Bridging the gap for off-campus residents

Posted on 03. Feb, 2010 by David White in Life

NOEL GRZETIC
LIFE REPORTER

Despite humble beginnings and a lack of resources, student services said Humber is moving forward with its off-campus connection program.
“All the data out there supports that those students who are more connected to their campus are more likely to be successful, and are more likely to graduate,” said Michael Kopinak, director of student success and engagement.
The program, now in its second semester, was created for the 1,500 students living near the North Campus. It is run by two community assistants, similar to residence assistants, who plan social events, send newsletters, and manage a Facebook group.
“Their role is largely to connect with students to give them information about what’s happening on campus,” said Christine Haesler, who helps co-ordinate the program.
Kopinak said although it is part of student services’ $5 million budget, there is no money allocated specifically for the off-campus program.
“This is something we are trying to do within the confines of our budget. It probably will make us go a little into deficit, but we thought the idea was a good one and we thought it was necessary,” said Kopinak.
Jason Hunter, dean of students, agrees it’s important, but is not promising additional funds.
“We need to look at what resources are available to us and how can we best use those resources to meet the most student needs,” said Hunter. “To the extent that the program works well and there seem to be opportunities to grow, then we would put more emphasis on making sure there are more resources.”
The program ran three events last semester, including a holiday gala and a movie night, with a turnout of about 20 to 60 students.
“I think considering it’s been a pilot program with limited resources we’ve done a really exceptional job to get a good start,” said Haesler. “I think we’ll start next year with a real bang.”