Vol. 18, No. 28	April 22, 1999

Two-way street

Advisers provide more than guidance to student groups

The 170 registered student organizations on campus are as diverse as the UD student body itself. Whether it's the Linux Users Group, Tae Kwan Do Club, Clowns for Medicine, fraternities and sororities, Habitat for Humanity, Accounting Students Association or E-52 Student Theatre, each must have a constitution and bylaws, register with the Activities and Programs Office and have a University adviser.

University advisers must be full-time faculty or staff and must become familiar with their respective organizations' constitutions, bylaws and objectives. They are expected to have some knowledge of what their groups are doing, attend some meetings and activities, oversee spending, act as mediators, see that they are following UD policies and procedures and provide continuity.

Advisers can either roll up their sleeves and get involved, stand back and give students space or do a little of both.

Following are comments from just a few of the many who donate their time, expertise, experience and encouragement.

Karen Aniunas
Assistant dean for student services,
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Organization: Agricultural College Council
Advising since 1990

"It's a great way to stay
in touch with the students
that make up this University, while guiding them in valuable 'real world' experiences. Getting to know them in the classroom or lab is one thing, but when you work with them on an informal basis, it levels the playing ground. You get to know each other as people rather than student and teacher."

Dan L. Boulet
Assistant dean for undergraduate affairs, College of Engineering
Organizations

Current: Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship, Vision, Students for Life

Previous: Society of American Military Engineers
Advising since 1990

"I was impressed by the desire of many excellent students to do more than simply complete a degree. They wanted to make a difference, make life better. I wanted to help them and contribute in some way towards their goals."

Patricia E. Davis
Associate director,
Information Technologies/ Management Information Services
Organizations: Gospel Choir, Warriors for Christ
Advising since 1990

"I enjoy interacting with and supporting young people as they grow spiritually, emotionally and academically. It is truly a joy to watch with them as their participation brings about a greater commitment and a greater sense of responsibility and accountability to their organization and each other. Don't underestimate what you have to offer. If you are interested in the future of this generation, this country and this world, then lend your time to give an organization the benefit of your experience and support."

Julie Demgen
Program coordinator, Student Centers
Organizations

Current: Commuter and Off-Campus Organizations, Returning Adult Student Association and Senior Class

Previous: Student Program Association, Student Center Programs Advisory Board, Senior Class
Advising since 1980

"I enjoy mentoring students and continuing that relationship after they graduate. Many of my former students say that the things they learned by being involved in student activities helped them in their careers. To have that kind of effect on students, be prepared to be thoroughly involved. You can't be an adviser by just signing forms. Attend the group's meetings and activities, meet regularly with officers, show interest but remember you're an adviser not a member–remain objective."

Vernese Edghill
Director, Center for Black Culture and Multicultural Programs
Organization: Cultural Program Advisory Board
Advising since 1989

"Have a great sense of humor! Be patient, flexible and most of all committed. Students pay close attention to their role models, so we must practice what we preach. The reward is being one of the influences that help bring out a student's creativity, leadership ability and potential. The most satisfying experience is seeing these student leaders become community minded, academically outstanding and successful at their careers."

Louis L. Hirsh
Senior associate director, Office of Admissions
Organization: E-52 Student Theatre

Advising since 1987

"This group is very self-sufficient. Members select the plays, cast them, produce and direct them, do their own publicity and design and build their own sets. My role is to provide encouragement, go to their productions and to be a resource. I've helped the group in its dealings with various University offices and if I am asked, I give advice."

Sherry Kitto
Professor, plant and soil sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Organizations

Current: Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences, Sigma Alpha

Previous: Alpha Zeta

Advising since 1989

"As an adviser to a club, I get the opportunity to see students attain greater confidence in themselves and grow as leaders. I think students and people in general perform to the best of their abilities when they know someone is in their corner cheering for them."

Raymond Wolters
Thomas Muncy Keith Professor of History, College of Arts and Science

Organization: College Republicans, Young Americans for Freedom

Advising since 1989

"Advising these groups has been an enjoyable experience. In some ways, it has rejuvenated me. For the students, I think participation has also been beneficial. They can learn a lot from their activities--whether it be turning out the vote on election day, making plans for a visiting speaker or debating and discussing the issues of the day."

Faculty and staff interested in serving as an adviser to a student organization should call the Activities & Program Office at 831-2428. A list of registered student organizations can be found on the web at <http://www.udel.edu/RSO/stuorg.html>.

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