Tom Watts from the Registrar’s Office discussed the advisor’s role in petition processes, including both Academic Requirements Committee petitions for late registration changes, and the Academic Standing Committee petitions for reinstatement by exception (for suspended students).  He also discussed the Undergraduate Planned Educational Leave Program (PELP), which allows students to temporarily suspend their academic work for a period of time and resume their studies with minimal procedural difficulties.

Notes:  Notes from Registrar’s Office Petitions Coffee Talk

Handout (PDF):  Registrar’s Petitions – Advice for Advisors

Emily Bowling from the Center for Civic Engagement discussed the benefits of volunteering, how advisors can help students get involved in community service, and annual service events sponsored by the Center for Civic Engagement.  The Center maintains a list of service opportunities for students which can be sorted one-time/ongoing and interest area.  Staff in the Center are also available to advise students on finding volunteer opportunities.  She emphasized a few things that students should consider when entering a community site, including some tips for students to be mindful of.  Emily discussed service learning as well.  Michelle Inderbitzin is serving as the Service Learning Faculty Development Coordinator for the Center for Teaching and Learning at OSU.  Michelle would be a good contact for any department looking to design or improve a service learning course.