![[Currents header graphic]](http://www.ucsc.edu/homeart/currents_header.gif)
September 28, 1998
In an effort to maximize efficiency and service, the Division of Student Affairs was reorganized this summer. Among the changes are the realignment of existing programs, the expansion of some areas, and the creation of a few new positions.
"In the next century, student life at UCSC will be influenced by factors that include increased reliance on electronics, greater ethnic diversity, and a growing emphasis on academic excellence," said Francisco Hernandez, vice chancellor for student affairs. "We've restructured Student Affairs to respond to these anticipated changes."
Some of the changes were designed to simplify the organizational structure of the unit by "clustering" analogous programs, said Hernandez (see organizational chart at the following URL: http://www2.ucsc.edu/sadiv/saorgchart.pdf).
"The details are complicated, but when you see it on paper, the logic behind the changes is quite apparent," said Hernandez. "These changes will improve our own internal communication and decision making processes, which will help us as we prepare to meet the challenges of increased outreach efforts, enrollment growth, and more fund-raising. Our ultimate goal is always to enhance the student experience at UCSC."
For example, the Outreach, Admissions, and Student Academic Services area overseen by Associate Vice Chancellor J. Michael Thompson will have two distinct branches: Academic Support Services and Enrollment and Outreach Services. The former, under the leadership of executive director of orientation and academic support services Allen Fields, will include Campus Orientation Programs, the Disability Resource Center, Educational Opportunity Programs, and Services for Transfer and Re-Entry Students.
The Enrollment and Outreach Services side encompasses offices such as Admissions, Financial Aid, and the Registrar. In addition, two new offices have been created: the Communications and Systems Development Office headed by Mark Cianca, and the Educational Partnerships Center directed by Carrol Moran.
"All of those services belong in the same area because they're all focused on attracting and retaining students," said Hernandez. "It just makes sense."
Cianca's initiative was launched in anticipation of significant new demands on computer-based services. "And UCSC is a clear leader and innovator in the area of partnerships with K-12 schools," said Hernandez. "There's more need than ever to bolster the campus's efforts in that area."
Gail Heit, who was named associate vice chancellor for student affairs, will oversee the three areas of Health, Fitness, and Community Development; Support Services, Student Development, and Community Service; and Student Affairs Budget and Planning.
"We're placing greater importance on the areas of athletics and health and fitness, which help attract students and also contribute to the mental well-being of the entire campus," noted Hernandez.
Heit will be assisted by Dan Wood, executive director of Physical Education, Recreation and Sports; Anita Diaz, executive director of Community Development and Health Programs; and a new executive director of Student Development and Community Service, a position that will be recruited this fall. Under that director, the offices of Student Media and Student Organization Advising and Resources have been separated to reflect their independent needs, and a director of the Asian American/Pacific Islander Resource Center will be hired, said Hernandez.
"We're continuing to support opportunities for student leadership, and units that sponsor student-directed events have been realigned to improve communication," said Hernandez. "We're anticipating expansion in the Student Development cluster, and this structure will accommodate that growth."
Some of Hernandez's responsibilities were redirected to allow him to work on fund-raising efforts with Adrienne Harrell, who was named director of development for student affairs and the colleges in June (see story). He will oversee administration of each of the colleges and an area dubbed Student Auxiliary and Services Enterprises, which is made up of several self-supporting units, including the Community Rentals Program and Child Care Services. Jerry Walters has been named executive director of housing, dining, and child care services.
"As the campus grows, our division will require more resources to adequately serve students," said Hernandez. "We are trying to both maximize our efficiency and expand our fund-raising base."