Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:
Welcome back to a new academic year at York College! I hope you had a restful and enjoyable summer and are returning energized for the exciting opportunities ahead. I extend a warm welcome to our new and returning students as they embark on another year of learning, growth, and achievement. I also welcome our dedicated faculty and staff, whose commitment to excellence continues to make York College a vibrant and supportive community.
Human Resources Updates
I am pleased to share that Dr. Jamel Burroughs will be joining York College in September as our new Director of Counseling. We look forward to welcoming Dr. Burroughs to our campus community and to the leadership, vision, and expertise he will bring in support of student wellness and mental health services.
Additionally, I am pleased to announce that Carl Christian will be transitioning to the role of Special Assistant to the Vice President of Student Affairs, Student-Athlete Success, leading critical initiatives related to student-athlete retention, academic recovery, experiential learning, and the development and monitoring of student success metrics. We are excited about the impact Carl will have as we continue to strengthen support systems and opportunities for our student-athletes.
As part of this transition, a search for a new Director of Athletics is underway. This individual will lead the day-to-day operations of Athletics and Recreation and play a key role in advancing student-athlete success, campus engagement, fundraising, and the overall growth of our athletics program.
SEEK Program Enrollment Success
Congratulations to the SEEK Program for exceeding its enrollment target. With a goal of enrolling 500 students, the program has enrolled 549 students, compared to 459 last year (16.5% increase). This outstanding achievement reflects the dedication, hard work, and student-centered commitment of the SEEK staff and leadership team. Thank you for all that you do to support student access, persistence, and success.
Study Abroad and Study Away Programs
Shayla Pruitt has transitioned to the role of Manager of Study Abroad and Study Away Programs.
Students interested in studying abroad or participating in a study away experience are encouraged to attend upcoming information sessions and begin planning early. To ensure a smooth process, students should start preparing approximately six months before their intended travel date.
Faculty interested in developing study abroad or study away programs are encouraged to connect with Shayla regarding proposal development and available funding opportunities. Please watch the college calendar for upcoming virtual and in-person information sessions. Her office is located in Student Affairs, AC2F01.
Student Government Association
Congratulations to the 2026-27 Student Government Association (SGA) under the leadership of President Favour Ogueri. The Division of Student Affairs looks forward to working closely with SGA to advance initiatives that enhance the student experience and support the achievement of important student-centered goals throughout the academic year.
I encourage all students to monitor the college calendar for Weeks of Welcome activities and upcoming SGA Town Hall meetings. These events provide valuable opportunities for students to connect with peers and engage with staff and campus resources.
A Personal Note
Finally, it is my bittersweet pleasure to share that I will be retiring from my role as Vice President for Student Affairs in September.
Serving the students of York College alongside our talented faculty and staff has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career. Having arrived during Covid, I am deeply grateful for the relationships we have built, the challenges we have navigated together, and the many accomplishments we have celebrated as a community. York College has been a place of inspiration, growth, and purpose. I am proud of all that we have achieved together in support of student success. While I look forward to the next chapter, I will always cherish my time at this remarkable institution and the opportunity to work with such dedicated colleagues and outstanding students.
Please look to the Office of the President for updates regarding the next steps ahead for the Division of Student Affairs.
Thank you for all that you do to make York College a place of excellence, opportunity, and achievement. I wish each of you a productive, rewarding, and successful academic year.
Warm regards,
Karen A. Williams
Vice President for Student Affairs
York College