Helping our students thrive

Dr. Vincent Tinto gave the keynote address at the Student Success Symposium. (Abriel photo)

More than 130 people took part in Dalhousie's second Student Success Symposium in the spring. The day-long event gave faculty members, advisors, counsellors and other staff the opportunity to learn and share innovative ideas on how to make the student experience even better at Dal.

Keynote speaker Dr. Vincent Tinto (Syracuse University) gave a compelling talk on retention and student success. Sessions throughout the day focused on
advising skills, the connection between advising and teaching, student attrition, and retention issues.

A highlight of the day was a presentation of the Outstanding Academic Advisor Awards that took place at the Great Hall, University Club. These were presented to Melanie Dobson (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) and Robert Guy (Chemistry). Chris Cameron (Community Health and Epidemiology) was awarded the Outstanding Peer Advisor Award.

"I was very pleased that we received such a large turnout for the Student Success Symposium this year," said event organizer Patricia De MŽo, Director, Student Academic Success Services. "I hope this symposium inspired colleagues across campus to continue to help our students do their best. This symposium was also a great opportunity for us to recognize exceptional academic advisors on campus."