Trish Regier named new Manager of Undergraduate Student Services for the Faculty of Social Science

September 22, 2020

Trish Regier, Management of Undergraduate Student Services

Trish Regier is the new Manager of Undergraduate Student Services for the Faculty of Social Science.

Regier has been an Academic Counsellor in Social Science since 2006. She also worked in many departments in Social Science, including roles with what was then the ACS program, (now DAN Management) and Sociology, and was an Academic Counsellor in the Social Science Academic Counselling Office (SSACO).

“Though it is very difficult to replace the irreplaceable Gail Wright, we are very pleased to announce that we have found just the person,” said Dan Shrubsole, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Studies, adding that Regier will help guide Faculty Counsellors, Counselling Assistants and Department Undergraduate Advisors in “responding to Covid, better guiding students as they navigate Western’s academic programs as well as adjust to the new and changing demands and expectations of being a university student in the 21st century.”

“I’m really excited to still be working with students and the same academic counselling team just in a slightly different role,” said Regier. “It’s nice to have an opportunity to have a different platform to move things going forward and find new ways to help students.”

As Counselling has adjusted its services to respond to the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, Regier said the use of use of technology has helped rather than hindered their services.

“Our availability is better now,” said Regier. “We’re able to meet efficiently and effectively through Zoom and email.”
Regier said SSACO may look to other technological services, including introducing apps for triage, and exploring the idea of a chat line.

SSACO has offered wellness events in the past, including cookie decorating and other craft events. Regier said they are considering new ways to offer wellness events in the current environment.

“It may be a silver lining,” said Regier “as it may inspire us to do outreach in a new way.”

As students adjust to online learning, Regier said it is important they maintain a good balance between academics and their own wellness. Regier said students should treat online learning like project management, with a plan and known timelines in place.

“Online learning may feel isolating,” said Regier, “so it’s important to take time to make sure your social connections are strong.”

If students need support Regier reminds them that the academic counselling staff is still there to help.

“Even though we aren’t physically as available, we are still here and able to support and we welcome students to get in touch with us,” said Regier.