Looking back over the last 25 years, Student Affairs
has expanded and grown with the changing times and needs of our
students. From the 1970’s as a two-year institution and a
residential population around 1,600 students,
the Dean of Men and the Dean of Women essentially operated the
Office of Student Development. Policies were dictated by gender and
activities included the Ms. Wingate Pageant and May Day.
During the 1980’s, Student Development was redesigned to take on a
more programmatic approach by establishing one set of policies,
procedures, and activities for all students. Sunday afternoon
visitation of the opposite gender was introduced and concerts such
as Jimmy Buffett, Huey Lewis and the News, and Lynyrd Skynyrd took
the stage. In addition, the Wingate tradition of the Christmas
Dinner / Dance was established. Student Development was staffed by
five dedicated individuals and many student workers. The Divisional
philosophy was more reactive to student needs rather than proactive.
The 1990’s saw a decrease in students as demographics changed with a
tuition increase and stronger academic requirements. The residential
population decreased to around 600 with many students renting homes
in the community. Greek Life was established in the early 90’s with
three national fraternities and two national sororities. The late
90’s sparked new interest in campus life with the research of a
state-of-the-art apartment complex. Activities provided
entertainment for students such as small concerts, Spring Fling, and
intramural activities.
Wingate entered the year 2000
and staff increased as the need for more services and programs
increased. Students began to take on a more consumer approach and
the four-year residency requirement was instituted with the opening
of the Jefferson at Wingate apartment complex. As technology
increased, keeping students’ attention was more difficult and
creativity was essential in providing opportunities for students.
The University and Student Development professionals realized
movement into the 21st century would require a shift in philosophy
and programs to continue to meet the ever-changing needs of students
and capitalize on the unique quality that a four-year residential
community affords.
With the push to allow students to “Do Their
Education,” students and staff were challenged to engage the campus
community in learning outside of the classroom. Collaborative
programs with academic areas were established such as Service
Learning, the 401 Senior Year Experience Class, and Residence
Education to provide students with a
seamless approach to learning. With this shift in philosophy, the
name changed to Student Affairs.
