Staff Spotlight
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Meet Jessica Stewart
Department: Student Development Services
Position: Associate Director, New Student & Parent Orientation Program
Length of Service at UIC: 5 fascinating years!
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Prior to UIC: Jessica pursued her undergraduate studies in Farmville‚ Virginia (yes‚ there really is a Farmville outside of Facebook) and her Master‘s Degree in Bowling Green‚ Ohio. After being in these environments‚ she had a desire to work at a university in a major city and experience the resources and lifestyle it would offer. Fortunately‚ UIC and Chicago have been a wonderful fit.
Role: Jessica plans and implements the orientation process‚ one of the first UIC experiences for new and transfer students and their family members. During the 2011 summer months over 4‚000 participants were successfully scheduled and welcomed to UIC. The program was designed to help students and their families become familiar with the campus and its resources‚ policies‚ and procedures. Jessica and the orientation team aimed to provide participants with a meaningful and smooth transition to campus. Her commitment to UIC parents extends beyond Orientation through her efforts with the University of Illinois at Chicago Association of Parents (UICAP); she facilitates access to helpful resources and opportunities to stay connected with the UIC community year round.
Work Mission: Jessica seeks to provide positive orientation and transition experiences for our new students while aiding the retention of all students. She finds that her involvement with the National Orientation Directors Association (NODA) combined with approaching each responsibility and guest with an open mind and positive attitude has helped her address these goals.
What others say: Colleagues consider Jessica a team player who truly enjoys witnessing student achievement. She is appreciated for her effectiveness‚ enthusiasm and warm smile.
How leisure time is spent: Allocating quality time for family activities is essential for Jessica. She and her husband recently welcomed a new addition to their household. The excitement has prompted frequent welcomed visits of extended family and friends. When the weather cooperates the family enjoys taking long walks around the city and heading to the park for fun activities.
Special Interests: Jessica likes the challenge of Sudokuo‚ creativity of cooking‚ and leisure reading. Her favorite work is The Elegance of the Hedgehog. She recommends the French novel which has gained acclaim worldwide.
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