Orientation names assistant director

Although current students might be relaxing by the pool or playing soccer in the fields, in a few weeks there will be new faces on campus with their red drawstring bags that scream one word: freshman.

Another new face will also be among the pack, serving as the newest professional staff member of orientation: Assistant Director Dan Murphy.

“I think I will be able to bring a fresh perspective,” said Murphy, who first stepped foot on IU’s campus just a few weeks ago, joining orientation.

Orientation kicks off June 16 and lasts until July 23.

Coming from James Madison University, Murphy completed his graduate degree in college student personnel administration, and he served as the interim assistant director of orientation and as the former coordinator of student staff.

Director of New Student Orientation Melanie Payne said Murphy knows the orientation world.

“The coolest thing is that he had a great reminder of what new students are going through,” Payne said. “Sometimes you just need to know how to get around to feel comfortable in order to listen to what the program is offering.”

She described Murphy as creative, fun and dedicated to students and student development, while his biggest responsibility will be working with undergraduate staff and supervising parts of the program.

“I think the student staff will really like having him as their supervisor and appreciate the time and energy he puts in to help them build a team,” Payne said.

There will also be a few changes in the program, with more interaction between smaller groups to help students learn about the resources and opportunities on campus. An additional session for parents called “Family Finale: A year in the life of a college student” will allow parents to ask the IU staff questions.

New students can still plan on group advising, placement tests and the featured student-directed musical and other activities during the evening in Wright Quad.

Murphy said one of the program’s new focuses will be creating leadership development and helping students gain skills that last beyond their time at IU.

He said he plans on working closely with orientation leaders and teaching them what it means to become a leader before entering the workforce.

“My hope is that we will continue to provide opportunities to connect the institution with resources and opportunities and to create the atmosphere that makes students feel wonderful and comfortable,” Murphy said. “I’m just really excited to be here and be a part of the Indiana community.”