As a pivotal leader in guiding first-year students through their initial campus experience, Dr. Ross extends a heartfelt welcome to the incoming class at the University, offering a transformative roadmap to success.

This guide serves not merely as a reference but as a cherished companion for students embarking on the exciting adventure of higher education. It highlights the importance of engagement, seeking out opportunities for connection and personal growth, and empowering students to forge meaningful and lasting relationships with their peers. By breaking the transition process into clear, manageable steps, the guide aims to ease the overwhelming influx of information that often accompanies this new chapter, ensuring that no student feels lost or unsupported.

Furthermore, this guide champions a vibrant culture of curiosity, encouraging students to ask insightful questions and to reach out for assistance from both staff and fellow classmates. By fostering this collaborative environment, the guide paves the way for a smooth, enriching, and unforgettable journey as students confidently navigate their new academic landscape. 

As one of the original architects of the First Gen Symposium at Ivy Tech, Dr. Ross felt great joy in developing this symposium after a one-year hiatus. During the 2nd Annual First Gen Symposium, he facilitated a high-impact session titled "Become a Fanatic of Exemplary Support for First-Generation College Students." Faculty and staff gained practical tools to support first-gen students. Drawing from his own experiences as a first-generation graduate turned professional, he shared actionable best practices for providing unwavering support. The session focused on helping educators and leaders navigate the external factors, stereotypes, and fears that often affect first-generation students' academic performance and long-term persistence.