One of the characteristics that I believe is a true asset of our college is our philosophy of shared governance. From our founding more than 40 years ago, we have continually stressed active participation in decision-making among all of our various constituencies, including students, alumni, our community, faculty, staff and administration. The result of such open dialogue and involvement is evident in a stronger college, one that is receptive to and seeks out feedback in order to continually grow and improve.
But it is sometimes a struggle to garner input from various groups, especially from students who sometimes hesitate to offer their opinions. However, students are-perhaps-the most important audience because it’s your comments that can ensure we are aware of areas for improvement and are addressing them.
On Thursday, May 13, you’ll have an opportunity to share your feedback about the draft of the College’s 2010-2015 Strategic Plan. From 1-1:50 p.m. in Muntz 170, the Strategic Planning Committee will hold an information session to answer questions about the draft plan. Input from faculty, staff and students regarding the goals and respective objectives and the action plans will also be solicited.
The Strategic Plan is a major tool for the College, keeping us focused on four crucial, overarching goals: enhancing academic excellence; expanding student access to educational opportunities; improving infrastructure and technology; and strengthening community engagement. From this draft, various ad hoc committees will be formed and tasked with addressing the objectives; these committees will be filled by faculty, staff and student representatives. For your convenience, a copy of the draft plan has been posted to the RWC website (http://www.rwc.uc.edu/) and a hard copy is located in the Library at the main desk; the draft will also be distributed through our student listserv.
I encourage you to attend the May 13 information session and share your questions and concerns. We’re looking for your input, as it is the students’ voice that ensures we think beyond the current to best meet future needs.