Tish Kalita, executive director of experiential learning and external relations at Manchester University, was selected to participate in the inaugural Institutional Leadership for Vocation Seminar through the Council of Independent Colleges’ (CIC) Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE).
CIC selected 16 individuals through a competitive nomination process to participate in the inaugural 2026 summer seminar on Institutional Leadership for Vocation. The seminar brings together a group of emerging institutional leaders who explore how vocational exploration and discernment can play a greater role across campus, particularly in the work these leaders do with members of the faculty and staff, but also in curricular and co-curricular programming for students. Participants in the seminar gathered from June 15–19 in Louisville, Ky.
Participants had the opportunity to reflect on their vocational path into leadership and how that informs the way they continue to lead. They explored how to make the case for vocational exploration and discernment across their campus, and ways that vocation can be integrated across student-facing programming. The seminar was led by Remylin Bruder, provost, vice president of academic affairs, and professor of nursing at Rochester Christian University, and Kurt Schackmuth, vice president for student life and chief mission officer at Lewis University. For more information about this and other seminars, visit the NetVUE website.
“One of the greatest gifts of the NetVUE seminar was the opportunity to learn alongside university leaders who are committed to strengthening vocational exploration on their campus,” said Kalita. “The conversations inspired me and reinforced the importance of serving those entrusted to our care with intentionality.”
Kalita previously served in roles as the director of career and professional development and an engagement collective leader in student life at Manchester. A 2008 graduate, she has worked at the University for 18 years.
For the media
Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
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Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
