Autumn Light ’20 Staff Writer, Spencer Paterick `21 Assistant Editor
The Breen Center for Graduate Success has officially become a part of the Division of Academic Affairs.
President Lewis E. Thayne announced the merging of departments in October. The change is meant to promote the goals of both departments, including retention, academic success, internship experiences, study abroad opportunities, academic advising, curriculum planning and career-readiness.
As a part of this change, Dr. Kimberlee Josephson has been named associate dean of the Breen Center for Graduate Success, while also retaining her title of associate professor of business administration. Josephson has played a key role in advocating and conceptualizing for the Breen Center.
“I don’t foresee any major challenges for the Breen Center since the existing staff is excellent and our current programs are running smoothly,” Josephson said. “We are hoping to expand the Breen Center in terms of offerings and in terms of our connections, which will likely create some challenges, but we’re ready for it and the possibilities are endless.”
The ultimate goal of this endeavor is to expand the services that are offered by the college. Students should be aware that the combining of departments is meant to enhance the on-campus experience, while also allowing LVC to offer more opportunities for professional and academic growth.
“These changes should have a positive impact since the Breen Center wants the best for LVC students – student success is our success,” Josephson said. “I believe the Breen Center will be better than ever.”
Dr. Josephson, Dr. Monica Cowart, the Breen Center staff and Greg Krikorian are working together to ensure that this transition is as seamless as possible so that it does not hinder any student’s experience.
“I strongly encourage students to reach out and connect with us – help us help you,” Josephson said.
Guest speaker coming
In order to provide more professional-related opportunities for the student community, the Breen Center will host a keynote speaker every fall.
For this year’s speaker, the Breen Center invited the renowned Lindsey Pollak to present on her book, “Getting from College to Career: Your Essential Guide to Succeeding in the Real World.” Pollak works as a writer and speaker who helps others discover their potential in the workplace.
Her book is easy to follow and provides tips and methods for career-building that students can follow before or after they graduate.
“The way she wrote her book really helps to keep students engaged,” Megan Finlan, a junior English major, said. “It’s not just full of lists and bullet points. Pollak uses her own personal experience to give each tip purpose and she writes in a way that speaks to students.”
Pollak will give her Keynote presentation to students on Nov. 12, at 11 a.m. in the Frederic K. Miller Chapel.
Questions regarding the guest speaker or any of the recent changes can be directed to Dr. Josephson at josephso@lvc.edu.