1. It just takes one...
One Administrative Assistant...
Students visiting the Technology and Computer Science (TECS) Advising Center are
likely to be greeted by one of the friendliest and caring people on campus. Ms. Cindy
Wadford, Administrative Assistant in the TECS Advising Center, is that “ONE.”
Surrounded by a student friendly lobby, family photos, and ECU memorabilia, Ms.
Wadford welcomes students as they come for an advising appointment and has
become the ECU “mom” to many.
Just ask Tyler Gunn, a senior Construction Management
student from Raleigh, about the importance of ONE. As a
freshman, Tyler was feeling a bit overwhelmed. There were just
so many….many people, many rules and regulations, many
courses, many activities, many distractions and, frankly, so
many choices. Thankfully, Tyler met Ms. Wadford who helped
Ms. Cindy Wadford sharing a
moment with Tyler Gunn
to guide him through his academic journey. During his four
years at ECU, Ms. Wadford cheered Tyler on when he did well
and offered words of advice when he needed it the most. Ms. Wadford was someone
that Tyler could count on to be there for him. She always “took that important minute”
to help students because of her strong belief in seeing each student succeed. So, when
Tyler was recently asked, “who is the ONE person” at ECU who has had the most
impact for him?” His immediate reply was Ms. Wadford!
Did You Know?
Students, particularly those new to the university, are frequently overwhelmed by
all that needs to be assimilated and finding that ONE to help navigate the journey
is a key to keeping talented students at ECU. In order for students to persist to
graduation, there are three areas that are critical for their success. Each student
must have a “sense of”:
• Belonging – Does the student feel a “fit” and an important part of the culture?
• Competence – Does the student believe that he/she can meet academic
requirements?
• Progression – Does the student see a path to graduation?
What You Can Do...
Be the person who takes that “important minute” to help a student make the
connection to ECU.
Jayne Geissler, PhD
Executive Director, Retention Programs and Enrollment Services
...to make a difference in a student’s life.
Each of us owns this responsibility.
