After five years of service at Southeastern as Assistant Director of Career Services, Keri Truitt accepted a position with Baton Rouge Community College.
Friends and colleagues gathered in the conference room of the Student Union Annex to say their final goodbyes, offer congratulations and words of encouragement at a reception in Truitt’s honor on Thursday, August 15.
Truitt began her career at Southeastern as a Career Counselor intern in 2004 and progressed to her role as Assistant Director of Student Employment. Although the decision to apply and accept the position was difficult, Truitt explained that it was the best decision for her and her family.
“I will miss the connections I have made here and the friendships I have forged with my colleagues,” she said.  “I applied for and accepted the role of Manager of Internships at BRCC in order to be closer to my home and family. The role will also offer new challenges and allow me to utilize my skill set to benefit one of the most rapidly growing segments of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System.”
Truitt thanked her counterparts for their support during her time at Southeastern and showed appreciation for the growth and education she gained through experiences with Career Services.
“I have definitely learned so many things about event planning, resume preparation, career counseling, institutional effectiveness, goal setting and presentation skills among other skills and knowledge,” said Truitt. “I owe so much to my colleagues here for having supported and mentored me throughout my tenure here. I will be forever grateful.”
Although her location has changed, Truitt’s roles at BRCC will be similar to her responsibilities at Southeastern. She plans to use many processes and principles developed from her work with Career Services.
“Keri worked with students and employers in an effort to bring them together through various events, efforts and services provided,” said Kenneth Ridgedell, director of Career Services. “From part-time jobs fairs and career fairs, to presentations and one-on-one sessions, Keri always had both students’ and employers’ best interests at heart, and she always worked hard to make a difference in the lives of our students. Keri will definitely be missed by the Southeastern family, but we wish her well in her newest endeavor and feel certain she will make a positive difference in the lives of the students at BRCC, just as she did here at Southeastern.”
Truitt’s position has not yet been filled. For more information, visit www.selu.edu/career or contact the director of Career Services Kenneth Ridgedell at kridgedell@selu.edu.