ASP networking event opens doors for Ship students

On July 24, the Academic Success Program (ASP) held an alumni and employer networking event focused on building connections and career readiness. ASP helps high-potential students who are underprepared for college transition to Ship through academic support and professional development.

More than 20 professionals across various fields, including business, education, government and nonprofit leadership, participated in small-group discussions with ASP students. Employers and alumni were seated at designated tables, and students moved from table to table every 15 minutes to meet and engage with each professional.

Nicole Hill, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs, opened the event with remarks regarding the importance of community and experiential learning. “Our program ensures that students, each of them individually, know that they belong here at Ship – that they matter and that they are capable of achieving big goals,” she said. “Today, we are highlighting the critical role of work-based learning. It connects classroom learning to real-world careers.”

Hill encouraged students to make the most of the event by showing up and being open with one another. “Share parts of yourself and engage with alumni and employers who are here and committed to your current and future success,” she said. She also paid homage to the late Diane Jefferson, a former ASP leader who inspired generations of students. “When students see professionals who were once in their shoes, especially alumni who share their backgrounds or dreams, it opens doors not just to opportunities, but to believing in what is possible.”

The event was organized by Nevin Khalil, associate director of career development, and opened by Victoria Kerr, the executive director of the career center. Kerr acknowledged Dr. Chad Bennett, Faculty Coordinator, and Danielle Surotchak, ASP Program Secretary, as well as her team at the career center for their support. Reflecting on the event, Kerr had the following remarks: “The Career Center has partnered with ASP for the last three years to host a career networking event with the goal of connecting students with alumni and employers in a meaningful way,” she said. “Since then, we’ve engaged over 55 alumni and employers and over 240 students. Their presence continues to inspire, offering support and insight that helps students feel seen, encouraged and better prepared for college and beyond.”

ASP students engaging with professionals and peers

This year’s participants included professionals from the Pennsylvania Department of General Services, The Boys & Girls Club, Volvo Construction Equipment, Enterprise Mobility and many others. Notable attendees included Marvin Worthy, founder and CEO of Worth Consulting and Training; Jeff Greene of Enterprise Holdings; Joy Wells, director of programs at the Herb It Forward Foundation, professionals at Shippensburg University and several more.

The networking event was co-hosted by the Department of Academic Engagement and Exploratory Studies, the Office of Alumni Relations and the Center for Career and Workforce Development. Hayley Anderson, director of communication and outreach at the Center for Career and Workforce Development, shared her thoughts on the program: “The networking event has always been one of my favorites because it creates space for genuine connection,” she said. “It’s a chance to hear students’ goals, share each other’s journeys and offer something that helps students along the way.”

ASP provides support to students through the Summer Bridge Program, which includes for-credit courses, workshops, study halls and weekly rallies. Furthermore, ASP offers year-round academic advising, coaching, tutoring and wellness services.

Dr. Chad Bennett, chair of Academic Engagement and Exploratory Studies and leader of the ASP program, highlighted the success of the event. “The conversations, advice and encouragement created a welcoming space for students as they prepare to begin their college journey. The energy and spirit and the event were clear indicators of how we create a sense of belonging and collective effort through active participation and collaboration from all members of the Ship ASP Summer Bridge Program community.”

Dr. Bennett also discussed the program’s weekly success rally, including the one held last Friday, July 25. “The rallies are a way to invite guest speakers to talk to the Bridge students about success, effort and maintaining a positive attitude about their college transition and pursuits both in and outside the classroom at Ship, he said.

ASP will include its Summer Bridge Program with a closing ceremony on Thursday, August 1, at 3 p.m. in the Tuscarora Room. As students prepare to move through their academic journeys, Ship’s ASP continues to prepare them to build knowledge, confidence, strong connections and a sense of belonging.