Annual Report 2001-2002 - University of Rio Grande

Student Affairs
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Academic Affairs
This year was one of academic growth for Rio
Grande as new programs were developed for future
implementation.
▼ In response to the growing number of adult
students and the need for short-term employment
training, new one-year certificate programs in
welding, pharmacy technician and medical
transcriptionist were added to the curriculum.
▼ Programs in the planning stages include prehospital
emergency services, radiological
technology and an education paraprofessional
associate program.
▼ In order to provide another avenue of access to our
students, faculty continued to develop and teach
on-line courses to enable students to fulfill
requirements despite scheduling conflicts. Courses
in history, writing, philosophy, nursing and
graduate courses are being offered.
▼ In celebration of Martin Luther
King Day, Rio Grande
conducted a community
celebration featuring Dr.
Robert Lawson ’73 as the
keynote speaker, performances
by the Rio Grande Chorale
and a Community Choir
directed by Christian Scott ’96 and an essay
contest sponsored by the Retired Senior Volunteer
Program.
Student Services
The Student Services Division worked diligently with
students and administrators to increase student
participation and academic success.
▼ Students were provided with an expanded Student
Handbook that included not only rules and
regulations, but also departmental and staffing
4 2001-2002 Annual Report
information, a daily planner, time management
tips, and test-taking information and techniques.
▼ The nationally-recognized safety training
program “The Great Escape,” a realistic
simulation of the effects of smoke during a
fire, was demonstrated in each freshmen
residence hall. The program is informative,
educational, and fun. Above all, the training
has contributed to a decrease in residence hall
violations involving smoking, fire alarms, or
candles.
▼ The Student Programming Board established
a permanent office with increased office
hours where students assist with ideas and
gain hands-on experience in producing and
promoting activities on campus. The monthly
“Movie Night at the Cinema,” one of the
most popular activities sponsored by Student
Programming, is attended by approximately
200 students who are admitted at no charge to
the movie of their choice at the local theater.
▼ “The Red Zone,” an on-campus student
recreation center, boasts new carpeting, a
newer pool table, the latest electronic games,
karaoke, and other activities that enhance
student living and learning.
▼ Following a series of discussions throughout
the year, it has been proposed that, effective
Fall Semester 2003-2004, all residence halls
be smoke-free. Alternative activities and
information about smoking cessation will be
ongoing for students.
▼ Several fraternities and sororities contributed
to the Alumni Memorial Bell Tower and
continue to support charitable fundraising
activities on campus and in the community.