The search ends: New VCSSEM to improve ‘student experience’

The search to replace former Vice Chancellor of Student Success and Enrollment Management (VCSSEM) Robert Wonnett ended Monday with the selection of Homer "Bucky" Wesley from the Mississippi University for Women.

In a press release from the Office of University Advancement, Chancellor Pamela Shockley-Zalabak said, "Dr. Wesley brings a depth and variety of experiences focused on improving the college student experience." She continued, "He is dedicated to improving access to the benefits of a university education and to serving the needs of students."

Wesley responded to his appointment that, "I am impressed by the strength and standing of the academic programs at UCCS, the quality of life that Colorado Springs offers and the warmth of the people I met on my visit to the campus."

The position opened during the summer of 2009, when former VCSSEM Robert Wonnett retired after more than 30 years of state service.

The selection was delayed during Fall 2009, when all three candidates then under consideration became unavailable, having been offered other positions elsewhere while the Office of Student Success was still conducting the interviews.

The duties of the VCSSEM include management and leadership of the Office of Student Success's various activities, which include guiding students through their educational tracks, as well as promoting the university to attract a variety of gifted and talented new students from diverse backgrounds. Wesley will also coordinate with the chancellor, provost and Student Government Association (SGA) to ensure that both the academic and social needs of students are met.

The duties of the position were handled by three administrators: Executive Director of Student Systems Steve Ellis, Director of Student Success Susan Mitchell, and Director of Student Retention and First Year Experience Barbara Gaddis.

UCCS narrowed down the new VCSSEM selection to three candidates: Wesley, Robert Bontrager of Oregon State University, and Boyd Bradshaw from Saint Louis University. All three candidates had extensive experience in higher education administration, either in student enrollment or other student-oriented services, and the Office of Student Success has, according to Moon, put careful consideration into each one.