CoffeeBreak is an e-newsletter distributed to Averett faculty and staff to keep them up to date on campus activities and information.

Please send information you would like included in CoffeeBreak via this form by 4:30 p.m. Friday, July 29 for a Wednesday, Aug. 3 publication.

GPS Student Spotlight

Throughout the month the Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) admissions team interviews and highlights our GPS students. We hope you will enjoy learning more about these amazing members of our Averett family!

Meet Shonda Jones, one of our bachelor of business administration (BBA) students. Shonda will graduate in December.

Why she chose the GPS Program: “I heard so many good things about Averett from my co-workers. I love their program and the length of their classes, 5-7 weeks, compared to other colleges, which take up to 10-16 weeks to complete.”

What is motivating her to earn her degree: “I am forty-seven years old and this has always been a personal goal of mine. My motivations are my children and grandchildren. I would like to show them that you are never too old to pursue and achieve your goals.”

What keeps her motivated: “My motivation for staying in the program is to receive my bachelor’s degree and to continue my education by obtaining a master’s degree. My biggest supporters are my family and friends who keep me grounded with school.”

Tip for fellow and future classmates: “Always try to stay ahead of your assignments and ask questions if you do not understand.”

Meet Jennifer Mininger, another student in the BBA degree program. Jennifer will graduate with her degree in 2018.

Why she chose the GPS Program: “An alumnus and co-worker had recommended Averett’s GPS Program. I liked the small classroom sizes and the feel of the Innsbrook location along with the professionalism I was shown the day I visited. When I left I called my mom and told her I was starting school at Averett and had already filled out the paperwork.”

What is motivating her to earn her degree: “At first it was to match my experience with a degree to enhance my career for upward mobility. While that is still on the agenda, I have been pleasantly surprised by how much some of these classes have expanded my mind and made me think about my life differently and for the better.”

What keeps her motivated: “My faith, family, friends, co-workers and Pat (Williams, admissions counselor) at Averett! They have all been cheering me on and it helps to keep me accountable. Pat Williams is invaluable to me! From previous students at other colleges and universities I was told don’t expect to hear from the admissions counselor. Not Pat, she is always calling or emailing me just making sure I am doing well. That is just one of the personal aspects that makes me proud to be an Averett University student!”

Tip for fellow and future classmates: “Know that you can talk to your instructors. They are there to see you succeed! This goes for in person and online. My instructors have helped me to become a better student and writer. So I am always learning more than just the class material. Remember this is your degree. Be proud of it, take charge of it and own it!”

Opening Convocation

Staff members are invited to participate in the 2016 Opening Convocation academic procession, on Tuesday, Aug. 16. In order to participate in the exercises, you must have received at least a graduate degree and have the proper regalia. If you would like to participate, please email Mary Sullivan by Wednesday, Aug. 3.

New Logo

We need your help! As you’re walking around campus, you’ll soon notice the new logo on signs, but please make note of places where the old logo is and send an email to Cassie Williams Jones with your list. We want to make sure everything gets changed.

Also, just a friendly reminder that if you’ve used up all of your stationary or items with the old logo, or are close to running out and need to place an order, make sure you request the new logo. In addition, it’s strongly recommended you get a proof of the order before printing to make sure all of the information is correct.

August Opening Scheduled

Save the date for the annual August opening! This year’s fun event will be held at the North Campus at 3 p.m. on Aug. 11, and will include a presentation, pinning of new faculty and staff members, an interactive way to learn more about the Averett 2020 Strategic Plan projects, a creative opportunity to welcome students back to the new academic year and a picnic for you and your families. If you haven’t already, please RSVP for yourself and the number of family guests you will be bringing (significant others, children) by Wednesday, Aug. 3 through the Punchbowl invitation you received last week from President Franks.