FROM THE DESK of THE VI
Dear SEES Colleagues, Thank you for coming together for our second annual State of SEES gathering. Once again, I was reminded of the extraordinary heart, talent, and impact that define this division. And how about the Monarch Steel Drum Band? What a vibrant celebration of our students’ creativity and excellence. Moments like these, when our students shine and our team comes together, underscore the importance of making time to celebrate our people, recognize our progress, and reaffirm our shared purpose. Not just at signature events, but as a regular, intentional practice across our division.
This year, we celebrated the people who make this work possible. We welcomed new team members, honored leadership transitions, and recognized those who stand ready when students need us most. We also took time to celebrate our SEES Award nominees and recipients, whose contributions exemplify our division’ s values in action. To each of you, thank you for your unwavering commitment to our shared purpose – Get, Keep, Graduate Monarchs.
communication, and the consistent act of seeing each other, valuing what we bring, and showing up to deliver what’ s needed when it’ s needed.
• When we work toward the same goals, we multiply our impact. From employee onboarding to family engagement, from wellness initiatives to digital transformation, we are aligning our efforts around what matters most: student experience, employee experience, wellbeing, and resource stewardship. Many of you have noted just how large our division has become, and it’ s true; we are continuing to grow. I encourage you to explore the updated organization chart to find new ways to connect across departments. Every department plays a role in bringing these shared goals to life.
• Innovation isn’ t optional, it’ s our imperative. As the landscape of higher education evolves, we must evolve with it. That means embracing technology, refining our systems, and measuring what matters. Additionally, thank you to the 43 individuals who indicated interest in an artificial intelligence( AI) learning community and working group! More information to come on that front. Let’ s remain focused on the work that has the greatest return on investment for our students and our teams.
I invite you to consider not just what we do, but how we do it and why it matters. I hope you left feeling affirmed, connected, and ready to take focused steps forward. Here are a few key reflections that continue to stay with me:
• Gratitude fosters belonging, and care is our asset. Each moment of recognition, especially the small, everyday moments, reflects the spirit of community that defines SEES. We build this daily through kind gestures, thoughtful
Above all, I hope the event served as a reminder: you belong here. Your work matters. And our story is only just beginning. Thank you for your dedication to the Monarch community and for the excellence you bring. I am deeply grateful for what we’ ve accomplished and am excited for what lies ahead.
Take care, bhl
Brandi Hephner LaBanc Vice President for Student Enrollment, Engagement & Services
4