Message from Dr. Belinda S. Miles: Vikings Forever – December 14, 2018
December 14, 2018
Colleagues,
I was greeted by several emails expressing excitement this week about this article which cites very positive data on a CUNY ASAP replication study that started in Ohio in 2014. The three community colleges in the study set out to demonstrate whether CUNY’s remarkable results—doubling of graduation rates—were achievable outside of the CUNY system. So far, the answer is yes! Westchester Community College is part of a similar study to replicate the program’s success through Viking ROADS. With some technical assistance from CUNY, we are implementing the same rigorous standards as the other replication sites. Additionally, the infusion of new funds through the U.S. Department of Education’s Title V grant augment and expands this work to more academic programs of study incorporating principles from guided pathways. These resources enable us to join communities of practice that are dedicated to enhancing teaching and learning and redesigning systems that improve performance and outcomes. It is exciting and encouraging seeing the kinds of results we could achieve in the future!
Special recognition goes to Director of Financial Aid Jason Franky and his team for their work successfully navigating the process for continued participation in Federal Student Financial Aid Programs. These programs deliver critical resources that provide access for many students to attend Westchester Community College. Our team works in earnest to properly steward this investment. Kudos! Also, sincere thanks to the faculty member who reported a suspicious email threat and Mr. Scott Sullivan and his team for coordinating a response with County Police. We were not unique in receiving the email, and the process concluded with no concerns at the college. This reminds us to remain vigilant about monitoring emails and online systems for potential threats and reporting to Information Technology or Security anything that looks suspicious.
Lastly, we congratulate the students who are on track to complete degree requirements this month, some of whom we joined at Thursday night’s Completion Ceremony. Dr. Vanessa Morest officiated a wonderful sendoff event with heartfelt and inspiring stories from our alumnus, Sergio Serratto, and our college speakers, Dr. Heather Ostman, Dr. Sara Thompson Tweedy, SGA President Ava Tapia, and Chairman John Nonna. It is a wonderful pleasure to be part of our students’ journeys. Thank you to all staff, faculty, and administrators who support them and especially the faculty members who have been helping our students cross the finish line this month.
Dr. Belinda S. Miles
President