Manchester Welcomes New Director of First-Year Experience
Avis McGovern
Scott Secrist joins the Manchester University staff as the new director of First Year Experience and Transition.
Secrist grew up in Rochester, Ind., and went on to receive his undergraduate degree in biology-chemistry at Purdue University. While studying there, Secrist was heavily involved in student orientation on campus. His involvement led to a three-year commitment as a member of Student Success while attending PU.
Secrist also attended Loyola University of Chicago, where he pursued his Master of Education (M.Ed.) in higher education and student affairs. Furthermore, he studied at Michigan State University as a doctoral candidate in higher, adult and lifelong education. His research interests include undergraduate student success, social network analysis, queer theories and post-modern epistemology related to higher education.
Although Secrist is still in the midst of making Manchester University his new home, he says, “It is my life,” when talking about being a part of the First Year Experience team. Secrist, along with other office branches, strives to help increase the number of Manchester University student applicants, and works to retain students as each year goes on. As director, Secrist is working on digital resources for perspective and first-year students, while also putting focus on Student Orientation and Welcome Week.
Outside of campus, Secrist spends time raising horses. He enjoys being able to show and train quarter horses. He also has interests in drawing and painting. While Secrist reflects on his art lessons in the fourth grade, he recalls his family's support by saying, “My parents really wanted me to go to art school.” Although he decided to take a different career route than art, Secrist still likes to enjoy the calming and peaceful effect that painting gives him.
Secrist also makes sure to stay tuned in with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) news, and really enjoys the celebration and history that MU reflects on and recognizes on campus.
His music interests include Lady Gaga because she is “brilliant” and an “activist,” Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Dave Matthews, Fleetwood Mac, Whitney Houston, the Weekend and the Chainsmokers.
Scott Secrist’s office can be found in Calvin Ulrey, room 214. He encourages students to stop by, get to know him, or give feedback to help improve the experience for first-year students.