Student Affairs Thematic Areas

With a mission of supporting student life on campus, the PFC learns about and helps to fund the Charles Center, the Office of Career Development & Professional Engagement and the six thematic areas of Student Affairs. Presentations and conversations with senior staff leadership offer PFC families greater knowledge and a deeper understanding of William & Mary so they can be effective ambassadors to the larger parent community.

Campus Living

William & Mary prides itself on traditions — whether that be the cornerstone experience of living on-campus with Housing & Residence Life or participating in transition initiatives and events that mark a student’s journey from Orientation to Commencement with Student Transition Engagement Programs (STEP). Campus Living staff, student leaders and programs have a direct impact on every undergraduate student’s experience within our community.

Career Development & Professional Engagement

The Career Development & Professional Engagement team in the Cohen Career Center offers programs and resources that empower students to achieve their career goals. PFC families serve as ambassadors for students and alumni by sharing their knowledge and networks and offering job, internship and externship opportunities.

Community Values & Connection

William & Mary seeks to foster connection through various programs that bring students together. Departments in this area that help us enact this vision include Conflict Resolution & Education, Family Engagement, Gender-Based Violence & Advocacy Services, and Student Accountability & Restorative Practices.

Health & Wellness

William & Mary strives to enhance well-being for the entire community across many dimensions of wellness by providing education, services and support through four Health & Wellness departments—Campus Recreation, Health Promotion, the Counseling Center and the Student Health Center. PFC families help promote a culture of healthy behavior and choices for students that improve quality of life and promote flourishing and resilience. 

Planning, Strategy & Integrative Practices

It is important to have spaces in which William & Mary students can feel included and be provided with the resources they need to thrive. Departments that help us achieve that mission include the Student Center for Inclusive Excellence and First-Generation Student Engagement.

Student Engagement & Leadership

Through meaningful engagement opportunities, students find a sense of belonging, practice leadership and develop as educated citizens and leaders who forge positive change. This area of Student Affairs covers a broad range of departments including Civic and Community Engagement, the Office of Student Veteran Engagement, Student Unions & Engagement and Student Leadership Development, which includes Clubs & Organizations, Fraternity & Sorority Life, Student Media and Student Government.

Student Success

Student Success supports students’ personal growth, development, engagement and belonging by providing holistic guidance as they navigate their own W&M journeys. The departments of Academic Wellbeing, Care Support Services and Student Accessibility Services demonstrate a commitment to providing undergraduates and graduates with guidance and services essential to creating an engaging learning environment where community is strengthened and individuals flourish.