Explore New Interests
College is more than classes and study sessions. It’s the perfect time to try something new. Sing in a choir. Plan events with the Campus Engagement and Activity Team. Build a house with Habitat for Humanity.
Experiences outside the classroom are an important part of your education. Join a club or group that matches your interests or venture beyond your comfort zone. You’ll become more well-rounded. More aware. More interesting.
Do things you never imagined possible. Broaden your worldview. Find friends who share your interests. Have fun.
Questions? Contact us!
Department of Student Life
540-828-5380
studentlife@bridgewater.edu
Whitney Smith
Assistant Dean of Students for Engagement
Whitney has worked in student engagement for 20 years and received her bachelor of science degree in biology from BC in 2001. The best part of her job is helping students find their place and excel as they learn and grow outside of the classroom, try new things, and experience the different facets of campus recreation. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children, camping and working in their garden.
Sam Schlernitzauer
Director of Student Engagement and Leadership
Samantha is a two-time alumna from Chapman University receiving her B.A. in Theatre Studies and M.A. in Leadership Development with an emphasis in Higher Education. She began her role as the Coordinator for Student Engagement and Leadership in 2019. At Bridgewater, she works with our clubs and organizations, the programming board, student representation, oversees spirit initiatives and the mascot program, develops leadership opportunities, plans traditional events including Homecoming, Family Weekend, SpringFest, etc., and works with Commuter students. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and spending time on the water.
Rose Tribby
Coordinator of Student Engagement
Rose Tribby joined BC in March 2023 as the Coordinator of Student Engagement. She works with our Campus Engagement and Activities Team (CEAT) on student programming. Rose has worked in higher education with clubs and organizations, late night events, discussion panels, homecoming, alumni associations and more. She also taught middle and high school English, as well as worked at Walt Disney World and Ripley’s Aquarium. She earned her bachelor’s in English creative writing in 2014, her master’s in college student development and administration in 2017 – both from Shepherd University in West Virginia. Additionally she has a certification in hospitality and tourism from Florida Atlantic University she earned in 2020.
Seiya Nomura
Coordinator of First Year Experience and Orientation
Seiya is a two-time alumnus from the University of Lynchburg with a B.A. in Public Relations and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership in Higher Education. He began as the Coordinator of Orientation and First-Year Experience in 2022. At Bridgewater College, he coordinates all undergraduate orientation sessions, coordinates Welcome Week in the fall, works alongside academic affairs for FILA 150 and directly oversees the Soar Team Staff that is composed of SOARientation Leaders, Soar Mentors, and the Soar Team Leaders. When Seiya is not at work, he enjoys fishing, playing video games and spending time with his fiancée and dog.
