Message from Dr. Belinda S. Miles – July 15, 2016
This week marked the coming and going of students studying abroad. Coming to campus was a group of seven students from Puebla, Mexico, who started a six-week intensive English language learning and cultural immersion experience. These students are part of the SUNY-Puebla program that has already brought more than 185 students and professors to seven different SUNY campuses. Our students will spend their time taking English language courses and taking part in excursions around Westchester County and New York City. County Executive Rob Astorino welcomed students to Westchester during a special ceremony on Thursday.
Leaving campus are 12 students who will study abroad in at Cambridge University in England, and study either science, literature, or history. The program is highly selective, and students will have remarkable opportunities to learn and gain new cultural experiences for two weeks abroad. Many thanks to the faculty, staff, and administrators who create these excellent learning opportunities.
Closer to home, Westchester Community College earned two “Best of Westchester” awards in Westchester Magazine for Best College/University and Best Adult Classes. We can all be proud of our collective recognition!
Finally, several members of our college community have expressed grave concern about inflammatory comments they have heard about some of our institutional operations and staff. It is worth noting here that we each have the capacity to serve as an ambassador for college and student success. When we hear questionable content about our work, let us discipline ourselves in that moment to ask:
“Is this an accurate depiction of what is happening at our institution?”
“Does what I’m hearing resemble the true achievements of our students?
“Is this statement data-informed or conjecture?”
“Does this truthfully reflect our reputation and results?”
“Are we focused on what is best for students?”
“Is this aligned with our mission and objectives?”
Westchester Community College is the community’s college where all are welcome to come in and learn, firsthand, of the signature experiences and opportunities available for learning throughout a lifetime. We are proud of the positive difference we make for our students, our graduates, and our region so strive daily to be a “certain trumpet” spreading the word about our good work!
Thanks for making it a great week.
Dr. Belinda S. Miles
President