Weekly Message from Dr. Belinda S. Miles – September 23, 2016
I share an interesting PBS video I received from Prof. Klosko on the guidance that first-generation college students need for college success. http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/first-generation-students-need-mentors-get/. It provides a good reminder of the critical importance of the work we do for the students we serve. It might spark further discussion on how we approach the various initiatives underway.
Speaking of which, planning has commenced for the October 14 Student Success and Academic Excellence Summit. A team met today to set goals for our all-college meeting. We are working on an interactive format that will allow all attendees to prioritize and synthesize the many recommendations we have across multiple campus driven reports. The day promises to have lively discussion; please come and participate! Details will be announced soon.
In case you haven’t seen it, check out the new Remote Power Unit installed outside of the Technology Building. Prof. Richard Van Inwegen was on hand Wednesday with his Energy Club students to formally accept this very generous donation from Aris Wind. In addition to providing renewable energy and a convenient USB charging station near a bus stop, it will serve as a teaching tool for our students who can monitor energy statistics via the internet.
Faculty held the first brown bag of the year, we celebrated constitution day with copies of the constitution and a lecture on “Affirmation Action, Immigration, and Big Tobacco,” and Latin American Heritage Month events continue…and more! Thank you to all of the members of the community working to add vibrancy to our college.
I appreciate the time that many of you have devoted to meeting the two candidates for provost and vice president of academic affairs. One more candidate visits next week. If you meet with a candidate, please be sure to forward forms to my office. Your timely input in the search and screen process is invaluable.
Thanks for making it a great week.
Dr. Belinda S. Miles
President