Advocate for CAT Students Honored

Carol Mack means it when she says, “I’m passionate about each student’s access and success. Regardless of what we preach to students, if we don’t support them, we cannot retain them.” That kind of attitude explains why the Center for Access and Transition (CAT) selected her to receive the Award of Appreciation “given annually to a person from outside the Center who goes above and beyond the call of duty in support of Center for Access and Transition students.”

Mack spends two days each week working with those enrolled in the CAT to ensure that they select appropriate majors when they transition. She encourages them to have realistic academic expectations and to recognize that the university provides multiple pathways to success.

She summarizes her philosophy succinctly: “Every student needs someone who believes in his or her ability to succeed. I’ve heard that preparation and opportunity equal success. But the equation is missing fundamentals such as guidance and support. The collaboration between the Center for Exploratory Studies (CES) and CAT is one of the first steps to ensure success in completing the bachelor’s degree.”

In congratulating Mack, Provost Anthony Perzigian said, “It’s great to see you recognized in this way. Thanks for going the extra mile for our students.” Tara Stopfel, director of the Center for Exploratory Studies, added that “in addition to her quality work in CES, I continually get very positive feedback from the staff at CAT and the students that Carol touches.”