GAIDA AND KEGLEY JOIN LYNN FAMILY
Of the many changes that accompanied the new academic year, one of the more prominent ones brought two area coordinators to Lynn’s Housing and Residence Life team – Brian Gaida and Mackenzie Kegley.
Kegley is from a small town in rural Virginia and Gaida is from upstate New York. For both undergraduate and graduate school, Gaida attended the State University of New York at Plattsburgh where he obtained three degrees, including two master’s degrees. In college, Kegley was heavily involved with campus activities on and off campus, pushing her to pursue a career in housing.
“I enjoyed being involved more than I enjoyed being in the classroom. Soon I realized that I could make a career out of it,” said Kegley.
Like Kegley, Gaida was also heavily engaged in campus activities; he became involved in Residence Hall’s Community Government during his collegiate years. As he became more active in his leadership role in Community Government, he was encouraged to apply for a resident assistant position.
“Being a resident assistant opened my eyes to different opportunities and pushed me to pursue a degree in student affairs and higher education,” said Gaida.
From the moment they stepped on campus for their interviews during the summer, Gaida and Kegley felt right at home.
“Everyone was so friendly and made us feel like a part of the community, even before the interviews were over. The beach and beautiful weather just made the decision even easier,” said Kegley. “The Lynn family has been super supportive and willing to lend a hand whenever needed.”
Both area coordinators have quickly found a love for the students and professional staff. They each believe they have come to an institution where their voice matters, where they can make a difference.
“No matter who I have interacted with on campus, everyone has taken a genuine interest in getting to know me, making me right at home,” said Gaida.
Both Gaida and Kegley encourage all students to become involved in the local community.
“College will allow you to grow and provide so many opportunities, but you have to take advantage of them. You can’t expect the experiences to come to you without doing a little work yourself,” said Kegley.
Students with suggestions or questions are encouraged to visit with either of the new area coordinators. Gaida’s office is on the first floor of E.M. Lynn Residence Center, while Kegley’s is in the lobby of the Lynn Residence Center.
