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BY KAITLIN KYI

In print | Published August 26, 2008

Rachel Head recently assumed her role as Assistant Dean of Residential Life, a position vacated after Liz Derickson ’01 left to attend graduate school. Holding a Bachelor of Science from Florida State University and a Master of Education from University of South Florida, Head comes to Swarthmore with years of experience in both residential programs and social work. In e-mail correspondence with Phoenix Managing Editor Kaitlin Kyi, Head elaborated upon the changes she hopes to bring about as assistant dean.

KK: First of all, welcome to Swarthmore! At the time of publication, you will already have been situated here for around 8 weeks. How are you settling into your new surroundings?

Rachel Head: Thanks for the welcome! You know, I started at Swarthmore during a great time. I was able to start out slow and “get my feet wet” during July, prior to things getting really busy … I’ve been able to get to know a number of students and other members of the Swarthmore community in an informal and welcoming environment.

KK: You’ve been a part of residential offices life at Dartmouth College, UNC and USF. How have these experiences equipped you for Swarthmore?

RH: I think that all of my previous work experiences, combined with my graduate studies in Education and Social Work, have provided me with a strong foundation in student advising, social justice education and residentially based programming. I’ve learned that, while the physical environments may be different, students developmentally go through the same things even though they are at different institutions. In every new job, there is much to be learned and much to experience. I am ready to learn a lot from my time … at Swarthmore.

KK: You come most recently from two years at Dartmouth where you led a new program that encouraged faculty interaction in residential activities. Do you think a similar program might be in the works for Swat?

RH: I can honestly say that I am not sure. The opportunity I had at Dartmouth was unique in that 1) I had the opportunity to work with the Advancement Office stewarding donor monies and 2) I had the opportunity to work closely with members of the faculty to develop curriculums for learning outside of the classroom. I am not sure that the need is the same here at Swarthmore. There is already a strong culture of faculty and student interaction that is evidenced by the commitment of the College to undergraduate involvement in research, experiential learning, and peer-to-peer instruction.
But, I am excited to see where I might be able to bring something to the table here at Swarthmore. For example, I have a lot of experience working with first-year and second-year students in developing confidence and competencies in initiating contact with members of the faculty. I hope that, at the very least, students will see me as a resource person in regards to developing intentional and purposeful relationships with members of the faculty.

KK: Are there any plans for increasing security in the dorms?

RH: From what I have learned — and, I qualify this by saying that I’ve only been here eight weeks — I know that students say that they seem to feel “pretty safe” on campus. There are a lot of simple things that individuals can do to help increase security in the dorms. Not propping doors is probably the simplest thing that everyone can do. I know that Swarthmore has a pretty open community where people trust each other, but, simply pushing a door shut anytime you see it open is probably the most effective way to increase security anywhere.

KK: Is there any possibility residential dorm doors might one day be opened by swipe-card keys?

RH: I think anything is possible but, from what I have learned since I’ve been here, there are a number of factors that are being taken into account as swipe-cards are being considered, including the cost associated with that type of system and the logistics of trying to upgrade so many different buildings with so many different doors. I know that there are many people who feel strongly about the issue. It is something that was really important to the students I met during my interview … As with any important issue, we are open to hearing what everyone has to say.

KK: If you had to choose, what dorm would you most want to live in?

RH: This is a great question! Hmmm, probably either Palmer/Pittenger, because I love how every room is different and unique, or in Worth (again, the spaces are unique and have a lot of character).

TP: Any personality quirks or traits we might look forward to when stopping by Parrish 116?

RH: First off, I really do encourage people just to stop by. It is kind of exciting being the new person in town. I can’t wait for the students to get here this week so I can get to know everyone. As for quirks or traits, I do have this serious fear of dogs, so, don’t be surprised if I freeze up if a student comes walking in with a huge dog.

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