By Karla Pena
Whether you’re new on campus or have heard about Adelphi University’s Division of Student Affairs and aren’t quite sure what it does, the start of this new semester is a good time to learn more about it. It consists of 11 departments that each provide a broad variety of services, programs and resources for students.
The office is run by Sentwali Bakari, vice president for Student Affairs and Diversity Equity Inclusion, who explained the goals of the office and how it’s designed to help Adelphi students.
“Student Affairs complements Adelphi’s mission by providing co-curricular learning
experiences to enhance students’ professional accomplishments,” Dr. Bakari said. “The departments within Student Affairs are designed to foster students’ leadership development, career readiness, global and multicultural understanding, holistic health and well-being, and promote an inclusive and welcoming campus environment in which all students are valued and affirmed.”
Here are some of the offices and what they each provide.
Health Services
The Center for Health Services is located on the main floor of Waldo Hall and is where students can receive medical treatment from registered nurses and nurse practitioners. A few of the beneficial resources they provide include flu vaccinations, gynecological health, HIV/STI testing and sexual wellness products. Additionally, athletes, those looking to study abroad or participating in clinical courses, and student teachers can turn to the Health Services Center to fulfill their medical clearance requirements. This department actively engages with the rest of the Panther Community through the use of peer educators and guest speakers who promote integrating preventive health in our daily routines.
Student Access Office
For students with documented disabilities, the Student Access Office, located in Room 314 of the University Center, is the place to go for all accommodational needs for academics and housing. Students can request sensible accommodations inside and outside the classroom. This subdepartment of the Office of Student Affairs makes it easier for those who seek assistance and support, and at no cost. To request a consideration for accommodational services, you may submit a Petition for Accommodations and a Consent for Release of Information, both of which can be found on Adelphi’s website.
Student Counseling Center
Dealing with the daily stressors of life can be overwhelming. Not having enough support for our mental health can inhibit our academic and occupational performance, as well as decrease one’s overall quality of life. The Student Counseling Center offers a means of accessing this support for students who would like to receive clinical treatment by licensed professionals including psychiatrists, therapists, social workers and more. It can be found at Room 132 in the Nexus Building or Room 310 in the University Center.
Adelphi’s CARE Team
If someone is reluctant to go to the Student Access Center or is looking for accompanying support, don’t fear, because help is still available in the form of the CARE Team. Its case management services and referrals to affiliated partners of the university for mental health care and educational assistance gives students a well-rounded experience. Along with offering informational and resourceful groups, the CARE Team is a reliable asset in improving student life and can be contacted at 516-877-3662 or at Room 307 in the Nexus Building.
The Interfaith Center
Adelphi has made a commitment of offering accessible and inclusive worship spaces through the Interfaith Center for students involved in religious and spiritual practices. The Center provides Muslim, Christian (including Catholic and Protestants) and Jewish students a place to proudly and safely engage in their individual faiths among other like-minded individuals. It offers communal prayers and provides prayer rugs and service books, and meetings are held by religious clubs and associations outside prayer hours. The Interfaith Center is located in Room 303 in the University Center.
The Center for Career & Professional Development
The university recognizes how occupational experience and education both are key markers in the creation of a successful future career. This department offers access to student-targeted recruitment platforms such as Handshake, as well as personal assistance in the interview process, obtaining jobs and increasing effective productivity. Adelphi also has partnerships with several organizations that seek to hire students, such as Northwell Health, Enterprise Holdings and Hive Diversity. To get in touch with the Center for Career & Professional Development, you can send an email to careercounselor@adelphi.edu or visit them at the Nexus Building in Room 225.
Other departments include those for Residential Life and Housing, Student Conduct & Community Standards, the Center of Student Community & Engagement, and the Bias Response Team. More can be found about them on Adelphi’s website. The Division of Student Affairs’ departments have a lot to offer and you can engage with any of them by simply visiting or contacting those you’re interested in.
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