Division of Student Affairs Engagement Philosophy

The Division of Student Affairs is committed to providing an excellent staff experience through positive staff engagement. Members of the division are encouraged and empowered to create and maintain a deep connection to their work, their colleagues and the Buff community by participating in shared opportunities for personal, professional and organizational growth. Through staff engagement we create a heightened sense of support, purpose and belonging.

All levels of the division are responsible for staff engagement.

Definition

Staff engagement in Student Affairs is a state of enthusiasm characterized by effort, pride and passion. This fosters a mutual connection between staff and the division, resulting in the pursuit of organizational and personal goals.

Value

Staff engagement contributes to our mission of developing programs and services that positively affect student success, retention, engagement and campus climate.

When staff are engaged, we see the following benefits:

  • A sense of purpose and belonging at the university.
  • A connection and awareness of what’s going on across the division.
  • Increased trust and collaboration among colleagues.
  • A willingness to face meaningful challenges.
  • Promoting student success outside of the classroom.

Expectation

The Division of Student Affairs is committed to delivering an excellent staff experience. As we establish an environment that allows for strong engagement, all Student Affairs staff are encouraged to participate in engagement activities to foster personal and professional growth and development. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Participating on committees
  • Attending events, town halls and open forums
  • Engaging in cross-functional opportunities to support colleagues and students
  • Taking part in trainings, workshops and other professional development opportunities
  • Reading the SA Insider, SA Lead, ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥ Boulder Today and other campus newsletters

Leadership

Staff in Student Affairs leadership roles are responsible for building a sense of belonging and purpose. They should help build trust and inspiration through authenticity and recognition of individuals’ contributions to create excitement and encourage high performance. Student Affairs leaders are also responsible for engaging in manager and staff engagement. This includes:

  • Clearly and consistently communicating the priorities of the division in various ways including the SA Insider, SA Lead and All-Staff Meetings.
  • Recognizing individual staff contributions through various forms of recognition.
  • Actively encouraging participation in activities that foster belonging, growth and learning including All-Staff Meetings, professional development opportunities and committees.

Managers

Student Affairs staff in manager roles are responsible for aligning individuals and teams with the division’s strategy, mission and values and recognizing staff for their attitude, effort and results. They are responsible for coaching individuals toward contribution, satisfaction and a sense of belonging. This includes:

  • Helping staff set goals that directly connect their work to that of the division.
  • Recognizing staff by providing feedback and personal recognition that is timely and specific through thank you notes or emails, conversations, public announcements to the team, etc.
  • Actively seeking to connect staff with opportunities that align with their personal goals and that support individual growth and development,including engaging in professional development, committees and volunteer opportunities.

Staff

Student Affairs staff are responsible for assessing and communicating their personal values, interests, skills and goals, as well as understanding the priorities of the division. They are responsible for taking action in the pursuit of personal and organizational needs and priorities. This includes:

  • Communicating personal/professional values, interests and goals through active participation in conversations, performance planning and evaluations that allow for meaningful goal setting.
  • Seeking to understand the priorities of the division by reading the SA Lead and SA Insider, and participating in All-Staff Meetings.
  • Actively seeking out and participating in professional development opportunities, committees and volunteer activities.