Dave Waddell—Bringing Diversity to an Award-winning Newspaper
"When you can get a kid to Chico, the chances of recruitment increase dramatically because of the beauty and the friendliness of campus."
Journalism professor Dave Waddell has been the faculty adviser for the award-winning student newspaper, The Orion, since 1996. But Waddell has helped bring more to the University than scores of awards.
In 2006, Waddell took a sabbatical to visit high schools and community colleges across the state to recruit students who would bring more diversity to CSU, Chico. During this time, he began building relationships with schools, teachers, and students who shared his goal and expressed an interest in CSU, Chico.
Also in 2006, the journalism department obtained a four-year Media Newsgroup Journalism and Diversity Partnership, which provided funds for recruitment. Unfortunately, the department’s request to renew the partnership was declined, but thanks to a California philanthropist with a special interest in diversifying journalism, Waddell’s recruitment efforts have continued.
“When you can get a kid to Chico, the chances of recruitment increase dramatically because of the beauty and the friendliness of campus,” says Waddell.
Waddell has an especially successful relationship with Southwestern College in Chula Vista, Calif. In fact, five students he recruited from Southwestern graduated in May 2011, including the current editor-in-chief of The Orion.
“They don’t just come here,” says Waddell, “they come and lead.”
Waddell was named the 2006 Distinguished Adviser of the Year from College Media Advisers, Inc., which recognized his dedication to his students.
How does he explain his success? “You just treat people well,” he says.
