Seton Hill Community Says Goodbye to Evan Ditty

Photo taken August 27th, 2022 at Ohiopyle on the White Water Adventures Lower Yough Guided Classic Whitewater Tour. It was taken by one of their photographers on the second rapid of the 7.5 mile rafting trip. In the photo are Rylee Reed, Casey Gatto, Evan Ditty, Dustin McMullen, Desiree Saether, and the guide of the raft. 

Written by: Rachael Cameron

Director of Student Leadership and Involvement at Seton Hill, Evan Ditty,  announced that he would be leaving the university after being in the position since September of 2021. 

“After four incredible years, my time at Seton Hill is coming to an end on September 5,” said Ditty in a post on Linkedin.. “My family and I continually talk about how Seton Hill is a special place, and my departure is truly with mixed emotions.”

During his time at Seton Hill, Ditty acted as guide for many student leaders as well as for numerous clubs and organizations. “Evan has guided me into the student leader and young man that I am today. He has been my go-to mentor for all things Seton Hill,” said Dustin McMullen, President of the Student Government Association (SGA). “If there was someone who I didn’t know on campus, I would ask Evan. If I was planning a new event or starting a new project, I would get advice and guidance from Evan. Our professional relationship aside, losing this resource and vat of knowledge is going to be a monumental challenge for SGA moving forward with this semester.”

Ditty has also been in charge of an integral part of many campus traditions and programs. “Evan has always done so much behind the scenes work that the students don’t even know about. Evan plans so many Seton Hill favorite events, including the beloved Christmas on the Hill event.” said Gina Veltri, SGA Vice President of Campus Traditions. “Evan works hard every day to ensure that students enjoy their time on the Hill and that they are able to get involved, especially with leadership opportunities. He has modeled his job around what makes students most happy.”

Austin Veiga, Director of Residence and Commuter Life who has worked closely with Ditty said, “I always think of Evan as a cruise director. He’s at these large events, directing traffic, handling logistics, and doing the whole thing with a smile on his face. He always wants to serve the students.”

“I cannot think of any other staff member that embodies the spirit of what a Setonian is better than Evan Ditty,” McMullen said. “He IS the welcoming pillar. He IS the celebrating pillar… He knows every faculty, staff, and student on campus and has a genuine connection with each of them.”

While many in the community are sad to see him go, many are also wishing him the best in his next journey. “I have been thinking a lot about Evan leaving. Think about how great of an opportunity it is for his family,” said McMullen. “We are so lucky to be so sad about his departure from the hill. This sadness is a testament to the impact that he has had not only on me, but on the entire campus of Seton Hill University.”