From the Desk of Vice Chancellor Brandon Frye
Colleagues and Friends of Student Affairs:
Can you believe the semester has ended and by the end of this summer ECU will have over 4,450 new Pirate alumni? At this time, residence halls have emptied, students transitioned leadership roles in many organizations, t-shirts from Barefoot on the Mall have long been grabbed up by happy attendees, final meals have been eaten in the dining halls by then first-year students and others, and so many more semester ending traditions have occurred. For most of those traditions and events, there was a student affairs team member there to assist, navigate, and help. I am so grateful for this team and the dedication and focused work we complete each day for our students and stakeholders. However, for me it goes beyond just being grateful—it extends to what was written by Otis Redding but popularized when sung by Aretha Franklin…. RESPECT. I have a great deal of respect for our team and the important role we play at ECU.
Respect is one of our core values in Student Affairs. It is so important that we treat each other with dignity and civility, and recognize that every individual has rights, ideas, and beliefs. Showing respect is critical when working with our students as they navigate the collegiate experience, learn, develop, and grow as humans. It is also an important component of our culture of care and must be present when supporting students, but also when working with colleagues, stakeholders, and others.
However, respect goes beyond dignity and civility. As noted by Merriam-Webster, respect is also about a feeling of deep regard. That feeling of deep regard was present for me on May 13, 2024, when the Division of Student Affairs held its end of the year meeting and awards celebration ceremony. During our end-of-the- academic year event, we recognized and held in deep regard many of our team members for their outstanding work and dedication to our students. Our end of the year awards ceremony is one of my favorite student affairs events and you can read more about it right after my message in this publication. I encourage you to do so and learn more about the great folks doing wonderful things at ECU.
Finally, in support of our culture of care, as we move into the summer months, please take time to rest, reflect, and recharge when you can. Part of being well and successful is “respecting” our own limits and being self-aware enough to know when to take a well-deserved break. So, take that trip to Atlantic Beach, go to the park, spend time with family members, read that mystery novel you have been meaning to enjoy, and if needed, take a nap. Regardless of how you like to relax-please find some time to do so.
Again, thanks to my team for all that you do to help students achieve success. To our campus partners, thank you for being great collaborators, and to our alumni, stakeholders, and friends, thank you for the time, talent, and treasures that you have shared to aid students over this past academic year.
Be Well
Awards Season
Student Affairs Divisional Awards
During the 2024 End of Year Celebration, Student Affairs reflected on the 2023-2024 academic year by recognizing some wonderful successes in our divisional areas.
Awards were also presented to SA educators that embody the divisional values of Belonging, Excellence, Integrity, Respect and Student-Centered, as well as Emerging Professionals, Outstanding Support Team Member and Program of the Year. Below are the 2024 award recipients presented by Dr. Brandon Frye:
Emerging Professional Award
- Austin Vick - Student Engagement
- Chris Riddle - Campus Recreation and Wellness
Belonging Award
- LaShae' Wilson - Student Health Services
- Kevin Sutton - Student Success
Outstanding Support Team Member Award
- Kim Devito-Young - Campus Living
- Shemika Grimes - Center for Counseling and Student Development
Respect Award
- Nancy Ausherman - Disability Support Services
- Annette Kilpatrick - Student Health Services
Integrity Award
- Gretchen Brockmann - Campus Living
- Kim Joyner - Student Health Services
Student-Centered Award
- Kaitlyn Gumann - Student Transitions
- R. Donte Jordan - Student Health Services
Excellence Award
- Lynn Copeland - Career Services
- Waz Miller - Campus Living
- Brad Simons - SA Technology Services
Program of the Year Award
- S.H.O.E.S. (Students Honoring Other's Everyday Struggles or Stories) - Campus Living
Staff Senate 2024 Outstanding Staff
This award recognizes staff members who go above and beyond the call of duty regularly, those who work tirelessly to fulfill the mission of our institution and to serve the needs of our campus community. One staff member was selected from each division.
Congratulations to the winners!
- Melissa Wallace (Academic Affairs)
- Chad Carwein (Administration and Finance)
- Bri Wood (Athletics)
- Sierra Frazier (Brody School of Medicine)
- Patrick Merricks (Brody School of Medicine, Educator of Distinction)
- Kimrey Miko (Chancellor)
- Shemika Grimes (Student Affairs)
- Terah Archie (University Advancement)
NIRSA's Innovative Programming Award
The #YouMatterECU campaign was recently awarded the prestigious First Place for the NIRSA’s Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award in the Health & Well-Being Division. This recognition is awarded to members who have transformed collegiate recreation with outstanding programming that promotes student success, community building, and health and wellbeing, aligning seamlessly with NIRSA's priorities.
What is #YouMatterECU
Launched in January 2022, the #YouMatterECU campaign is a comprehensive initiative that goes beyond being a mere campaign. It's a rallying call that underscores the importance of every student, offering hope and support. The campaign's primary objectives are to destigmatize mental health discussions, enhance awareness of available resources, and foster proactive health & well-being practices among students. This multifaceted initiative encompasses a range of activities, including print and digital promotions, personal outreach by Well-Being Ambassadors, and a diverse array of workshops and events that delve into mental health, stress management, overall well-being, and more.
Association of Student Governments
The Association of Student Governments selected Dr. Lynn M. Roeder as the 2023-2024 52nd Session recipient of the Sanders Award.
The Sanders Award is to be bestowed annually to one or more public figures for their service to the students of the University of North Carolina System, to recognize those who advocate for the best interests of North Carolina’s students and, thereby, contribute to the quality of their lives. The Sanders Award shall be the highest honor bestowed by the Association upon a member of the University of North Carolina community.
Fleming Residence Hall Renovations
Campus Living is making great progress on the renovation of Fleming Hall, anticipating a return to student occupancy in the 2024-25 academic year. Fleming will receive multiple mechanical upgrades, primarily in the HVAC department, providing air quality and ventilation improvements for the hall. Fresh paint throughout the hall will give Fleming a more modern appeal while reserving its historical charm. These changes will make Fleming a more comforting and welcoming environment for our Pirates by making the hall a premiere option for students wishing to neighbor the university's academic hot spots.
In addition to HVAC upgrades and paint refreshes, Fleming will receive immediate quality-of-life improvements for students. Campus Living renovated the shared bathroom spaces to provide a more modern look and increased privacy. Speaking of privacy, Campus Living has developed multiple single-occupancy bathroom spaces. These moves will provide increased comfort, convenience, and privacy while improving the living experience of all Fleming residents.
ECU Chef Competes in Culinary Competition
This past March, ECU Dining’s Chef Michael Bluto participated in the ACE Culinary Competition in Wilmington, NC, bringing home the third-place award to the Pirate Nation. Chef Bluto began his collegiate dining career in 2012 and joined East Carolina University in 2022. During his time with ECU, he has enjoyed coming up with new flavors and dishes to share with our students, faculty, and staff. In February 2024, Chef Bluto received his Pro Chef II certification through the Culinary Institute of America, in Hyde Park, NY. The intense testing includes heavy emphasis on nutrition and international cuisine. Chef Bluto is excited to continue showcasing these skills on campus, both in catering and in our residential dining halls.
“Working with the students is one of the biggest pluses to my job!” Bluto shared. He says that other benefits include the mix of rush times and slower periods that “keep things interesting”. “And the slower summers don’t hurt!”
Chef Bluto knew from a young age that he belonged in a kitchen. He started cooking professionally at age 14 and hasn’t set the knife down since. He is a self-proclaimed caffeine and sweets addict, which is part of the reason why our sweets and treats on campus have such a delicious reputation. Chef Bluto puts his passion into everything he does, whether that’s gardening, spending time with his wife and two-year-old daughter or supplying the ECU campus with delicious and nutritious meals.
Spring Family Events
Paint with Your Pirate is an annual event held by the Office of Parent and Family Programs. This event is meant to highlight an almost forgotten population at East Carolina University, faculty and staff who are also ECU parents, with a student attending the university. This year, Paint with Your Pirate was held at Wine and Design on Dickinson Ave in April. The evening was filled with relaxation and fun, as those attending could test their painting skills with their loved ones.
Spring Family Fest is an annual event held by the Office of Parent and Family Programs. This year saw a record number of families attended the event. For the first time ever, a cornhole tournament was held to see which Pirate family was the best on the boards at Spring Family Fest. The event is held alongside a baseball game, where this year, families were able to head over to Clark-LeClair Stadium to watch the Pirate Baseball team get a victory over the UNCC 49ers! Families attending enjoyed good music, food, and a good time with family.
First-Gen Graduation Celebrations
“Knowing the comfort, support, and care that were always a part of my experience as a Pirate, I returned to ECU in Fall 2021, coming home to the place that reinforced my highest self, welcoming the fight that I’ve always had to rise to the surface.”
The Spring 2024 First-Gen Graduation Celebrations welcomed John Clingman Chappell, a 2023 First-Gen Graduate as the keynote speaker. The graduates and their loved ones were captivated by John’s inspiring journey which began back in 1997. He shared with the graduates the importance of having determination, resilience, and a drive to succeed even in the face of challenges. “So, trust yourself” John said to the graduates, as he shared the wisdom that life and dreams often come with ups and downs. He reassured the graduates that they have the ability to know when it is time to reinvent themselves, speak up, and choose a direction that is meant for them.
The biannual celebration recognizes and celebrates the achievement of graduating first generation students. What makes this moment even more remarkable is the recognition that neither parent nor guardian completed a four-year degree. At the celebration graduates cross the stage as their name is announced and are presented with a first generation stole by a loved one of their choosing. These students have shown incredible determination and resilience as they pave their own path to success. In addition to all their efforts, the support and encouragement from their loved ones have played a crucial role in their journey. The sacrifices made by their parents, guardians, partners, and family members have been instrumental in helping them reach this significant milestone. Congratulations first-gen Pirates Class of 2024!
“I loved that my husband was able to present my stole - it meant a lot to him to have that opportunity to be a part of my experience since he has lived this experience with me and sacrificed to make it possible!”
Click here to view the celebration highlights shared on social media.
Barefoot on the Mall
After a spring semester filled with classes, papers and studying, it’s only natural that East Carolina University students would want to relax with their friends before final exams begin. ECU students have had the opportunity since 1979 to celebrate the end of the semester and relax at Barefoot on the Mall.
“Barefoot on the Mall is one the longest running traditions at ECU,” said Austin Vick, assistant director of student programming in the Office of Student Engagement and a 2016 ECU graduate. “It began in 1979 and was a celebration of the last day of class. It’s become a huge tradition here that everyone looks forward to.”
Barefoot on the Mall is held on the last day of spring semester classes. The event is hosted annually by the Student Activities Board (SAB) and includes rides, food, giveaways and live music. This year, Barefoot went country with hometown favorite Parmalee providing the entertainment.
Click here to read the complete story by ECU News Services.
Click here to view the recap of Barefoot on the Mall shared on social media featuring Parmalee.
Etiquette Sessions Available
Rachel Person, a Career Counselor at ECU's Career Center, recently completed certification training April 19-20 at The Etiquette Institute in St. Louis, Missouri to fill the need for an etiquette instructor after the retirement of the previous one. The institute, led by a seasoned Career Services professional with over 20 years of experience in higher education, offers comprehensive training for aspiring Etiquette Consultants.
Higher Education Institutions, like ECU, find it cost-effective to have trained professionals conduct etiquette dinners and presentations. These sessions provide students with a competitive edge in the workforce, preparing them for professional situations such as interviews for scholarships, networking, or job interviews and are available to various campus groups.
Organizations interested in hosting etiquette sessions can contact Mrs. Person at personr21@ecu.edu. She aims to reintroduce campus-wide Etiquette Dinners by Spring 2025.
ESRC Court Signing Day – 5.7.24
Construction briefly paused on the flooring project at the Eakin Student Recreation Center so students and staff could sign their name to the subfloor. Court Signing Day took place on Tuesday, May 7th commemorating the building’s original court floor installed in 1996 with a new floor and redesign to include synthetic turf and rubber flooring that will expand programming opportunities for students. This gesture adds a unique and personal touch under the courts, making it more special for those who will use it in the future.
Summer Availability
Williams-Ross Purple Pantry - Hours & Operations
The Williams-Ross Purple Pantry will be open during summer sessions with abbreviated hours. Starting May 21st through July 18th, the pantry within the Main Campus Student Center will be open Tuesdays through Thursdays 2PM-4PM. Hours of operation are subject to change due to staff and student availability.
With the demand increasing and to ensure our shelves are stocked, we are in need of physical donations. Faculty, staff, and students can find our most needed items here, along with more information on donating and contact information. If you have any questions, please contact us at PurplePantry@ecu.edu.
Williams-Ross Purple Pantry by the Numbers: 2023-2024:
- 2,501 visits and distributed 10,211 pounds of food and hygiene items (between August 2023 and May 2024)
- 244 volunteers served 1,176 hours with the Williams-Ross Purple Pantry (between August 2023 and May 2024)
Safe Zone Trainings
Safe Zone is an opportunity for ECU faculty and staff to talk, learn, and ask questions about sexuality and gender in a non-judgmental, safe, educational environment. The purpose of Safe Zone is to create a network of allies who are willing to talk to students about sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, in addition to demonstrating their support of the LGBTQ community by displaying the Safe Zone symbol. Each session is three hours in length and includes a panel of students who share their experiences as members of the LGBTQ community on campus.
Once you have completed the training, you will receive a Safe Zone logo to display in your office, email signature and/or syllabi. The Safe Zone program is a symbol of this University’s commitment to belonging and inclusion and your participation in the Safe Zone training helps to create an ever-expanding network within the ECU community to support our students.
Registration on Cornerstone is now open for the following sessions:
- Wednesday, May 22 from 9 am to Noon in the Dr. Jesse R. Peel LGBTQ Center (Suite 209 in the Main Campus Student Center)
- Monday, June 24 from Noon to 3 pm in Laupus Library room 1504
- Tuesday, July 23 from 9 am to Noon in Laupus Library room 1504
- Thursday, July 25 from 1-4 pm in the Dr. Jesse R. Peel LGBTQ Center (Suite 209 in the Main Campus Student Center)
New Hires in Student Affairs
Karlie Walston - Center for Counseling and Student Development (CCSD)
Karlie Walston joins the CCSD as an Urgent Support Counselor. Her primary duties consist of meeting with students requesting crisis services, determining the appropriate level of care and follow-up services for students in crisis, assessing safety issues, and doing safety planning as needed with students who initiate services.
Karlie is a Pirate Alumna x2 obtaining both her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees from ECU. As a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed clinical addictions specialist, Karlie aboards with experience in higher education specifically within the realm of counseling and well-being alongside recovery efforts and SU treatment.
Karlie is a native of rural Eastern NC and enjoys music, dancing, connection and laughter, mental health advocacy, agriculture, and being by the water. She is married to her husband Kevin and has a one-year-old daughter named Henly (named after the Eagles Band).
Jodi Quemelen – Campus Recreation & Wellness (CRW)
Jodi Quemelen has joined CRW as the Coordinator of Well-Being and will be developing and implementing holistic well-being programs with a focus on mental health & stress management, nutrition & body image, suicide prevention, and overall well-being. She also directly manages the Well-Being Ambassadors who serve as peer health educators.
Jodi most recently served as the Graduate Assistant for Well-Being and has a Master of Public Health and a Bachelor of Public Health with a concentration in Worksite Health Promotion from ECU. She is from Waxhaw, NC and enjoys running and playing music and is a proud cat mom of 1 calico.