Bit by Bit equine manager resigns

Bit by Bit, RSU, Switala

Joy Hampton The Claremore Daily Progress Sat Sep 26, 2009, 11:10 AM CDT

Bit by Bit Equine Manager Pam Switala resigned this week. Thursday was Switala’s last day.

“It’s been a hard decision. I’m very attached to the horses, the kids, the parents and the volunteers,” said Switala. “I’m very dedicated to the program, but it hasn’t turned out well.”

The Bit by Bit Therapeutic Horse Riding Program At Rogers State University serves individuals with physical, mental, and developmental disabilities. Located at the RSU Equestrian Center south of Oologah, the program is funded through grants, private donations and over $80,000 from the university.

RSU President Dr. Larry Rice said the university’s support of the program is an integral way to give back to the community.

“It’s a labor of love,” said Rice. “This program is truly a labor of love. I regret that there have been any distractions and delay. I’m confident that we have some wonderful new folks coming in.”

Recently, internal employment issues have triggered problems that resulted in a delay of fall classes.

Switala’s resignation follows on the heels of the resignation of Interim Director and full-time Instructor Trista Milliman. Milliman resigned in protest at the end of last month saying she feared the program would be understaffed and could potentially put students at risk.

Rice and program administrator Vice President for Economic and Community Development, Dr. Ray Brown said at that time the safety of students is the highest priority. Rice said the university would utilize qualified adjunct instructors as needed.

“As stewards of public funds, we, the university, must ensure those funds are used in a safe and effective manner. Departments that respond to new challenges with appropriate changes are demonstrating accountability to the public,” said Brown. “Change sometimes creates stress within a department, however. It’s not easy for people to adapt to change.”

Brown said changes included realigning some job responsibilities.

RSU recently hired Jennifer England as the new program director. She will begin her duties Sept. 29. The university moved the fall class start date back a month to allow time to hire additional personnel.

“We have to complete the internal university process, but as soon as the background check is complete, we anticipate announcing the hiring of a new full-time instructor,” said Brown. “With new personnel coming in, I believe we’re forming a good team.”

Now, Switala’s position will also need to be filled. Brown said he may continue to realign job responsibilities to best suit the need of the program and to ensure that the best personnel for the job can be hired.

“Dr. Brown just doesn’t listen to us and that’s not going to change,” said Switala. “It was not a decision I came to lightly.”

“I did listen to concerns and responded with what I thought were appropriate suggestions,” said Brown. “I tried to engage them in further dialogue but was not successful. There were some issues on which we did not agree.”

“We want to make it better, to open some eyes,” said Switala. “It’s been quiet long enough. We’ve kind of held it together for the families and some of the volunteers. Maybe it’s time for it to all come out.”

Switala said she plans to go to work for a private farm but she will miss the Bit by Bit program.

“We had a good team,” said Switala. “Megan, Trista and I worked well together, we just needed more help.”

Rice said he appreciates the contributions of Milliman and Switala over the years.

“They’ve helped us serve a lot of kids,” said Rice.

Now he wants to move forward.

“With the new staff coming onboard and bringing new ideals, I have no doubt the program will be better than before,” said Rice. “We’re grateful for the continued efforts of our volunteers and our donors.”

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