MISSION STATEMENT
The Dean of Student Life departments educate students and the larger SMU community by providing purposeful opportunities for learning, personal growth, clarifying values and developing skills that promote responsible citizenship.
2011-12 DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS
The Dean of Student Life and new Associate Director again met with a record number of students, particularly due to the increase in Caring Community Connections (CCC) submissions by faculty and staff following visits to academic and other departmental meetings across campus during the Fall term. The office received a total of 488 CCCs during the 2011-2012 academic year as opposed to 331 CCCs during the 2010-2011 academic year a 33% increase in submissions, and a 47% increase from the 262 reported in 2009-2010.
DEPARTMENTAL CHALLENGES
Meeting the needs of the increase in CCCs continued to be a challenge for the office, however the addition of the Associate Director was a welcome addition. The number of conduct issues reported also saw an increase, and in the summer of 2012, approval was granted for an Associate Dean to be hired to assist with the supervision and oversight of the Student Conduct & Community Standards Office.
DEPARTMENTAL GOALS
Student Success
- Advised Student Representatives to the Board of Trustees. Met regularly with Student Trustee to plan meetings and activities, particularly Dining with Decision Makers in the spring of 2012. Continued the practice of holding campus-wide information meetings for the student trustee recruitment and application process.
Student Learning
- Continued to meet with members of fraternities, sororities, and other campus groups and share information about how best to respond to friends and group members experiencing personal difficulty, dealing with addiction or generally in need of support. Discussed when and how to refer to campus resources.
Exemplary Division of Student Affairs
- Continue to provide a high level of support, referral and follow-up for students who come through the CCC database and through student groups.
- Met with Academic Department Chairs, Faculty & other Staff departments concerning the CCC program and other services offered by Student Life.