Tennessee Tech officials want to improve student engagement on and off campus, investing in student life through events, programs and infrastructure.
Assistant Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Katie Aikens said the University prioritizes ways students can connect with student life and the broader Cookeville community. Aikens said many events take place on the West side of campus, where many local businesses offer student discounts.
“Academic programs absolutely draw students to the university, and they keep students at the university as well,” Aikens said. “But we know when are students are happy and they feel connected and they feel they belong on the campus, then they are more likely to stay. So it’s absolutely part of our strategic effort to make sure that we connect them with things that they enjoy.”
Aikens said the plan involves spreading student engagement to the city, an effort to show local businesses to the student body. Aikens said student organizations are a large part of student engagement, representing 240 subjects students enjoy.
“That are build around a diverse set of interests that students have,” Aikens said. “Maybe they’re interested in chess. Maybe they’re interested in paintball. Maybe they’re interested in accounting and they want to join the accounting club to get some practical experience in their field.”
Aikens said when students are connected through student programs, they see better completion rates. Aikens said students are more likely to stay at the college, graduate and leave with a more positive outlook on their college experience. Aikens said student retention rates and growth have been strong.
“It is absolutely a priority for us and it will continue to be,” Aikens said.
Aikens said the University plans involve utilizing the newly built Innovation Hall, which will provide residential space for students. The hall will also provide a space where students can create outside of the classroom or a lab.
“It’s a little bit similar to the i Cube if you’re familiar with that, with the maker space but it’s an expanded version of that.” Aikens said. “So our students will really be able to really apply the skills that they’re learning in the classroom.”
The University also plans to move maintenance facilities from the Willow Avenue side of campus so sorority houses can be built. Tech President Phil Oldham told the Board of Trustees at its last meeting, this kind of work helps further the college experience that Tech officials believe will help the University grow.
Aikens said she hopes next steps for the University involve community service and leadership opportunities for students.
Aikens is the University Dean of Students.
