UAB spotlights student involvement and leadership programs, enrollment supports

UAB presented a student affairs spotlight Feb. 7 on the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership, outlining programs to build student belonging, leadership and service opportunities across campus.

"The main functional areas include leadership and service, student success, student activities, and fraternity and sorority life," said Dr. John Jones III in the spotlight presentation. Jones noted programs such as the First Impact leadership program (modified in 2023 to align with the university core curriculum), Blazer Welcome events during the first four weeks each fall, and mentoring programs for first-generation students.

Why it matters: Campus leaders cited a record 448 registered student organizations — the most in UAB history — and described how student involvement supports retention and student success through advising, mentoring and experiential programs. Staff also oversee fraternity and sorority communities and run multi-day service trips called "Blazers on Breaks." The Student Assembly Building and Hill Student Center were listed as key spaces for student activities.

Discussion and context: Jones highlighted connections to first-generation student supports, the university’s role in community service and the role of the Student Assembly Building in hosting events (480 events during the last fall semester). The presentation closed with an invitation for questions; trustees expressed appreciation during the meeting.

What happens next: The office will continue programming tied to student success and orientation efforts and coordinate with university leadership on access and space for student organizations.