The loss of Director of Student Activities Cassie Gilmore due to layoffs has sent SAC as well as student development into a state of transition.

Several staff members from student development have taken over Gilmore’s duties. Graduate Assistant Meghan Harr and Dean of Students Cassy Bailey have taken over SAC and campus programming.

Bailey said the most important part of such a transition is that students not feel any kind of professional void and know who they need to talk to in various situations.

“I’m very proud of my staff who have taken on job assignments,” Bailey said.

Gilmore said she is confident in the future of SAC.

“SAC is in good hands as long as the integrity of the student run organization is respected and they are allowed to continue with the events they planned for this semester,” she said.

Bailey said those who have taken on extra duties already have full plates, including Harr, who isn’t even a full-time employee.

Harr, who has been working as area coordinator of Irwin Hall and assisting with leadership programs since August, was president of her university’s version of SAC.

“It’s something that I really enjoy,” Harr said.

While Harr said the situation has been difficult, she hasn’t heard any complaints about taking on new responsibilities.

“I think everybody’s been great at working together as a team,” Harr said.

Bailey said she will be in charge of family day, as well as administrative duties for SAC, which involve things like financial reconciliation forms and budget forms.

She and Harr also will deal with contracting for presenters and performers.

Harr also will deal with the budget.

Bailey said while SAC’s budget has been affected in recent cuts, events for the rest of the year should go as planned.

“Meghan has really stepped up to go through with contracts,” Bailey said.

SAC President Brandi Reese said she thinks Gilmore’s layoff is particularly difficult because of the nature of her position.

“I think it’s a major loss for Baker University because of her connection to the students,” Reese said.

Gilmore said one of the most important things during this transition is to make sure students’ needs are being met.

“My four years at Baker meant a lot to me, and I care a great deal about everyone who is affected by the layoffs, most especially the students,” Gilmore said.

Bailey said along with Gilmore as a professional presence, hearing her saying hello to students walking upstairs to her office will leave a void, and she knows students will miss her.

“Personally, I miss how bright and bubbly she was,” Bailey said.

Director of Multicultural Affairs Ron Holden is taking over intramurals to absorb some of Gilmore’s previous duties.

Bruner now will be in charge of orientation and Kelly Burns, assistant director of career development center, will be sending out the weekly Wildcat Wire.