At Dickinson State University (DSU), the journey of many Blue Hawks is fueled by a collaborative effort: the generosity of scholarship donors and the Student Opportunity and Resource Center (SOAR). These two resources work together to ensure that students not only have the financial means to attend DSU but are also equipped with the tools needed to succeed.

The Impact of Scholarship Donors

Scholarship donors play an important role by helping to ease financial burdens that might otherwise keep students from pursuing their academic dreams. By providing critical funding, donors help to bridge financial gaps, making it possible for more students to attend college, focus on their studies, and actively engage in campus life.

The SOAR Center: A Lifeline for Student Success

Once students arrive on campus, the SOAR Center becomes an academic and personal lifeline guiding them through challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Located on the second floor of May Hall, the SOAR Center provides accessibility resources, academic advising, career guidance, and tutoring. From structured study halls to organizing accountability meetings, the SOAR Center offers both academic resources and emotional support. Student Success Advisors are in regular communication with students and faculty, intervening when necessary to help students who may be struggling.

The SOAR Center’s services are designed to meet students where they are. The team regularly hosts events like "Crock-Pot Week" and "Espresso Day" to encourage students to utilize their resources.

Collaboration Across Campus

The SOAR Center team works closely with faculty across campus, using tools like Starfish to create a seamless support experience for students. Faculty can flag student concerns through Starfish, prompting SOAR staff to reach out to students and close the feedback loop. This collaboration ensures that students have a network of advocates supporting their success, encouraging them to persist through challenges and achieve their goals.

Family Shares the SOAR Center’s Impact

The SOAR Center impacts the lives of students as well as their families. Tyson and Stacy, parents of two DSU students, shared how the SOAR Center and Dean of Students Kayla Noah were critical to their children's positive college experience. “Kayla Noah was more than just a mentor; she was a beacon of hope and encouragement, guiding our children through every challenge with unwavering support and kindness.” One of their children added, “Kayla’s commitment to our success made a world of difference in our college journey, from academic planning to emotional support during challenging times.”

Voices of Support and Success

Many students have found more than just academic support within the SOAR Center. As one student, Ezekiel Dokes, shared, “The SOAR Center has made a positive impact, not only on my grades but on my social skills and everyday life struggles. I have found a home away from home in the SOAR Center – the team here is like my second family, always holding me accountable and encouraging me to do the right thing.”

Meet the SOAR Center Team

The dedicated staff at the SOAR Center bring diverse backgrounds and a shared commitment to student success:

  • Kayla Noah, Dean of Students, has been with DSU since 2012, bringing her passion for meeting people from all walks of life to her role.
  • Ashley Tillman, Student Success Advisor for various programs including Nursing and Exercise Science, values the chance to build relationships with students, ensuring that she’s a trusted resource to whom they can turn.
  • Emma Nortjē, Student Success Advisor for Education, STEM, and Fine Arts, joined DSU in January 2024, bringing fresh perspectives to the team.
  • Samantha Wohletz, Director of the SOAR Center holds a master’s degree from the University of Kansas, has spent 11 years at DSU, equipping students with tools to meet their long-term goals.
  • Marissa Schroeder, who advises Business and University Studies students, started in June 2024, and brings her DSU education and coaching background to her role.
  • Stefanie Aulner, Student Success Advisor for disciplines including History and Psychology, draws inspiration from her own mentors and is dedicated to giving back through her work.

A Community of Support

The collaborative efforts of DSU’s scholarship donors and the SOAR Center symbolize a commitment to every Blue Hawk, building a community where students are supported, nurtured, and equipped to succeed.

By: Debora Dragseth, Baker Boy Professor of Leadership | School of Business and Entrepreneurship Dickinson State University