USP Annual Report 11-12
“The great end of Life is not knowledge—but action.” Thomas Huxley
VIA Habitat for Humanity Service Event
USP Annual Report 2011-12 Canoeing, Pettigrew State Park
University Scholars Program NC State University Campus Box 7316 Raleigh, NC 27695-7316 919.515.2353 phone 919.515.7168 fax www.ncsu.edu/univ_scholars
Overview
2
I. Programs
3
Student Accomplishments Scholars Forum Summary Scholars Forum Participation USP Graduates & Senior Survey Admissions Mid-Year Admissions Outdoor Leadership Series Scholars Council
3 4 6 6 8 8 9 10
II. Initiatives
10
III. Diversity
12
IV. Staff
12
V. Recommendations
14
Advisory Committee Members
14
N. Alexander Miller III, Associate Vice Chancellor & Director Sean M. Cassidy, Associate Director Allison J. Medlin, Associate Director Kenneth E. Johnson, Assistant Director Chester K. Brewer, Assistant Director Elaine D. Morrison, Administrative Support Specialist
Overview
“By being in the University Scholars Program, I have had opportunities that I probably would not have known about otherwise while at State. I feel that I became a better, more well-rounded citizen and have learned to see the world with open, accepting and more loving eyes.� Abbi Davis, Psychology
Night Photography event, Spring 2012
The University Scholars Program (USP) provided a wide range of services to academically talented students in 2011-12, including: Offering a major weekly lecture series, featuring locally and nationally known guest speakers, artists and performers. Providing students with a film series, a book club, and a discussion series focused on important national and international issues. Arranging field trips to cultural sites that preserve our history and to research centers that are creating tomorrow’s knowledge. Teaching one-credit hour courses focused on contemporary issues and literature to University Scholars. Offering an educational Fall Break trip to New York City and an educational Spring Break trip to London and Paris. Organizing a series of activities and experiences focused on leadership development, outdoor education and service for USP students.
Partnering with University Housing to develop the Scholars Village in Sullivan Hall, which offers a diverse, academically supportive, and enriched environment. Expanding the range of activities available to students living in Sullivan Hall by hiring a group of Scholars Village Assistants to deliver social and educational programming in the Village. Providing a well-developed communication network that informs students about honors courses, scholarships and fellowships, study abroad and internship programs, service projects and leadership opportunities. Coordinating a popular study abroad program in Florence, Italy. Assisting the Scholars Council as it provides social, service, educational, and recreational activities for University Scholars.
2
I. Programs Student Accomplishments Students in the University Scholars Program were widely recognized for their accomplishments during 2011-12. A partial list of these accomplishments is below. USP junior Gretchen Stokes won both the Udall and the Hollings Scholarships, while fellow Scholar Ian Hill received the Goldwater. USP seniors Sam Dennis, Alyse Flick and Chandler Thompson were awarded the 2012 Mathews Medal for their contributions to the NCSU community. USP sophomore Emily Bissett was awarded a Fellowship Advising Office Enhancement Grant to conduct research in the Dominican Republic this summer. 30% of students recognized as Valedictorians at the Spring 2012 Commencement were University Scholars. 70% of incoming Park Scholars joined the University Scholars Program. 95 first year University Scholars had 4.0 GPAs at the end of the Spring 2012 semester. 410 first year University Scholars had GPAs of at least 3.5 at the end of the Spring 2012 semester. University Scholars were featured prominently among the students inducted into The Order of 30 & 3, Golden Chain, Phi Beta Kappa, and Phi Kappa Phi.
USP Graduates, Spring 2012 Commencement
Of course, many USP graduates will go on to University Scholars have a wide range of interests graduate and professional schools. Among the and pursuits following their graduation from NC State. We recently surveyed our graduating seniors campuses our students have been accepted to for Fall 2012 are: NCSU, Duke, to learn more about their goals UNC-Chapel Hill, Elon, Campbell, for the years to come, and we "Being placed amongst some of the East Carolina, Virginia Tech, are extremely excited by their brightest, most dignified and ambitious University of Texas, University of responses. students NC State has to offer, I Illinois, University of Florida, created an expectation within myself to achieve my maximum potential. Georgia Tech, and Johns Hopkins. Our graduates will pursue an The University Scholars Program set array of careers from accounting my undergraduate career up for The enriching experiences of the to engineering and from graphic success...and for that I am grateful." USP prepare our graduates for design to forestry. They will work Danielle DeFeo, Fashion Merchandising a wide variety of academic, for global corporations, including professional, and personal Cisco, Fidelity, IBM, Exxon pursuits. We wish the best of luck to all of our Mobile, Merck, GE and Bank of America. Some graduating seniors in their various endeavors! will join the Peace Corps and others will Teach for America.
3
Scholars Forum Series Summary Monday/Tuesday Forum Guest Speakers and Performers Our 2011-12 Forum activities encompassed a broad range of engaging lectures, debates, and performances, including: A powerful multi-media presentation by Emmy-winning filmmaker Michael Davie, best known for his documentary work on conflict, human rights and the environment, about his life and work in Africa. A witty introduction to “Outsider Art”, which is produced outside the mainstream culture by self-taught artists, by author Roger Manley, Director of the Gregg Museum of Art & Design. An amazing performance by Grenoldo Frazier, a nationally-renowned musician and composer who introduced students to the music of Fats Waller, Ray Charles, and Louis Jordan. An engaging lecture about terrorism cases, the judicial system, and a life in journalism, by NPR’s go-to national security correspondent, Dina Temple-Raston. An upbeat, eclectic performance by Shana Tucker, a “ChamberSoul” cellist and signer/songwriter whose music is a mix of acoustic pop and jazz-influenced, contemporary folk. A compelling presentation by ethnobotanist and explorer Mark Plotkin detailing his conservation efforts in the Amazon. An inspirational lecture by NC State alum Doc Hendley, an international crusader for clean water. His organization, Wine To Water, is helping to install clean water systems in 9 countries, including Sudan, Uganda, India, Ethiopia, and Haiti. Educational and entertaining lectures by Elliot Engel focused on the lives of Winston Churchill and Robert E. Lee. A provocative presentation on the future of the electric car by Dan Neil, a Pulitzer Prize winning automotive journalist. An fascinating presentation by freelance photojournalist Teru Kuwayama, whose latest project used photography and social media to connect US Marines in Afghanistan with their friends and families in the United States. A conversation with the poets, videographers and educators who created Poetic Portraits of a Revolution, a multimedia performance that chronicled the social movements that swept across North Africa during the 2011 Arab Spring. An compelling overview of social media and the future of journalism by Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes. [Note: This was the 2012 Harrelson Lecture. The USP cosponsored this event.] A moving presentation by Wes Moore, a Rhodes Scholar, US Army combat veteran, and youth advocate. Moore discussed the experiences detailed in his best-selling book, The Other Wes Moore. [Note: This lecture was part of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration. The USP cosponsored this event.]
The Scholars Forum
Wes Moore
The Scholars Forum, a zero-credit hour course that University Scholars participate in for three semesters, features addresses by major public figures, world class scientists, and renowned authors; conversations with faculty members; debates and discussions of significant public policy issues; and musical and theatrical performances.
Doc Hendley
“The University Scholars Program encouraged me to explore the arts and learn about new cultures and ideas. Without the USP, I would not have taken a step back from my coursework to occasionally immerse myself in arts and cultural activities. I feel that my college experience has been more complete because of these experiences.” Matthew Hunt, Biomedical Engineering
4
Optional Forum Events and Programs
Hemlock Bluffs
In addition to the Monday and Tuesday Forums, the USP offered a range of programming to supplement the Scholars Forum experience. Students participating in Scholars Forum had access to the following activities: A Discussion Series that encourages students to think and talk about a range of issues drawn from recent headlines. The USP provides students with copies of The New York Times to prepare for their participation in the conversations.
NC Museum of Sciences “Wet Collections” Tour
A Film Series that followed our Forum theme of “America at War”. In the fall, we featured films that explored the role of America in different wars such as The Thin Red Line by Terrence Malick, Glory by Edward Zwick, and Black Hawk Down by Ridley Scott . The spring film series changed gears a little with a theme of “3x3” which featured three films of three different directors. Examples included Thelma and Louise by Ridley Scott, Aguirre: The Wrath of God by Werner Herzog, and The Virgin Suicides by Sofia Coppola. The series did a great job of exposing students to a wide array of critically acclaimed films. A Book Club provided students with access to some of the best in current fiction. A partial list of works read and discussed this year includes Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier, The Thin Red Line by James Jones, The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy by John le Carre, and The Beautiful Things that Heaven Bears by Dinaw Mengestu. A Field Trip Series took students to places noted for their cultural, scientific, and artistic value during the year. Students had the opportunity to visit the Duke Lemur Center, the NC Museum of Art, behind the scenes at the NC Museum of Natural Science, and the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve. Field trips focused on sustainability continued to be popular among students this year, including Counter Culture Coffee in Durham, Piedmont Biofuels in Pittsboro, and Prairie Ridge Ecostation in Raleigh. Students also had opportunities to go farther afield with two day trips. One trip took students to Charleston, SC for a tour of historic downtown and Fort Sumter, the other found them in Staunton, Virginia for a viewing of Hamlet at the American Shakespeare Center. An Outdoor Leadership and Service Series provided personal development opportunities by offering interested students a variety of outdoor experiences: coastal kayaking in Hammocks Beach State Park, a Border Issues Trip in Tucson, Arizona and Agua Prieta, Mexico, a sustainability service weekend at Pickards Mountain Eco-Institute in Carborro, North Carolina, and a weekend of exploration in Pettigrew State Park, North Carolina. Students also had the opportunity to serve the talented athletes of the Wake County Special Olympics for the Southeast Regional Aquatics qualifiers which were held at Pullen Park Aquatic Center in March.
Charleston Trip
Cultural Explorations allowed students to attend all of the ARTS NC State performances. The USP also provided tickets for performances by the Raleigh Little Theatre, Playmakers Repertory, Burning Coal, Theatre in the Park and the Leggett Theatre at William Peace University. Students traveled downtown to see the Carolina Ballet, North Carolina Symphony, and several international groups brought in by the Raleigh Chamber Music Guild.
Spotlight On…Senior Joseph Silvers Electrical Engineering senior Joseph Silvers has excelled both in and out of class while at NC State. In addition to his participation in the University Scholars Program, Silvers served as an Engineering Ambassador, Chancellor’s Aide, and teaching assistant. Off campus, he played rhythm guitar in a French Gypsy Jazz band, The Hot Club of North Carolina. Silvers says the University Scholars Program has helped him maintain a balance of academics and extra-curricular activities, and it showed him things he had not seen before. After graduation, Silvers plans to attend graduate school and conduct renewable energy research. He was the NCSU nominee for the Marshall, Churchill, and SMART Fellowships. “"USP allowed me a creative outlet from the highly technical world of engineering. It was a great experience for me and I would encourage all who are eligible to strongly consider being a part of this program." Joseph Silvers, Electrical Engineering
5
Scholars Forum Participation An average of 790 students enrolled each semester in the Scholars Forum in 2011-12 (NB: University Scholars are required to complete three semesters of Forum; since most students complete this requirement at the conclusion of the fall semester of their second year, the number of students enrolled in the spring semester is much lower.) Upperclassmen University Scholars who previously completed their Forum requirements are not included in the figures below, but they also participated in many USP activities, programs and academic courses. “Being involved in the University Scholars Program encouraged me to become a more active, informed citizen of the world. It gave me opportunities to try new experiences, delve into different cultures, explore global issues, and get outside of my comfort zone. The events I participated in molded me into a well-rounded, service-oriented student with a renewed thirst for knowledge in all areas of life, from the arts to ways I can use my own career to serve others.� Rebekah Jewell, Biological Sciences
College
Fall 2011
Spring 2012
Agriculture and Life Sciences
194
148
Design
21
24
Education
23
20
Engineering
325
214
Natural Resources
10
13
Humanities and Social Sciences
91
105
Physical and Mathematical Sciences
43
35
Textiles
44
40
Management
78
74
First Year College
28
50
TOTAL
857
723
New York City, Fall Break 2011
USP Graduates and Senior Survey In the 2011-12 academic year, 251 graduates were recognized for their successful completion of USP requirements. Students who completed the USP requirements received degrees from departments in the following colleges: College
Fall 2011
Spring Total 2012 11-12
Agriculture and Life Sciences
15
60
75
Design
1
7
8
Education
1
5
6
Engineering
6
44
50
Natural Resources
0
4
4
Humanities and Social Sciences
12
34
46
Physical and Mathematical Sciences 3
14
17
Textiles
2
8
10
Management
7
28
35
TOTAL
47
204
251
Brian Parham and Daniel Norris, Spring 2012 Commencement
6
During the 2011-2012 academic year, graduating students who successfully completed the requirements of the USP were asked to complete a brief senior survey about their plans after graduation, experiences at NC State, and participation in the USP. Comments drawn from our survey of graduating seniors praise the role that the USP played in their education by: • • • • Valedictorians Alex Reinhardt and Tayla Cunningham, Spring 2012 Commencement
•
Helping them make the transition to college. Providing a community that encouraged academic excellence and inquiry. Asking them to consider important issues from a variety of perspectives. Providing extensive opportunities for cultural and personal development. Making it possible for them to have access to outstanding Honors courses offered by departments across campus.
One of the survey questions asked students to comment on the effect of the USP on their undergraduate experience. Some excerpts from the responses we received are below. “My involvement definitely prepared me for an international career and supplemented my university study in so many ways. Developing an active appreciation for the arts, being informed about current issues, and engaging with other intellectually driven students are some of the aspects I valued most about being a part of the Scholars Program. Thank you!” Erika Koerner, German and International Studies
“I love the Scholars Program. I loved my VIA group freshman year and attending all the wonderful forum events. I love the rich diversity that the Scholars Program emphasized throughout my undergraduate career. I attended plays and concerts, went to the Craft Center, learned about Shakespeare, and ate authentic African cuisine – all because of the Scholars Program!” Carley Miller, International Studies
“Being in the Scholars Program has enriched my learning outside of the classroom. When I reflect upon my time at State, I will remember the cultural diversity, forums, and performances I attended as the “college experience” I had always dreamed of.” Jodie Joseph, Animal Science and Nonprofit Studies
“This program assisted in my personal, cultural, and intellectual development throughout my undergraduate experience. I was given multiple opportunities for leadership and professional development as well. I am very lucky to have had the chance to participate in this wonderful program.” Emily Auringer, Animal Science
“Living in Sullivan Hall my freshman year helped me become more involved in the University as well as helping me meet other students with similar interests as myself. I could not have imagined starting my college career any other way!” Evan McConnell, Mechanical Engineering
"Scholars was an incredible journey for me. It put the world at my fingertips and I have learned so much. My favorite, most challenging experience was participating in the Outdoor Leadership Series. It taught me to try new things and never to put a limit on my potential. I met wonderful people, learned that backpacking is much more difficult than camping and food tastes so much better when it's eaten by a waterfall." Shevon Barnes, Zoology
"I enjoyed being pushed out of my comfort zone by doing Honors Contracts with my professors. Not only did it teach me more about independent research, but also allowed me to get to know some of my professors very well." Kerri Sackman, Biological Sciences “The USP was GREAT for my time as an undergrad. It exposed me to so many interesting aspects of campus life that I would have missed out on otherwise. The cultural enrichment (for free!) was priceless.” Taylor Allison, Mathematics “Involvement in the USP was a great springboard into the rest of my involvement on campus. It set the stage for me to be involved, active and motivated throughout my college career.” Christopher Adkins, Mechanical Engineering
7
“I really enjoyed the Q courses and Honors classes. I learn better in a small classroom environment and enjoy being able to freely interact with the professor and students.” Jordan Edwards, Business Administration “My involvement in the University Scholars Program allowed me to grow culturally, intellectually and personally.” Ashley Cobb, Animal Science “It was a really amazing program to be a part of. I feel that it was so well-organized and there were so many amazing events to go to and opportunities to take advantage of. I’m very glad I was a part of Scholars.” Dan Minkler, Chemical Engineering
“I got to see a lot of programs that I otherwise wouldn’t have. I highly recommend this program to all undergraduate students.” Allison Dipper, Biological Sciences and Nutrition Sciences
Admissions
Students entering NC State for 2011-12 needed to meet two of the following three criteria to receive an automatic invitation to join the program: 1) SAT total >= 1300 (Critical Reading and Mathematics) 2) Weighted HS GPA >= 4.5 or Unweighted HS GPA >= 3.9 3) Rank in top 5% of class Entering students who did not receive an automatic invitation were encouraged to submit an application to join the program if they were interested in the USP. Our admissions process yielded a class of 427 students. These students actively participated in the program by enrolling in HSS 110, the Scholars Forum. Approximately 180 of these students chose to live in the Scholars Village in Sullivan Residence Hall.
Rock Climbing
FALL 2011: New Students By Gender and College Gender
CALS
DN
ED
ENG
CNR
CHASS
PAMS
TXT
MGMT
FYC
Total
Percent
Male
27
1
1
147
0
4
10
1
8
10
209
48.95%
Female Total
62 89
7 8
6 7
54 201
5 5
27 31
13 23
15 16
13 21
16 26
218 427
51.05% 100.00%
Percent
FALL 2011: New Students By Ethnicity and College Race
CALS
DN
ED
ENG
CNR
CHASS
PAMS
TXT
MGMT
FYC
Total
Native Am.
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0.47%
African Am.
2
0
0
5
0
3
1
1
3
1
16
3.75%
Asian
4
1
0
15
0
1
1
0
0
1
23
5.39%
Hispanic
2
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
.70%
Caucasian
78
4
6
162
5
23
19
13
17
21
348
81.50%
Undeclared Two or More
0
0
0
4
0
2
1
2
0
1
10
2.34%
Total
3
3
1
12
0
2
1
0
1
2
25
5.85%
89
8
7
201
5
31
23
16
21
26
427
100.00%
Mid-Year Admissions Mid-year invitations to participate in the USP were extended to all freshmen not currently in the USP whose Fall 2011 GPAs were either 3.75 or 3.5, depending on their college. Invitations were not extended to students participating in the University Honors Program (UHP) since students cannot participate in both the USP and the UHP. Based on Fall 2011 grades, a total of 1093 freshmen met the required criteria. Of that number, 221 (21%) were already participants in the USP. Invitations were extended to the remaining 872 students. 198 (23%) of these SPRING 2012: New Students By College students accepted the invitation, bringing the CAL D EN CN FY Tototal number of Scholars in the top of the S N G R C tal ED CHASS PAMS TXT MGMT respective college/school classes to 419 (38%). Total
21
11
6
27
3
33
9
13
17
58
198
Spotlight On…Senior Sam Dennis Senior Sam Dennis has been very involved keeping traditions alive at N.C. State. He was the Traditions Commissioner co-chair, an Alumni Association Student Ambassador, and a Caldwell Fellow. He was instrumental in creating “The Brick” – a student-run publication that describes N.C. State’s history and some of its most beloved traditions. For his outstanding contributions to NC State he received both the Leader of the Pack and Mathews Medal awards. When asked what the University Scholars Program has inspired him to do, Dennis answers, “Scholars has given me the inspiration to explore. Scholars taught me you do not have to have a one-track mind, but that college is a time for exploration. Through Scholars, I have taken classes about bugs, gotten involved in organizations centered around N.C. State traditions, and pursued a science degree. No other organization at N.C. State fosters so many students to do so many different things.”
8
Mexican/U.S. Border Experience Trip
Outdoor Leadership Series The University Scholars Program Outdoor Leadership Series (OLS) had another great year in 2011-2012 in the midst of staffing changes. In November, the USP welcomed Chester Brewer as its newest Assistant Director and OLS Trip Leader. Under his guidance the OLS continues to attract significant student interest. OLS experiences this year aimed to: • Offer students an opportunity to explore challenging and engaging issues first-hand. • Foster student confidence in approaching the unknown and unfamiliar. • Cultivate student awareness of natural surroundings. Due to the staffing transition during Fall 2011, OLS offerings were limited. NCSU’s Outdoor Adventures Program led a coastal kayaking trip to Hammocks Beach State Park for the USP. There, students had the opportunity to paddle and camp in one of North Carolina’s coastal treasures. Over Fall Break, former Assistant Director Bengt Carlson led a backpacking and service excursion to Grandfather Mountain State Park and Anatoth Gardens. Students backpacked and camped along beautiful mountain trails and then engaged in land and community stewardship service at Anatoth Gardens. OLS kicked off in the spring with the annual Spring Break Border Issues Trip to Arizona and Mexico, led by Chester with the aid of student leaders Will Bowman and Bryan Lopez. The trip exposed students to real life issues surrounding immigration between the United States and Mexico. The first half of the trip was an intense 4-day, 30-mile backpacking excursion into the Saguaro National Park near Tucson, Arizona. This was followed directly by a stay with Frontera de Cristo in Agua Prieta, Mexico where students were able to serve and interact with newly deported immigrants. It was a truly eye-opening experience. Next, the OLS took a group of students to Pickards Mountain Eco-Institute in Carrboro, NC for a weekend of service-learning devoted to sustainable food, energy, and community. Service on this trip focused on the chores of an organic farm including gardening and animal care. There were also focused discussions on the topics of consumption and sustainability. The trip culminated in a potluck dinner where students met other local farmers and community members. Finally, the last weekend of April found OLS students camping at Pettigrew State Park in Creswell, NC. The students were able to explore an historic plantation, canoe a blackwater river, do some stargazing, and wade in the clear waters of Lake Phelps.
Spotlight On…Spring Break 2012 Trip to London and Paris This spring break, the University Scholars Program returned to London and Paris with 31 students, Director Alex Miller, Associate Director Allison Medlin, and Administrative Support Specialist Elaine Morrison. In London, students toured Westminster Abbey, rode the London Eye, and explored the National Gallery. They also visited the Tower of London, Globe Theatre, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the British Museum. Next, the group traveled by Eurostar to Paris—first stop the Arc de Triomphe and a view of the city of lights at night! While in Paris, the students had ample time to tour both the Louvre and Musee D’Orsay, visit Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle and the Sacre Coeur, explore the Left Bank and Montmarte, enjoy a cruise on the Seine River, and go to the top of the Eiffel Tower. A day trip to the Palace of Versailles was also included in the itinerary. A jam-packed, fun and culturally-enriching experience for all involved!
9
Scholars Council
“The USP made me feel more connected and involved on campus when I first started out at State. It gave me invaluable leadership experience through the Scholars Council and the VIA program.” Philip Mzyk, Zoology
Scholars Council, the student representative body of the USP, organized numerous social, service, and educational programs for University Scholars during the 2011-12 year. Under the wonderful leadership of Caitlin Melvin, a senior in Civil Engineering, this group of 30 students had a successful year. Scholars Council organized several activities during the Fall 2011 semester beginning with the annual Ice Cream Social. Educational programming included a Bell Tower Tour with Dr. Tom Stafford, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, a tour and tasting at the NCSU Creamery, and a nighttime stargazing event at the Reedy Creek Observatory with an astronomy professor. Service programming included the annual Halloween Carnival for children from the Boys and Girls Club, coordinated with the west campus hall councils, and a visit to Morningside retirement community, where Scholars volunteered with local senior citizens. Finally, with the semester drawing to a close, over 150 students attended the annual Semiformal in December! The Scholars Council delivered many programs in Spring 2012 . Council members scheduled a special screening of Jaws in the pool at Carmichael Gymnasium, sponsored a Rake and Run service event, participated in Relay for Life, coordinated a STEM Night at Poe Montessori Magnet School and took a group of students to the Haliwa-Saponi Pow-Wow. The annual End-ofYear Picnic was held on the West Campus Amphitheatre on the last day of classes and offered students a great way to end the semester.
Haliwa-Saponi Pow-Wow
II. INITIATIVES New Courses University Scholars are required to complete 12 hours of approved course work to complete the academic component of the University Scholars Program. Students have traditionally enrolled in Honors sections, First Year Inquiry courses, Study Abroad courses and graduate level courses to complete this academic requirement. They can also enroll in regular course sections and complete Honors contracts as they work to fulfill the 12 hour requirement. In 2011-12, the USP introduced a new series of courses that students can use in partial fulfillment of this requirement. These courses are open to students who have completed three semesters of Scholars Forum, and are designed to enhance their connection to the USP community and complement the USP’s mission. Two of these courses were offered in 201112. “Great Decisions” introduced students to important foreign policy issues. “USP Book Club: Contemporary Fiction” invited students to read, discuss and analyze some of the best books written in recent years. 17 students enrolled in “Great Decisions” in Fall 2011 and 16 students enrolled in Spring 2012. 9 students enrolled in the “USP Book Club” course in Fall 2011 and 11 students enrolled in Spring 2012. Student evaluations of these courses were outstanding: “Sean was the perfect person to teach this course. He is knowledgeable, enthusiastic and flexible. I would highly recommend him as an instructor and the course in general, to fellow students with an interest in learning more about relevant issues in U.S. foreign policy.” “Ken was enthusiastic about the course. He created an atmosphere that allowed me to feel that I could add my opinions to the discussion without fear of them being shot down. He treated each student with respect and valued each student's contributions to the discussion.”
Service Along with his OLS responsibilities, Chester Brewer led USP efforts to provide additional service opportunities for our students. In March, he organized a group of students to volunteer at the Southeast Special Olympics Aquatics qualifiers at Pullen Park Aquatic Center. The students helped young athletes make the most of their special day as they competed for placement in the national aquatics events this summer. Next, he organized a group of volunteers for the Grand Opening of the newly constructed Nature Research Center of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences. The students greeted visitors to the new wing and engaged them in hands-on learning events. We are excited that our students were part of the public’s first glimpse of the new facility which is a breakthrough for science education in the region and the country.
10
II. INITIATIVES cont.
“Living in Sullivan and being part of the VIA program made me feel more connected to the program and through it, the University, and provided me with a vital support system in that first year of transitions.” Catherine Early, Biological Sciences and Spanish
Scholars Village
The Scholars Village enjoyed another successful year during 2011-2012. Located on floors 2-4 in Sullivan Hall, the Scholars Village welcomed approximately 180 new incoming students in August of 2011. All of these students participated in our “Village In Action” (VIA) Program. The program is designed to build community among residents, help residents make connections with staff and introduce students to a range of enrichment activities connected to the Scholars Forum. The program divided village residents into groups of approximately 20 students. The students in each group were paired with a professional staff member and a student staff member. Each group met for a beginning of the year welcome dinner, participated in a service event or an outdoor education event, attended an arts event, enjoyed an international meal and engaged in a student led conversation about a contemporary social issue. Village residents were surveyed about their VIA experiences at the end of the Fall 2011 semester. They provided valuable feedback on their experiences and their overall assessment of the program was extremely positive. Agree Strongly
Agree
Neither agree nor disagree
Disagree
Disagree Strongly
Blank
Total
Participating in a VIA group has been a positive experience
60%
38%
3%
0%
0%
0%
100%
My expectations for VIA were met
49%
39%
10%
1%
0%
1%
100%
VIA has helped me make meaningful contact with residents
46%
34%
14%
5%
0%
1%
100%
VIA has helped me make meaningful contact with staff
36%
46%
15%
3%
0%
0%
100%
I enjoyed the opportunity to attend events with the same students
58%
36%
6%
0%
0%
0%
100%
VIA Allowed me to be more comfortable sharing my opinions with others
36%
44%
18%
1%
0%
1%
100%
The VIA program continued during the Spring 2012 semester. The Scholars Village Assistants (SVAs) provided leadership for the VIA groups in Spring 2012. In pairs, they selected and planned the events for their groups and delivered a semester of well-received activities. Each group participated in three events: an arts event, an outdoor or service event, and a contemporary issues forum. SVAs also teamed with the Scholars Village RAs to plan fun, village-wide social events, culminating in an end-of-the-year, off-campus bowling party.
Technology Integration The USP took great strides forward this academic year to maximize the use of technology to connect with students. A wide range of new software tools and social media have enabled the USP to better serve students and to quickly get their feedback on issues as they develop. The USP has increased its presence on Facebook, using the popular social media site to announce events, congratulate excellent students, and share photos from USP field trips and events. We hope to continue to use this wonderful resource to quickly and effectively communicate with students. Another exciting edition to the USP tech toolbox is ISSUU, our new repository and archive for all USP publications that reach our current and prospective students. Currently ISSUU houses our annual reports, forum brochures, and newsletters. This has not only cut down on our paper and postage costs, but also moves our communication tactics into the 21st century. Classmate is the online Scholars Forum event registration system, which allows students to sign-up for events and staff to track attendance. It has completely streamlined and partially automated the alternate forum sign-up process, greatly improving the work flow of staff for each event and facilitating ease of sign-up for students. The staff have also made use of Qualtrics, a survey and data analysis program, to rapidly evaluate, rethink, and reshape programming. Surveys this semester helped us gather student feedback on outdoor programs, communication tactics, and Scholars Forum. Both surveys have proven invaluable in helping USP staff more effectively serve our students. We look forward to using Qualtrics and other assessment tools to measure program outcomes and further improve the programming we offer.
11
III. DIVERSITY The University Scholars Program continues to seek a diverse cohort of students. Approximately 11% of University Scholars entering NC State University during 2011-12 were drawn from minority groups and 5% were from underrepresented groups. Scholars Forums offered USP students many opportunities to reflect on the importance of diversity. Visits by Grenoldo Frazier and Shana Tucker wove history and music together with their performances of AfricanAmerican, Blues, and Jazz music. Author and advocate Wes Moore gave a moving presentation on his life and his relationship with another Wes Moore whose life took a very different path. Emmy-winning filmmaker Michael Davie gave a powerful presentation, featuring clips from his documentaries, on his life and work in Africa. The
poets behind “Poetic Portraits of a Revolution”, which chronicled the Arab Spring of 2011, led a compelling conversation and performance. ARTS NC State events provided opportunities to develop an appreciation for art from diverse cultures. Included in the forum schedule were performances by Blues/Roots musician Ruthie Foster, leading jazz violinist Regina Carter, Ivory Coast vocalist Dobet Gnahoré, and David Dorfman Dance performing “Prophets of Funk.” Our weekly discussion series offered students additional opportunities to address a host of social and political ideas and to discuss current events. Book Club in the fall featured books on the American war experience, including Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist.
Spring SVA Retreat: Katie, Shraeya, Erica, Kaitlyn, Carter, Chester, and Alex
IV. Staff
“Being a part of the USP has definitely been one of the highlights of my undergraduate experience here at State. It has truly enriched me and helped me grow as a person...I would strongly recommend to any incoming freshmen or ongoing sophomore to join the USP family, to make the most out of their college career!” Khrystyna Stolyarchuk, Biochemistry
The USP was greatly enhanced by the hard work and smiling faces of the dedicated student staff we had this year. The six Scholars Village Assistants for the year - Alex Eubank, Carter Keough, Shraeya Mehta, Kaitlyn Rogers, Erica Sutter, and Katie Wassell - worked closely with USP staff members and University Housing staff to offer a great Scholars Village Experience. SVAs offered a number of well-received current events conversations including “Video Games Effects on Children”, “Euthanasia”, and “2012 Presidential Candidates”. The SVAs did a good job of researching and presenting balanced information related to their topics and were able to both capture their audience’s attention as well as navigate difficult subject matter with professionalism. The SVAs also had the opportunity to team up with RAs to offer several social events for students in the Scholars Village. Events like “Make Your Own Hot Chocolate Mix”, “Capture the Flag”, and the “End of the Year Bowling Smash” were very popular with village residents and a great way to offer a safe space for mingling and getting to know new people in the village. SVAs are among the first to help new village residents create bonds with their peers. They co-lead the Village in Action groups which figure into the village in a very central way. These close interactions with residents help SVAs develop programming throughout the academic year that meets students’ interests while also furthering the mission of the Scholars Village.
In addition to the SVAs, the USP employs several Undergraduate Teaching Assistants (UGTA’s) each year. This year’s UGTA’s continued the standard of excellence we have come to expect from this group of students. As former SVA’s, these students thoroughly understand the mission, values, and day-to-day workings of the USP. These students also regularly work alongside the SVA’s to provide information and insight to interested prospective students and their families at Open Houses and visitation days. As always, the USP staff feel grateful for the hard work and dependability of our UGTA’s for the 2011-2012 year - Zachary Lentz, Jennifer Gredler, Dalton Haynes, and Nathan Sink.
12
Elaine Morrison continues to do exceptional work as our Administrative Support Specialist. She handles all of her responsibilities with great skill. She supports and assists all of her colleagues. Her supervision of our work study students is truly remarkable. She led a Village In Action group, and assisted with the planning and leadership of our Spring Break experience in London and Paris. In addition to work with the USP, Elaine volunteered her time to assist Parents’ Orientation during New Student Orientation last summer. The USP added a new staff member during 2011-12. Chester Brewer joined our staff in November. We are very fortunate to have him as a member of our team. He has proven to be a wonderful addition to our staff. Smart, innovative, organized and tireless, Chester works very hard and achieves exceptional results. His work with our Scholars Village Assistants and our Outdoor Leadership Series has been outstanding. His skills with technology and social media have had a real impact on the way we deliver services to our students. Ken Johnson continued to manage a range of successful and critical small group activities for USP students. Ken oversaw our discussion series, book club, film series and Forum field trips. He also managed essential logistics associated with our Scholars Forum. In addition to his regular USP responsibilities, Ken taught one of our new one credit hour courses in Fall 2011 and Spring 2012. Ken planned and managed our Fall Break trip to New York City. He also assisted with implementation and delivery of the Florence Study Abroad Program. Ken advised the Scholars Council and supervised our Scholars Village Assistants. Ken also served on the GLBT Center’s Advisory Board. Allison Medlin continues to do exceptional work for the University Scholars Program. She manages essential program processes, including admissions, program completion, and communications. In addition, Allison served as the Associate Coordinator of the National Student Exchange (NSE) Program. She served on the Division of Academic and Student Affairs Technology Advisory committee and the Teaching Fellows Advisory Council. She represented the USP at many university and college visitation days and the Park Finalists weekend. Allison also chaired the Assistant Director search committee. In addition to his work as Associate Director, Sean Cassidy served on the Harrelson Committee. He represented the Division of Student Affairs on the International Operations Council. He served on the USP Advisory Committee. Sean was a member of the Student Affairs Assessment Team. He was the Coordinator of the National Student Exchange Program. With Ken Johnson, he coordinated the USP’s Fall Break trip to New York City. Sean taught one of our new one credit courses in Fall 2011 and Spring 2012. In conjunction with and in addition to his work as USP Director and Associate Vice Chancellor, Alex Miller served on the following in 2010-11: Study Abroad Advisory Board; USP Advisory Committee; Arts Village Advisory Board; Student Center Board of Directors; Friends of ARTS NC STATE Board; Talley Building Committee; Gregg Museum Building Committee; Arts Gala Planning Committee; University Standing Committee on University Housing; Division of Academic and Student Affairs Merger Implementation Committee; Chair- Search Committee for Associate Vice Chancellor, University Communications. He also represented ARTS NC STATE at NC State Foundation Board meetings.
OLS Spring Holiday Service Trip to Pickards Mountain Eco-Institute
13
“My involvement in the USP allowed me to see many things I normally wouldn’t have participated in, such as plays, guest lectures and musical performances. Via the USP I went on a backpacking trip to Colorado focused on homelessness and it introduced me to a passion in nonprofits that I plan to continue after graduation. The USP truly helped me become well-rounded and more globally aware.” Poorva Apte, Biological Sciences
V. RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCERNS The University Scholars Program enjoyed another successful year in 2011-12. The program continues to attract remarkable students who have a powerful impact on our campus. We have developed a model that promotes academic excellence, offers students a wide range of meaningful and educational enrichment programming, and gives them the opportunity to live in a unique residential environment. These elements are combined to encourage University Scholars to become informed and engaged citizens who impact our campus and their communities. As noted in the past, our programming budget continues to provide a challenge. It has not increased since 2000 but the costs associated with the programming we provide (speakers, tickets, transportation, technical support, fees for venues, etc.) have steadily increased. Collaborations, co-sponsorships and careful negotiations with guest speakers and other vendors have been employed to manage costs but we cannot do this indefinitely and maintain the level of services we provide to University Scholars. We were forced to eliminate some of our programming during 2011-12 and may have to eliminate additional opportunities during 2012-13. While students offer very positive evaluations of the program, they do sometimes express concerns about fulfilling the academic requirements of the program. Honors courses are available in some colleges but rare in others. First Year Inquiry courses are still available but the number of sections is smaller than it was several years ago. The Honors Contact option allows students to pursue honors work in regular course sections but can tax faculty. We need to advocate for more courses for University Scholars and to expand the number of courses available to them through our new set of one credit hour courses. Our admissions profile was designed to yield a class of 425 students but we are anticipating a class of 500 in 2012-13. The good news is that NC State is attracting more outstanding students. However, welcoming a class of this size at a time when our programming budget is under real stress poses a significant challenge to our ability to serve them well and engage them in the activities so essential to our program. We may have to adjust our admissions standards for the class we enroll in 2013-14. The Scholars Village in Sullivan Hall has been a very successful element of our program is recent years. Our colleagues in University Housing have been very supportive and are engaging in a thorough renovation of Sullivan Hall and our office. Budgetary constraints limit the number of students who can live in the Scholars Village to about 180. Demand for living in the village is high among students in our entering class. It may be higher next year given the renovation in Sullivan and we may need to consider ways to obtain resources to expand the size of the Scholars Village. Students regularly approach us to ask if support is available for study abroad experiences, internships, conference travel and other individual opportunities. They also ask if support is available for activities associated with our Outdoor Leadership Series. While we do subsidize these, finances can limit access to some of our longer trips. Obtaining funds available to students through a competitive process for these and similar activities would enhance our students’ experiences.
USP Advisory Committee Members Philip Dail, Director of Advising & Admissions College of Textiles, Committee Chair John Havlin, Professor College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Hernan Marchant, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs College of Design Michael Clinkscales, Director, Teaching Fellows Program College of Education Hailey Queen, Academic Affairs Advisor College of Engineering David Parish, Assistant Dean, Academic Affairs College of Engineering Lucian Lucia, Associate Professor College of Natural Resources Traciel Reid, Associate Professor College of Humanities & Social Sciences Jo-Ann Cohen, Associate Dean, Academic Affairs College of Physical & Mathematical Sciences
Nancy Powell, Professor College of Textiles Katie Cartnell, Academic Advisor/Lecturer First Year College Janice Odom, Director Caldwell Fellows Susan Grant, Director University Housing Kala Bullett, Associate Director University Housing Alex Miller, Associate Vice Chancellor & Director University Scholars Program Sean Cassidy, Associate Director University Scholars Program Catherine Early, Student Representative Scholars Council Member Courtney Maguire, Student Representative Scholars Council Member
14