Curtis Gadula

Brock has a new point man when it comes to the local community and University students living off campus.

Curtis Gadula will assume the role of manager of Off-Campus Living and Neighbourhood Relations on May 2. He takes over from Brad Clarke, who has served in the role since it was created in 2003.

Gadula will support students living off campus and respond to community questions and concerns. That includes dealing with students, landlords and community agencies. He will also be responsible for initiatives such as:

• the Brock Good Neighbour Guide, distributed to about 45,000 homes in St. Catharines and Thorold every September
  connecting with local neighbourhood associations and representing Brock on various municipal and community-based committees related to student housing and campus/community relations
• neighbourhood drop-ins, where University staff and/or local police visit homes and neighbourhoods where there have recently been complaints to answer questions and help to resolve issues
• the Great Neighbour Week, where the University and the Brock University Students’ Union joins up to have students introduce themselves to neighbours, clean properties and do good deeds
• Living Off-Campus information sessions for students and educational programs for landlords, each aimed at improving the off-campus experience

“This position helps students to see this community not only as their home away from home, but as a place they can stay after graduation and raise a family,” said Clarke, who has moved into the role of director, Student Life and Community Experience.

“Curtis shares in Brock and Niagara College’s commitment to work with our campus and community partners, landlords and local residents to provide a positive off-campus experience for students and better neighbourhoods for all.”

Gadula, 33, is excited about the role. A St. Catharines native and Denis Morris High School graduate, Gadula has a background in student services. He holds a master’s degree in health and human performance from the University of Tennessee. For five years, he has served as Brock’s residence life co-ordinator. He also coaches Brock’s cross country programs and has volunteered with the Badgers IMPACT program, which sees athletes paired with Niagara youth in need of mentoring.

When asked about his goals in his new role, Gadula’s passion for the community is evident.

“I want to strengthen the lines of communication between landlords, tenants, residents, Niagara College and Brock University as well as ensure that off-campus issues are addressed effectively,” he said. “My educational and life experiences have led to me become a strong advocate for community involvement and civic responsibility. I have every intention to increase the number of opportunities for students to do the same.”