BayConnect: Creating Time for Student Engagement

Institutional research revealed that students were highly interested in attending workshops and enrichment opportunities—such as Financial Literacy—but were often unable to participate due to class scheduling conflicts. In response, the university introduced a 12:00–1:00 p.m. class-free block twice per week in Fall 2025 to create dedicated time for student engagement and professional development. Students selected the name BayConnect through a brief campus poll. In Spring 2026, the initiative expanded to all five weekdays, providing access to co-curricular programming and advancing SFBU’s mission to deliver inclusive, innovative, and inspirational education that supports lifelong personal and professional success.

Bay Connect Flyer

Enhancing Student Experience

Over the past two years, results from the Student Satisfaction Survey have consistently highlighted a need for enhanced campus amenities. In particular, students expressed a desire for more recreational spaces and activity facilities. In response to this valuable feedback, SFBU has taken meaningful action by developing a dedicated Student Lounge, providing students with a welcoming space to connect, unwind, and engage in campus life. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching student experience.

Lounge 1
Lounge 2
Lounge 3
Lounge 4

Expanding Student Life and Engagement

Results from the Student Satisfaction Survey indicated that over 40% of students felt a lack of extracurricular opportunities at SFBU. In response, the university established the Student Life Manager position, now led by Dr. Michael Leinhos, to enhance student engagement and foster a vibrant campus community.

Michael Leinhos

Michael Leinhos

Student Life Manager

Michael holds a Master’s degree in Education from Temple University and has 32-years experience in Education. He has taught at the Middle School, High School and College level. For nine-and-a-half years, he was the SFBU Lead Faculty for General Education. Michael has been the Chair of the SFBU Faculty Assembly since its inception in 2018. While being a full-time SFBU faculty member, Michael was also the Advisor for five different student clubs. Michael created and facilitated the SFBU Writing Lab. He also co-created and co-facilitated the SFBU Mock Interview Sessions. In his new role as Student Life Manager, Michael brings a wealth of experience and a second-to-none relationship with the students. His favorite thing about SFBU is the students. He loves to serve and mentor the students and make their experience at SFBU the best it could possibly be.

 

Under Dr. Leinhos's leadership, SFBU has expanded its student life offerings, including the Crochet & Craft Club, Movie Club, Events Club, Entrepreneurship Club, International Club, Board Game Club, and Basketball Club. Additionally, SFBU now hosts Wellness Events, such as Tai Chi and Yoga, promoting student well-being and balance.

Student Club Leaders
Students at Crochet Club
Basketball Club

From left to right: Student club leaders gather for a group photo at the LRC; students and staff take part in a crochet club event, with colorful flags from various countries hanging in the background; basketball club members pose for a group picture at Warm Springs Community Park after wrapping up their event activities.