UKnighted Newsletter
March 2008

Leadership in February Offers Inspiration and Guidance

Opportunities prevailed at UCF in February for leadership roles and developing leadership skills with events including Miss UCF 2008, Leadership Week, Leadership Institute and Knight-Thon.

• Miss UCF 2008: Thirteen contestants vied for the title of Miss UCF 2008 in a standing room only event on February 2. Audra Martin, a 22 year old senior from Illinois majoring in broadcast journalism and minoring in criminal justice, won this year’s competition. She will represent UCF this summer at the Miss Florida Scholarship Pageant in St. Petersburg, a Miss America preliminary.

Martin has been on the President’s and Dean’s List and is a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. She has held numerous leadership roles in her sorority; as fund-raising chair, she helped Zeta raise almost $10,000 for breast cancer awareness, their national philanthropy. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the UCF Chapter of Radio Television News Directors Association. Martin’s career ambition is to become a successful member of the radio/TV industry and hopefully to attend law school to study entertainment law and media ethics. As an athlete, she also enjoys intramural sports at UCF. Aside from her community service, which includes the Children’s Miracle Network, Race for the Cure and Relay for Life, her platform issue is Combating Cyberbullying. Martin wants to use her media experience to go into schools and increase awareness to enable children, parents and school staff to deal with this growing problem.

Rachael Todd was first runner-up; Aisha Roberts, second runner-up; and Amanda Pittman, third runner-up. Veronica Livesay, co-executive director, said “All the contestants did an outstanding job and could have represented us [UCF] at the Miss Florida Scholarship Pageant. Audra’s vocal talent and platform issue should enable her to do very well at the state competition.”

• Leadership Week: Leadership Week, themed “Take It or Lead It,” offered 45 different presentations, workshops and events February 18-23. Additionally, keynote addresses were given by the Student Government Association (SGA) President Brandie Hollinger on “A look back on a special year in SGA,” Animal Planet’s Jeff Corwin on “Tales from the field,” Simon Bailey on “Taking charge of change and transforming lives from the inside out,” Housing and Residence Life Jimmy Moore on “When Did You Choose to Be Straight?,” Brian Wheeler, President and Founder of Tijuana Flats and alumna Mary Frances “Gert” Garman gave uplifting speeches on success.

On Wednesday, “Question, Persuade and Refer: Suicide Prevention” sessions were held throughout the day. In addition, the Leadership Enhancement Program sponsored by the Office of Diversity Initiatives held their day-long Leadership Institute themed “Successful Leadership Creates a Beautiful Symphony” featuring Pedro Orey, leader of the internationally known Bethune-Cookman drum line.

Individual presentations during the week ranged from making effective career and life decision, what does a good leader look like, power studying and desk yoga. Mark Allen Poisel, Academic Development and Retention, talked about the “up, down and all around” of decision making: who will be impacted, level of impact, the pros, cons and politics, and the timeline of impact during his session, “Striking the Right Chord: Leadership Decision Making That Doesn’t Go Flat.”

• Knight-Thon: Over the past 11 years, students of the University of Central Florida have raised over $220,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network by participating in Knight-Thon. Knight-Thon, formally known as Dance Marathon, is UCF’s largest student run philanthropy program involving numerous organizations on campus. On February 23, over 100 students who spent the day in the Recreation and Wellness Center were entertained by a hypnotist, bounce houses, casino games, live performances, karaoke and much more. This year, Knight-Thon raised over $21,000. Daniel Samuels, Knight-Thon director said, “Knight-Thon is a great opportunity for students from all over our campus to come together and make a difference in the community. Through the Knight- Thon program, students are engaged in the community all year long to help raise money for these children in need.”

Endurance Challenged in Super Adventure Race

The UCF Super Adventure Race consisted of three main challenges that tested each 3-person team on their physical and mental abilities. A total of 19 teams, consisting of students, women, and UCF community participants, competed in the event.

The Lake Claire challenge involved each team using their skills to locate their paddles and navigate the pre-set course on the lake. Secondly, the Challenge Course required all teams to complete three stations of mental challenges just to earn the gear needed to even get on the course. Then, teams had to negotiate the 45-foot tall challenge course. In the last main challenge, each team had to locate four checkpoints within the Arboretum. This challenge involved a bit of endurance when it came to trail running.

Just when the participants thought the race was over, a final mental challenge awaited each team at the end of the race, along with smoothies from Smoothie King, subs from Subway and wraps from Designer Greens. This year, the overall victor was a UCF student team. The race was hosted by the Recreation and Wellness Center Outdoor Adventure program.

Fitness Certificates Offered at UCF

The Recreation and Wellness Center partnered with Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), the world’s largest fitness and Telefitness® educator, to offer certification classes and specialty workshops on February 8 and 9. The following certifications were offered at this year’s AFAA Apex event: Primary Group Exercise, Personal Fitness Trainer, Floor, Core, Kickboxing, Indoor Cycling and Yoga. Over 200 attendees participated throughout the sessions. Next up on the agenda for Fitness will be the Mind/Body Master class held on Saturday, March 29. For more information on activities and programs offered at the Recreation and Wellness Center, visit: www.rec.ucf.edu or call at 407.823.2408.

Sport Clubs Gain 34th Club Team

The Women’s Softball Club was voted into the Sport Club Council on January 9 as the 34th UCF Sport Club. Congratulations.

Rosen College of Hospitality Management Campus

Life Sponsors Celebrations in February The Valentine holiday was celebrated with “Stuff Your Love 2008” event on February 13. Students were able to pick an animal skin to stuff and pick an outfit to give as a free gift to a loved one.

It was a Mardi Gras atmosphere at the Rosen College with the PHAT Tuesday 2008 event on February 5. Students enjoyed live jazz music, French Quarter photos and beads handed out by a stilt walker.

Students Prepare to Meet Employers at Expo and Fair

Students had the opportunity to polish their interviewing skills at the Employment Prep Conference on January 23. Nearly 250 students attended this conference-style event, which is designed to improve performance success of seniors participating in the on-campus interviewing program and the career expos. Organized into breakout sessions, practice interviews, and resume critiques, the event began with a special session of five panelists who shared their stories and answered questions about how to land a dream job. Based on the hit TV show Deal or No Deal, students discovered the most effective ways to choose the briefcase that holds the opportunity to their ultimate success. This semi-annual event is hosted by Career Services.

Students who attended the Employment Prep Conference were better prepared for the two-day expo event on February 4-5. The event consisted of the Career Expo and Internship Fair, which allowed about 1,800 students to jump start their job or internship search with over 300 Different employers who had individual booths setup around the event. Each event offered students an opportunity to meet employers recruiting students or graduates for full time professional opportunities or internships. In conjunction with one another, the Employment Prep Conference and the two-day Expo event provided ways for UCF students of any major to explore and reach their career goals. For more information, visit: www.career.ucf.edu.

First Year Scholars Honored for Academic Achievement

This year, Learning and Interacting with New Knights (LINK) recognized over 1,700 First Time In College (FTIC) students for their academic achievement during the Fall 2007 semester at the fifth annual LINK First Year Scholar Reception. During the event, students were presented with a certificate of achievement and a First Year Academic Scholar lapel pin, which they received as they walked across the stage. Following the ceremony, students enjoyed cake and refreshments with their families.

The reception included words of congratulations and encouragement from Maribeth Ehasz, vice president for Student Development and Enrollment Services, along with Jonathan Lumseyfai, service chair of Golden Key National Honour Society and Jeff Novak, assistant director of Housing and Residence Life. According to Kelli Hutchens, coordinator for the LINK Program, the first year scholars and their families who were also invited to attend were very pleased to participate in a program that acknowledges the achievements of freshman students.

Aleesha Hassard, a First Year Scholar recognized at the ceremony, thanked LINK “for planning and creating such a beautiful reception. It was a fun and great social occasion for all.”

The LINK staff gives a special thanks to Maribeth Ehasz and SDES for helping to make this year’s reception a success.

UCF/BCC Spring 2008 Welcome Back Day

UCF Palm Bay and Brevard Community College (BCC) Palm Bay students, faculty, and staff came out to the South Patio for the Spring 2008 welcome on February 6.

The event welcomed new and returning students, promoted student involvement in clubs and activities, and showcased scholarship opportunities and services to support student success. In addition, the welcome provided Direct Connect information to BCC students.

A highlight of the event was the UCF/BCC resource scavenger hunt. Students who completed the scavenger hunt competed to win UCF and BCC prizes. Refreshments included hot dogs, snacks and drinks served by BCC student ambassadors and staff volunteers. A total of 350 students, faculty, staff and community members attended; of that total 324 were students (20 UCF students, 322 BCC students and two Direct Connect students). The event was a UCF/BCC joint effort and was co-sponsored by UCF Palm Bay Student Government Association and the BCC Palm Bay Student Government Association.

UCF Counseling Director Presents at Regional Health Fairs

UCF participated in Lake-Sumter Community College’s Health Fairs in mid-February. UCF David Wallace, director for the UCF Counseling Center, gave four presentations at two of the Regional Campuses: UCF South Lake and UCF Leesburg Campus.

“Student Self Care” was a topic that benefited students, staff and faculty. Stress, time management and the need to get enough sleep were three major points. The growing nationwide problem with the lack of sleep and its causes were also addressed. Wallace discussed the need for each individual to look at the simple things they can change in their life to be healthy. He encouraged everyone who attended to take the time to “find the roses among the thorns,” in their life. He also encouraged students to give themselves credit for the things they do well. In addition, he encouraged all to reflect on the things they can control in their life to be more successful.

Students Receive Assistance for a Successful Transition to UCF

Transfer and Transition Services (TTS) has created a new campus program for prospective students. TransQuest provides materials and information ensuring that transfers have what they need for a successful transition to UCF.

In collaboration with Undergraduate Admissions, TTS conducts the information workshops for transfer students and families who are attending an Admissions campus tour. The 45-minute programs start at noon in Howard Phillips Hall, room 214. Beginning in February, TransQuest sessions are scheduled for the first and third Fridays each month.

TTS advisor Beth Ganz regards the program as “an essential companion of the campus tour for transfer students and their families. TTS provides resources to assist transfer students with a successful transition, and TransQuest is an opportunity to have their specific questions and concerns addressed.”

Enrollment Times/Class Schedule

Available March 3rd The Registrar’s Office invites students to begin planning their class schedules for Summer 2008, Fall 2008 and Spring 2009. Beginning March 3rd, appointment times and class schedules for those terms will be available through myUCF. The Registrar’s Office advises students to print out a degree audit and work with their academic advisor to plan their entire year. With Multiple Term Registration (MTR), students who have declared a major and have a 3.5 UCF GPA or better as of March 3, as well as students in certain groups, will have the opportunity to register for the Spring 2009 term at the same time as the Summer and Fall 2008 terms. However, students who do not meet the requirements are able to register for the Spring 2009 term in October.

Welcome to SDES

• Yselande Pierre, coordinator, Multicultural Student Center , Office Student Involvement
  
  

SDES Awards and Recognition

• Kristy Belden, Academic Services for Student- Athletes, has been promoted to associate director.
• Germayne Graham, assistant director for LEAD Scholars Program, was recognized as the Female Faculty of the Year by Iota Phi Theta Fraternity and Men of Integrity at the annual Tribute to a Black Woman Ceremony.

   

SDES Presentations

• Jennifer Alger and Kristy Belden co-presented “Bridging the Gap...Using Technology to Our Advantage” at the National Consortium for Academic and Sports Annual Conference, held in Orlando on January 28-29.

Assistant Wins 2nd Place in Art Exhibition

Marcus Parker, a student assistant for the Registrar’s Office, won second place in the 2008 Juried Student Art Exhibition, Global Climate Change: Our Planet, Our Education, Our Future. The January exhibition, located in the UCF Library, featured the work of 14 undergraduate students and was a visual response to the General Education Program, Unifying Theme of Global Climate Change. For his second place prize, Parker will receive a $300 scholarship.

Marisa Gonzalez, USPS Employee of the Month

Congratulations to Marisa Gonzalez, registrar specialist, Registrar’s Office, was selected as the university’s USPS employee of the month for February. She worked two years as OPS in the UCF Bookstore and in 1988, she joined the Registrar’s Office as a USPS employee.

Gonzalez’s coworkers say, “She is a hard-working, detailed-oriented, fun-loving, example-setting individual. Marisa keeps stepping up to the plate time after time, and a lot of times without being asked. She knows that we need the help and she jumps in.

She takes the time to work with new program assistants so that they know the ins and outs of the readmission process. She advocates for their continued professional development.”

For more information about the USPS Employee of the Month process, call 407.823.0440.

SDES Reconsidered: The Discussion Continues

Kerry Welch
Director, Office of Student and Involvement
Primary Facilitator, SDES Reconsidered

SDES Reconsidered continues to move forward toward our goal of developing student learning outcomes for each department in the division. Currently, we have identified divisional student learning objectives that help to define the Creed learning domains in ways that will assist units to align their department student learning outcomes. For example, for the learning domain of Integrity, one divisional student learning objective might be a student’s ability to use ethical decision-making skills for the betterment of self, family and the community. Another example for the learning domain of Community might be a student’s capacity to accept, appreciate and promote diversity.

The divisional student learning objectives are currently under review by the SDES Reconsidered Core Group consisting of divisional leaders, interested staff and Learning Guides. We will continue to refine the divisional student learning objectives until we are content that we have crafted a comprehensive list of objectives that fit comfortably within each learning domain. However, we have established a deadline of March 27 for determining the divisional student learning objectives so that SDES staff members will be able to continue to craft student learning outcomes that are applicable to designated objectives.

In addition, the Learning Guides prepared a presentation that they will be delivering to SDES departments between April 7 and May 30. Their presentation will include a brief overview of the process of SDES Reconsidered, the timeline for meeting desired goals in the process and a format for crafting student learning outcomes. This will assist units with developing their learning outcomes so that they can be part of the Institutional Effectiveness Plans due in June.

In an effort to incorporate the entire division through this process, an SDES Reconsidered Blog has been created. This will facilitate open discussion about student learning outcomes and provide a sounding board for all departments to interact with one another. Some of you have already received an invitation to join this interactive board. If you have not received an invitation, please contact Kerry Welch at: kpwelch@mail.ucf.edu or Angela Martinez at: ammartin@mail.ucf.edu. All staff members are encouraged to participate in these discussions, and be aware of the process of SDES Reconsidered.

The Core Group met on February 29 to discuss the role of the Learning Guides, the schedule for Learning Guides’ presentations, terminology of SDES Reconsidered, and to continue identifying student learning that occurs within SDES programs and services. Each time we gather to discuss “… the process that we are undertaking to Reconsider SDES, (we) strengthen our commitment to empower students to make meaning of these core values (UCF CREED) that guide our conduct, performance, and decisions.” (Maribeth Ehasz, vice president for SDES, message to SDES staff, February ‘08)

INTEGRITY
I will practice and defend academic and personal honesty.

SCHOLARSHIP
I will cherish and honor learning as a fundamental purpose of my membership in the UCF community.

COMMUNITY
I will promote an open and supportive campus environment by respecting the rights and contributions of every individual.

CREATIVITY
I will use my talents to enrich the human experience.

EXCELLENCE
I will strive toward the highest standards of performance in any endeavor I undertake.

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