During the October Town Hall, Dr. Dennis Hall, vice president of student affairs and dean of students, announced that students are getting more involved with student life resources this year than in the past.  

He mentioned that 106 students attended the Smaller. Smarter. Career Fair this year, and more students are utilizing counseling, coaching and support through the Care Team and the Community Counseling Center.  

“Our students are really involved this year,” he said. “They’re highly engaged and connecting to people. It’s been a nice shift. Last year, we had that ‘COVID lull,’ and I feel like our incoming class, especially with how large it is, kind of broke the ice in many ways.” 

Students have also been seeking out leadership positions and wanting to become involved in topics like diversity and inclusion.  

Hall also informed the audience about TimelyCare, a new telehealth app for currently enrolled students. Students can sign up for free with their TXWES credentials and receive physical and mental health support. So far, 10% of students have downloaded the app — almost halfway to the University's goal of 25%.  

During the Town Hall, President Slabach presented Samantha Wemple, assistant director of residence life operations, with the Staff Hero Award. During her time at Texas Wesleyan, Wemple helped coordinate and streamline student life operations, implemented new technology and assisted with overseeing various student life activities.  

“Sam is an excellent leader,” Hall said. “She is an unsung hero — working behind the scenes to get the job done. This was an opportunity to bring her hard work to light and recognize someone who never does the job for the recognition.”  

The Staff Hero Award is given to a staff member who goes above and beyond to help reach University goals in alignment with the Engage 2025 Strategic Plan. 

You can watch the recording of the October Town Hall online, and make sure to mark your calendars for the remaining town halls this academic year by viewing the schedule.