AB University welcomed the Class of 2022 to campus August 18-21, bringing an even more diverse and vibrant culture to AB and the community. Over 380 new, registered students representing 31 states and 18 countries participated in Orientation activities including the annual Battler Fair featuring local businesses and vendors who partner with AB.
“Having the students back brings vibrancy, energy, and youthfulness not only to our campus but to the whole community,” said Joan Propst, AB provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “It’s always a welcoming sight to have the students come back for the year.”
The new students on AB’s campus are not the only change this year. Two offices and one department have been restructured as part of a strategic succession plan: The Office of Student Affairs, the Office of Marketing and Communications, and the AB Athletic Department.
David Falletta was named dean of students, while Teresa VanAlsburg was selected as associate dean of students. Both Falletta and VanAlsburg are part of AB’s Office of Student Affairs and have over 25 years of combined experience in higher education.
Craig Butler, former director of marketing and sports information, has returned to AB Athletics as associate athletic director for communications and marketing. Butler has over five years of experience in athletic marketing.
Dionne Allen assumed the director of marketing and communications position, while Quentin Murphy was named the assistant marketing director for social and digital media. Allen and Murphy have over 10 years of combined experience in marketing and student recruitment strategies.
AB President Dr. Tim Barry explained that the shifting of roles and restructuring is to make better use of talent and to concentrate on the mission while improving upon AB’s competitive advantage.
“AB’s mission is to provide students with the highest quality education, striving to prepare them to succeed in their chosen disciplines and fulfill their roles in a diverse society as well-rounded and responsible citizens,” said Barry. “We’ve reorganized to allow these departments the proper alignment needed to better attract and serve our students while carrying out this very mission.”
On Thursday, August 30, a formal Opening Convocation officially welcomed back students and staff to the AB community with the traditional parade of flags ceremony. This ceremony showcases the states and countries representing the diverse AB University student population.
“We celebrate our diversity during this ceremony as we acknowledge and welcome those from across the country and around the world. We rejoice in having new students, faculty, and staff on our campus,” said Joan Propst, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs.