Easley Campus Kicks Off Fall Semester with Student Engagement Event

Tri-County Technical College’s Easley Campus kicked off the first two days of classes with a special emphasis on student engagement, with the goal of getting students involved in campus activities, community resources and getting them familiar with campus staff. 

In its second year, Tri-County’s newest campus, located on Powdersville Rood in Easley, reported an 18 percent increase over last fall. To celebrate and to welcome the students, Dr. Brian Swords, director of the campus, invited community agencies to interact with the students during the first two days of class.

“We saw early on that we were looking at another hefty increase in enrollment this fall, so we wanted to catch students as early as possible and engage them in every way possible.” said Dr. Swords.

“College-wide, we deal with the problem of retaining students after we get them here.  We wanted to try to prevent that as much as possible, by getting students familiar with the campus and the resources that were available to them.  We also wanted to make them feel at home as soon as they stepped onto the campus this fall,” said Lakishia Dinkins, campus student affairs coordinator.

Several information tables were set up throughout the building.   Members of the campus staff, along with outside support agencies were stationed throughout the building with displays and information. Some of these agencies, such as the YMCA and The Blood Connection, provided giveaways to students. 

In addition to the support agencies, area businesses representatives were also on-hand with giveaways to welcome the students on their first day of classes.  Students also could sign up to participate in several campus activity groups including intramural sports and community service organizations.

“This event was a great success, and the student response was tremendous.  This really went a long way in letting the students know that we appreciate them being here, and we want them to be successful.” said Shannan Holland, campus operations and activities coordinator      

The campus also has several other events scheduled throughout the semester that will continue to engage the students. Area banks will be presenting a series of presentations on basic financial management. Several community leaders will also be on hand throughout the semester to talk with students regarding civic leadership and responsibility. 

The campus also has teamed up with the City of Easley Recreation Department to field several intramural sports teams including flag football and co-ed softball.  

“We also wanted to make students feel at home as soon as they stepped onto the campus this fall,” said Dr. Swords.