Student Services: Focus and Commitment
Erskine College is equipping the next generation for lives of service. That kind of mission requires a staff with tireless dedication to students. Over the past year or two, Student Services has welcomed new staff members and modified staff members’ roles as it continues serving Erskine students with renewed passion and focus.
Student Services has seen some changes recently. In the summer of 2013 Jessie Estep ’07 became Coordinator for Residential Learning and Development. In early 2014 Trent Payne was named Coordinator for Student Transitions in a retooling of Erskine’s Career Services program. In June, Kaley Lindquist joined the staff as Coordinator for Campus Life.
The summer of 2014 also saw the transition of Vice President for Student Services Dr. Robyn Agnew ’84 out of Student Services after devoting 24 years to her alma mater. In the wake of Agnew’s departure, Dr. Bryan Rush ’98 moved from Dean of Students to Vice President for Student Services and Dean of Students.
Jennifer Cooley continues to serve as Administrative Assistant, helping to plan logistics of campus life activities, retreat sessions, and staff development, and often serving as a personal mentor for Erskine students.
Rush says the office is “focused as a group,” and operates in a way that is both missional and cutting-edge. He notes that through the office’s personnel changes, Erskine students have remained responsive and engaged. “Students enjoy being here,” he says. “They enjoy being a part of campus life and are growing holistically.”
Jessie Estep coordinates the Academic Success Program and leads the Residence Life team of Resident Directors and Student Life Assistants.
Trent Payne organized Erskine Escape, a pre-orientation leadership experience for incoming freshman students prior to their arrival on campus. This event drew a record-breaking number of participants this year.
Kaley Lindquist has worked to reinvent the Fleet Fanatics program to spread Erskine pride. She has organized a number of campus events to keep students engaged in the community. She also works with the Parent Advisory Council to develop fund-raisers for students.
Student Services is better equipped and more excited than ever to see Erskine students grow and succeed. Despite the challenges Erskine faces this year, each member of the Student Services staff believes in the purpose of Erskine College and is committed to helping Erskine grow and provide for students’ needs.
