5 Questions for Dr. Kathy Stitts
Associate Provost and Dean, University College and Lifelong Learning (UCaLL)
What is RAMDITION and why was it started? RAMDITION is a weeklong event all new freshmen are required to attend. RAMDITION is a term coined by the late Dr. Michelle Releford, Dean of University College. It was started as a way of engaging freshmen in a variety of activities, programs and workshops to help them get acclimated to campus life and learn about the traditions, processes and resources associated with WSSU. What activities are planned?
We plan activities that include a fantastic opening and welcome session, a General Education Workshop, and several workshops throughout theweek on topics including budgeting, classroom protocol, career services, health services, safety and conduct, and academic progress. We are also hosting a "Sister-to-Sister" session featuring motivational speaker and author Sonia Jackson Myles and a "Brother-to-Brother" session featuring WSSU alum, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker Mataryun "Mo" Wright. Finally, our "Through the Archway" ceremony will feature a keynote address given by author, lecturer, and scholar Dr. Tricia Rose, professor of Africana Studies at Brown University. Who are "Legacy" leaders and what is their role?
This select group of student leaders assist in the orientation process for new students, serve as campus guides, help students understand the revised General Education curriculum, and offer assistance as students learn to navigate campus and become adjusted to university life. Every new student involved in RAMDITION is placed in a Legacy Group of 15 to 20 students and assigned a Legacy Leader.
How are parents and Alumni involved and engaged in the experience?
Parents have been invited to both the Parents' Reception (8/11) and the Parents' Forum on the morning of August 12th. They a re also welcome to attend the opening session on the afternoon of August 12th. We have engaged alumni to assist with some of our workshops and to take part in the opening session. And, of course, we would love for all parents and alumni to participate FULLY in the "Through the Archway" ceremony. We provide alumni with signs to hold up showing the year they graduated as students march through the Archway. The ceremony has truly become one of the very special traditions of the university. After the ceremony there will be a Family Fun Day sponsored by the Chancellor's Office and everyone is invited to join the university family for food, fun and fellowship.
What advice do you have for parents and incoming freshmen?
My advice to parents and incoming freshmen is to understand that this is an adjustment period . . . on both sides. Freshmen are learning a new environment, taking on new responsibilities, and handling greater expectations. Parents are letting go, allowing their son or daughter to make his or her own decisions, handle problems, and navigate and explore the interesting and sometimes challenging experiences. My advice is to communicate with each other. Support each other. And know that WSSU is here for you. The staff in University College and Lifelong Learning (UCaLL) will support you. We take pride in our letters UCaLL. You call us - we are here to serve you. We are UCaLL - Answering Needs . . . Finding Solutions.
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