É«ÀÇÉçÇø

Name: Winona Wigfall
Department: CHAMP/GEAR UP Program
Job Title: Director     

How long have you been in this position? 15 years

In your position, what kinds of things do you do on a daily basis? I interact with students and parents assisting them with college applications and financial aid forms for college admission, interact with high school guidance counselors, teachers and college admissions personnel, search for grants to support the program, manage the program budget, and develop community partnerships.

Describe your morning routine. First thing I do when I get in is turn on my computer and check email. After returning emails, and phone calls, I check in with program staff on what needs to be done.

What is your favorite part of your job? Why? Working with students, parents and alumni and watching students grow and mature into young adults. It is rewarding to see them graduate high school, go off to college, come back, sometimes to work for the program, as well as express how much the program helped them and made a difference in their life.

Could you share a happy or funny É«ÀÇÉçÇø-related work memory? I have many great memories but two of my favorite memories are driving students in a 7- passenger van on a three-day college tour up and down the east coast as well as camping in the NJ Pine Barrens. These occasions allow you to expose inner-city students to different types of colleges and expose them to new experiences.

What’s your favorite off-campus restaurant in the Glassboro area? Chickie's and Pete's!

How do you like to keep your desk? What’s your favorite thing on your desk? In organized piles! My favorite thing on my desk is a hanging ornament that says, “We do not remember days, we remember moments!” A group of students gave it to me several years ago.

Have you always worked in the department that you are currently in? If no, what other department(s) have you worked in? What was it like compared to the role you are in now? Yes, I have worked with the CHAMP/GEAR UP program for the last 28 and a ½ years. I began as a counselor shortly after the program began. In my current position I have more responsibilities and work which seems like 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (I don’t mind too much because I am working for the students) I am responsible for ensuring that we provide effective services that prepare our students for college and help them become successful.

Share one thing you love about working at É«ÀÇÉçÇø. The family atmosphere. If I need assistance or support, I can find it both on the Camden Campus as well as in Glassboro.

Share one thing you wish people knew about your department. The program has existed in Camden since 1988, and has expanded significantly throughout the years.

Do you ever visit campus for fun? If so, what do you like to do here? On occasion, I have had the opportunity to visit Shalanda Grays Zumba class on the weekends as well as attended a few plays.

RU the type of person who would high five the É«ÀÇÉçÇø mascot? Yes definitely!