“One mission, one vision, one university” is the new call to unity at Saint Augustine’s University (SAU). The University’s President, Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail, and Dr. John Smith, Jr., Chief of Staff, met with SAU student leaders for the semester’s first “Chat & Chew” gathering. This quarterly, hour-long activity is a collaboration between the Office of Student Engagement, the Office of Marketing & Communications, and the Office of the President that connects students and University leadership in an informal yet meaningful way. The format is conversational and designed for students to discuss their experiences at the University and discuss issues of importance.

“It was an honor to meet with our student leaders to discuss opportunities to work as one university in achieving student success,” said SAU President Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail. “I value and cherish the opportunities to participate in student engagement activities, and I’m confident that our student leaders will be instrumental in ensuring that our freshmen produce the highest graduation class four years from now in the university’s history.”

Students participating in this year’s first “Chat & Chew” consisted of members of the SAU Student Government Association (SGA), Royal Court, and Campus Activities Board (CAB). The total group size was 15 to ensure adequate time for each student to engage and have a meaningful experience with the President.

“I love that so many international voices were in this room because we make up a large portion of the SAU student body,” said Ashley Weekes, a senior accounting major from Barbados and the 73rd Miss Saint Augustine’s University. “As an international student, I appreciate the inclusive programming, and I can see a change on our campus for the better.”

For the remainder of the academic year, the “Chat & Chew” gatherings will continue to bring students and SAU leaders together to discuss topics of importance.

“This conversation has been great for the student body,” said Ariana White, a senior criminal justice major and Student Body President. “As student leaders, we are excited to move forward.”

The Office of the President offers other student engagement opportunities such as Meet with the President, Lunch with the President, and an Ask the President form for student inquiries and feedback.

Click here to learn more about the Office of the President.