Last spring, nearly half of UCCS students reported a lack of connection with their peers. Student Life’s assistant director for student engagement is aiming to plug students back into the social network.
In April 2025, Mackenzie Dixon became Student Life’s assistant director for student engagement. She coordinates events that foster involvement by working closely with students.
Dixon is a valuable resource for students interested in joining clubs, participating in extracurricular activities, or contributing feedback regarding campus events thanks to her extensive background.
“There’s so much good experience that comes with being involved on a college campus that you can put on your resume that really sets you up for success in your life, and also just makes your college experience more worthwhile,” Dixon said.
She emphasized the lifelong connections made during her time in school. Her track coach, whom she still talks with today, supported her in juggling track and academics. “Some of my better memories are with him and some of my friends.”
According to Dixon, one way students can form connections is by becoming actively involved in campus culture. With over 200 clubs and multiple events at UCCS, there is something for everyone. The best way to stay up to date on events is through the official UCCS Instagram and Mountain Lion Connect.
Dixon stated, “The biggest thing I can suggest is if you’re sitting at home, and you’re available to do something, just go try some of the things that are on campus.”
According to Dixon, Student Life intends to diversify its events to connect with different groups, such as military-affiliated or non-traditional age students.
“A goal of the Student Life Department, in general, is finding students that aren’t involved and looking for ways to support them and getting them connected if they want to be,” Dixon said.
She encourages students to visit her office so she can gauge what the student population wants from their events. “My top preference is always someone to set up a meeting with me and come chit-chat.”
Dixon is certainly no stranger to student involvement. A graduate of Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, she participated in track and field, Alpha Chi Omega, several clubs and studying abroad.
Outside of work, Dixon enjoys playing video games such as “Fallout” and “Stardew Valley,” hiking, crafting, gardening, cooking and running. Even with many off campus hobbies, Dixon emphasizes the value of the college experience.
“I really value the experience that people can get on campus because there are a lot of things that you can do on a college campus that you just don’t always have access to once you graduate,” Dixon said.
Dixon can be found in her office, room 104D of the Student Life Lounge, or can be reachd at [email protected]. More information on the Student Life department is available here.