Writing Center: "operation revival" commences

Hi Readers,

First of all, let's thank Old Man Winter for finally taking a hiatus so the 1st official day of my new part time job could finally take place.  Readers, I'm excited for this position.  My contract is for this semester, and if my supervisor were to enjoy my performance then my contract would be renewed for the Fall semester as well. 

Today was a light day.  I was reunited with my new supervisor ( who also interviewed me ), and I met Colleague N, whom I'll be working with.  She went to a small university in OH, and she completed her MA's degree in Saint Joseph's University.  Colleague R wasn't present because she was in West Chester University, taking a graduate class.  Our supervisor just went over writing center procedures, and we discussed goals and projects.

This semester we have the task of reviving the Writing Center ( made possible by a 5-year grant recently acquired by the University ).  Last Spring, it was terminated due to inefficient staff and insufficient funding.  Coincidentally the absence of a Writing Center caused students' passing rate to decline. The Higher-ups then realized that the Writing Center played a vital role in student success.

As Writing Assistants to this revived Writing Center, our first challenge is to get the word out there that we are here to help students with their writing.  We have to convince and inform faculty and University Staff members about our mission and the service we provide.  In other words, we have plenty of grass-root level tactics to do ( posters, flyers, word-of-mouth, club fairs, class presentation, ally building, talks with faculty et al ).  It'll be a lot of work, nonetheless, this will make for an exciting and challenging semester ( I just hope the weather cooperates ).

In addition to the above task, we are getting ready for our 1st event: a "Read-In".  To celebrate African American Black History month, people will be invited to share readings from black authors.  Other projects may include: transforming the physical space, gathering data/resources, leading workshops, recruiting peer mentors, presenting at/attending conferences, and creating a Writing Center Newsletter ( print or on-line ).  Wish us luck!