edu, which is home to volunteer opportunities submitted by over 150 local community partners.
10,746 hours of community service by 576 Bearcat Buddies through approximately 6,900 tutoring sessions during the 2015-16 academic year.
100% of the children tutored by UC students were promoted to the next grade level and 60% of tutored students achieved at least a 10% gain on their reading and math scores on their year-end finals tests. A number of additional community partners asked CCE if they could have the Bearcat Buddies program offered at their schools this year.
5,103 hours of community service were provided by 937 students through four major campuswide community service projects: Into the Streets, the Community Plunge, the Spring Neighborhood Enhancement Program and Green-Up Day.
165 first year students from the College of Allied Health Sciences teamed up with the Center for Community Engagement to perform 3,795 hours of service to fulfill the service learning requirement of their first year success class.
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Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) MISSION The mission of CAPS is to support the academic mission of the University by providing excellence in personal and academic counseling, promoting student safety, emotional growth, and academic success. We are committed to promoting understanding and respect for individual, cultural, and role differences.
KEY MOMENTS • In Summer 2015, Undergraduate Student Government lobbied various campus constituents to invest additional resources in CAPS. As a result of their data collection and diligence, an additional $300,000 was committed to CAPS resulting in the hiring of 7 full-time new staff: two psychologists, a licensed independent social worker, two psychology doctoral interns, and two front desk staff. • In Fall 2015, CAPS increased accessibility of services to all UC students. 6 free sessions were offered to students (1 intake and 5 counseling sessions) per semester and CAPS continued to waive all fees for Pell Grant, Pride Grant, Veterans, survivors of sexual assault and gender-based violence, and students who are Medicare/Medicaid eligible. • In Summer 2016, along with the Dean of Students office, CAPS led efforts to meet compliance set forth by Ohio House Bill 28, requiring state institutions of higher education to address suicide prevention and postvention initiatives.
STUDENT VOICES
130% increase in the total number of appointments in the past year. (FY15 = 3734, FY16 = 8588)
180%
increase in crisis appointments in the past two years. (FY14 = 86, FY16 = 240)
91% of respondents to CAPS satisfaction survey agreed with the statement “Therapy has provided me with emotional support crucial to my ability to perform in important aspects of my life including academics.”
“I love having this service provided to students. These 5 free sessions have enabled me to see a psychologist so I can work through my problems. Who knows where I would be or how I would feel without this?” “CAPS has helped me stay here at UC. I would have dropped out if I wasn’t getting counseling from here.” “CAPS single handedly changed my life.” “[My counselor] has helped me become a better person.”
CONNECTED This year, CAPS CONNECTED with students by significantly expanding the group therapy program. Therapy groups allow for peer support and authentic connection and create a sense of belonging. Thus, it is not surprising that 77% of group participants agreed that group counseling has positively affected the chances they will stay at UC. 99% agreed that group helped them improve their ability to communicate and interact with others. 89% of group participants reported that group helped them to feel better about themselves. And 61% said that group counseling helped increase their ability to perform better academically. Group options included two interpersonal process groups, Understanding Self & Others; two groups for survivors of sexual assault, Hope and Healing; a support group for gender non-conforming students, T-Time; A men’s interpersonal group, More than a Beard and substance abuse psychoeducation and support group, Smart Recovery.
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100%
of students who participated in the group therapy program would recommend group counseling to a friend. Participants reported feeling better about themselves, better able to communicate with peers and more likely to stay at UC based on their experience.
64% increase in the number of students receiving group therapy this year.
Disability Services Office (DSO)
40% increase in providing sign language and transcription services.
MISSION The mission of Disability Services is to empower students with disabilities through the delivery of reasonable accommodations and support services by bridging post-secondary education with future real-world experiences.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR The prevailing theme of the year within DSO was inclusion. The office hosted several events that demonstrate the importance of inclusion for students with disabilities. • DSO partnered with UC Clermont to host the inaugural e-learning conference. The hands-on workshop provided ways for faculty and staff to create accessible Word documents, using closed captions on YouTube videos, and brought together the new Faculty Disability Inclusiveness Ambassadors. • DSO hosted the Ability Exhibit in honor of the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The event showcased the disability movement through the years. The two-day event hosted over 200 students, faculty, and staff.
COMMUNICATE This year, DSO COMMUNICATED with faculty and staff by creating and distributing a best practice guide for working with d/Deaf and hard of hearing students.
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The DSO Communication Access Team (CAT), provided sign language and transcription services to 21 unique students during the year.
6,065 CAT provided 6,065 hours of ASL/English interpreting and transcription services, which is a 20% increase from the prior academic year.
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Ethnic Programs & Services (EPS) MISSION The Office of Ethnic Programs and Services supports the mission of the University of Cincinnati by enhancing the growth and development of students of color and addressing the academic, social, spiritual and cultural needs of the campus community. The professional staff has a strong commitment to ensure that all members of the University are creating and promoting a just community.
SUPPORTING OUR HISPANIC/LATINO STUDENTS During this academic year, a staff member was hired to focus on the support and development of the Hispanic/Latino student population. As a result, 14 students attended the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute and several new programs, including Noche Latino, Latino student mixers, and the DREAMZone Ally Training were implemented.
STUDENT VOICES “The greatest thing that the Darwin T. Turner Scholarship program has given me is a sense of community and pride for my university. Turner has shown me that college is much more than showing up to classes and getting good grades; it’s about growing as an individual, giving back to your community, striving for the best, and putting your best foot forward. In only one year in the Turner program has already worked to make me more conscious of diversity in all of its aspects and, in turn, made me a better person. I’m so grateful and honored to be a part of the Darwin T. Turner Program and truly blessed to have the best family on campus.” –Current Turner Scholar
CONNECTED This year, EPS CONNECTED with international students by hosting the BearCHATS conversation program. The program aims to connect domestic students with international students to learn more about different cultures, create community, and help form life-long friendships. This year, the program more than doubled in size to 75 active BearCHATS pairings.
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34 of the 142 Darwin T. Turner scholars graduated in spring 2016. All 34 graduating seniors had job placements or graduate school acceptances prior to commencement activities.
88%
of the scholars maintained a cumulative 3.0 GPA or better.
96%
program retention rate of the Darwin T. Turner Scholarship Program.
Gen-1 Theme House (GEN-1) MISSION MISSION: The Gen-1 Theme House provides a supportive living and learning community to support Pell-eligible, first-generation college students in order to improve their academic success. The four pillars of Gen-1 are: LIVE. LEARN. GIVE. EARN.
STUDENT VOICES “Gen-1 has helped me to be better prepared for college. I’ve made new friends and a lot of campus connections. It’s nice to be surrounded by people from similar background—first generation college students!” –Current Gen-1 student “Gen-1 is a wonderful program. Through Gen-1, I will be able to make new connections and form new bonds that wouldn’t be possible if I weren’t in this program. It allows me to learn important life lessons and leadership skills, and I have the opportunity to give back to the community.” –Current Gen-1 student
GEN-1 DEVELOPS LEADERS As part of the Gen-1 program, first-year students participate in Camp Bearcats, a first-year student leadership retreat in partnership with Omicron Delta Kappa leadership honorary and Student Activities & Leadership Development. The camp focuses on four student success foundations: service, scholarship, leadership, and connections.
9 There are 9 cohorts in the Gen-1 program. 86% of Cohort 8 was retained to their sophomore year.
4 The Gen-1 program participates in the iPad program, and recently received support to provide iPads for the next 4 cohorts of students.
72% As of spring 2016, 72% of Cohort 4 has earned a degree from the University of Cincinnati.
$75,000 Over $75,000 in grants funds were received from the Woodward Foundation, the Lumina Foundation, and private donors to support a newly formed Sophomore Leadership Experience.
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Learning Assistance Center (LAC) MISSION The mission of the Learning Assistance Center is to assist students to become engaged and empowered learners by providing a diverse range of peer-led programs. As a competitive campus employer, the LAC endows UC students with an array of professional skill sets to achieve prominence at UC and beyond. As a part of UC and its surrounding community, the LAC contributes to a culture of academic agency and attainment where all students gain the skills and confidence to succeed.
EXPANDING SERVICES, REDUCING COSTS
250 Nearly 250 student staff members worked at the LAC during the 2015–2016 academic year; this is the largest staff in history.
5,500 The LAC saw nearly 5,500 students, an 8% increase over the past year.
• Offered College of Medicine Supplemental Instruction in undergraduate medical sciences courses, off-setting nearly $10,000 in costs. • Created STEM pipeline and pathway programming to prepare underrepresented and Cincinnati Public School students for STEM programs, with staff members’ salaries off-set by grant funding. • Developed online writing support via the Academic Writing Center, hosted on no-cost platforms.
CREATED This year, the LAC CREATED the BEARCATS GROWL program, also known as Guided Reflection on Work and Learning. This program provides students a place to discuss their experience working at the LAC, helping them to connect their work and academic experiences.
STUDENT VOICES “My SI leader possesses a unique ability to explain complex topics with an appealing mix of gravity and humor, and his passion for chemistry makes it that much easier to learn. He consistently displays qualities of positive leadership and is an excellent role model.”–Student utilizing Supplemental Instruction “Working at the LAC has taught me to think more deeply about the way we learn and the importance of certain behaviors that promote such learning. I’ve been able to apply a bit of this to my own studies in order to improve my own methods for learning.”–Student worker at the LAC
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28%
of Supplemental Instruction sections in which students outperformed their peers by more than ½ a letter grade.
LGBTQ Center MISSION The mission of the LGBTQ Center is to support the university through a commitment to diversity, equity, leadership development, and intellectual inquiry with particular respect to sexual orientation and gender identity. The center is an inclusive campus community that welcomes people of all sexual orientations and gender identities and provides support, resources, and advocacy.
CAMPUS PRIDE The center hosted the annual QueerCat Pride Week, which included hosting actor Lea DeLaria, author Patricia Highsmith, and Dr. Brittney Cooper, who spoke about creating gender-inclusive racial movements.
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peer facilitators were trained to implement the Safe Zone training curriculum.
23% increase in the number of Rainbow Graduation participants.
COLLABORATE This year, the LGBTQ Center COLLABORATED with the Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Department to host the symposium “Highsmith: Queer and Now�. The symposium brought together esteemed scholars, biographers, filmmakers, faculty, and students to discuss the work of queer author Patricia Highsmith.
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McNair/STARS Scholars Program MISSION The mission of the McNair Scholars Program is to improve retention and graduation rates among students of underrepresented ethnic groups and to ultimately prepare students for graduate education through the reduction of barriers to achieving these educational goals. There is an emphasis through the McNair/ STARS program to increase, create, and generate a more diversified faculty, professional, and scientific workforce.
GLOBAL LEADERS This year the McNair Scholars Program took students to Costa Rica in a partnership with the ILISA Immersion Program in San Pedro, Costa Rica. Thirteen students participated in the experience, which emphasized teaching English as a Second Language to elementary students, working with high school students on conversational English, and teaching students about the dangers of peer pressure and bullying. The ten day travel experience also provided excursions to Manual Antonio, on the Pacific Coast and Puerto Limon and Cahuita, on the Caribbean Coast.
57% of scholars have been accepted into graduate school with 2 international acceptances—Kings College, London and the University of London.
50% of the international service learning participants were underrepresented students and traveled to 2 countries—Ecuador and Costa Rica.
142 students have graduated from the program since its inception in 2003. One hundred (100) students (70%) have enrolled in graduate programs after completion of the McNair Scholars Program.
3.365 This academic year, the STARS Scholars GPA average was 3.365 with 3 scholars having a 3.5 or higher.
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Office of the University Ombuds (OUO) MISSION The Office of the University Ombuds is an impartial, informal conflict resolution service which functions independently within the University. The Ombuds plays a key role in helping to ensure students have a quality experience at the university, and as an impartial observer, helps to assure institutional fairness in processes and procedures.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS In 2015 -2016, OUO adapted the Tuition Refund Request Application (TRRA) process. The OUO reviewed 301 cases for the university and made recommendations for 246 of those applications to be granted for students who experienced extenuating circumstances. 70% of the granted applications were based on medical issues. The TRAA process will be transitioned to the Dean of Students office for the 2017 academic year.
89% of OUO cases were informally resolved through conflict coaching, facilitated dialogue, or mediation. 6% were referred to a formal University process.
24% of the OUO cases were initiated by underrepresented students, including racially and ethnically identified and international students.
100%
of the students who received conflict coaching services from OUO reported they understand the options available to them after meeting with OUO staff.
94% of the students in attendance of OUO conflict resolution training reported they better understand how to respond to conflict in a healthy way.
14 outreach and conflict resolution training sessions were delivered to 1400 students.
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Resident Education & Development (RED)
875 UC students participated in a survey (2015) outlining student satisfaction in a number of areas.
MISSION Resident Education and Development supports the university’s mission by helping to create diverse, engaged, educated communities. We collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to provide living and learning environments that provide appropriate safety measures, foster academic success, and encourage holistic well-being. RED works to enhance the University experience by promoting personal development, lifelong learning, and the principles of social justice and responsible citizenship.
RECOGNIZED LEADERS The RED Department installed UC’s first ever National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) chapter, which recognizes the top 1% of the residential student population. These students provide exemplary service to the institution and the community.
Every three years, residential students participate in a national residential survey.
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5.32
Students’ overall satisfaction with living on campus had a mean of 5.32 (on a 7-point scale) which is above many of our comparison institutions
COLLABORATED This year, RED COLLABORATED with UC Sustainability on a recycling pilot program in Siddall Hall. This partnership brought together the Siddall Hall Government, the Residence Hall Association, Housekeeping, Facilities Management, Housing and Undergraduate Student Government. The pilot was such a success that the partnership is continuing into the 2016-2017 academic year where recycling cans will be available in every residence hall room on campus.
243 RED surpassed their goal of 220 applicants and received 243 applicants for roughly 45 positions.
70% RED continues to see an increase in staff retention, this year retaining close to 70% of our staff for 2016.
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Student Activities & Leadership Development (SALD) MISSION The mission of the Office of Student Activities and Leadership Development is to support the mission of the University of Cincinnati by promoting and guiding purposeful student engagement, fostering a sense of community, and providing opportunities of student growth and leadership development. SALD aspires to create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and enhances our students’ ability to become global citizens.
CONNECTED SALD CONNECTED with the Career Development Center by creating the Student Impact Symposium, an event that showcased the impact of student organizations on the local and global community. 14 organizations participated in the event, which highlighted 3D printed prosthetics for children (Enable UC), product and prototype development (Hyperloop UC), and nutrition education in the community (UC Nutri-Ed).
$14,000
In its inaugural year, the Lead and Grow Grant awarded over $14,000 to students to participate in a variety of professional development opportunities. 102 students applied for funding, with 73 students receiving an average of $190.
$280,000 The University Funding Board allocated over $280,000 to over 200 organizations, allowing more than 300 students to attend conferences off campus.
STUDENT VOICES “Club sports helped build my self-confidence and leadership styles outside the classroom.” –Club Sports participant “Accelerating Racial Justice (AR J) was hands-down the single most important educational experience of my life so far. Not only did I learn about white privilege, institutional racism, and systemic issues plaguing American and global society, I also experienced how to have tough conversations in a safe environment.” –ARJ 2015 participant
67,000 The Fraternity & Sorority Community performed over 67,000 service hours, raised over $260,000, and participated in over 180 educational and developmental programs during the 2015–2016 academic year.
65 The Student Activities Board approved 65 new student organizations in 2015– 2016, bringing the total number to more than 450.
45 & 25 The Racial Awareness Program (RAPP) and Accelerating Racial Justice (ARJ) both had a record number of participants
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Student Conduct and Community Standards (SCCS) MISSION The mission of Student Conduct and Community Standards is to support the mission of the University of Cincinnati through the implementation of the Student Code of Conduct, educational programs/sanctions, intervention programs, and a due process judicial system.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR • Maxient, a secure web-based student conduct database was implemented to centralize and streamline student conduct reporting, tracking, and assessment. • SCCS received funding for a newly created position, coordinator of Student Conduct and Community Standards • In alignment with national best practices, the office changed its name from Office of Judicial Affairs to Student Conduct and Community Standards.
CREATED Student Conduct and Community Standards CREATED a Commitment to Collaborate with Resident Education and Development that serves as a guiding philosophy when managing conduct cases to prevent students from being subjected to duplicative processes for the same behavior.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS In a partnership with Undergraduate Student Government, SCCS connected with student leaders at the University of Mississippi and the University of Michigan to explore the implementation of medical amnesty policies at the state level and the creation of a student court to respond to student misconduct that falls outside the scope of the Student Code of Conduct.
STUDENT VOICES ““Thank you so much for helping me through all of this. It is extremely satisfying and comforting knowing that I go to a University that cares so much about the wellbeing of their students. I am one proud Bearcat.” –Student complainant It is a blessing to have the staff of Student Conduct and Community Standards on the squad at UC. Your focus on students is evident and MUCH appreciated.” –Student leader on campus
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ANNUAL REVIEW The Student Code of Conduct went under an extensive review process this academic year to remove legalese from the document so that students, faculty, and staff can fully understand the rights and responsibilities of students.
IMPACT The office started infusing restorative justice practices—a national best practice—in the conduct process to help students better understand the impact of their actions on the campus community.
Student Wellness Center (SWC) MISSION The mission of the Student Wellness Center is to prevent and reduce health risks and illnesses that interfere with student academic and personal success.
STUDENT VOICES “As a peer educator, I have learned about the importance of bridging relationships with peers and helping them realize they are able to make healthier choices. As a PE in the Wellness Center, I have learned important communication skills as well as found a community of which I feel a part.” –Prapti Shah, peer educator “Being a peer educator has allowed me to connect with unique groups of students all around campus in ways I wouldn’t have the chance to if it weren’t for this awesome position. I have also grown as a public speaker and it has even helped me to grow in areas of responsibility, creativity, time management, and organization.” –Tyra McKnight, peer educator
2,386 The Student Wellness Center Peer Educators hosted 95 programs in Fall 2015 that reached 2,386 students.
2,428 The Peer Educators hosted 89 programs in Spring 2016 and reached 2,428 students; this is an increase of over 50% from Spring 2015.
COLLABORATED This year, the SWC COLLABORATED by partnering with Housing & Food Services during Homecoming Week to display a Health Hut that educated students about alcohol and nutrition, and gave ideas about how to tailgate with health in mind!
PEER EDUCATORS ARE PEER LEADERS The SWC Peer Educators had a great success within the BACCHUS Initiatives. The BACCHUS Initiative supports collegiate peer educators and advisors by empowering students and college administrators to create campus environments which are healthy and safe. During the BACCHUS General Assembly in November 2015, two peer educators presented about the dangers of hookah usage. In April, two peer educators presented at the BACCHUS Regional Conference on the success of Stress Less Fest, a collaborative initiative led by the SWC to help students reduce stress during finals. Also in Spring 2016, the SWC was asked to write a blog entry for the BACCHUS website about the Peer Financial Tutoring program we provide. One of the peer educators, Prapti Shah, wrote an article about the types of financial wellness programs we offer to students on campus, which has caused an increase in the number of institutions that have reached out to the SWC for more information on implementing those programs on their campuses.
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Testing Services Office MISSION Testing Services assists members of the University of Cincinnati and the Greater Cincinnati community reach educational and professional goals by providing secure and convenient testing services.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR The department created a new process for incoming students who do not live in the Cincinnati area to access proctoring services for Math Place Test retakes at a convenient location. This allows new students the opportunity to improve their score without the inconvenience of an extra trip to campus.
STAFF HIGHLIGHT Paula Doughman, the program manager of Testing Services, was appointed as President-elect of the Ohio College Testing Association.
CREATED Testing Services began administering the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf Performance Certification Exams, making ours the only testing center in Ohio to offer these exams.
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7,082 Testing Services administered a total of 7,082 exams this year, a nearly 10% increase from last academic year.
2,366 Testing Services administered 2,366 accommodated exams to UC students registered with Disability Services.
100 Testing Services processed over 100 applications for Prior Learning Assessment during the 2015-2016 academic year.
Veterans Programs and Services (VPS) MISSION The office of Veterans Programs & Services is dedicated to providing innovative, optimal, and expedient services to our nation’s true heroes, her veterans.
HIGHLIGHTS • VPS and the LGBTQ Center hosted Stephen Snyder-Hill, author of “Soldier of Change: From the Closet to the Forefront of the Gay Rights Movement”. The offices showed the documentary inspired by Snyder-Hill’s book and then hosted a meet-and-greet with the author who championed spousal benefits to legally married gay and lesbian soldiers. • The staff of VPS organized the Life March, a food drive for UC students. Food and other non-perishables were donated to the McMicken College of Arts & Sciences food pantry. • In January 2016, VPS hosted the Eyes of Freedom Memorial. This traveling memorial honors the service and sacrifice of all who answer our Nation’s call; then, now, and tomorrow. The life-size portraits depict the fallen of Lima Company 3/25, one of the hardest hit units in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Several hundred students, faculty, and staff visited the memorial during the week it was on display.
CONNECTED This year, VPS CONNECTED with the African American Cultural and Resource Center, the PR1ZE Mentoring Program, and local veterans in the Cincinnati area by showing the documentary “Double Victory,” a film that examined the many contributions and sacrifices of America’s underrepresented soldiers—African Americans, Chinese, Native Americans and others—during World War II. After the film, members of the Cincinnati Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen discussed their experiences as soldiers of color.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS
$50,000
VPS secured $50,000 in scholarships for female veterans, who were honored at the Sisters in Arms event. The event recognizes women veterans for their outstanding military service, academic achievement, and exemplary role modeling for future women students in the military.
2,402 The 2015-2016 academic year boasted 2,402 veteran students, an increase of over 45% since 2008. Of the 2,402 veterans, 48% are women.
350 More than 350 people participated in the Stadium Stair Run in remembrance of the victims of September 11, 2001. The event aimed to raise money for the Yellow Ribbon Foundation, which honors a local parachutist who died in an accident.
VPS is working with the McMicken College of Arts & Sciences to create a minor in Veterans Studies.
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Women’s Center (UCWC) MISSION The mission of the Women’s Center is to promote equitable and safe environments on campus for women through advocacy, research, and education.
CONNECTED The Women’s Center CONNECTED students with the community by working with the Peaslee Neighborhood Center sponsored by UC’s Diversity Incentive Grant. Peaslee is a center in Over-the-Rhine where residents create and engage in participatory education to foster creative expression, self-determination, and social change.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS In 2017, the Women’s Center may have a new name. The center started research, focus groups, and listening sessions in 2015 to learn what students want and need from a Women’s Center. Data will be used from these feedback opportunities to determine an office name that best reflects our students and their needs.
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1,800 1,800 students were served via the Women’s Center 45 programs, events, and services. Examples include Elect Her, the Women in Leadership & Learning program, and $mart $tart salary negotiation workshops.
FUTURE DIRECTIONS DIVISIONAL STRATEGIC PLAN The Division of Student Affairs is preparing to unveil a strategic plan that will elevate the student experience at the University of Cincinnati. A sneak peek is listed below, highlighting four strategic priorities.
Strategic Student Affairs Presence Create a vibrant, student centered, on-campus and virtual divisional presence by:
• Developing a strategic marketing and communications strategy • Increasing our virtual and technological engagements with students
Inclusive Campus Culture Lead the development of a culture in which all students are empowered to thrive by:
• Prioritizing partnerships both internally and externally • Empowering staff to advance the student voice on campus
Enhanced Capacity to Serve Enhance the division’s capacity to meet the needs of an evolving and growing student body by:
• Making data-driven decisions on program and service offerings • Investing in professional development for all staff to ensure professional excellence
Student-First Communication Improve student-centered critical decision making and response protocols, processes and practices by:
• Broadening the scope of student feedback and engagement in planning processes • Ensuring that all students receive timely information on changes that impact their UC experience
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Assistant Dean of Students
Testing Services
Gen-1 Theme House
Learning Assistance Center
Center for Community Engagement
UC Women’s Center
Commencement, Parents & Family Services
Fraternity & Sorority Life
Students Conduct & Community Standards
Resident Education & Development
Veterans Programs & Services
Student Activities & Leadership Development
Disability Services
Academic Excellence & Support Services
Vice President for Student Affairs
UC Bearcat Bands
AVP for Engagement & Assessment
Business Affairs
IT Technical Support
AVP & Dean of Students
Strategic Priorities & Outreach
Associate to Vice President
Central Office
DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS ORGANIZATION CHART
McNair/STARS
African American Cultural & Resource Center
Ethnic Programs & Services
LGBTQ Center
Inclusion & Retention
Strategic Initiatives & Community Relations
University Ombuds
Student Wellness Center
Counseling & Psychological Services
Health & Wellness
uc.edu/sa
Student Affairs 630 Steger Student Life Center PO Box 210638 Cincinnati OH 45221-0638 Phone: 513-556-4119 | Fax: 513-556-6727
uc.edu/sa