Strategic plan discussed for 'student experience'

University of Richmond students may someday take paddle boats across Westhampton Lake, ride a giant swing set or play Frisbee golf on campus, members of the student experience group said on Wednesday.

They met in Gottwald Auditorium at 6 p.m. to discuss how to give students a distinctive experience, which is the fifth and final principle of President Edward Ayers' strategic plan.

Twelve students from the student government associations attended the meeting, which was co-chaired by Steve Bisese, vice president for student development, and LaRee Sugg, assistant athletic director. Other members of committee were Michele Cox, director of study abroad, and Tom Roberts, director of recreation and wellness.

"We were trying to capture the student experience in such a way that we could find what we wanted to improve and what we had done well," Bisese said.

Each goal included two to four action plans which were meant to help students before they arrive on campus, while they are students and when they become alumni. Some actions included extending orientation, enhancing living and learning opportunities guaranteeing experimental opportunities, and increasing funding for student organizations.

Roberts spoke about the possibility of adding indoor and outdoor activities for students enjoy.

"We just want students to know that it's OK to relax," he said.

After reading through the draft, Bisese asked students for feedback. "The devil is in the detail," said Matt Whittaker, RCSGA president. "How do we actually make all this work?"

He said he was excited about the challenges, but wondered how they would all work out.

Contact staff writer Kimberly Leonard at kimberly.leonard@richmond.edu