Student Affairs is committed to:

• Recognizing the uniqueness of each student and that student’s individual needs
• Developing student self-responsibility and personal investment in their growth
• Encouraging collaborative efforts in serving students
• Developing programs which are nationally recognized as models of excellence
• Optimizing the learning experience in and out of the classroom for each student through positive quality programs and services
• Providing opportunities to participate in a variety of recreational programs, sports and fitness activities which satisfy the diverse needs of faculty, staff and students

As lead Student Affairs administrator, Mr. Burnett works with students, faculty, and staff to create and maintain student development.  He oversees policies and programs performed within the Division of Student Affairs which includes:  Counseling Center, Dean of Students, Disability Services, Eagle Card, Greek Life, Health Services, Minority Affairs, Residential Life, Oracle/Eagle/WTTU, Orientation and Student Success, Recreation/Fitness Center, Roaden University Center and Student Activities.  His primary tasks are to supervise, consult, provide material support, and provide data to the individuals responsible for each Student Affairs unit. 

Mr. Burnett serves as Executive Officer for the Academic Misconduct Committee, Chapter 606, University Art Committee, and Public Media Committee.  He is also a member of the Executive Advisory Committee to the President, Administrative Council, Academic and Administrative Officers, Academic and Student Affairs Council, University Retention Round Table, Diversity, Equity and Access Council, and University Assembly.  Mr. Burnett has been appointed chairperson of the Student Affairs Sub-Committee for the Regents Online Degree Program Oversight Committee and also serves on the Tennessee Board of Regents Student Affairs Sub Council.

Accomplishments during 2007 –

• Implementation of eChug (electronic check up and go), an online alcohol screening instrument plus a three session assessment and education strategy for addressing alcohol and drug concerns
• Implementation of Tablet PC (teaching of STEM courses)
• Worked with facilities personnel in resolving accessibility issues in academic buildings
• Additional installation of door security (Eagle Card equipment) for computer labs and offices to create additional safekeeping for equipment, student files, etc.
• Peer Mentoring Program for minority students
• Re-established INROADS program (organization for Minority youth in high school/college – provides internships and scholarships)
• Established a Black Alumni Advisory Board
• Responsible for SOAR program (student orientation, advising, orientation, and registration)
• Conducted parents only panel during SOAR (student orientation, advising, and registration)
• Provided parents with a “Parents Only” track for SOAR informational sessions
• Created the Tennessee Tech University Parents Association
• Established International Residence Hall to accommodate the international students and others needing housing past the traditional academic year
• Offered freshman hall for business majors – Jobe Hall – offered office space for faculty within Jobe Hall
• Developed a 5 year renewal and replacement (R & R) plan and began implementation of a new residence hall
• Increased Tech Village occupancy through changes in policies
• Addition of eight new organizations (Greek)
• Installed new doors at the North and South patio entrances meeting ADA requirements
• Health Promotion Programs offered through the Fitness Center including Health Screenings, Friends and Family CPR, CPR/AED Certification courses
• Acquired responsibility of TTU Cheerleading team – recognized in 2007 as National Collegiate Cheerleading Champions