As the newly appointed Assistant Dean for Students and Experience at Wichita State University’s College of Applied Studies (CAS), Dr. Bobby Berry has set out to create a student-focused and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff. Berry’s vision emphasizes addressing barriers, fostering a welcoming atmosphere, and enhancing the overall experience for students at all levels. His leadership focuses on student-centeredness and inclusive excellence, with a strong emphasis on promoting success for underserved and first-generation students.
"Our goal is to decrease and remove barriers for all of our students, while empowering faculty and staff to become change agents in their areas to create a more inclusive culture," says Berry.
Empowering Underserved Students Through Tailored Support
Berry leads the Trailblazers Program, which provides targeted support for underserved students in the College of Applied Studies. The program connects students with mentoring, professional development, wellness activities, and essential university-wide services. With support from NISS, Berry has expanded the program to serve two cohorts of students.
In addition, Berry has revitalized the Student Ambassadors and Student Advisory Board, integrating them into broader efforts to enhance student engagement. These groups, along with the Student Centeredness Committee and the Inclusive Excellence Committee, are contributing to shaping the student experience.
"Our faculty and staff are committed to coming together to lead this work. We want to ensure that our first-generation and underserved students have every opportunity to thrive," he shares. Nearly 57% of students in CAS identify as first-generation, and addressing their unique needs is important to Berry’s mission.
Strategic Focus on Student Success
Student success at CAS is driven by data-informed strategies to close equity gaps. Berry works closely with the advising office to ensure innovative advising practices that directly contribute to student outcomes. The college’s utilization of the SEAS tool, alongside the work of a dedicated success coach, exemplifies CAS’s commitment to supporting students where they are.
"We’re meeting students on their level, whether that’s through advising, social engagement, or success coaching. All of this helps students feel supported academically and socially," Berry explains.
Enhancing Leadership Opportunities and Career Preparation
A partnership with the Kansas Leadership Center provides CAS students with leadership development opportunities from their first semester. Berry’s role in overseeing market-based tuition opportunities has been instrumental in expanding leadership content and curriculum within the college.
Berry is also focused on improving applied learning opportunities, a key feature of CAS programs. Working with department chairs and leadership, Berry is currently conducting a review of applied learning experiences across all CAS programs to ensure they are robust, relevant, and aligned with students' career goals.
"Applied learning is at the core of what we do, and we’re working to make sure it’s the best it can be for the students we serve," he notes.
Building a Strong, Engaged Community
Community building is another top priority for Berry. Through events like HSI mixers, professional development for faculty and staff, and student engagement activities, he aims to create a sense of belonging within the college. His initiatives, such as the Dia De Los Muertos celebration and regular student interactions, help make the college a welcoming and inclusive place.
"We're doing our best to engage students on all levels, from social mixers to professional development. It all contributes to building a stronger community within CAS," says Berry.
Looking Ahead: Priorities for the Future
Looking forward, Berry’s priorities include ensuring that underserved students feel they have equal opportunities to succeed. He is also working on strengthening the college’s advising services and addressing student concerns, aiming to create a more seamless and supportive academic journey for all students.
"I want our students to feel supported, not just academically but socially and emotionally as well. We’re working thoughtfully to make sure no student falls through the cracks," he emphasizes.
Additionally, Berry and his team are working to improve communication around the resources available to students. One of his key initiatives is developing a comprehensive wraparound services webpage, which will outline the resources within CAS and track their utilization.
Berry’s efforts are already making a significant impact, and his focus on student-centeredness and inclusivity aims to shape the future of the College of Applied Studies for years to come.