'It Depends on the Supervisor': A Multiple Site Case Study Exploring Student Affairs Staffing Practices

This multiple site case study explored staffing in student affairs divisions and the experiences of practitioners. This research study used Creamer and Winston's (2002) Integrated Model of Staffing Practices to structure the case study and analyze the data. A systematic approach to staffing is necessary to provide student affairs staff the resources they need to effectively work in their roles (Creamer & Winston, 2002; Winston & Creamer, 1997). Eighteen individuals across three sites were interviewed during this case study and documents related to staffing practices were collected at each site. Participants represented different unit areas in student affairs including campus recreation, career services, counseling, residence life, student engagement, and student life. Participants also represented different levels of staff including vice presidents of student affairs, directors, associate directors, assistant directors, and coordinators. The most influential aspect staffing on practitioner experiences was a supervisor's individual approach to supervision. Staff experiences were also shaped by the interconnectedness of orientation, professional development, and performance appraisal. Implications for practice include an update to Creamer and Winston's (2002) model and reconsidering how supervision influences all staffing practices that goes beyond functional supervision. Recommendations for research include examining how CAS General Standards can be applied to staffing practices and exploring supervision for mid-level staff that are also responsible for supervising practitioners. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]