Collaborate for Student Success

"What I do you cannot do; but what you do, I cannot do. The needs are great, and none of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful."
— Teresa Calcutta

One of the great reminders emphasized in our True Colors class is about the contribution of individual staff members. Everyone has something to contribute to our departments and to Student Affairs. The specific attributes each person possesses strengthens teams and furthers the achievement of any goal. As our division moves forward, helping students, student success is our primary focus. In order to help our students be successful, our collaboration as staff is imperative. Like Mother Teresa mentions, “we can do something wonderful” as long as we are all contributing our best for the common goal.

What are some ways we can ensure collaboration is taking place in our departments?

• Focus on the student - Many times we get caught up in the process and lose sight of what matters. In order for students to be successful, we must, as a group, focus on the student and their needs.
• Consider all opinions - Every person has a different frame of reference which can add diversity to our conversations. In order to be great collaborators, we should be open to all ideas and opinions and remember that everyone has the same goal.
• Recognize fellow collaborators - Appreciate each other for their contributions to the goal. Saying a kind word goes a long way.

Next time you are in a meeting or coming up with a new process for student success, remember to collaborate with your coworkers and to acknowledge the items above.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
— Helen Keller

Sarah Webb
Senior Training Specialist,
Student Financial Aid and Enrollment Services

Four C's / REACH Integrated Training (SD371) Schedule for Student Affairs STAFF

— Fall 2014

• October 30, 2014 (Thursday) — 9:00 to 12:00 (HUC Harris Room /HUC 2.212)
• November 4, 2014 (Tuesday) — 9:00 to 12:00 (HUC Travis Room /HUC 2.202)
• November 6, 2014 (Thursday) — 9:00 to 12:00 (HUC Harris Room /HUC 2.212)
• November 13, 2014 (Thursday) — 1:00 to 4:00 (HUC Travis Room /HUC 2.202)

Any questions or comments? Please send us an email at VPSA@utsa.edu.