February 2011, Issue 3
Visiting With... Getting to Know...
Over the weeks will highlight the different departments/individuals that make up Student Affairs—their programs, accomplishments, and dedication to Excellence in Service and Programming.
Getting to Know...
Kasey Neece-Fielder - Director, Strategic Planning and Assessment
Please share some biographical information with us. Where did you grow up? Where did you attend college?
I grew up in the Metroplex – Arlington, Texas. I am a Dallas Stars fan and a Texas Rangers fan, but I won’t comment on any possible loyalties with NBA teams. After high school, I enrolled at Texas Wesleyan University after taking the all-important campus tour and falling in love with the campus. As a freshman, I told my admission counselor that I needed a job. She hired me as a work-study in her office, and my exposure to the awesome field of higher education began. I always had an interest in education (runs in the family), but K-12 education wasn’t quite it for me. A mentor for me, Dr. Allen Henderson, Dean of the School of Education at the time, encouraged me to seek out a graduate program in higher education. So, I changed my major from chemistry with a teaching certification to psychology, and applied to the graduate school at Texas Tech University where I received my MEd.
What are your position’s duties?
Connect with each area within Student Affairs regarding strategic planning and assessment successes and challenges. Collaborate with teams to clarify direction, define goals and measure outcomes. Communicate this information across all areas of Student Affairs and to other constituents. Continue to create excitement about these processes that will strengthen and highlight the outstanding work being done here on behalf of students.
How will you interact with Student Affairs departments? What are you looking forward to?
I have developed an intricate grid based on various rubrics with accompanying metrics to determine how to best interact with the departments…just kidding! I will interact as many ways as possible to try to meet the various needs of the departments and offices. I am really looking forward to meeting everyone in Student Affairs and learning about the important role each person and office plays.
What interested you about UTSA?
Working most recently at Northwest Vista College and living in San Antonio for the last few years, I have been both an observer and a stakeholder with regards to the growth and increased presence of UTSA. I am impressed with the clear vision and forward-thinking nature of this university. One thing about me is that I don’t like to be somewhere that I feel is stagnant or where I am not able to be effective. I am excited about the energy and hope that is on the horizon for this institution even in the midst of significant challenges. Also, I am hoping to see MANY of my former students here on campus!
Something you may not guess about me is
I shook Michael Jackson’s hand (this was after he stopped wearing THE glove) at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas…does that mean I’m famous?