Collaborations: Creating a Quality Virtual New Student Orientation with no Budget

Presenters

Manny Lopez, Associate Dean, Student Development, Bronx Community College
Albert Robinson, Associate Director, Center for Teaching, Learning & Technology, Bronx Community College
Linda McKernan, Confidential Executive Coordinator for the Vice President of Student Success, Bronx Community College

Abstract

Bronx Community College (BCC) professionals are no strangers to the economic and social challenges that comes with being at a community college in one of the most economically deprived areas in the nation. Still, our job specific knowledge and practiced skills in adaptability, collaboration and love to uplift students have resulted in rapid and effective transition to the online environment. Panelists from distinct BCC units (Center for Teaching, Learning & Technology; Student Success; Student Development) will discuss our orchestration of three existing technologies (Blackboard, Hobsons, Starfish) and one new system (CUNY Academic Resource Aid) to create BCC’s first virtual New Student Orientation. The panelists will discuss how the new virtual orientation is designed to be low-cost, pedagogically sound and foster retention efforts. In addition, the panelists will illuminate the value of strategic interdepartmental collaborations as a key component for resilience and success during and beyond the “new normal.”