President Kyle meets with Student Affairs Management Team

Radford University President Penelope W. Kyle had the opportunity to meet with the Student Affairs Management Team on March 6.

Led by Vice President for Student Affairs Mark Shanley, the monthly meeting was attended by members of the Student Affairs management staff.

In an insightful discussion, attendees shared with President Kyle their educational backgrounds and what they are most proud of in their respective departments. Collaboration across campus, diversity and support were among the many attributes voiced.

President Kyle reaffirmed their efforts by recognizing the significant role the entire Student Affairs Department plays in recruiting and retaining the student body.

"You all have done a wonderful job in creating an environment that is caring, loving and nurturing for our students. Thank you for that. Our students are thriving at Radford University, and I think everything you do makes a difference."

She also commended the staff for continuing to help shape the lives of the many students who seek their guidance and influence.

"You are helping bring their talents and leadership skills to the surface," Kyle said. "They are graduating here a different person, prepared to do what they did not at first think was possible.  They are graduating as leaders."

President Kyle acknowledged the overwhelming response to the new Student Recreation and Wellness Center, the improvements to the residence halls and the progress on the new intramural complex, scheduled to be completed this summer.

During the first week of operation in December, the Student Recreation and Wellness Center served more than 10,000 participants. The fitness class schedule this spring has nearly tripled its offerings, and the intramural program is swelling as well. Progress is advancing on the intramural complex and soon RU students will play soccer, ultimate Frisbee and the other games they love at a facility that will be more convenient to many students and has easier access to the new Student Recreation and Wellness Center.

"Our facilities have really improved and will continue to do so," Kyle said. "It is just a good story to tell and makes a big difference in attracting and retaining students."

Other accomplishments and acknowledgements in the Student Affairs Department include:

• Four hundred and fifty members of the Greek community helped RU start the 2014-2015 academic season by pitching in at Move-In Day.
   
• The Student Organization Assistance and Resource Center, SOAR, helped more 1,500 club and organization students and advisors take advantage of the diverse capabilities that the center offers in 2013-14.
   
• Substance Abuse and Violence Education Support Services, or SAVES, is deeply involved in educating and enhancing awareness of threats to student well-being. SAVES was a key supporter of campus awareness of sexual violence issues with October’s Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Awareness month.  April will offer a focus on sexual assault and consent as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
   
• Disability Resources currently serves almost 500 students and helps them to overcome academic challenges, while working to increase the knowledge and skill base of the RU community to successfully serve students living with disabilities.
   
• More than 800 students participated in RU’s Annual Hazing Prevention Week in September.
   
• More than 100 students, faculty and staff volunteered in the annual MLK Jr. Day of Service event, working at area clothing and food banks and doing home repairs in communities throughout the New River Valley.

"I am overwhelmed by all your hard work," Kyle said at the meeting's conclusion. "And I am so proud of all you are doing."