CR 2.10 Student Support Services

The institution provides student support programs, services, and activities consistent with its mission that are intended to promote student learning and enhance the development of its students.

Compliance ___ Non-Compliance

Narrative

As stated in its mission , “Savannah State University, the oldest public historically black university in the State of Georgia, develops productive members of a global society through high quality instruction, scholarship, research, service and community involvement. The University fosters engaged learning and personal growth in a student-centered environment that celebrates the African American legacy while nurturing a diverse student body. Savannah State University offers graduate and undergraduate studies including nationally accredited programs in the liberal arts, the sciences and the professions.”

Savannah State University provides student support programs, services, and activities consistent with its mission that are intended to promote student learning and enhance the development of its students. How well a student adapts to college, academically and socially, has a great impact on retention and success. Both academic and social engagement achieve the mission of learning and personal growth for SSU students. These programs are offered through the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. The Division of Student Affairs identifies, develops and offers programs, services, and activities that are aligned with the university's mission and that reflect our Institutional Strategic Priorities.

An essential part of supporting the university's mission is ensuring that the programs and services of the Office of Academic Affairs and the Division of Student Affairs meet the needs of the university's student population. A total of 89.2% of the men and women in the student population of Savannah State are from the state of Georgia, with a significant number from the metro Savannah area (25.9%), and an even greater number from the metro Atlanta area (35.6%). Out-of-state students account for 13%, and international students 1%. SSU is 96% undergraduate, and 60% female. Although still serving primarily African Americans (84.4%), the institution has increased diversity in its student population with 6.5% Hispanic, 4.3% White, 3.2% multi-racial and 1.6% being a combination of American Indian, Alaska Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander.

SSU's Student Support Services activities and programs are geared to meet the needs of both traditional students who enroll in classes on campus and those who enroll as distance education students. Student Support Services offerings are designed to align with the needs and interests of the institution's diverse student population, as well as the university's mission and strategic priorities, with special emphasis on Savannah State University Strategic Priority I Academic Engagement and Achievement :

Enhancing curricular and co-curricular activities through academic and student life experiences

Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management

A primary objective of the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management is to offer co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities that enhance the academic experiences and further the mission's focus of fostering engaged learning and personal growth of all students. To do so effectively and efficiently, the division is organized as follows: 1) Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs; 2) Office of the Dean of Students (Assistant Vice President) which includes Student Conduct; the Center for Character Development; University Housing and Residence Life; Center for Women's Resources and Programs; and Student Life (Student Government Association, Student Activities, and Greek Life); 3) the Office of the Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Services, which includes Admissions and Recruitment; 4) the Office of Student Development, which includes University Health Services; Disability Services, and Counseling; 5) the Office of Veteran's Affairs; 6) the Office of University Career Services; and 7) University Recreation and Wellness. Student Affairs is headed by the Vice President for Student Affairs, who reports to the President (Savannah State University Organizational Chart) .

A description of each unit in the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, and the programs and services offered by each unit to effectively promote the university's mission and strategic priorities as well as to attain unit goals, are presented below.

The Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management provides programs, services and activities that align with the university's mission and strategic goals, and support students as they pursue their programs of study at the university. The Division also serves as a central point of contact for students as they seek assistance in navigating the various aspects of their lives at Savannah State University. A primary purpose of the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management is to enhance the multifaceted educational experience of students by providing educationally purposeful services and programs that bridge classroom learning with out-of-class experiences. The Division provides diverse social, developmental, recreational and service opportunities that create an environment that supports the achievement of students' goals and the University's mission. The success of student life, however, depends on the extent to which students take advantage of the programs and services the University offers for their personal learning and social enrichment Students are assisted in this important task through the units that comprise the Division of Student Affairs. (Website Screenshot - Division of Student Affairs)

The activities and services of the Office of the Dean of Students align with the university's mission and strategic priorities, and include supporting all aspects of student life outside of the classroom. There are also instances where the Dean of Students, in collaboration with faculty and support staff of the Division of Academic Affairs, will provide resources and support for students experiencing challenges inside the classroom as well. (Website Screenshot - Office of the Dean of Students)

Central to maintaining an environment that is safe and conducive to learning and contributing to the mission's focus on engaged learning and personal growth in a student-centered environment is the management of student conduct inside and outside of the classroom. The Office of Student Conduct is responsible for fostering an environment that promotes civility and personal responsibility. The Conduct Coordinator oversees the disciplinary procedures that govern student behavior and works closely with the Office of the Provost to coordinate disciplinary procedures and address their implications for the students' academic standing at the university. (Website Screenshot - Office of Student Conduct)

The Center for Leadership and Character Development prepares students to become principled students and citizens and, as stated in the mission, productive members of a global society . Center programs and services aid in preparing graduates to take on leadership roles in the global workforce. (SSU Student Handbook - Center for Leadership & Character Development)

University Housing and Residence Life provides comfortable, affordable, and inclusive communities that engage student in living and learning experiences within a safe and secure environment that foster a sense of belonging, support personal development and promote academic success. Website Screenshot - University Housing & Residence Life)

The Center for Women's Resources and Programs enhances the academic performance and quality of life through the personal development of female students, who comprise 60% of the university's student population, through the fostering and promotion of a more supportive and inclusive campus environment. (Website Screenshot - Center for Women's Programs and Resources)

Student Life provides co-curricular activities that support students' intellectual, spiritual, social, and emotional growth, in keeping with the university's mission. (Website Screenshot - Student Programs and Organizations)

The Student Government Association (SGA), which is the official governance organization of the student body, works closely with the University administration on matters related to student life. The SGA is a student-directed organization that provides students with a voice in the decision-making processes of the University, and contributes to the mission focus of developing productive members of a global society. The SGA provides a link between students and the administration. SGA officers are elected by the student body to serve one-year terms. Students are encouraged to discuss their opinions, concerns, and expectations with SGA members, so that the organization can effectively represent them and promote the welfare of the student body. To carry out its tasks, the SGA creates various action committees and encourages students to participate in the work of these committees. (Screenshot - Student Government Association)

The Office of Student Activities is responsible for enhancing student life through co-curricular activities, which are an integral part of the physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth of students. Student activities consist of clubs and organizations, game room and recreational activities, movie nights, campus-wide and informal activities, and departmental activities. Student organizations provide opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to interact with one another during cultural, recreational, spiritual, and social activities either in formal or informal settings. The Office of Student Programs and Organizations operate through this office as well as leadership development and training. (Savannah State University Student Handbook - Office of Student Activities)

The Campus Activities Board (CAB) assists in the coordination and implementation of social, cultural, educational, and entertainment programs for the campus community. The mission of the CAB is to enhance students' collegiate experience by working to unify the campus community, cultivating student leadership, contributing to retention efforts, complementing academic programs, promoting individual and group self-worth, and cultivating school spirit. The board is composed of 12 to 15 students selected and trained from a cross population of the student body. Its mission is to serve the campus community by implementing programs in the categories of visual and performing arts, special events, comedy shows, concerts & dances, and student events for homecoming and spring fling. (Savannah State University Student Handbook - Campus Activities Board)

The Office of Greek Life assists with the enhancement of fraternity and sorority life through collaborative activities involving Greek letter organizations focused on social, civic, academic and leadership initiatives. The office assists these organizations in identifying campus initiatives and community projects that will bring awareness to social issues and provide community service opportunities for the student body. The Office of Greek Life works with fraternities and sororities to provide developmental seminars and training for members and for the student body to prepare Savannah State University students for success on campus. . (Website Screenshot - Office of GreekLife)

Office of the Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Services

Admissions and Recruitment

Part of the mission of Savannah State University is to offer graduate and undergraduate studies including nationally accredited programs in the liberal arts, the sciences, and the professions . The admissions and recruitment offices at the undergraduate and graduate levels are charged with the responsibility of identifying, recruiting, admitting and enrolling students into various programs. A number of means and methods are employed to recruit and admit students, including the Graduate Studies pages on the university website, visits to local high schools, and recruitment trips across throughout the state and the southeastern region. Social media and electronic billboards are also employed in the recruitment and admissions processes.

The Office of Admissions and Recruitment is the first point of contact for prospective students to the university. The office assists in guiding prospective students through the admissions process and provides other services that enable Freshman, Transfer, Transient, Special or Post Baccalaureate, Joint Enrollment/Early Admission, and International students to become familiar with the university. The Office of Admissions and Recruitment works with other units in Student Affairs and Academic Affairs to offer Open Houses for Student and families to visit the campus and complete the admission process. (Website Screenshot - Admissions& Recruitment)

Graduate Studies is located within the Office of Academic Affairs and operates the admissions and enrollment processes at the graduate level. (Website Screenshot - Graduate Studies)

Office of Student Development

The Department of Student Development incorporates student learning and development into experiential and social opportunities that will enhance our students' overall educational experience. This department recognizes the importance of a comprehensive college health program, which supports our academic program, to include focus on professional personal and career counseling services, health promotion, education and prevention, medical/clinical/holistic services, intramural sports and wellness and other adjustment and consumer service.

The maintenance of health is essential for students to take full advantage of the university experience and partake of engaged learning and personal growth, as identified as a focus in the university's mission. The Student Health Center provides limited medical and pharmacy services for use by all enrolled full-time undergraduate and graduate students. The Student Health Center is conveniently located on the SSU campus and seeks to maintain, improve, and safeguard the health of students. Services provided include:

Medical and nursing examination and care;
Alcohol and Drug Awareness Resource Center;
Limited pharmacy services;
Information, consultation and referrals;
Wellness and wholesome mental and physical health habits programs; and
Day beds for temporary observation and care.

(Website Screenshot - Student HealthServices)

To address the need to nurture a diverse student body, as expressed in the university's mission, Savannah State University's Disability Resource Center is committed to working with students with disabilities to assess their needs and to assist with academic accommodations that may be necessary and appropriate due to their disability. The Center is committed to assisting each student reach his/her maximum potential through the pursuit of educational goals. The primary goal of the center is to assure equal access to all aspects of the college experience for students with disabilities and providing equal educational opportunities through reasonable accommodation for all qualified students with permanent or temporary physical or mental disabilities. (Website Screenshot - Disability Services)

Professional Counseling addresses students' needs related to social and emotional issues that may be affecting their day to day functioning, grades and a stable school life. Some areas of concern may be relational conflicts between the student and a partner, feelings of isolation being away from home and not having a strong social support on campus, alcohol and other substance use or abuse, anger management, suicidal tendencies/ depression/ self-injurious behaviors –cutting, mental health issues, violence against others/sexual offending, eating disorders, communication concerns, and problems related to interaction with the legal system. (Website Screenshot - University Counseling Services)

Savannah State University is proud of its affiliation with the United States Military. The mission of the Veteran Affair's program is to serve veterans and active military, who have sacrificed to serve the nation. The Office of Veteran's Affairs is available to make the transition into an academic environment as seamless as possible for veterans and active duty military. (Website Screenshot - Office of Veteran's Affairs)

The Office of Career Services provides services to all students and alumni seeking employment, graduate school information, cooperative education and internship opportunities, and acts as a liaison between employers, academic programs and students. This office maintains placement files of students and alumni entering the work force or considering a career change, and serves as a resource center to help students explore career opportunities. Services of the center include career fairs, campus visits by employers and businesses; resume preparation support services, and posting of job opportunities. (Website Screenshot - Office ofCareer Services)

The University encourages students to be involved in campus recreation and wellness activities. University Recreation and Wellness provides activities for students who enjoy a structured approach to recreational activities. Recreation activities include flag football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and horseshoe, 3 on 3 basketball, billiards, softball and table tennis. Because the University is affiliated with the National Intramural and Recreation Sporting Association, students at Savannah State University are eligible to compete in regional and national intramural competitions with other colleges and universities. Through the Wellness Programs, students have access to health and wellness programming that includes weight training, aerobics, jogging, and health assessments. Additional activities are added according to student interests.

Open recreation hours provide opportunities for students to participate in activities on an informal basis. Wiley-Wilcox Gymnasium, the Body Shop, Wright Stadium, the Tiger Arena Athletic Recreation Complex, swimming pool and tennis courts are some of the venues for leisure activities. (Website Screenshot - Intramural Sports)

Conclusion

Student support services as Savannah State University promote student learning and enhance the development of its students. In addition, the programs and activities are designed to promote retention, matriculation and graduation. Ultimately, the focus is to ensure that graduates become productive members of a global society.

Supporting Documentation and Evidence:

Appendix 2.10.1	Savannah State University Mission
Appendix 2.10.2	Savannah State University Strategic Priorities – 2014-2020
Appendix 2.10.3	Savannah State University Organizational Chart
Appendix 2.10.4	Website Screenshot - Division of Student Affairs
Appendix 2.10.5	Website Screenshot - Office of Dean of Students
Appendix 2.10.6	Website Screenshot - Center for Women's Programs and Resources
Appendix 2.10.7	Website Screenshot - University Housing and Residence Life
Appendix 2.10.8	Savannah State University Student Handbook – Center for Leadership and Character Development
Appendix 2.10.9	Website Screenshot - Student Government Association
Appendix 2.10.10	Savannah State University Student Handbook –Campus Activities Board
Appendix 2.10.11	Website Screenshot - Admissions and Recruitment
Appendix 2.10.12	Website Screenshot - Graduate Studies
Appendix 2.10.13	Website Screenshot - Office of Student Conduct
Appendix 2.10.14	Savannah State University Student Handbook – Office of Student Activities
Appendix 2.10.15	Website Screenshot - Student Programs and Organizations
Appendix 2.10.16	Website Screenshot - Office of Greek Life
Appendix 2.10.17	Website Screenshot - Office of Veterans Affairs
Appendix 2.10.18	Website Screenshot - Intramural Sports
	Website Screenshot - Student Health Services
Appendix 2.10.19	Website Screenshot - Disability Resource Center
Appendix 2.10.20	Website Screenshot - UniversityCounseling Services
Appendix 2.10.20	Website Screenshot - Savannah State University Facebook Page
Appendix 2.10.22	Website Screenshot - Office of University Career Services