Chancellor Charles Davis is pleased to announce the addition Wanda Ochei, Director of Student Services and Engagement (DSSE), to the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Campus Leadership.
In her role as DSSE, Ochei will be responsible for crafting a vibrant co-curricular learning environment for campus students. Through varied programming, Ochei and her staff will create opportunities for students to hone leadership, project management, and teamwork skills. Functional areas lead by Ochei include: Student Activities, Student Government Association, Health Services, Personal Counseling, Career Services, Student Conduct, and Disability Services. Ochei will also serve as the Title IX Coordinator for the campus.
Ochei comes to Penn State Wilkes-Barre from East Stroudsburg University where she served as the Director of Judicial Affairs and Commuter Student Services and as the Assistant Director for Alumni Relations. Ochei also worked as the chief judicial affairs officer at Cleveland State University and has held other positions related to compliance management and customer service in both the public and private sectors. She also has volunteered with The Monroe County United Way on the funds distribution committee and has served as a charter member of the Bushkill Kiwanis Club.
When asked what would be first on her agenda as the DSSE, Ochei stated, "In beginning my new role, I plan to educate myself on the culture and norms of Penn State Wilkes-Barre," explains Ochei. "I realize the history that is Penn State University and I have great respect for the institution and its time honored traditions. Additionally, I hope to meet with our student leaders, faculty, staff, and campus constituents to learn of their perspectives before setting any new agendas."
Currently pursuing her Doctoral Degree in Higher Education Administration from Wilkes University, Ochei also holds a Master of Science Degree in College Student Personnel Administration from the University of Central Missouri and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Education from East Carolina University.
"I am a lifelong learner and as such I love being able to put new ideas on the table that correspond with the needs of our students," states Ochei. "Growth, development, transformation - those are the processes I get excited about when it comes to our students and the services we provide for them. These serve as our impetus for change and new ways of doing."
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and other protected groups.