The meeting opened with remarks from ACA President Nathan Vickers. Our theme for the year is "Appreciate (our history), Engage (our present), and Shape (our future)." As Nathan pointed out, ACA is 28 years old this year, 200 members strong, with seats on many university-wide committees. "We have a voice."
Our program for September began with a presentation by Rachel Allen and Will Way of the Undergraduate Real Estate Certificate Program (Texas URE). Rachel and Will discussed the history of the program, the fact that it was once a major, and its reestablishment as a certificate program in 2012. For more information, please visit Texas URE.
Patty Micks presented on MAP-Works, a tool that aids faculty and staff in the effort to improve student retention. MAP-Works has developed a survey that identifies at-risk students, diagnoses their problems, and alerts staff and faculty in a more timely fashion so they can offer resources and solutions. It also provides feedback to students on their own behaviors and attitudes that may get in the way of success. Undergraduate Studies has already begun to use the system, and, eventually, other colleges can expect to follow suit.
The September meeting concluded with announcements, including committee sign ups, and the introduction of a number of new advisors. Welcome!
