College of Business Career and Student Success Center to become College of Business Academic Advising and Career Services

The College of Business Career and Student Success Center (CSSC) will officially become College of Business Academic Advising and Career Services (BAACS), effective May 22, 2023.

Dr. Mel Kulp, assistant dean overseeing BAACS explained that the new name concisely reflects the work being done in the office. The name change allows for current and prospective students and families and employers recruiting business students to clearly understand what services are offered within the office. The office has recently shifted its focus, creating a mission, vision, and values aligned with a new strategic plan under Kulp’s leadership. 

“BAACS has grown significantly over the last academic year,” Kulp said. “The staff has come together to create a new name and strategy that aligns with holistic student success, something very important to our entire team. A name change symbolizes the beginning of a new era of academic advising and career readiness in the College of Business.” 

The CSSC was founded eight years ago, focusing on academic advising and career coaching for undergraduate business students. Since its establishment, the office has become a staple in the College of Business, ensuring students are on track to graduate, improving retention, and preparing students for post-graduation career success. In the last year, the office has kept these initiatives but focused on strategically bridging the gap between advising and career coaching to provide business students with a holistic experience tailored to their needs.

BAACS has also begun employer relations initiatives which allow the staff to build deeper relationships with employers to aid business students in locating experiential experiences, internships, and jobs. These directives have led to high fall 2022 first-year student retention rates and increased levels (93 percent) of students reporting successful post-graduation plans.

BAACS will undergo an image rebrand as well, creating a new logo and giving an aesthetic facelift to the office space on the second floor of Copeland Hall. Staff are enthusiastic about the name change and rebrand. Katie Thomson, associate director of career management and employer relations has been a team member in the office since 2019. 

“We are excited to be launching the rebrand and renaming of our office! The same passionate professionals, driven by the relationships created with our students will continue to make Copeland Hall 214 a place of support, guidance, and development,” Thomson said. “We love that this new name clearly defines the core functions of our office, while also allowing us to playfully remind you that ‘we’ve got your BAACS!’” 

BAACS will host an official grand opening in the fall to welcome students back and acclimate them to the new name.