U of A launches new unit to strengthen campus community engagement

May 27, 2025

TUCSON, AZ — The University of Arizona today announced the creation of Campus Community Connections, a new unit in the Office of the Provost designed to strengthen support for student engagement and community collaboration across campus. The new unit will be led by Jenna Hatcher, who will serve as vice provost and special advisor to Provost Patricia Prelock.

"Over the last several months, together with former interim Provost Marx and other university leaders, we have worked in consultation with various student, faculty and staff representatives to determine the best approach to provide support resources and offer community engagement opportunities that benefit all members of the campus community," Hatcher said. "Campus Community Connections will support internal campus community groups, external community councils, and programming that fosters an environment where all communities are connected, valued and able to thrive."

A central component of the unit will be a new Student Culture and Engagement Hub, which will integrate the university's existing cultural centers into a unified model while continuing to provide activities, physical spaces, and embedded counselors. The student hub will be led by two directors and overseen by an executive director, reporting to Hatcher. Student workers and coordinators will remain in their current roles through the upcoming academic year to ensure continuity of support. Over the next three months, Prelock and Hatcher will engage the university community to seek input on the best permanent structure for the Student Culture and Engagement Hub. The process will reflect the university's strategic imperatives and ongoing commitment to student retention, progression, graduation and career success across all identities.

"This new framework is rooted in a collaborative approach that reflects the university's values and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fostering belonging, inclusion and success for every Wildcat," Prelock said. "I look forward to working closely with Vice Provost Hatcher, along with our students, faculty, staff and external partners as we continue to provide the best possible educational experience for our students and the most supportive and welcoming environment for all."

Additionally, Native American Student Affairs will become part of the Office of Native American Initiatives. This change is intended to increase collaboration and strengthen support for Native students, faculty, staff and tribal partners.

"This move recognizes and respects the sovereign status of tribal nations, while reflecting our ongoing commitment to student success," said Levi Esquerra, senior vice president for Native American Advancement and Tribal Engagement.

Additional updates will be shared with the university community throughout the implementation process.

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Media contact:
Mitch Zak
University Communications
916-612-0979
mitchzak@arizona.edu

Established in 1885, the University of Arizona is the state's flagship, land-grant institution. The U of A ranks among America's top institutions, focusing on student access and success while driving a $1 billion research enterprise and engaging communities throughout the state, nation and world. As a leading Research 1 institution and member of the Association of American Universities, the U of A advances the frontiers of interdisciplinary scholarship and entrepreneurial partnerships. With two accredited medical schools, designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education, recognition as a premier university for service members, distinguished programs in management information systems, planetary sciences, dance, photography, and public and applied humanities, the U of A offers the world to its students while uplifting Arizona.