Page 23 - Soar Magazine_digital

Staff Spotlight

Joe DeCiccio

by Lori Konopasek, Dean of Students
Our team of staff at Shepherds College is foundational to of Shepherds College and works to continuously improve
our ability to fulfill our mission. They are integral in promoting the program to best support students towards Appropriate
student growth and development. Independence™ in their social, daily living, and personal skills.
God directed Joe DeCiccio’s family to Wisconsin in One creative tool Joe developed was a recipe book that students
the summer of 2013. Joe moved and had one plan for his use throughout their time at Shepherds College and then receive
employment —Shepherds College. Imagine moving your entire upon graduation as a gift. This tool helps teach students basic
family across the United States and feeling so confident in your recipes through repetition and provides them with a practical
calling for work that there was no backup plan! We are so glad way to use their skills after college.
that Joe followed God’s direction because, in June of 2013, Joe Joe consistently demonstrates a perspective where he puts
joined the Shepherds College team. With that addition, we gained what is best for students and staff above what he personally
a team member who is dedicated, responsible, honest, organized, desires. He directs his energy toward empowering the residential
flexible, and family oriented. These descriptions clearly speak life team to express their creativity and strengths. From this
to the quality of his character. Joe is currently the Residential focus, other staff members began an intermural opportunity
Life Manager where he oversees the residential progression and where students learn new activities, build teamwork, and
supervises staff. His tasks range from facilitating and planning exercise.
community building activities such as game nights, to assisting Joe understands Appropriate Independence, builds into our
staff with strategies to best support and train students. At a students, and demonstrates integrity in all he does. He is a great
moment’s notice, his entire day could change due to the needs asset to Shepherds College and an important team member. Next
of a student or an unexpected schedule change requiring a time you consider residential life, know that Joe DeCiccio is a
significant amount of flexibility and problem solving. significant part of its success!
He values the uniqueness of the residential component

shepherdscollege.edu 23dscollege.edu 23
shepher