Program Coordinator Mark Pilgrim, along with Orientation Flight Crew directors, presented at this year’s Southern Regional Orientation Workshop Conference (SROW) on March 12.

Pilgrim presented “Passing the Torch: The Role of Peer Mentoring in Extending Orientation."

Owl Expedition, an extended orientation camp, “passes the torch” to the next generation of incoming students. Current students or “Flight Crew Leaders” provide a peer support system by instilling pride, traditions, and knowledge of the university while easing the college transition.

Pilgrim and the co-presenters discussed theories that guide successful mentoring relationships. The Orientation Flight Crew Leaders stood out in other conference activities. Alexis Denk, student director, and Bobbie Blackwell, student director were ranked second place in the Spirit Competition for the team that shows the most spirit throughout the conference.

Additionally, Blackwell and Ignition Leader Tiajah Sherman won the Best Overall in the Undergraduate Case Study Competition, which was designed to challenge undergraduate and graduate students by applying their experience, training, and critical thinking skills to examine complex issues within the realm of orientation. “Best Overall” is the highest award given in the competition.