From admissions to student life, Ligon's role change still one of advocacy

Esker Ligon (right) meets with Ryan Krapf, president of the IU South Bend Student Association. Ligon began his tenure as director of student life and judicial affairs this week on the IUSB campus.

From admissions to student life, Ligon's role change still one of advocacy

By Kevin McDonald

Esker Ligon celebrated his 21st anniversary with IU South Bend earlier this week in a unique way. He began his tenure as director of student life and judicial affairs.

Ligon has spent the last 11 years as director of admissions but felt "chained to the desk, the computer and the printer" and looks forward to getting back to a more personal contact with students. Building a rapport with the Student Association and other primary student organizations on campus are top priorities for Ligon in his new role. He believes it's important to establish himself as a listener and to find out what the students expect of him and his new role.

"From a selfish perspective, this new job gives me the opportunity to do something different, learn some different skill areas in all aspects of the university," Ligon said.

While student life will be Ligon's primary area, he will also be handling judicial affairs, previously managed by the vice chancellor of student affairs. This involves carrying a dual role as an advocate for the university as well as for the students. Ligon will handle academic improprieties, enforce university policy and mediate solutions.

"It's kind of fun helping students come to a positive solution," he said. With IUSB's expansion across the river pending, and the proposal for a student activity center, Ligon sees the next few years as a pivotal time for student life. He believes a true student culture will develop as residence halls are constructed and more activities take place. He also feels the student activity center will be critical, as students will have a facility to call their own.

Ligon is both optimistic and apprehensive about the future. "It's like any uncharted waters; there is a lot of excitement as well as apprehension," he said.