In this Q&A, Reyna Singleton, OSILD student worker, junior, business administration major, and Denise Bentley-Drobish, director of Student Involvement and Leadership Development, answer questions about the roles and initiatives of engaging student involvement on campus.
1) What is the Office of Student Involvement, and its role on campus?
Reyna Singleton: Our goal is to help students connect, build skills and grow by getting involved. Whether it’s joining a club, volunteering, taking on a leadership role or attending events, we want everyone to find their place, develop new skills and have fun.
Denise Bentley-Drobish: The Office of Student Involvement and Leadership Development operates under five key pillars: Involvement, Service, Activities, Leadership and Commuter Services, which shape our programs and initiatives.
2) What is one key thing you believe students and faculty should know about the office?
RS: One key thing students and faculty should know about Student Involvement and Leadership Development is that it’s not just about finding a job or checking off degree requirements. It’s about building real connections and relationships. The people in this office—students, staff and mentors—are incredible and have helped me in ways I never expected.
DBD: When students participate in clubs, organizations or campus events, they not only have fun, but also build leadership skills, make meaningful connections and develop a strong sense of belonging.
3) In what ways does the office help promote a positive and engaging campus environment?
RS: It really cares about each student on a personal level. We work hard to cater to each person’s needs and help them find their place on campus. Whether it’s guiding someone through finding the right cultural clubs or making big decisions like choosing internships, we’re here every step of the way.
DBD: OSILD helps to promote a positive and engaging campus environment by creating opportunities for students to connect, develop skills and find their place in our campus community. By offering diverse and inclusive opportunities, OSILD helps to ensure that every student can engage in meaningful experiences that align with their passions and values to enhance both their personal and professional growth.
4) What inspired you to become a part of the office?
RS: When I first arrived on campus, I didn’t feel whole. After dealing with a lot of conflicting emotions about who I was and where I fit in—not just here, but in the world—I struggled to find my place. But then I met several people—fellow students and professors—who helped me feel comfortable and taught me to understand my true capabilities. These individuals, from all walks of life, with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives, all listened to me, supported me and lifted me up, whether it was with classes or social life. Their kindness and encouragement inspired me more than I can explain. The one thing they all had in common was OSILD, and I knew I wanted to be part of that space, too. I wanted to help students just like me—those who may be struggling to find their place—feel supported and uplifted.
DBD: My journey into Student Affairs, and ultimately Student Involvement and Leadership Development, began as a residence adviser, where I first witnessed the power of student engagement in fostering community and personal growth. Working alongside an incredible team in OSILD has given us the opportunity to create meaningful experiences for students to connect, develop skills and fully embrace their college journey.
5) What are the office’s primary goals, and how do they align with the university’s mission?
RS: Through community engagement and service, OSILD helps foster a strong sense of social responsibility and encourages us to make a positive impact on both campus and the wider community.
DBD: Here, we foster the development of critical skills like leadership, communication and teamwork, which complement the university’s mission of academic excellence.
6) What strategies do you think are most effective in reaching and engaging students?
RS: For me, the best way to engage students is by making things fun. I might be a bit biased since I work as the current ProCon manager and also a programmer, but I truly believe it’s all about creating memories.
DBD: We’re all about creating fun and meaningful engagement opportunities that capture students’ attention, and we’re always on the lookout for new program and event ideas to keep things exciting.
7) How does the office interact with faculty and staff?
RS: From being club and organization advisers to offering guidance, they help make everything possible. It’s so important not only to thank them but also to remember and support them in return. Faculty and staff are
dedicated to our growth, putting in countless hours to help us develop valuable skills, not just for personal growth but also as future leaders.
DBD: Faculty and staff play a vital role in OSILD by serving as faculty advisers to our 125+ clubs and organizations. In these roles, they provide guidance and mentorship, supporting students in the development of essential leadership skills. Additionally, we collaborate closely with faculty and staff to generate enthusiasm for their programs, ensuring students are informed about campus events and encouraged to participate.
8) From your perspective, how has your office influenced/transformed students and their futures?
RS: I’ve seen so many amazing students find their spark and have it nurtured within OSILD. There’s something truly special about this department—you feel fully supported and encouraged. If you have a dream or ambition, OSILD will help you map out the steps to get there.
DBD: Students who actively participate in campus life are more likely to seek out opportunities to contribute to their communities, whether through local government, schools, or civic organizations. They develop a sense of responsibility, confidence in their ability to make a difference, and the motivation to create positive change in the world around them.
9) What are the biggest differences and comparisons between Student Involvement and Leadership Development?
RS: Both work hand in hand, though. Being involved helps students build the foundation of relationships and experiences, and leadership development takes those experiences and molds them into skills for personal and professional growth.
DBD: Student Involvement is dedicated to assisting students in discovering activities, clubs, and experiences that align with their personal interests and helps them to engage more fully with campus life. Leadership Development focuses on developing leadership skills and preparing students for future roles, both within the university and in their professional lives beyond graduation. Together, these initiatives aim to enrich the student experience and ensure that students are well-prepared for success in many areas of their lives.
10) What impact do you hope your work, and the office as a whole, has on the campus community?
RS: I hope that my work, along with everything OSILD does, leaves a lasting impact on the campus community by helping students feel supported, connected and empowered.
DBD: Ultimately, we hope our work in Student Involvement and Leadership Development helps to create an inclusive, vibrant and engaging campus environment where students feel connected, empowered and prepared for future success.
