THRIVE IN THE HIVE
Delaware State University Office of Student Success Parent Newsletter
Greetings and Welcome to the Hive!
Danielle L. Archambault, Ed.D. ACUE - Associate Vice President
As winter settles in and our campus community transitions into the final stretch of the semester, the Office of Student Success extends a warm welcome to our dedicated Hornet parents and families. This season marks a time of both reflection and renewal, as students prepare for exams, plan their next academic steps, and enjoyawell-deservedbreakbeforespring.
We know that parental encouragement plays a vital role ineachstudent’ssuccess.Throughthisnewsletter,we
aim to keep you informed, engaged, and connected to the many resources and initiatives that support your students’ academic and personal growth. Inside, you’ll find updates on campus services, tips for helping your student during finals, highlights from the fall semester, and a previewofwhat’saheadin2026.
As always, the Office of Student Success remains committed to empowering students through proactive advising, mentorship, and holistic support. Together, let’s continue building an environmentwhereeverystudentcanthrive.
Wewishyouandyourfamilyajoyfulholidayseasonandabright,successfulnewyear.Fromallof us here at Delaware State University, we wish you and your family a wonderful fall season filled withwarmth,connection,andHornetPride.
Warmregards,
Dr. Danielle L. Archambault, Ed.D. ACUE
AssociateVicePresident,OfficeofStudentSuccess
Email:DArchambault@desu.edu|OfficePhone:302.857.6072
Associate Vice President (AVP) Corner
Inthissection,wewanttohighlightaswellashaveaspaceforourAssociateVicePresidentto ‘speak’tothepeoplebygivingupdates,lettingyouknowaboutafewhighlights,andofferingsome importanttipsandadvicetoourstakeholdersandtheirfamiliesaboutnavigatingourinstitution.
Dr.FareedaM.GriffithjoinsDelawareStateUniversityastheAssociateProvostforAcademicand StudentSuccess,bringingover15yearsofexperienceasascholar,facultyleader,andchampion forequityinhighereducation.
Most recently, she served as Managing Director of the Wharton School’s Coalition for Equity and Opportunity, now the Opportunity Lab, where she led strategic initiatives to position equity as a core pillar of business education. At Denison University, she built a distinguished career as a tenured Associate Professor of Sociology, Department Chair of Anthropology and Sociology, and Inaugural Director of the Global Health Program. In these roles, she designed and launched new academic programs, advised and mentored students across disciplines, and expanded global partnerships that enriched liberalartseducation.
A recognized scholar of race, health, and inequality, Dr. Griffith’s research has been published in the African Journal of Reproductive Health; Health, Culture and Society; Glocalism; and the International Handbook on Race and Ethnicity. She has also contributed widely through national conferences, invited lectures, and service on the editorial board of Contemporary Sociology. Her leadership has been recognized with honors such as Columbus Business First’s 40 Under 40 Award,theWoodrowWilsonFellowship,andselectionasaHERSLeadershipFellow.
Dr. Griffith earned her B.A. in Sociology as Valedictorian of Paine College and her Ph.D. in Sociology with a concentration in Demography from the University of Pennsylvania. Energized by Delaware State University’s mission, she is committed to advancing innovation, equity, and studentsuccess,ensuringthatallstudentsthriveasempowered,future-readyscholars.
The Office of Student Success (OSS) always advises students to keep an eye out while having a macro view of the semester. That being said, the Office of Records & Registration [Registrar’s Office] has releasedthegeneralFinalExamSchedule.
Students should locate and review their final examschedule. Final exams don’t always occur in the same place,time,anddayastheclass.
Final grades are due on Monday, December 15, sopleaseexpectgradestobepostedafterthen.
Breaksbetweenfinalsare30minuteslong. Friday, December 12, is available for makeup,
WCHBS Advisors and Integrated Academic Support Services Find a New Home at the DSU Downtown Robert H. Parker Library
Exciting changes happened at DSU Downtown during the Summer 2025 term. The Office of Student Success relocated Academic Advisement for the Wesley College of Health and Behavioral Sciences and Integrated Academic Support ServicessatellitecentertoanewhomeinParkerLibrary.
This move marks the beginning of other changes to come in Parker Library as part of a transition plan aimed at transforming Parker Library into a vibrant and contemporary academic hub for students, offering services and resources that mirror those at the William C. Jason Libraryonthemaincampus.
The first step of relocating academic advisors and tutorial programs was completed in August, with more updates to be shared with DSU students and the larger campus community duringthe2025-26academicyear.
Staff Offices and Locations: WCHBSAdvisors
Mrs.Rush-Parker110|302.736.2302
Dr.Mokaya-Parker109|302.736.2304
Ms.Gibbs-Parker112B|302.736.2349
Ms.Perkins-Parker112E|302.736.2477
IntegratedAcademicSupportServices
Mr.Blank-Parker107|302.736.2571
2026 - 2027 Admitted Student Day, New Student Orientation (NSO), & Onboarding Dates
To support effective communication with the DSU community, including students, families, and community partners, we would like to include key Office of Admissions dates for Open House, New Student Orientation (NSO), Hornet Days, and Onboarding in the Parent Newsletter each quarter. Sharing these important dates in advance will help ensure smooth transitions for our studentsandfamilies.
Projected Dates for Events for the Next
Semester & Academic Year: SP 26 - FA 27
NSO Dates for Spring 2026 Term: Tuesday,December16,2025-VirtualNSO2 |(Freshman&Transfer)
Admitted Student Day: Saturday,April18,2026|Dover,DEMainCampus
NSO Dates for Fall 2026 Term:
EarlyVirtualNSO:Friday,April17,2026
EarlyVirtualNSO:Friday,May1,2026
In-PersonNSO1(Freshman&Transfer): Tuesday,June9,2026
Onboarding Dates - Spring 2026: Friday,January9,2026 (NewStudents) Saturday,January10,2026 (ReturningStudents)
Hornet Days - Spring 2026:
Friday,February6,2026:DE/PA
Friday,February20,2026:DMV
Friday,February27,2026:NY/NJ
Please note:
In-PersonNSO2(Freshman&Transfer): Tuesday,June16,2026
VirtualNSO3(Freshman&Transfer): Wednesday,July1,2026
VirtualLateNSO:Friday,August7,2026
Onboarding Dates - Fall 2026
Wednesday–Saturday,August19–22,2026 (New&ReturningStudents)
HornetDays2026areforHighSchoolSeniorsOnly.TheyMustHaveAppliedtoDSUandhave aGPAof2.0orHigher.Mustregisteronlineatwww.desu.edu/admissions/visitdsu/admissions-events/hornet-days Spaceswillbelimited.Besuretofollowalloftheinstructions.
To keep up to date with any and all DSU Admissions Events, please make sure to visitwww.desu.edu/admissions/visit-dsu/admissions-events - If you have any questions or want to inquire about specific details, please contact the Office of Admissions at 302.857.6351 |
(toll-free) | 302.857.6352 (fax) | admissions@desu.edu
2025 DSU Homecoming Celebrations
URELAH and Honors Program partake in DSU Homecoming Parade
For the past seven years, Program Assistant of the Office of Undergraduate Research Experiential Learning and Honors (URELAH), Mrs. Terry Pauls-Smith, has proudly led the Honors Program’s participation in the Delaware State University (DSU) Homecoming Parade, supported each year by the dedicated guidance of Dr. Shonda Poe. What began as a small group of motivated students has grown into a major annual presence, with a group of Honors scholars marching in the parade each year. Their involvement continues to highlight the strength, unity, and academic excellence of the Honors Program, making them a standout feature among the many student organizations representedduringthistreasuredDSUtradition.
Thisyear,theHonorsscholarswereenergizedbytheleadership of Mr. Honors, Sheldon Thompson, and Miss Honors, Gabriel Thomas, along with the unwavering support of the illustrious Honors Student Association (HSA) Board. Together, they helped organize, motivate, and guide scholars as they proudly showcased their program spirit before alumni, students, families, and the broader community. Their coordinated efforts represented the heart of the Honors Program—scholarship, service, and pride—and reaffirmed the program’s long-standing commitment to being an active, vibrant part of DSU’s Homecomingcelebration.
Article curated by Mrs. Terry Pauls-Smith - Program Assistant Office of URELAH
Honors Induction & Graduation Ceremony
OnThursday,October2,theOfficeofUndergraduateResearch,ExperientialLearning,andHonors (URELAH)helditsAnnualInductionandGraduationCeremony.TheceremonywashostedbyMs. DanielleK.Craig,theSeniorDirectorofBravenatDelawareStateUniversity,andwasorganizedby Ms.TerryPauls-Smith,DataAnalysisandProjectAssistant,alongwithsupportfromMs.Danne Bogle,URELAH’sAssistantDirectorofExperientialLearning.TheeventhadremarksbyMs.Celine Trombi,Senior,Hospitality&TourismManagement,Mrs.OndreaM.Murphy,ExecutiveDirectorof DSULibraryServices,Mr.AnthonyJoyner,AdjunctProfessoratDelawareStateUniversity DepartmentofBiologicalSciences,aswellasMissAsia-SyaniHolmes,MSW,AssistantDirectorof Intervention&RetentionoftheOfficeofStudentSuccess.
ThemissionoftheHonorsProgramatDelawareStateUniversityistoprovidestudentswhohave exceptionalintellectualability,motivation,andcommitmentwithsuperiorlearningopportunities thatchallengethemtoreachnewlevelsofacademicexcellenceinscholarshipandcreativity.
StudentsinterestedinapplyingtotheDelawareStateUniversityHonorsProgram canreviewadmissionrequirementsandfillouttheapplicationonlinehere: www.desu.edu/academics/honors-program-admission.ForquestionsrelatingtotheHonors Program,studentscancontacthonors@desu.edu.
Honors Program Inductees - Fall 2025
MelissaAcker
AmeenahAleem
AmeliaAnderson
SaniyahAnderson-Harris
AhlianaBethune
PrincessBordley
TaniaBraxton
AhmirBrown
PaulCharles
BrihannaChinsue
ErinCollins
AshlynnConway
LaylaCrooks
KiraDeVrieze
MylesDickerson
SamyaDrakeford
LoganEdwards
AngelHardy
IsaiahHarrisTalbott
MackenzieHawks
AshantiHill
KailaHill
BrandonHolmes
ClarkeHunter
LaKyaHynson
MalayaJefferson
EmmanuelKale
DairaLucas
ReneeMarkland
TaaliMcCleod
LoganMcMikle
IsaiahMorman
GabrielleNembhard
KelseyNoel
OluwajomilojuOdedairo
BabadaraOlowe
OluwanifemiOlumuyiwa
AlexandraPhair
DavonnaRhodes
SerenityRichards
Honors Program Graduates 2025 - 2026
SheridanBock-Martinez
KahliceBostick
LeahBrown
CydneyHarris-Stephens
KameronRoberts
MorganRodriguez
Dawn-A’leiceRosier
TierraShockley
ZaranahSmith
Isatou(Suwad)Tambajang
NevaehTerry
BlakeTutman
LaceyVieira
MikaylahWare
IyannaWaters
RamiyahWatson
SamiyaWebb
KeturahWest
SerenityWhite
MiaWilkins
RaeganWilliams
AyiraWoodson
JoyceKasiama
KiannaKelley
VanessaLarilus
MichelleMarkland
Honors Induction & Graduation Ceremony (cont.)
Honors Program Graduates 2025 - 2026 (cont.)
MadisonMartin
OrlinMejia
YasmeenOlass
KaylaPosada
MelissaRamonMunoz
KameronRoberts
SamyaStevenson
Na’jaStokes
ZoeSylvester
MikaelaTaylor
BlancaTeodoro
CelineTrombi
RashawnVelazquez
InaWalker
KhaliaWilliams
DSU 11th Annual Regional Conference
TheOfficeofURELAHcollaboratedwithconferenceleaders,Dr.OrdnerTaylor,III,Directorof GeneralEducationandAssociateProfessorintheDepartmentofLanguagesandLiteratures,and Dr.MyrnaNurse,ProfessorofEnglishandDirectoroftheEnglishProgramintheDepartmentof LanguagesandLiteratures,bothinCHESS.
UndergraduatestudentspresentingPosterandOralpresentationsrepresentedDelawareState University,MorganStateUniversity,RutgersUniversity,andtheUniversityofDelaware.
Learning From The Leaders
The Learning From The Leaders section recognizes DSU Directors, Staff, and Faculty in leadership, their experiences, and their contributions to the University. Read all about their commitment to student success and how they share their talents with others here at DSU.
In this edition of Learning from Leaders, the Office of Student Success has the pleasure of highlightingDr.ErinPerchiniak,whoservestheuniversityinmanyways,including,butnot
limited to, Associate Professor of Biology, Vice Chair of the Faculty Senate, Co-Director of the REU Program, and Faculty Liaison to Braven.
Growing up as an only child, Dr. Perchiniak loves that she is constantly around students, and a part of a busy and loud household with three children of her own. She loves to travel, try new restaurants, and vacation with her friends and family whenever possible, especiallywhenalakehousecanbeinvolved.
Dr. Perchiniak joined Delaware State University during the Wesley College acquisition after growing up in Long Island, New York. Even though she had very little formal teaching experience before joining WesleyCollege,tohergreatfortune,the
Biology department trusted in her abilities from past work experience and decided to give her a chance. It was an opportunity for which she remains deeply grateful. She began as an adjunct instructor and, after some time, moved into a tenure-track position when another faculty member retired. Guided by a group of experienced and generous colleagues, Dr. Perchiniak grew asaneducatorwhiledevelopingadeepappreciationforpedagogyandmentorship.
When Wesley College was acquired by Delaware State University, Dr. Perchiniak felt fortunate to join another welcoming and supportive department. Since then, she has been able to continue teaching, but the transition has also opened new doors. At DSU, she has expanded her professional interests through grant writing, undergraduate research mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaborations across campus. In addition to the opportunities for increased involvement in her profession, in May of 2024 Dr. Perchiniak was awarded the DSU Faculty ExcellenceAward.
When asked about her leadership style, Dr. Perchiniak shared that it has evolved over time and been influenced by many of the other amazing colleagues who she has met along the way. She likes to surround herself with talented and collaborative individuals who have strengths that are different from her own. In general, Dr. Perchiniak likes to feel prepared and organized when she is in a leadership position or when teaching a course so that others have confidence in what she is presenting to them. She has found that starting with a road map or action items typically gets everyone in the room off to a good start. Then, she likes to hear what others are thinking and builds out a plan that aligns with those goals. Dr. Perchiniak enjoys when everyone is able to contribute and when there are clear and attainable goals mapped out so she can try to lead in a waythatwillfosterthatplanofaction.
Learning From The Leaders (cont.)
When asked if she had any advice for parents or students in the DSU community, Dr. Perchiniak sharedthefollowingmessage:
“What I would share with students is that they should dare themselves to try new experiences and expand their knowledge outside of the classroom. Even if they are absolutely confident about their career goals when they start here at DSU, allowing themselves to explore new opportunities will enrich their undergraduate experience.
Apply for internships, study abroad, and take classes that sound weird or interesting. It will allow you to think about things in a new and refreshing way and potentially open you up to something that you never considered.
If students work hard and show up ready to learn, we will work tirelessly to help them reach whatever goals they have set for themselves.”
Office of URELAH Relaunches DSU P.R.O. (Professional Readiness Opportunity)
The Office of URELAH is excited to announce that it will relaunch the DSU Professional Readiness Opportunity (P.R.O) program. The DSU P.R.O. Mentoring Program pairs DSU undergraduate students with experienced industry professionals to build meaningful mentoring relationships. These mentors come from the local professional community, national organizations,andfrom
DSUfaculty,staff,andalumninetworks.
URELAH invites all DSU undergraduate students to sign up to be connected with a Professional Mentor through the DSU P.R.O. Mentoring Program. Also, URELAH is seeking Professional Mentors to sign up to be paired with our DSU Mentees. Professionals from our DSU Alumni, outside companies, federal agencies, and more, are welcome to mentor our Hornets. The mentoringplatformisMentorCollective,sponsoredbyJPMorganChase&Co.
Ifyouhaveanyquestions,pleasedon'thesitatetocontactDr.ShondaPoeatspoe@desu.edu
The Hornet Highlight recognizes current DSU students, their experiences, and contributions to the University. Read all about their commitment to student success and how they share their talents with others to make DSU an exceptional place to learn and grow.
In this edition of the Hornet Highlight, we spotlight Alyson Whitaker, a Biology senior and IASS SI leader who will graduateasemesterearlyinDecemberof2025.
When applying to colleges, Alyson focused exclusively on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). She wanted to attend a school where those around her would understand her culture, values, and identity. Delaware State University offered exactly that, and receiving a PresidentialScholarshipconfirmedherdecisiontoenroll.
From her experience at university, Alyson has become deeply passionate about science and is committed to realizing her dream of becoming a physician to help close gaps in health disparities. In the summer of 2024, she participated in internships with Sidney Kimmel Medical College and Delaware State University, where she conducted clinical research examining the social determinants of health on dementia. Through these experiences, she gained insight into the barriers underserved populations face in accessing healthcare. In particular,herworkhighlightedthechallengesolderadults encounter, sparking her interest in dementia-related research and geriatrics. Alyson hopes to continuethisworkthroughoutmedicalschoolandintohercareerasapracticingphysician.
Throughout her years at DSU, Alyson has stayed incredibly involved in and around the campus community. During the spring of her freshman year, she began working as a Supplemental Instruction (SI) leader for General Psychology. A year later, she transitioned to leading sessions for General Biology. Today, she serves as the LEAD SI leader for the unit, providing support and guidance to her fellow SI leaders. In addition to her role with Supplemental Instruction, Alyson has taken on several other leadership positions across campus. She served as the Recording Secretary for Delaware State University’s founding chapter of the National Society of Black Women in Medicine (NSBWM) during the 2024–2025 academic year, as well as for the National SocietyofLeadershipandSuccess(NSLS),whereshehasbeenanactivemembersince2023.Asa board member of NSBWM, Alyson helped organize and host numerous events, including a PreHealth Workshop that brought together pre-health students from various disciplines to share their experiences. Through these efforts, she worked to inspire and empower younger students by equipping them with the knowledge and resources needed to pursue their professional goals. Although she has since stepped down from her board position, Alyson continues to make an impact.Inthesummerof2024,AlysonalsojoinedDr.Lawal’sneurosciencelaboratory,whereshe assisted a graduate student in research using Drosophila Melanogaster (fruit flies) to explore the pathology and potential causes of Alzheimer’s disease. This hands-on research experience has allowed her to further develop her scientific skills while deepening her interest in neuroscience andneurodegenerativedisorders.
Outside of academics, Alyson enjoys watching movies, a pastime she inherited from her mother. She also has an interest in creating specialty coffees and experimenting with new flavor combinations. Some of her fondest memories include being at home with the smell of coffee brewing in the morning and seeing her family gather to enjoy their morning cups together. Even while away at school, having her daily coffee ritual has helped her feel connectedtohome.
When asked if there was anything that she would want to share with her peers, Alyson followed with this message: “Make the most out of everything this school has to offer. Whether it be professional, social, or educational, DSU will provideyouwithsomegreatopportunitiesaslongasyou're willing to look for them. Don’t let your college career go by without putting yourself out there. Join those clubs, apply to those internships, attend those CAB events, and go to those office hours. Turn yourtimeasaHornetintoamemorableexperience”.
DSU Honors Program Scholars, Nia Dooley and Gabriel Thomas, conducted research at Harvard University
DSUstudentsNiaDooleyandGabrielThomasmay
love their HBCU experiences at DSU, but over the past summer, they proved that they can also thrive in an Ivy League higher education environment.
The two DSU students spent most of the summer break with other academically excellent students from other HBCUs as part of the prestigious Du BoisScholarsProgramatHarvardUniversity.
The Du Bois Program is one of the fruits of Harvard’s work to understand its direct, financial, and intellectual ties to slavery. As part of Harvard’satonementforitsconnectiontothe “peculiar institution,” the Ivy League school has worked to deepen its partnerships with HistoricallyBlackCollegesandUniversities.
Ms. Dooley is a 3.76 GPA junior Elementary Education major from Indianapolis, Indiana. Ms. Thomasisa4.0GPAjuniorChemistrymajorfromClerendon,Jamaica.
Read More about it here - DSU article: www.desu.edu/news/2025/10/two-dsu-juniors-dosummer-research-harvard-du-bois-scholars
Hornet Highlight(s)
Funded by the Office of Student Success, Savannah Gerdes, Writing Tutor and the Public Relations Assistant with Integrated Academic Support Services (IASS), recently attended the 2025 Delaware Tech Social MediaConference.
Attheevent,Savannahhadtheopportunitybe present for guest speakers, connect with professionalsinherfield,expandhernetwork, and gain valuable insights into branding, authenticity, content creation, short-form video,andmore.
Reflecting on her experience, Savannah shared, “It truly was such an awesome experience, and I am so excited to bring what I learnedbacktomyworkwithIASS!”
Braven Tutors join the Integrated Academic Support Services Team
This past fall, Integrated Academic Support Services welcomed two new tutors to support studentsenrolledinBravencoursesatDelawareStateUniversity.TheBravenAcceleratorCourse is a 14-week program designed to develop essential career readiness skills, preparing students forsuccessinjobsorgraduateschool.
To support Braven and its mission, the IASS Team introduced Braven Fellows Jaden Weatherspoon and Adesola Akinwale as official Braven Tutors. In their new role, Jaden and Adesola offer both virtual and in-person tutorial hours for DSU students on the Main Campus andatDSUDowntown.
WhenaskedabouttheirexperienceswithBravenandwhytheybecametutors,Adesolashared: “The Braven Accelerator changed the trajectory of my student journey and opened many academic and professional doors for me. As a Braven Ambassador, I became familiar with students’ experiences and the type of support they need to succeed. Now, as a Braven tutor, I have the opportunitytohelpnewfellowsgetasmuchoutofthecourseasIdid.”
Jaden added: “As a Braven tutor, I support students as they navigate the Braven course. Having gone through Braven myself, I developed important skills for a young professional and saw immediate benefits in professional settings. Being able to assist other students so they can share the sameexperienceisincrediblyrewarding.”
Through their work, Jaden and Adesola are helping maximize the benefits of the Braven Accelerator Course, strengthening both academic and career readiness outcomes for DSU students.
Hornet Highlight(s)
October 6–10 was National Tutor and SI leader Appreciation Week, and this year the DSU community joined Integrated Academic Support Services in the celebration by writing letters of appreciation and posting them on the Tutor Appreciation Week Board. Faculty, staff, and students contributed heartfelt notes recognizing thepositiveimpactsthatIASStutorsandSIleaders havehadacrosstheDSUcommunity.
In addition to the Appreciation Board, OSS AssociateVicePresident,Dr.DanielleArchambault, andIASSDirector,Mrs.AnnaCortese-Lenick, funded an Appreciation Luncheon on October 9, providing tutors and SI leaders with an opportunitytogather,connect,andcelebrateoneanother’shardworkanddedication.
OSS Departmental Updates & Staff Highlights
Gardner Institute for Excellence in Higher Education: A symposium on transforming the second year experience 2025
The Office of Student Success values career exploration and professional development. We hope that our staff and faculty get a chance to take advantage while imparting knowledge to their colleagues and peers. We had the pleasure of having Ms. Angela Harper and Dr. Tiffany Alexander, a former OSS staff member, takeonthatadventure.Ms.Harpertellsusaboutherexperience.
"I had the opportunity to present at the Gardner Institute's Symposium on Transforming the Postsecondary Experience in Chicago over Halloween weekend. I presented with Dr. Tiffany Alexander on her work in creating the Sophomore Year ExperienceprogramatDSU.
Thissymposiumhadprofessionalsfromallacrossthecountryin
various student success positions. I learned so much from large, mid-size, and small colleges on effective ways they engage their first and second year students to transform their experiences on campus and ease their transition to college life. Our presentation went excellently! We had great engagement from our audience and lots of questions about how DSU plans to scale the program soitcanbeutilizedcollege-wide."
OSS Departmental Updates & Staff Highlights
Pink
Out Friday: Celebrating Mrs. Eulonda Pfister
On October 24, 2025, the Office of Student Success came together to celebrate strength, courage, and resilience by honoring one of its own—breast cancer survivor Mrs. Eulonda Pfister. Mrs. Pfister is known across campus not only as a dedicated academic advisor and DSU’s cheerleading coach, but also as a devotedwife,mother,daughter,sister,andfriend.
In sharing her story, Mrs. Pfister reflected on her journey, explaining, “I was diagnosed with DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) in March of 2023. I had a bilateral mastectomy on July 12, 2023. Due to choosing to have a bilateral mastectomy, I didn’t have to undergo radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy.” Her openness and strength serve as an inspiration to many, reminding everyone of the power of faith, early detection,andcommunitysupport.
Thecelebrationwasfilledwithencouragementand gratitude. Lunch and snacks were provided for staff and students, bringing everyone together to honorMrs.Pfisterandrecognizeallbreastcancerwarriors.Thedaywasbrightenedbyawaveof pink as participants wore the color to show their support, and small gifts were given to those whojoinedinthecelebration.
Grateful for the outpouring of love, Mrs. Pfister shared, “I am thankful to not only be a breast cancer survivor, but to be part of such an awesome team that shows support for such an important cause!” Through this special event, the Office of Student Success reaffirmed its commitment to fostering community, compassion, and care—standing united with all who have beenimpactedbybreastcancer.
Article curated by Ms. Amy Kellen - OSS Academic Advisor, Military and Transfer
OSS Departmental Updates & Staff Highlights
In collaboration with the Department of Athletics, the Academic Support for Student-Athletes (ASSA) team submitted a grant proposal for the 2025-2026 Accelerating Academic Success Program single-year grant cycle. On September 9, 2025, the NCAA announced the awarded institutions, with Delaware State University among the 19 recipients nationwide. Delaware State University’s Division I Athletics program proudly sponsors 20 sports and is comprised of over 450 student-athletes. This funding will play a critical role in supporting and expanding programs andservices.
With an award amount of $95,560, a comprehensive plan has been prepared to maximize the impact of these critical funds with plans for improvement to academic spaces, upgrades in technology,andtheadditionofsupplementalstaffing.
With the implementation of these initiatives, ASSA continues to achieve its success in reaching the goals of the program by enhancing its academic services, improving graduation outcomes, andcreatingasustainablemodelforlong-termsuccessforstudentathletes.
Integrated Academic Support Services presents at the 2025 College Reading & Learning Association National Conference
This past November, Mrs. Anna Cortese-Lenick, IASS Director, and Mr. Justin J. Blank, IASS Coordinator, traveled to San Francisco, California, to present at the 2025 College Reading and Learning Association National Conference. Speaking to a room full of Learning Center and Academic Affairs professionals, they delivered a session titled “Empowering Academic Success: Innovative Leadership OpportunitiesforTutors&SILeaders.”
Their presentation highlighted the many initiatives and programs developed within the unit to support holistic professional development and leadership opportunities for students serving as tutors and SI leaders on the IASSTeam.
For students enrolled in an access program, digital materials are also available in Blackboard. To access, log in to Blackboard, then open a class. Findthe‘Tools’linkinthe leftcolumn,click ‘Tools,’ thenclick ‘My Materials.’
Does your student need assistance accessing textbooks? Contact the DSU Bookstore: dsubkstr@desu.eduor302-857-6225,orvisititintheMLKStudentCenter.
What’s the difference between DSU’s Bookstore and Libraries?
They both have books, right? Well, yes – and they both have lotsmore!Themaindifferenceis:bookstoresacceptpayment for items, including textbooks, school supplies, and DSU swag.Thelibrarylendsitemsforfree,includingresourcesfor researchlikebooks,databaseaccess,andmore.
Course textbooks – the ones listed in a syllabus under ‘Required Materials’ – are paid for or rented through the Bookstore. Professors work with the Bookstore to ensure these specific materials, and the right edition and access code are available for every student in the class to purchase. Textbooksteachstudentsthefundamentalsforthe course.
To research topics in depth, students should visit the library to activate their free library account and talk to a reference librarian about the topic. Librarians may suggest books or ebooks from the library collection that can be borrowed,ortheymaypointstudentstothelatestresearch in online databases. These resources go beyond fundamentals and are needed for research assignments.Remember:Storesareforpurchasing,librariesareforlending.
Still have questions? Reach out! Bookstore: dsubkstr@desu.edu or 302-857-6225. Library Services: Libcirc@desu.edu or 302-857-6191.
hoursperweek,includingeveninghours(until8PM)andlimitedweekendhours;Support operationsontheMainCampus&andDSUDowntown;Requirement:Mustbeenrolledfull-time inaDSUGraduateProgram.
Library Services Corner
Semester Hours
SemesterHours–W.C.JasonLibraryandParkerLibrary(Downtown) Monday – Thursday, 8 AM – 8 PM. Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM. Weekends: Jason Library, Main Campus, 12 PM – 5 PM. Parker, Downtown, Closed.
See the library website for holiday closures.
W. C. Jason Library – 302-857-6191 R. H. Parker Library – 302-736-2413 For Reference and research help: LibRef@desu.edu For Circulation and general questions: LibCirc@desu.edu Library Services Directory
colleges,thelibraryhasalotavailabletoassistawidevarietyofscholars.TryaResearchGuide tailoredtoyourmajortogetstarted.
Interlibrary Loan -DSULibrarieshasmanyresources,butnoinstitutionhaseverything.That’s whyuniversitiesandlibrariesaroundtheworldpartnerwitheachothertosharewhatwehave. Ifyou’restuckatapaywallorknowthere’sabookyouneed,tryrequestingitthrough interlibraryloan,andwe’llseeifanotherlibrarycansenditover.
Tutorials -Wegetit.It’salottolearn.That’swhywehavevideotutorialsfeaturingwalkthroughsofresourcesbylibrarystafftoshowyouexactlyhowtofindwhatyouneedinDSU Libraries,includingeachoftheresourcesabove!
Get Your Library Account - To access all of the resources through DSU Libraries, you’ll need to make sure your D# is connected to a library account. Ifyou’rereturninganduseditlastyear, you’llprobablyneeditrenewed.Reachoutorstopby,andwe’llgetthatupdated.
Reach out for additional help!
Website: www.desu.edu/ac ademic/libraryOR gotothe www.desu.edu homepage,select ‘Academics’atthe top,thenselect ‘Library.’
Phone:302-8576191
Email: LibCirc@desu.edu, orusetheLibChat onourwebsite!
In-personlibraryassistance
Desktopcomputers
Printersandcopyingassistance(justask!)
Opentablesforgroupstudy
Individualandgroupprivatestudyrooms
Printbooksandjournals(returnsacceptedat eithercampus)
We’recontinuingtoexpandourcollectionof resourcesattheParkerLibrarytomeettheneeds ofourWesleyCollegeofHealthandBehavioral Sciences(WCHBS)scholars.
Additionally,studentsarenowabletovisittheir WCHBSadvisorsandgethelpfromourIASS TutoringCenterattheParkerLibraryaswell!
Students: Don’t Forget! Connect your D# to the Library using our patron form!
Toaccesslibraryresources,allDSUscholarsneedtocompleteabrief formfirst.NewtoDSU?ScantheQRcodeorvisitourwebsitetoset upyournewlibraryaccount.
Returningscholar?Ifyou’vealreadycompletedthisform,butyour accountisn’tworking,contactusbyphone,email,orLibChat! Accountsbecomeinactiveoccasionally,butourstaffcanrenewitin minutes!
Website: www.desu.edu/academics/library
Phone: 302-857-6191(JasonLibrary)or302-736-2413(ParkerLibrary)
Email:LibCirc@desu.edu
W. C. Jason Library - Main Campus
R. H. Parker Library - Downtown Campus
Important Dates to Know | Spring 2026
JANUARY 9 (FRIDAY) …………..….……… RESIDENCE HALLS OPEN FOR NEW STUDENTS ONLY
JANUARY 8 - 9 (THURSDAY - FRIDAY) ........................ REGISTRATION FOR NEW STUDENTS
JANUARY 10 (SATURDAY) ………….... RESIDENCE HALLS OPEN FOR RETURNING STUDENTS
JANUARY 12 (MONDAY) …………………………………………………………………… CLASSES BEGIN @ 8 AM
JANUARY 12 (MONDAY) - 14 (WEDNESDAY) ……..................................... LATE REGISTRATION
JANUARY 22 - 26 (THURS - MON) ...... DOCUMENTATION FOR NON-ATTENDANCE PERIOD
JANUARY 22 (THURS) ...… DATE FOR RECEIVING A GRADE OF “W” FOR DROPPED COURSE
FEBRUARY 2 (MONDAY) ……………………………....…………………. ACADEMIC EARLY ALERT BEGINS
MARCH 2 - 6 (MONDAY - FRIDAY) ………..…...…. MID-TERM EVALUATIONS ADMINISTERED
MARCH 2-APRIL 6 (MONDAY - MONDAY) ………..………...… ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT PERIOD
MARCH 6 (FRIDAY) ………………………………… ACCELERATED SESSION I LAST DAY OF CLASSES
MARCH 6 (FRIDAY) ………….…………... RESIDENCE HALLS CLOSE @ 5 PM FOR SPRING BREAK
MARCH 9 (MONDAY) .....................................................…………….…….... MID-TERM GRADES DUE
MARCH 9 - 13 (MONDAY - FRIDAY) ………………………..……………. SPRING BREAK & MEAC (TBD)
MARCH 16 (MONDAY) ........................................... ACCELERATED SESSION II CLASSES BEGIN
APRIL 2 (THURSDAY) ........................................ EXIT INTERVIEW FOR MAY GRADUATES DUE
APRIL 3 - APRIL 6 (FRIDAY - MONDAY) ….………..... EASTER RECESS (UNIVERSITY CLOSED)
APRIL 7 - APRIL 15 (TUESDAY - WEDNESDAY ) ...............…. PRIORITY PRE-REGISTRATION
APRIL 9 - MAY 5 (THURSDAY - TUESDAY) ................................. PRE-REGISTRATION PERIOD
APRIL 15 (WEDNESDAY) …......... LAST DAY TO DROP/WITHDRAW FROM THE UNIVERSITY
MAY 1 (FRIDAY) ........................................................................................................... READING DAY
MAY 4 – MAY 8 (MONDAY - FRIDAY) ...................................................... FINAL EXAMINATIONS
MAY 8 (FRIDAY) ...................................................................... RESIDENCE HALLS CLOSE @ 5 PM
MAY 11 (MONDAY) …………………………………………………..........……………………….. FINAL GRADES DUE
MAY 15 (FRIDAY) .............................................................................................….. COMMENCEMENT
View full and current Academic Calendars here as they are subject to change.
OSS Academic Advisor Directory (FA
College
of Agriculture, Science & Technology (CAST)
Advisor
College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences (CHESS)
OSS Academic Advisor Directory (FA ’24 & AFTER )
College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences (CHESS)
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS (COB)
OSS Academic Advisor Directory (FA ’24 & AFTER )
Wesley College of Health & Behavioral Sciences (WCHBS)
Academic Support for Student Athletes (ASSA): Academic Support
Transfer, Legacy, and Military Students [Support]
OSS Academic Advisor Directory (FA ’23 & BEFORE)
College of Agriculture, Science & Technology (CAST)
College of Business (COB)
Wesley College of Health & Behavioral Sciences (WCHBS)
College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences (CHESS)
College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences (CHESS)
Academic Support for Student Athletes (ASSA): Academic Support
Special Population: Transfer, Legacy, and Military Students [Support]
OSS Program & Services Directory
Office of Student Success Administration
Office of Student Success - Programs & Services
Office of Undergraduate Research, Experiential Learning & Honors (URELAH)
APPENDIX I: 2026 - 2027 FAFSA
APPENDIX II: 2025 - 2026 Parent PLUS Loan Information and New Federal Limits
APPENDIX II: 2025 - 2026 Parent PLUS Loan Information and New Federal Limits
