Following the recent closures of Weber State University’s various cultural centers comes the new Student Success Center. The Student Success Center works to create a campus culture that supports individual students’ needs to help achieve academic and personal goals.
While a Student Success Center existed in the past, this new center has been built from the ground up with new goals while also still honoring the preexisting centers’ objectives. Over the course of this summer, the Student Success Center has worked hard to establish an identity and clear vision for providing students with the assistance they may need.
An important aspect of the Student Success Center is the programming that is offered. Through experienced coaches and program managers, this division of the center pushes students to reach their full potential by setting attainable goals and building confidence.
Executive Director of the Student Success Center Brandon Flores believes that students who are engaged with their campus have a stronger connection to the institution, inspiring learning and creating a sense of belonging. This can be achieved through the programming and activities that are offered.
When it comes to activities, the center currently has a community cookout planned for Sept. 12. The center is currently developing a series of activities for Hispanic Heritage Month in September and October. Flores wants to continue creating events where students can connect with others and network with faculty, staff and professionals.
“We encourage everybody to come out, learn about the culture and make new friends and participate in social and academic opportunities,” Flores said.
Navigational advisors are offered through the center. These advisors are here to help students work cohesively and navigate higher education.
“What sets us apart is that our advising is holistic, but also our support is very intentional and tailored to the unique needs of each student,” Flores said.
Over the course of the next semester, Flores would like to create a strong base of operations for the staff of the Student Success Center. Establishing a strong foundation for the internal mechanisms of the center is a top priority so that students can get the best possible support. The center would also like to showcase that their help is beneficial to Weber State by producing professionals that can go out into the work field after graduation.
The Student Success Center is currently in the process of reworking their student staff position. The new title is Student Success Advocates and that position is available now for students who are looking to help bring their campus population closer together.
The Student Success Center is located in the Student Services Center, suites 150 and 160, for anyone who wants to stop by and use services that are provided or schedule an appointment with an adviser. The space offers amenities such as areas for students to study, computers, printers, and a snack bar that is currently in development.
“We want students to be able to come here and feel a sense of home away from home,” Flores said.