Three Wichita State University faculty members have been selected to help lead Freshman Orientation in summer 2011. Each has been awarded a stipend of $4,000 for their work. This initiative, funded by the provost’s office, is part of WSU’s efforts to increase retention and graduation rates.

The faculty members are Ron Matson, associate professor and chair, Department of Sociology; Trisha Self, associate professor, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders; and Jeff Pulaski, assistant professor, School of Art and Design.

All three of the selectees bring a deep knowledge of WSU and a record of successful interaction with undergraduates.

'More academically robust'

Every summer, Freshman Orientation includes a series of events for new students to help them prepare for life at WSU. Orientation includes making connections with fellow students, learning about WSU’s history and traditions, becoming familiar with the WSU campus and the resources available, and tips for being a successful college student.

Parents, too, are offered information about WSU and advice about how to help their child as a college student. Undergraduates serve as orientation leaders and guide small groups of new students through the experience.

In summer 2011, through a collaboration with the Office for Faculty Development and Student Success (OFDSS), the three selected faculty members will participate in the eight orientations for freshmen scheduled throughout the summer.

“Research on student success shows that students who form connections with faculty are more likely to persist in their studies and complete their degrees,” said Bill Vanderburgh, executive director of OFDSS. “The idea of this new program, then, is to get faculty in front of students as soon as possible. The faculty members participating in orientation will help students understand the goals and purposes of attending college, what faculty expect of students and will also speak with parents. It is all part of an effort to make orientation more academically robust and meaningful to students.”

Vanderburgh said there has been a flood of responses from faculty requesting to take part.

“I am excited to see that so many people on campus care so deeply about the success of our students,” said Vanderburgh.