Welcome back and happy spring semester, Pioneers! We hope you all had a wonderful, restful break and are feeling recharged. The new year and new semester can be both exciting and overwhelming, and we highly encourage you to practice self-compassion and self-care this week as we sink into our new routines and schedules.
As addressed in our news section this week, some major changes were made to the university right before we went on break. Two faculty positions were dissolved, including the director of one of the most important campus offices. Not only was Molly McClelland’s position a full-time job, but she was taking on another full-time position advising School of Comm students as the university continued to look for a new one. McClelland’s assistant was also let go. All these responsibilities are now placed on Angelo Gargaro, who already has a full-time job directing Student Conduct.
While restructuring roles for jobs happens quite often, and even more so with President Brussalis’ new strategic plan for the university, it is imperative that the staff and faculty’s mental health be at the forefront of all decisions. Increasing employee workload is not sustainable, as it leads to burnout and higher turnover rates and creates a precedent of taking advantage of the employees who agree to increased work. Yes, a university is a business, but it is possible to run a humane one.
Our administration needs to have consistent and open communication with staff, faculty and students about the future of the university. Announcing that two key positions were exonerated in an email only to staff and faculty right before everyone went on break for three weeks is a bit questionable, to say the least.
It can be very overwhelming to navigate the intricacies of academic advising, and it is easy to feel like you are all alone, but in the midst of these changes there are still plenty of people who can help. The Center for Student Success, now the University Advising Center, is open Monday through Friday 8:30 to 4:30 on the fifth floor of West Penn. Remember that you do have faculty advisors as well, and do not be afraid to ask others for help. Stay strong, Pioneers! 2024 can still be your year!