Please meet Bridget and Jarquetta, the dynamic duo behind Graham Student Affairs. They strive to and truly succeed at providing support and advocacy to students dealing with challenges affecting their university life and academic success. They are always available to help our staff and instructors navigate the numerous and often complicated student policies as well as manage crisis situations. Over the past year, they have very successfully engaged the Graham staff with UChicago partners to develop awareness of campus-wide tools and services available to strengthen the student experience. They do all of this with compassionate impact, kindness, and humor.
Bridget Le Loup Collier and Jarquetta Denise Egeston
WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
Bridget
Born and raised in northwest Indiana
Jarquetta
Englewood, Chicago, IL
Where did you go to school?
Bridget
Ball State University (undergrad), Northern Arizona University (Masters), University of Southern California (doctorate)
Jarquetta
Northern Illinois University and Roosevelt University
What did you study?
Bridget
Psychology, Counseling and Student Affairs, Higher Education Administration
Jarquetta
BS in Business Administration- Entrepreneurship, MSEd in Higher Education Administration, and MBA
How long have you been at Graham?
Bridget
Since May, 2015
Jarquetta
Since October, 2015
What does your job entail?
Bridget
Supporting the success of Graham School Lifelong Learners. My role is to provide broad support to staff, faculty, and students, specifically as it relates to student services and navigating student issues. I consider Deans of Students to be professional problem solvers and resource amplifiers.
Jarquetta
I have the privilege of encouraging student engagement, for retention purposes, through all the programs and services the DoS Office implements. I do my best to help students find a connection to the university community through curricular and co-curricular opportunities.
What is on your Graham wish list?
Bridget
I would like to develop a co-curricular program of distinction for adult/lifelong learners. I have been learning a lot about andragogy (look it up!) and I believe that there are missed opportunities across higher education, specifically in continuing education, to provide curated support and experiences for adult learners.
Jarquetta
To find ways to engage all current and alumni students whether they take/took classes in Hyde Park, at the Gleacher Center, or online.
A “Student Affairs” must know?
Bridget
My motto is, “Bring it to Bridget!” “It” can be defined in many ways. Student Affairs professionals are experts in complexity. We generally excel at navigating the gray, messy areas that come with individuals (students) and communities. I utilize what I call, “Dr. B’s 85-10-5” rule. 85% of students will follow the natural path, and there will be no concern for their progress or well-being. 10% of students may pop up on our radar, and generally an issue can be resolved quickly for them. Then there are the five percenters. The students whose phone numbers you know when it comes up on your phone screen, the sigh that you let out when you see an email pop-up. The five percenters are my bread and butter, and you should learn to recognize them and remember to “Bring it to Bridget”.
Jarquetta
“There’s an office for that!” If a student comes to you with a question you can’t answer, be assured that there are services and programs located in the Graham School and the broader University of Chicago community where students can find the answer to ANY question they have about navigating life as a student and beyond.
A “Student Affairs” don’t?
Bridget
Don’t let opportunities or resources pass you by! The university has a number of opportunities and resources for faculty—you are encouraged to engage with the Graham School and the larger university community.
Jarquetta
If you have any student concerns don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the Dean of Students Office. We are here to help answer any question you may have.
What’s your favorite hobby and/or a surprising fact about you?
Bridget
I am an avid Jazzerciser! I have been Jazzercising for over ten years, and spent five of those years as an instructor. Believe me, it’s not your mother’s Jazzercise! It’s fun, a great stress relief, and a community of people that have become some of my dearest and most supportive friends.
Jarquetta
I’ve traveled to twenty countries. I’m an avid Bulls fan and I started a tradition of going to the regular season home opener.
AGENDA
Note from the Program Coordinator
BUILDING THE PDP COMMUNITY: What’s happening outside of the classroom?
New PDP Faculty and Staff
PDP STATE OF AFFAIRS 2015/2016: Mike Niederpruem’s update
STUDENT PROFILE: Aurélie Desgardin
FACULTY INTERVIEW: Genevieve Long
Twenty Facts on Student Affairs
