Mallory Wetherington says her new role as APU’s assistant to the dean of students combines two professional goals.
A May graduate of the University of Alaska Anchorage, Wetherington was looking for a first job where she could help other college-age students while applying leadership skills gained during her undergraduate years.
“My role at APU gives me the opportunity to be involved in a university where I can help students achieve their goals,” she said.
“Being here at APU, I’m part of a community, not just a university. I feel welcomed to APU.”
Dean of Students Kelly Smith highlighted Wetherington’s experience as chair of UAA’s Campus Programming Board and coordinator of the university’s 13-day orientation for students living in residence halls.
“I’m excited to have Mallory join the Student Affairs Team,” Smith said. In addition to administrative tasks involving campus life and safety, Wetherington will contribute to analysis of reporting on student satisfaction and retention.
A five-year resident of Alaska who coaches gymnastics, Wetherington said becoming involved in campus life helped her make it through school.
“Being a student leader gave me the chance to learn more about myself and what it takes to get things done,” she said. Experience as an orientation coordinator and on the UAA programming board, which has wide-ranging responsibility for student activities, gave her insight into how a university works.
“Now I have the opportunity to share my ideas with students at APU,” she said.
As a new graduate and a former resident adviser, Wetherington has advice for APU’s incoming students.
“Take time to get involved in some way,” she said. “You’ll meet people and stay engaged in university life outside of the classroom.”
Wetherington succeeds Linda Bryant, APU’s longtime assistant to the dean of students. Bryant left APU in May to move closer to family in Washington state.
Photos: Courtesy of Mallory Wetherington
