Student Orientation and Engagement at Viterbo underwent significant changes in summer 2023, moving locations and adjusting its staff. Staff members remain committed to the student body, supporting its efforts through clubs and events while managing these adjustments. The new positions have more clearly designed roles, and that approach has helped the office work much more efficiently.
The most notable adjustment for the Orientation and Engagement office is the change in location. Previously, they worked in the Hawk’s Nest but have now changed to first floor Marian.
Student Engagement Coordinator Tanisha Petherbridge is a new hire working to plan events and help student organizations. She works closely with other departments on campus and student clubs to set up parties, volunteer opportunities, and other fun events on campus.
The Orientation and Engagement office is working to streamline its productivity: “[The department] has really been trying to revamp and revitalize itself,” Petherbridge says. It hasn’t been the easiest adjustment, and Petherbridge acknowledges that “I like to say that I’m building the plane while I’m flying it because there have been so many changes.” Despite such a hectic pace, the department is seemingly soaring.
Every Friday and Saturday and some Thursdays, they help operate events with clubs and organizations. Notably, with Halloween approaching, there are six straight days of ‘Halloweek’ at Viterbo. Petherbridge explains, “Halloween is going to be super busy here – all the Halloween parties and movie nights and snacks … On October 27, we’re going to have a movie screening of ‘The Blair Witch Project’ followed by a discussion on the culture of horror.”
These events are a part of the Weekends at VU series, which is promoting interpersonal student activities Weekends at VU’s schedule can be found here, or by searching ‘Weekends at VU Schedule.’
Students looking to start a club can also contact Petherbridge with questions. She states, “If you wanted to start your own club, I would say the main things you’d need would be: three club officers, an advisor, and a list of bylaws.” She is also available to help students draft bylaws and is “… happy to meet and chat.”
One of the clubs Petherbridge helps advise is the Film Club, “I’ve actually had the pleasure of meeting with [the] co-presidents. They are so much fun!” She helped the club with its budget, supplies, and event planning: “So my role has been that support person.”
Petherbridge advises students to “Get active; meet other clubs and departments.” Any student can join a club and finding one that resonates with them can spark entirely new passions, create whole new friend groups, and connect them more deeply to the Viterbo community.
