As we move into another semester at WSSU, we must embrace our success and have a deeper understanding of our direction toward the future. In this regard, it is important for the entire university community to have an understanding of strategic planning and the focus of the university in this regard. With this in mind, I would like to share presentation highlights from the recent Faculty/Staff Institute as a means of continued focus on our innovative plans and our progress thus far.
All major divisions of the university are driven by the WSSU Strategic Issues. There are five categories of issues: curricular and non-curricular modifications to produce high demand graduates, branding, effectiveness and efficiency, resource enhancement, and enrollment growth and quality. As you would imagine, a major focus for the university centers on producing high demand graduates who will depart to serve as leaders in the global society. Hence, let’s explore this key Strategic Issue and the integral role of the Division of Academic Affairs.
Academic Affairs has continued to focus on excellence in academic programs. This focus includes preparing for successful department accreditation reviews as well as preparing for the university accreditation which includes years of preparation. Along with accreditation reviews, the Division of Academic Affairs remains mindful of the ever-changing demand for new program offers. To remain competitive, especially as we transition to a Masters I Classification, we must continue to explore a broad cross-section of program offerings balanced with our continued focus on specific centers of excellence. New programs and delivery options include but are not limited to MS Occupational Therapy, Fall 2005; BA Justice Studies, Fall 2005, General Business Option for EWC, Fall 2005; RN-BSN Distance Learning Sites in Lenoir, NC and Hickory, NC, Spring 2006; and the TRIAD Partnership between FTCC, WSFCS, and WSSU (Lateral Entry for Middle Grade Teachers, Online and Face-to-Face).
As we explore new programs and delivery options to enhance the academic opportunities for you, the students, we must also recognize the high demand for graduates who are prepared for global citizenship.
There has been heightened conversation in this regard among leaders in both the private and public sectors. As global citizens, you must be aware of social, cultural, technological, and political issues in the world. As well, you must be willing to make contributions to the global society in various fields of human endeavor. Hence, we must provide the opportunities that will compliment your academic experiences in preparation for global citizenship.
In this effort, we have made tremendous strides over the past several years with fostering partnerships with other universities for student exchange programs. Such programs include the FIPSE US-Brazilian Consortium-three WSSU students to study in Brazil, spring 2006; the Cape Higher Education Consortium-one student from the University of the Western Cape at WSSU and one WSSU student at the University of the Western Cape in South Africa, Spring & Summer 2006; A student from the Vaxjo University in Sweden who is attending WSSU, Spring 2006; and Fudan University or Beijing Language and Culture University-Six WSSU Students, Culture and Language Summer Program, 2006. We are also offering cultural courses for you that will provide insight regarding different views around the world.
As we continue to focus on strategic planning to produce high demand graduates, we must also remember to embrace creative ways of thinking and explore new academic opportunities. As well, we must foster new partnerships that will expand our range of educational possibilities as we continue to serve you and the community.