Student concerns have risen after Director of Career Planning Michael Dalton resigned at the end of December.

“As a sophomore now, I’m pretty sure I’ll be stopping by the center next year,” said Chris Martin ’07. “It makes me a little nervous that they have lost the director, because I know that I will need help finding internships next year, and a job during my senior year.”

After Dalton’s resignation, Health and Wellness Director Susan Birge appointed Dennis Amrine, associate director of Career Planning as interim director.

“I am very honored and pleased to lead the Career Planning center with all the various services and programs we offer,” said Amrine.

According to Birge, a national search for a new director will commence, just as searches for professors have been run in the past.

The new director will have a background in career planning leadership and the development of strong relationships with students, employers, faculty, administrators and alumni.

“We value your input and encourage you to stop by and meet us or make an appointment,” said Amrine. “Our staff is ready to serve you.”

Birge said that while the search takes place, Amrine “will continue to oversee the delivery of the many services and resources the university provides students engaged in self discovery and exploring their post-graduate options.”

Katie Quell ’05 said that she thinks Amrine will in fact serve as director better than Dalton had.

“I have never even heard of Michael Dalton,” said Quell. “But I feel like Mr. Amrine is always involved in student life. He is always participating in things, even if it doesn’t have to do with Career Planning. He knows the students.”

Quell also said that most of her friends have had poor experiences with the Career Planning Center.

“I know a lot of people who have never been, or went and became too confused,” said Quell. “But Mr. Amrine is extremely friendly and when I met with him, he helped me a lot.”

“Since he has actually worked with students, I feel like he will do a much better job connecting with students than Mr. Dalton did,” she added.

Amrine is also hoping that the center’s new location will continue to persuade students to drop by and pursue their futures.

“We are thrilled with our new location here in the Barone Campus Center room 96, and the convenience it provides for students to take advantage of our services,” said Amrine.

The Career Planning Center will continue to operate as usual and accept appointments with students at their office, which is located on the lower level of the Barone Campus Center.

Some students expressed that their apprehension has been calmed after being informed of Amrine’s temporary new role, and they will continue to seek help from the office.

“I’m sure Career Planning will continue to help students effectively,” said Caitlin Ledwith ’07. “I’m not concerned with the loss of Mr. Dalton, because the department has found someone to replace him for the time being.

“It’s not as if every person who works there has stepped down. When Fr. Kelley left, the university survived very well,” she added.

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