On Tuesday, Nov. 20, just before the University geared down for the Thanksgiving holiday, University President Dr. Jeffrey Senese chaired a Town Hall Meeting in the Marion Bowman Activities Center on University Campus. The meeting took the form of an hour, however, packed into that time was a detailed elaboration on the strategic plan for the University Renaissance 2021.
Dr. Senese started the meeting by addressing three main areas of concern from his suggestion box. The action items are suggestions that were taken from the collective deposits of faculty and staff and were areas of concern that the groups looked forward to having addressed in the future. One of the areas of concern was centered around allowing employees the opportunity to take any course offered by the university for credit, without being in a degree-seeking program. Senese stated that so long as it does not interfere with students, the option would be available. Senese solidified the point by emphasizing that as Personal Development is one of the University’s Core Values, it is apt that faculty be able to participate in classes that would afford them growth.
Dr. Jeffrey Senese, explained the way forward for the University over the next three years. A periodic report card will highlight the progress of the work done. Credit: John Hall
Looking at the Core Values of the University Senese believes that it is time for us to consider the current values and find what the next level of those values are. As Senese thought about the values holistically, he heard the phrase, “Bold in Action, Humble in Spirit.” Additionally, plans are underway to have a rebranding exercise towards changing the seal and official logo of the University.
The plan which has been revealed since October 2018, focuses on three areas of interest and contains three goals within each interest. These areas, also referred to as themes include the Culture, Academics, and Growth of the university.
After the presentation, the floor was opened to the attendees of the Town Hall meeting, many voicing concerns relative to their work areas. Credit: John Hall
One of the goals focuses on Culture, looking at current and prospective students at the university. In addition to this, there will be an improvement of services across the departments working within the university. Finally, a technological plan will be put in place by UTS.
The plan will also build itself around Employee Vitality. This will focus on a professional development system, talent management and the development of a University Staff Council.
The third goal focuses on Retention. Within this goal, the development of an honors college, creation of a university college as well as focus on student advising will be the priorities.
Credit: John Hall
Dr. Senese is focused on creating a “One University Community,” bridging the gap between activities and processes occurring on the University Campus, and the Online/Worldwide Community.
It is evident that several plans and strategies are underway to continue to grow and develop the spirit and capacity of the University Community while nurturing good relationships with those around it.
