Student engagement is key
As the start of the 2011-12 school year approaches, Dean of Students Andrew Woodall hopes students have made room in their busy schedules for student life activities.
Involvement in non-academic activities is an important element of the university experience says Woodall. “The academic part is obvious; that’s why students apply here. But the non-academic part — the life and the history of the campus — is also key.”
Woodall, who was appointed Dean of Students on June 20, 2011, sees himself as an interface between students and the administration. Managing this relationship, he says, means ensuring students get their voices heard while also dealing with the appropriate individuals and groups at the university. “I would like to be seen as someone who has the ear of all sides. Connecting people across boundaries is a crucial part of my job.”
After speaking with students, staff and faculty throughout the summer, Woodall says he was immediately struck by a communal sense of engagement and pride on campus — something he found surprising in an environment as diverse as Concordia’s. “People are very aware of the history of the university and involved in its many events, like the Memorial Golf Tournament and the Shuffle.”
Referring to the Dean of Students Office as “the expert referral agency,” Woodall says that if he and his team are unable to assist students directly, they can point them in the right direction. “Can’t find your classroom? Need help strategizing how to start a new club? That’s what we’re here for,” he says, adding that individuals are always welcome to drop by the Dean of Students Office on the sixth floor of the Henry F. Hall Building or the first floor of the Administration Building at Loyola.
He also encourages students to get engaged and to participate in orientation activities in order to meet those elected to represent them. “Learn about them and learn about all the clubs on campus, including the fee levy groups. Leave yourselves open to be surprised by your university!”
Prior to arriving at Concordia, Woodall served as a community engagement consultant with the Faculty of Education at McGill University, and was also involved in research focused on methods of improving access to post-secondary education through community engagement — a strategic planning pillar at Concordia.
Community engagement, says Woodall, is based on a relationship built on tangible, practical activities and exercises. He adds that the university is brimming with students who are active in the community, helping to spread the word directly or indirectly about the value of post-secondary education.
Woodall also served as director (Excellence Award Program) for the Canada Millennium Scholarship Foundation where he disbursed $15 million per year in merit scholarships. “For the past eight years I’ve been more focused nationally, whereas now I’m focusing on one institution in one community. It’s taking what I’ve seen and trying to bring it into one specific situation. That’s an exciting refocus!” Previous Dean of Students Elizabeth Morey, adds Woodall, was one of his top volunteers at the foundation.
Related links:
• “New Dean of Students appointed” — NOW, June 14, 2011
• Dean of Students site