My experience as a Junior Dean
Brendon Tankwa (DPhil Geography and the Environment, 2022) – a Junior Dean at GTC and a black Zimbabwean student pursuing a DPhil in Geography and the Environment writes
Green Templeton College (GTC) at Oxford University stands out for its significant representation of black students, making the role of a Junior Dean (JD) a unique and meaningful one.
As a JD, I play a crucial role in providing welfare support alongside other college welfare and support team members, including peer supporters, porters, the Senior Tutor, the Academic Registrar, and the Dean of Welfare. While our primary responsibility is to ensure the well-being of students, we also serve as a signpost to the broader university counselling services and other welfare resources available in Oxford. Additionally, JDs serve as liaisons between students and the college administration, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation.
GTC’s diversity, particularly with a substantial black student population, makes the college a sanctuary within Oxford. The college accommodates both domestic and international students, spanning various academic levels from short MSc courses to DPhils and Medicine programs. This inclusivity sets GTC apart from the rest of the city, other colleges, and many academic departments. Our mission as JDs is to create an inclusive and safe environment where students from all backgrounds can live and express themselves freely. The college’s staff and administrative leadership actively support our initiatives and often allocate budgets for events and activities that enhance student welfare. My role as a JD allows me to engage in the planning and execution of these activities, significantly impacting the college’s culture positively. Furthermore, the unwavering support I receive from my fellow staff members on the welfare team, regardless of my background as a black person, reinforces our shared commitment to the well-being and inclusivity of all students at GTC.
GTC continually strives to enhance the quality of care and support provided to students. Staff members regularly undergo training to improve their welfare provision skills, including dealing with sensitive issues. Protocols for handling various concerns are in a state of continuous refinement. Even in my capacity as a JD, representing students -to some extent, black students- I have the opportunity to influence and shape the college’s policies and protocols. I actively participate in the welfare committee, which convenes once a term to review and refine policies, further deepening my understanding of the college’s inner workings and allowing me to make valuable contributions.
Additionally, the strength of our Junior Dean team is a cornerstone of our efforts at GTC. Working alongside Amy and Tash, we form a cohesive unit that synergizes effectively. Our shared commitment to student welfare is unwavering, and we support each other in our roles. The camaraderie we share extends beyond our duties; we genuinely enjoy serving students together, pooling our skills and experiences to create a more enriching college environment for everyone.
Lastly, GTC’s distinctive culture is a significant aspect of what makes it an outstanding place to live and study. The porters’ friendly demeanour creates a welcoming atmosphere, and students enjoy liberal access to college facilities and ample space for interaction and work. The college’s commitment to investing in its students is evident, and the community exudes positivity and warmth. Being a Junior Dean at GTC is an incredible privilege, allowing me to be part of this unique culture and contribute to its vibrancy.
In conclusion, Green Templeton College’s dedication to diversity, welfare, and fostering a supportive environment for all students makes it a standout college at Oxford University. As a Junior Dean, I am honoured to be part of this community, working to ensure the well-being and inclusivity of our diverse student body while actively shaping the college’s policies and contributing to its unique culture.
