The schedule of instruction, holidays, and key dates for a private liberal arts institution in Winter Park, Florida, provides a structured framework for the academic year. This framework typically includes the start and end dates of semesters, registration periods, add/drop deadlines, examination periods, commencement ceremonies, and breaks. An example would be the designated period for fall semester final examinations or the date when spring semester registration opens.
A clearly defined temporal structure offers numerous advantages to students, faculty, and staff. It facilitates planning for coursework, research, and personal commitments. By providing predictable timelines, it allows for efficient allocation of resources and reduces potential conflicts. Historically, academic calendars have evolved from simple schedules to complex systems reflecting the increasing demands and complexities of modern higher education. These structured schedules are essential for maintaining institutional order and ensuring the smooth operation of the academic process.
This structured timeline impacts various aspects of college life, including course selection, financial aid disbursement, housing arrangements, and extracurricular activities. Understanding its nuances is crucial for successfully navigating the academic journey. Further exploration will delve into specific components, highlighting key dates and deadlines, and offering practical guidance for effective utilization.
1. Semester Start/End Dates
Semester start and end dates form the foundational structure of the Rollins College academic calendar. These dates delineate the period of instruction for each term, influencing all other scheduled events and deadlines. The academic calendar’s effectiveness hinges on the clear establishment of these dates, creating the framework within which all academic activities occur. For example, the fall semester’s start date determines when faculty begin teaching, students arrive on campus, and residence halls open. The end date signals the commencement of final examinations, the conclusion of the term, and the beginning of the winter break. Without these clearly defined parameters, the academic year would lack the necessary structure for organized operation.
Understanding semester start and end dates is crucial for successful academic planning. Students rely on these dates to organize their study schedules, arrange travel, and secure housing. Faculty use these dates to prepare syllabi, schedule classes, and plan coursework. Administrative departments depend on these dates to manage registration, process financial aid, and coordinate campus resources. For instance, knowing the spring semester’s end date allows students to make summer job or internship arrangements and allows faculty to finalize grades and prepare for the subsequent term. Failure to adhere to these dates can lead to missed deadlines, academic setbacks, and logistical complications.
In conclusion, semester start and end dates are fundamental components of the Rollins College academic calendar, providing the framework for a well-organized and efficient academic year. These dates serve as anchors for all other academic activities, enabling effective planning for students, faculty, and staff. Accurate awareness and adherence to these dates are essential for successful navigation of the academic experience at Rollins College.
2. Registration Periods
Registration periods represent critical junctures within the Rollins College academic calendar. These designated times allow students to formally enroll in courses for upcoming semesters. The placement and duration of registration periods within the broader calendar significantly influence student access to desired courses and impact overall academic planning. Registration periods typically precede the start of each semester, providing sufficient time for course selection, advisor consultations, and necessary administrative processing. A well-structured registration period, with clearly defined start and end dates, minimizes confusion and facilitates efficient enrollment. For example, early registration access might be granted to seniors, ensuring timely completion of degree requirements, followed by access for juniors, sophomores, and finally, incoming freshmen. The staggered approach allows equitable access while managing course availability.
Understanding registration period timelines and procedures is essential for successful course enrollment. Failure to register within the designated timeframe can result in restricted course availability, late fees, or inability to enroll in desired classes. Practical considerations, such as meeting with academic advisors to discuss course selections, understanding prerequisites, and resolving any holds on student accounts, become paramount during this period. The availability of online registration systems further streamlines the process, offering students the convenience of enrolling from anywhere. However, technical difficulties or system overloads during peak registration times can pose challenges. Therefore, awareness of registration deadlines and proactive engagement with the registration system are crucial.
In summary, registration periods constitute a crucial component of the Rollins College academic calendar. Their strategic placement and effective management contribute significantly to a smooth and organized academic experience. Successful navigation of registration requires understanding deadlines, procedures, and potential challenges. Ultimately, effective engagement with registration periods empowers students to curate their academic journey and ensure timely progress toward degree completion.
3. Add/Drop Deadlines
Add/drop deadlines represent crucial inflection points within the Rollins College academic calendar, demarcating the timeframe within which students can modify their course selections. These deadlines serve as regulatory mechanisms, ensuring course stability while allowing students flexibility to adjust their academic schedules. The placement of add/drop deadlines within the calendar is strategically determined to balance student needs with institutional requirements. Early deadlines for dropping courses without penalty minimize disruption to class rosters and faculty planning. Later deadlines for adding courses provide students time to assess workload and make informed decisions based on initial class experiences. For instance, a student realizing a course’s content significantly differs from initial expectations can utilize the add/drop period to make necessary adjustments without academic penalty. Conversely, exceeding the deadline could result in a withdrawn course appearing on the transcript, potentially impacting GPA and academic progress.
Understanding add/drop deadlines is paramount for effective academic planning and course management. These deadlines often vary by course type, academic program, and semester. Students must consult the official Rollins College academic calendar to ascertain specific dates applicable to their enrolled courses. Proactive engagement with academic advisors can provide valuable guidance regarding course selection and potential adjustments within the add/drop period. Failure to adhere to these deadlines can have significant academic ramifications, limiting flexibility and potentially jeopardizing academic standing. Furthermore, understanding refund policies associated with dropped courses is essential for financial planning. These policies often tie refund amounts to the date of course withdrawal relative to the established add/drop deadlines.
In conclusion, add/drop deadlines constitute a critical component of the Rollins College academic calendar. These dates afford students a limited window of opportunity to refine their academic schedules while preserving institutional order. Careful attention to these deadlines, combined with proactive academic advising, enables informed decision-making and contributes significantly to a successful academic journey. Navigating these deadlines effectively empowers students to optimize their course load, manage academic progress, and maintain financial awareness.
4. Examination Periods
Examination periods represent a crucial component of the Rollins College academic calendar, serving as culminating assessments of student learning for each semester. These designated periods are strategically positioned within the calendar, typically following the conclusion of instructional weeks. The relationship between examination periods and the overall academic calendar is one of interdependence. The academic calendar dictates the timeframe for instruction, and examination periods provide the structured opportunity for evaluating the knowledge and skills acquired during that timeframe. The timing and duration of examination periods influence various aspects of academic life, including study schedules, faculty grading timelines, and the subsequent release of academic results. For instance, the designated examination period for the fall semester might span a week, allowing sufficient time for administering exams across various disciplines and accommodating diverse course schedules. The designated period also influences library hours, campus resource availability, and student support services tailored to examination-related needs. The structured nature of these periods ensures standardized assessment practices across the institution, contributing to academic integrity and equitable evaluation.
The importance of examination periods as a component of the Rollins College academic calendar extends beyond their evaluative function. These periods serve as significant milestones in the academic journey, marking the transition between instructional periods and breaks. They also represent opportunities for students to consolidate learning, demonstrate academic growth, and apply knowledge acquired throughout the semester. Effective preparation for examination periods requires time management, focused study, and utilization of available academic resources. Challenges such as exam anxiety, time constraints, and personal circumstances can impact student performance during these periods. The college often provides resources and support services to address these challenges, including tutoring, counseling, and study skills workshops. The outcomes of examinations contribute significantly to final course grades, impacting academic standing and progression toward degree completion. Therefore, understanding the significance of examination periods and engaging with available support systems are crucial for academic success.
In summary, examination periods constitute a vital element of the Rollins College academic calendar, providing a structured framework for assessing student learning and marking key transitions within the academic year. The strategic placement and management of these periods influence various aspects of academic life, impacting students, faculty, and administrative processes. Successful navigation of examination periods requires effective preparation, utilization of available resources, and awareness of the broader implications for academic progress. Understanding the integral role of examination periods within the Rollins College academic calendar contributes to a more comprehensive and successful academic experience.
5. Commencement Ceremonies
Commencement ceremonies represent a pivotal culmination of the academic journey at Rollins College, signifying the successful completion of degree requirements. These ceremonies hold a prominent position within the Rollins College academic calendar, marking the formal transition from student to graduate. The placement of commencement within the calendar is deliberate, typically occurring at the end of the spring semester, following the conclusion of final examinations and the processing of final grades. This timing allows graduating students to fully participate in academic activities, fulfill all program obligations, and transition seamlessly into post-graduate pursuits. The relationship between commencement and the academic calendar is one of symbolic closure, representing the fulfillment of the academic timeline outlined within the calendar structure. For instance, the commencement date dictates the deadline for degree conferral, impacting transcript updates, diploma distribution, and the official recognition of graduates. The date also influences logistical arrangements for the ceremony itself, including venue booking, guest invitations, and regalia preparations. The significance of the commencement date extends beyond the individual graduate, impacting families, faculty, and the broader college community. Commencement serves as a celebration of academic achievement and a formal acknowledgment of the institution’s role in fostering intellectual growth.
The practical implications of understanding the placement of commencement ceremonies within the Rollins College academic calendar are substantial. Graduates rely on the established date to finalize post-graduation plans, including employment start dates, graduate school enrollment, and relocation arrangements. Families and guests utilize the date to coordinate travel and accommodations, ensuring participation in this significant milestone. The college itself leverages the commencement date to organize logistical aspects of the ceremony, allocate resources, and communicate effectively with graduating students and their families. Furthermore, understanding the academic requirements and deadlines leading up to commencement is crucial for ensuring eligibility to participate. Failing to meet specific deadlines, such as submitting final grades or resolving outstanding financial obligations, could impact a student’s ability to graduate and participate in the ceremony. Therefore, awareness of the commencement date and its associated deadlines is essential for a seamless transition from academic studies to post-graduate life.
In summary, commencement ceremonies hold a place of profound significance within the Rollins College academic calendar, representing the culmination of years of academic dedication and the transition to a new chapter. The strategic placement of commencement within the calendar influences various logistical and personal arrangements for graduates, families, and the institution. A comprehensive understanding of the commencement date, its connection to the academic calendar, and associated deadlines is essential for successful navigation of this crucial transition and the celebration of academic achievement.
6. Academic Breaks
Academic breaks constitute essential periods within the Rollins College academic calendar, providing structured interruptions to the regular rhythm of classes and coursework. These breaks serve various purposes, contributing to student well-being, academic rejuvenation, and the overall effectiveness of the learning process. Understanding the strategic placement and function of academic breaks within the Rollins College calendar is crucial for effective academic planning and maximizing the benefits these periods offer.
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Respite and Rejuvenation
Academic breaks offer students essential opportunities for respite from the demands of continuous study. These periods allow for physical and mental rejuvenation, mitigating the potential for academic burnout and promoting overall well-being. Examples include Thanksgiving break, providing a brief period for family connection and relaxation, and spring break, offering a longer interval for travel, personal pursuits, or simply unwinding. The incorporation of these breaks within the Rollins College academic calendar acknowledges the importance of balanced lifestyles and recognizes the impact of rest on academic performance.
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Travel and Exploration
Longer academic breaks, such as winter and summer breaks, often provide extended periods for travel and exploration. These opportunities can enrich students’ educational experiences through exposure to different cultures, environments, and perspectives. Students might utilize these breaks for international travel, internships in other cities, or volunteer work in different communities. The extended timeframe allows for immersive experiences that complement classroom learning and contribute to personal growth. The Rollins College academic calendar strategically positions these extended breaks to facilitate such opportunities, recognizing the value of experiential learning and personal development.
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Academic Catch-Up and Preparation
Shorter breaks, such as fall break or mid-semester reading days, provide crucial time for students to catch up on coursework, review material, and prepare for upcoming assessments. These periods allow for focused study, project completion, and consultation with faculty. For instance, a fall break might provide the necessary time to complete a research paper or prepare for mid-term examinations. The inclusion of these shorter breaks within the Rollins College academic calendar recognizes the cyclical nature of academic work and the need for dedicated periods of focused effort. They represent strategic pauses within the semester’s rhythm, allowing students to consolidate learning and prepare for subsequent academic challenges.
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Administrative and Institutional Functions
Academic breaks also serve important administrative and institutional functions. These periods allow faculty time for grading, curriculum development, and research activities. Administrative staff utilize these breaks for tasks such as processing student records, preparing for upcoming registration periods, and conducting maintenance activities on campus. These periods are essential for the smooth operation of the institution and contribute to the overall effectiveness of academic programs. The integration of these administrative considerations within the Rollins College academic calendar reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of various institutional functions and the need for dedicated time for non-instructional activities.
In conclusion, academic breaks play a multifaceted role within the Rollins College academic calendar. They provide essential periods for rest and rejuvenation, opportunities for travel and personal exploration, dedicated time for academic catch-up and preparation, and facilitate necessary administrative functions. The strategic placement and utilization of these breaks contribute significantly to the overall effectiveness of the academic experience, promoting student well-being, supporting institutional operations, and enhancing the learning process. Understanding the various functions of academic breaks empowers students to effectively leverage these periods for personal and academic growth within the broader context of the Rollins College academic calendar.
7. Holidays
Holidays represent significant interruptions within the Rollins College academic calendar, serving as designated periods of non-instructional activity. These periods are determined by a combination of federal, state, and institutional observances, reflecting cultural, historical, and religious traditions. The integration of holidays within the academic calendar impacts the scheduling of classes, availability of campus resources, and the overall rhythm of academic life. For example, federal holidays such as Labor Day or Thanksgiving result in campus closures and suspension of classes, influencing student and faculty schedules. Institutional holidays, specific to Rollins College, might include Founder’s Day or designated reading days, providing opportunities for community engagement or focused academic preparation. Understanding the specific holidays observed by Rollins College is essential for effective academic planning, enabling students and faculty to anticipate interruptions and adjust schedules accordingly. The strategic placement of holidays within the calendar reflects the institution’s commitment to both academic progress and the observance of significant cultural and historical events.
The practical implications of understanding holiday observances within the Rollins College academic calendar are numerous. Students benefit from knowing holiday dates to plan travel, personal commitments, and study schedules. Faculty incorporate holiday closures into course syllabi, ensuring continuity of instruction and appropriate allocation of workload. Administrative departments adjust operational hours and service availability in accordance with holiday schedules, ensuring efficient functioning of campus resources. Furthermore, holidays can impact academic deadlines, with assignments and examinations often scheduled around these periods. For instance, a major assignment’s due date might be adjusted to accommodate a holiday weekend, providing students additional time for completion. Failure to account for holiday closures could lead to missed deadlines, scheduling conflicts, and disruption of academic progress. Therefore, awareness of holiday observances and their impact on the academic calendar is crucial for successful navigation of the Rollins College academic year.
In summary, holidays represent essential considerations within the Rollins College academic calendar. These designated periods of non-instructional time influence various aspects of campus life, impacting student schedules, faculty planning, and administrative operations. The strategic placement of holidays reflects a balance between academic progress and the observance of significant cultural and historical events. A comprehensive understanding of holiday observances within the Rollins College academic calendar empowers students, faculty, and staff to navigate the academic year effectively, ensuring successful planning and minimizing potential disruptions.
8. Important Deadlines
Important deadlines represent critical junctures within the Rollins College academic calendar, serving as pivotal markers for various academic activities and administrative processes. These deadlines govern a range of actions, from course registration and add/drop periods to financial aid applications and graduation clearance. The relationship between important deadlines and the academic calendar is one of intricate interdependence. The calendar provides the overarching framework, while deadlines delineate specific moments within that framework requiring action. The placement of deadlines within the calendar reflects a carefully orchestrated sequence, ensuring the smooth progression of the academic year and facilitating timely completion of required tasks. For example, the deadline for submitting housing applications typically precedes the start of the semester, allowing sufficient time for room assignments and logistical arrangements. Similarly, the deadline for filing graduation applications occurs well in advance of commencement, enabling timely processing of degrees and preparation of official transcripts. Understanding the rationale behind deadline placement and their interconnectedness within the academic calendar is crucial for successful navigation of the Rollins College academic experience.
The practical significance of adhering to important deadlines within the Rollins College academic calendar cannot be overstated. Failure to meet deadlines can result in a range of consequences, from late fees and restricted course access to ineligibility for graduation. For instance, missing the deadline for adding a course could prevent a student from fulfilling degree requirements within the desired timeframe. Similarly, failing to meet the financial aid application deadline could jeopardize access to essential funding. Awareness of deadlines and proactive engagement with the academic calendar are essential for mitigating potential risks and ensuring smooth academic progress. Utilizing resources such as online calendars, email notifications, and academic advising appointments can assist students in tracking deadlines and fulfilling obligations in a timely manner. The effective management of deadlines fosters a sense of organization, reduces stress, and contributes significantly to a positive and successful academic experience.
In conclusion, important deadlines constitute integral components of the Rollins College academic calendar, serving as crucial signposts guiding students through various academic and administrative processes. The strategic placement of deadlines within the calendar reflects a carefully designed sequence aimed at facilitating timely completion of required tasks and ensuring the smooth flow of the academic year. Understanding the rationale behind deadline placement and the potential consequences of missed deadlines is paramount for successful navigation of the academic journey. Proactive engagement with the academic calendar, coupled with effective time management strategies, empowers students to meet deadlines consistently, minimize potential setbacks, and maximize their academic potential at Rollins College.
9. Key Academic Dates
Key academic dates represent the essential milestones within the Rollins College academic calendar, demarcating critical periods for academic activities and administrative processes. These dates form the core structure around which the entire academic year revolves. The relationship between key academic dates and the Rollins College academic calendar is one of inherent interconnectedness. The calendar provides the comprehensive framework, while key academic dates highlight the pivotal moments requiring specific actions or marking significant transitions. Cause and effect relationships exist between these dates and subsequent academic activities. For instance, the first day of classes (a key date) triggers the commencement of instruction, influencing attendance requirements, syllabus distribution, and the initiation of coursework. Similarly, the last day of classes (another key date) signifies the end of instruction and the beginning of the examination period, impacting study schedules and faculty grading timelines. Real-life examples include the add/drop deadline, which dictates the timeframe for modifying course selections, and the registration period, which determines when students can enroll in courses for the upcoming semester. Understanding these key dates and their implications is fundamental to successful academic planning.
The practical significance of understanding key academic dates lies in their influence on various aspects of academic life. Students rely on these dates to structure their study schedules, plan for breaks and holidays, and meet critical deadlines for assignments, examinations, and administrative tasks. Faculty utilize key dates to organize course content, schedule assessments, and manage grading timelines. Administrative departments depend on these dates to coordinate registration, process financial aid, and ensure the smooth functioning of campus resources. For example, knowing the payment deadline for tuition and fees prevents late penalties and ensures continued enrollment. Similarly, awareness of the withdrawal deadline allows students to make informed decisions about course changes without incurring academic penalties. The effective utilization of key academic dates promotes proactive planning, reduces the likelihood of missed deadlines, and contributes to a more organized and successful academic experience.
In summary, key academic dates function as crucial guideposts within the Rollins College academic calendar, shaping the academic year and influencing a wide range of activities. These dates are not isolated events but rather interconnected components of a larger framework, each influencing subsequent actions and contributing to the overall academic experience. Understanding the significance of key academic dates, their relationship to the broader academic calendar, and their practical implications empowers students, faculty, and staff to navigate the academic year effectively, promoting timely completion of tasks, minimizing potential disruptions, and maximizing opportunities for academic success.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Rollins College academic calendar, providing concise and informative responses to facilitate effective academic planning.
Question 1: Where can the official Rollins College academic calendar be accessed?
The official academic calendar is published on the Rollins College website, typically under the “Academics” or “Registrar” section. It is advisable to consult this official source for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Question 2: How are changes or updates to the academic calendar communicated?
The Rollins College Registrar’s Office typically communicates any changes or updates to the academic calendar through official channels, such as email notifications, website announcements, and student portal updates. Regularly checking these communication channels is recommended.
Question 3: What are the implications of failing to meet a deadline outlined in the academic calendar?
Consequences for missed deadlines vary depending on the specific deadline. They may include late fees, inability to register for courses, withdrawal penalties, or ineligibility for graduation. Consulting the academic calendar and relevant college policies clarifies specific implications.
Question 4: How can students effectively manage multiple deadlines and key dates outlined in the academic calendar?
Utilizing personal planning tools, such as digital calendars, reminder apps, or physical planners, can assist in managing multiple deadlines. Regularly reviewing the academic calendar and setting personal reminders are recommended practices.
Question 5: What resources are available to students who have questions or require clarification regarding the academic calendar?
The Rollins College Registrar’s Office and academic advisors are primary resources for addressing questions related to the academic calendar. Contacting these offices directly or scheduling advising appointments can provide necessary clarification and guidance.
Question 6: How does the academic calendar influence academic planning for students studying abroad or participating in off-campus programs?
Students participating in study abroad or off-campus programs must consider both the Rollins College academic calendar and the calendar of the host institution or program provider. Coordination between the two calendars is crucial for ensuring seamless integration of coursework and credit transfer.
Proactive engagement with the Rollins College academic calendar is essential for successful academic planning. Understanding key dates, deadlines, and relevant policies empowers students to navigate their academic journey effectively.
For further information and detailed guidance on specific academic policies and procedures, consultation with the Rollins College Registrar’s Office or academic advisors is strongly encouraged.
Tips for Navigating the Rollins College Academic Calendar
Effective engagement with the academic calendar is crucial for a successful experience at Rollins College. The following tips provide guidance for navigating key dates and deadlines.
Tip 1: Proactive Planning: Regularly consult the official academic calendar, noting key dates and deadlines relevant to enrolled courses and academic program. Integrate these dates into personal planning tools (digital calendars, physical planners). Proactive planning prevents missed deadlines and facilitates timely completion of academic requirements.
Tip 2: Early Registration: Register for courses as early as possible within the designated registration period. Early registration increases the likelihood of securing desired courses and preferred course times, especially for high-demand classes or limited-capacity seminars.
Tip 3: Advising Consultations: Meet with academic advisors before and during registration periods to discuss course selections, ensure alignment with degree requirements, and address any academic concerns. Advisor consultations facilitate informed decision-making regarding course load and academic progress.
Tip 4: Add/Drop Period Awareness: Understand add/drop deadlines and their implications. Utilize this period strategically to adjust course selections based on initial class experiences or evolving academic interests. Awareness of refund policies associated with dropped courses is crucial for financial planning.
Tip 5: Examination Period Preparation: Note examination period dates and times well in advance. Develop a study schedule incorporating adequate preparation time for each examination. Utilize available academic resources, such as tutoring services or study groups, to enhance exam readiness.
Tip 6: Commencement Ceremony Awareness: Graduating students should familiarize themselves with commencement ceremony dates, deadlines for graduation applications, and associated requirements. Timely submission of necessary documentation ensures participation in the ceremony and timely conferral of degrees.
Tip 7: Holiday and Break Utilization: Plan activities for academic breaks and holidays strategically, considering opportunities for rest, travel, personal pursuits, and academic catch-up. Balanced utilization of these periods enhances overall well-being and supports academic success.
Tip 8: Notification Preferences: Ensure notification preferences are set to receive timely updates and reminders regarding key academic dates and deadlines. Utilize official communication channels from the Registrar’s Office and academic advisors to stay informed about any changes or important announcements.
Consistent application of these tips promotes effective academic planning, minimizes potential disruptions, and contributes significantly to a successful and rewarding academic experience at Rollins College.
By understanding and utilizing the academic calendar effectively, individuals can optimize their academic journey and achieve their educational goals.
The Rollins College Academic Calendar
The Rollins College academic calendar provides a structured framework essential for navigating the complexities of academic life. From semester start and end dates to registration periods, add/drop deadlines, examination schedules, commencement ceremonies, and holiday observances, the calendar dictates the rhythm of the academic year. Understanding its nuances, including key dates, deadlines, and their interrelationships, is crucial for effective planning, timely completion of requirements, and successful academic progress. Effective utilization of the calendar empowers students to optimize course selections, manage workloads, and balance academic pursuits with personal commitments. It provides a roadmap for faculty to organize course content, schedule assessments, and facilitate student learning. Furthermore, the calendar serves as a vital resource for administrative departments, enabling efficient coordination of campus resources and timely processing of academic records.
The Rollins College academic calendar represents more than just a schedule; it embodies the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and student success. Its careful construction and consistent application contribute to a well-organized and efficient academic environment, fostering a culture of proactive planning and timely execution. Engagement with the academic calendar is not merely a matter of compliance but a strategic imperative for achieving academic goals and maximizing the Rollins College experience. This comprehensive understanding transforms the calendar from a static document into a dynamic tool, empowering individuals to navigate their academic journey with confidence and purpose. Ultimately, the Rollins College academic calendar serves as a compass, guiding students, faculty, and staff toward a successful and fulfilling academic year.
