Æðµã´«Ã½

Access Advocates: Expanding Opportunities for Student Success

First Row, center: Shenika Ward, Dean of Engagement, stands with a newly formed group of campus-wide Access Advocates at Æðµã´«Ã½ including President Alexander "Sandy" Stewart, in the back row, far right.

 

 

Our Mission 

The Access Advocates at Æðµã´«Ã½ are committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Grounded in our institutional mission—"To provide education of the highest quality to all we serve"—we work to increase access to resources, programs, and experiences that enrich student learning and foster a welcoming campus environment. 

As an open access institution, we believe that success should not be limited by any  circumstance. Through collaboration with students, faculty, staff, and community partners, we create pathways for academic and personal growth that benefit all who engage with our campus. 

 

Who We Are 

Access Advocates is a collective of faculty, staff, and campus partners working together to enhance student engagement, academic success, and community connection. We recognize that each student’s journey is unique, and we are dedicated to offering meaningful opportunities for learning, leadership, and personal development. 

 

What We Do 

Enhancing Student Opportunities 

  • Expanding access to educational resources, mentorship, and academic support. 
  • Encouraging active participation in campus life, career exploration, and leadership development. 

Creating Meaningful Experiences 

  • Offering campus-wide events, guest speakers, and interactive learning opportunities. 
  • Partnering with faculty to bring real-world applications into the classroom. 

Connecting Campus & Community 

  • Building partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and service initiatives to provide valuable experiences beyond the classroom. 
  • Supporting civic engagement efforts that encourage students to be active participants in their communities. 

 

How We Engage 

Programs & Events

  • Student Success & Leadership Development Workshops
  • Community Conversations & Guest Speakers
  • Campus & Community Connection Activities
  • Professional Growth & Workforce Readiness Sessions 

Collaboration Across Campus

We work alongside: 

  • Faculty & Academic Programs – To enrich classroom experiences and support student success. 
  • Student Support Services – To connect students with mentoring, advising, and career readiness resources. 
  • Community & Workforce Partners – To create real-world learning opportunities that benefit all students. 

 

Get Involved 

Access Advocates is open to all students, faculty, and staff who believe in expanding opportunity, fostering student success, and strengthening campus connections. 

Want to learn more? Contact Shenika Ward Dean of Engagement, at wards@sandhills.edu for information on upcoming initiatives and ways to participate.