As Wichita State University reorganizes how it recruits students, the administration is modifying how it transitions students into their first year of college.

The Office of Admissions has been responsible for orientation for many years, but beginning with students entering the university next fall, the orientation program will be transferred to the leadership of Academic Affairs.

“Transition programs like freshmen orientation are very important for new students as they set the student off on a sustainable path to graduation,” said Tony Vizzini, vice president for Academic Affairs.

Admissions will focus more on recruiting students, as more emphasis is placed on growing enrollment.

The hand-off of orientation to the academic side of the university aligns with President Bardo’s goal of improving the student experience by providing high quality student services and academic programs, such as a robust first-year experience, the Honors College and other living and learning communities.

Kim Sandlin will coordinate these activities for freshmen, transfer students, returning adults and online learners.

Orientation responsibilities are not new to Sandlin, as she once coordinated these activities for the Office of Admissions prior to assuming her current role as assistant director of Student Success.