Lunch program provides free meals to build relationships

TR Campus will host Take a Student to a Meal week beginning Jan. 31, designed to create student and faculty/staff interactions outside of the classroom.

“Research shows that the more connections students make with faculty or staff, that they will go to them when in need,” said Michael Baumgardner, TR student services director.

Baumgardner said that the program was designed last year to increase student retention and provide students better quality experiences. Students who make significant connections with one or more faculty/staff members are more likely to persist and have greater satisfaction and success, he said.

“We’re striving to provide these opportunities and allow them the ability to build important relationships,” he said.

Baumgardner encouraged faculty and staff to reach out to students who they think may be withdrawn or need extra attention. Faculty and staff are given the chance to invite one or more students to a meal at the Riverfront Café or the coffee shop on TR Campus. If students and faculty/staff choose to participate, the cost of the meal will be covered.

Faculty and staff must stop by TRTR 2004A at the time they plan to eat with students and sign in, Baumgardner said.

Faculty and staff will be given a voucher for the Riverfront Café or coffee bar and an evaluation of the program.

“We hope everyone will participate, and it will be a great opportunity for students, faculty and staff,” he said.

For more information, contact Baumgardner at michael.baumgardner@tccd.edu.

Ciaran Lambert