Update from the Division February 22, 2023

Dear Loyola community,

The Division of Student Development (DSD) is excited to share updates about several steps taken in the last year to enhance our ability to fulfill our promise to provide a transformative student experience. In this work, we are guided by our Jesuit values, and our division’s pledge to strive for excellence, practice cura personalis and cura apostolica, communicate transparently, and cultivate a spirit of optimism. In alignment with the enduring values of our institutional and divisional strategic plans, we are focused on facilitating student engagement, wellbeing, a sense of belonging, and academic success.

As part of a strategic diversity leadership model, we created the position of assistant vice president for diversity and student engagement, and established an organizational unit that includes the new Center for Black Student Excellence, the Center for Diversity & Inclusion (known previously as the department of Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs), the Center for Student Engagement (known previously as the department of Student Activities & Greek Affairs), and Graduate, Professional, & Adult Student Life.

We also launched the Rambler Brotherhood Project, an initiative for students who identify as men. The program hosts events and activities designed to enhance academic and professional skills and prepare participants to lead extraordinary lives.

As one of many actions taken to further support the wellbeing of all students, we opened a new Wellness Center at the Health Sciences Campus in January. Other work in this area includes (but is not limited to) food pantry expansion.

We are in the process of developing a variety of new programs and services for the next academic year, including a Leadership Institute for our staff. I am honored to do this important work in collaboration with the talented and dedicated staff members in DSD, campus partners and other stakeholders, as well as the Vice President for DSD’s Student Advisory Council, and the Parent & Family Advisory Council (both of which were established in fall 2022).

Thank you for your continued engagement with our division. We encourage you to reach out with any questions, stop into our offices, and share your feedback with us.

Best regards,
Keith M. Champagne, PhD
Vice President for the Division of Student Development