Igniting a SPARK: Division of Student Services Hosts 1st Cross-Functional Training
Monday, February 1, 2021
This new initiative was inspired by the Division's 3 Cs and in the spirit of our University's strategic plan, Harvest Our Treasures. All student employees of the Division of Student Services, as well as student leaders for groups advised under these departments were invited to participate in a virtual leadership training that encouraged them to think critically about servant leadership and global citizenship. The unique virtual training experience showcased Divisional leaders, Senior Associate Dean for Campus Community and Inclusion, Majid Whitney, and Associate Vice President and Chief of Staff, Dr. Monica Burnette as they provided tools to our student leaders for communicating across difference and embodying Seton Hall University's value of servant leadership in their roles.
Conference participants were encouraged to stay connected and follow the handle @hallstudents using the hashtag #SHULeads on social media. Participants also had access to a SPARK Leadership Training Spotify Playlist and were encouraged to engage in topics and the breakout sessions through the MS Teams Chat function.
Ten students, faculty, and administrators also served as small group facilitators for student breakout sessions.
A follow-up post-assessment survey was sent to conference participants. From the assessment, we were able to see that:
- Of the participants, 95% indicated that it met or exceeded their expectations.
- 92% noted that as a result of attending this experience, they have a deeper understanding of how their role as a student leader impacts the services/work of the Division of Student Services
- 94% said they are leaving the training feeling motivated and empowered
Some of the most enriching/valuable aspects of this experience according to the students were:
- Being able to talk with other students in small groups
- Hearing different perspectives
- Having the opportunity to self-reflect and identify personal next steps
- Hearing from/interacting with senior leadership from the Division of Student Services
Conference participants shared the following responses:
"It was very informative and successful. I left knowing more and having a greater understanding of how to be a leader not only at Seton Hall but beyond in the world."
"I love the enthusiasm to engage with all of us! It was very refreshing after so many months of remote learning."
"This event was very enlightening because there were many different ways in which the message of diversity and inclusivity were demonstrated, and it allowed ideas of collaboration and respect to really resonate with me and many other attendees, despite our different perspectives and backgrounds. It was very equalizing and made us all feel more connected."
The SPARK Leadership series will continue throughout the year with additional topics on personal and professional development for student employees and leaders within the Division of Student Services.
To learn more about the Student Engagement or how to get involved, please reach out to Colleen Dallavalle, Associate Dean of Student Engagement ([email protected]), or email [email protected].
Categories: Campus Life
