Message from Dr. Belinda S. Miles: Summer Reading Resource – September 1
September 1, 2017
Colleagues,
As Hurricane Harvey continues to wreak havoc on portions of Texas and the Gulf region, our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been impacted by profound turmoil and loss. Still, even during times of tragedy, we find encouraging stories and images of many people volunteering their time and treasure to rescue and support the storm’s victims. SUNY and the American Association of Community Colleges are exploring ways that we can lend assistance, and we will share their information when it is available.
We are monitoring progress on the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which is under review for possibly phasing out or termination. Westchester Community College’s open access mission serves all members of its community, and we affirm our strong support for DACA and our DACA students. We join the Association of Community College Trustees and others in advocating for this important program that provides educational and career opportunities for undocumented young people who were brought to the U.S. as minors.
Our summer readings have covered a range of topics like data, educational technology, experiential learning, civics, workforce development, and more. Every article was tied to student engagement and success. Your comments have been insightful and may spark further dialog as we begin the fall semester.
A few articles discussed the changing experiences, needs, and lifestyles of today’s students and their expectations of college. This week’s article from LaGuardia Community College President Gail O. Mellow discusses the challenges facing students and colleges, including financial assistance, funding, and access to public supports:
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/28/opinion/community-college-misconception.html?mcubz=1
Thanks to those of you who suggested this article for distribution.
As we go into this weekend of celebration and honor for the contributions of American workers, I thank all of you for your work and dedication to the college, our students, and our community. Your work is valued and important, and we see the results of our labor through our students’ success.
It has been an exciting week anticipating the new academic year with more student presence and interaction in the days leading up to the start of the fall 2017 semester. Early September will be busy as usual as we welcome our new and returning Vikings to the college!
Dr. Belinda S. Miles
President