Weekly Message from Dr. Belinda S. Miles – November 11, 2016
This week I spoke with Board Chair John Nonna and Sara Fowler-Rogers about hosting a series of talks regarding our collective civic and political engagement. I will look to Student Government Association, Staff Council, and Faculty Senate to provide guidance on creating space for campus discussions on how our mission contributes to educating students in a democracy that encourages and values a range of ideals. We must continue our work in earnest to prepare our students for successful participation in our society.
Today is Veterans Day when we honor the men and women who have served the nation in our armed forces. Thanks to Joshua Gaccione for organizing a variety of events celebrating our veterans this month, including the Hall of Heroes which was on display earlier today on the second floor of the Student Center. And special thanks and gratitude to all of our employees, students, alumni, and community members who are veterans.
We have signed our first articulation agreements with two premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities: Delaware State University and Lincoln University. These monumental partnerships create pathways for our graduates that will place them in the pipeline for a range of professional careers many of which are seeking qualified individuals from underrepresented groups in industry.
Our Workforce Development and Community Education division celebrated several accomplishments this week:
- A new class of phlebotomy students began their training at the White Plains Education Training Center, coordinated by our Ossining healthcare team. Upon completion of the full program students will be eligible to sit for the NHA Certified Phlebotomist Exam.
- Our Welcome Center and English Language Institute partnered with Neighbors Link this week to assist students and their family members to successfully complete citizenship applications.
- Our successful partnership with the Westchester County Arts Leadership Association culminated with a wonderful day-long professional development session with over 80 K-12 art teachers at the Center for the Arts (White Plains). Congratulations to Lisa Santalis and her team for a day well spent!
Thank you to all members of the college who work tirelessly to create pipelines and pathways for our students to succeed. Your range of efforts, from curricular opportunities, resume writing and interview skills workshops, career coaching and counseling, degree auditing, to transcript mailing (to name a few), all deepen the work and mission of the college.
Please continue to encourage students to register for winter and spring classes. The list of classes is posted on MyWCC.
Thanks for making it a great week!