Message from Dr. Belinda S. Miles: Springing Forward – March 10, 2023
March 10, 2023
Colleagues,
Our strengths introducing innovative teaching and learning opportunities and elevating student experiences are linked directly with our capacity and capabilities around information technology. The tireless contributions of our entire IT team working side-by-side with all areas of the college community have resulted in many technology transformations over the last several years: Viking Roads, Viking Success, Ad Astra (room scheduling), and Civitas (student class scheduling) to name a few. Through the hard and committed work of the various teams dedicated to these initiatives, we have transformed the student experience into something more accessible, individualized, and impactful.
Over the last several months, the College has engaged with a consulting firm to help develop a new Information Technology Strategic Plan. Many of you have participated in various focus groups, and 599 people participated in a broad survey of students, faculty, staff, and administrators. Watch your email for a summary of information gathered for your review. Additionally, an internal advisory group is developing recommendations and a full report (expected by the end of May) outlining a long-term Information Technology Cloud strategy, Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity plans.
A special thank you to the Student Government Association Executive Committee for an informative meeting this week with members of the college leadership regarding resources for mental health, improved academic advising, and other critical student needs. Hearing these priorities directly increases understanding and provides the opportunity to take action on items that can make a real difference in students’ lives.
Next week is spring break, and while students take time away from classes, the college remains active and engaged in our mission-critical work. Staff Professional Development Day on March 16 will provide an excellent opportunity for our exemplary staff members to convene, network, and collaborate around the theme, Understanding and Developing Emotional Intelligence to Create a Positive Effect in the Workplace. During the event, we will recognize the outstanding contributions of two staff members, Alex Catti (Student Affairs) and Kat Peruyera (Creative Communications), as this year’s Staff Excellence Award winners. Both are exemplary models of a students-first orientation to our collective work. Kudos to them and thanks to the WCC Foundation for sponsoring this significant peer recognition. Also, thanks to Nikki Rutledge and the Staff Council team for organizing next week’s event. I’ll see you there!
Finally, as part of our Women’s History Month programming, SUNY Westchester Community College celebrated International Women’s Day on Wednesday around the theme, Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories. I was especially pleased to hear from Joan Waldron, President of our Women in STEAM club about the inspiring presentation featuring guest speaker, Katrina Levy Zidel, who guided students and participants on the journey of “understanding how to update our identity and who we really are.” Thanks to the Women’s History Month Committee, the Department of Student Involvement, and our student clubs for planning diverse opportunities to celebrate women and those who support their work and contributions.
Dr. Belinda S. Miles
President