Student Development
From the Dean of Students...
by Danny Paschall, August 2011
Eighteen years ago, I came to Biola and had the privilege of living among 120 undergraduate men as a Resident Director. It was during those three years in Stewart Hall that I realized how much I love being among college students... their energy, their hope for the future, and the important questions they are asking about their lives.
I learned during that time that one of the most important things for me as a student development professional was knowing the difference between trying to fix and save a student versus seeing and hearing a student… creating space for them to explore questions, instead of being quick to answer for them. During the college years, more than any other time in a young adult’s life, a student needs people older and wiser to take them in, pay attention, listen to their heart and hold them in a place where they can find answers to their own questions, as they begin to emerge.
Ultimately, our job in Student Development is to make sure undergraduate students have all the tools and resources they need to be their best selves... all that God has created them to be. In Student Development we encourage the growth of each individual, in order that every student will understand and utilize his/her unique, God-given gifts and abilities. The support of peers who share a common belief in Jesus Christ is a great benefit of being a part of this community. Faculty, staff and administrators are eager to come alongside students who see the wisdom of people who have traveled further in their Christian journeys. The co-curricular programs offered by the University are provided for members of this community as a stimulus for further growth and development. It is the intent of Biola University that all that is done in the classroom, in residence halls, in co-curricular programs, in relationships, and in knowledge gained, reflects the unique mission of this University.
Our goal and purpose in Student Development is that every student’s cumulative developmental experience at Biola University will challenge and support them in the process of becoming all God has called them to be.
With a grateful heart,
Danny Paschall is Dean of Students. You can learn more here.
Offices & Departments
Center for Career Development
Discover and discern your calling in life and make a successful transition into meaningful work and career. Student Services Bldg., ext. 4875.
Chapel
Chapel is a crucial part of the Biola experience. The Office of Chapel Accountability helps you track and maintain your attendance status; Student Services, ext. 3854. The Office of Chapel Programs, as part of the Department of Spiritual Development, oversees Chapel at Biola and provides leadership in campus worship and pastoral care; Student Services, ext. 5148.
Commuter Life
Did you know that almost one-third of our undergrad population commutes to campus? Commuter Life also oversees the Commuter Collegium. SUB upper level east, ext. 4070.
Housing Services
Helping undergrad students find the best on-campus living situation possible, including matching roommates for incoming freshmen. Student Services Bldg., ext. 5648. Grad housing and facilities/repair questions are handled by our partners in Auxiliary Services.
International Students
Assisting you through your cultural transition by personal encouragement, counseling, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. SUB Mosaic Center, upper west wing, ext. 4008.
Learning Center
Assisting students in gaining and maintaining an adequate level of academic proficiency in order to be successful within Biola University's competitive and rigorous intellectual environment. The Learning Center also oversees disability services for students. Library, top level, ext. 4542.
Residence Life
Working with students to offer training in interpersonal relationships and leadership, organize Bible studies, provide peer counseling, and generate lots of good clean fun. Student Services Bldg., ext. 5842.
Spiritual Life
Serving as a lighthouse to inspire students in their spiritual development; challenging students to take intentional steps to develop a closer relationship with Christ and to share their testimony. SUB, upper east wing, ext. 4754.
Student Communications
Providing clear and creative communication to current students; helping curricular and co-curricular departments and programs reach students. Oversees studentlife.biola.edu website, my.Biola services, @biolastudent twitter account, campus digital signage system. Student Services Bldg., ext. 3855.
Student Transitions
Helping both entering and graduating students prepare for their new environments. Student Services Bldg., ext. 5845.
It's Not Just Us...
The Office of Student Development provides many, but by no means all, of the co-curricular educational opportunities at Biola. We stand alongside our colleagues in Auxiliary Services, Athletics, Associated Students, Campus Safety, Health Center, Counseling Center, Enrollment Management, the Art & Music Depts, and many other offices.
