Strategic Plan Progress
We listened to stakeholders inside and outside the university. We crafted a vision and a set of goals. Now teams of university colleagues are meeting to make sure the Strategic Plan is a living document — one that shapes the decision-making process at Western Connecticut State University.
Western Connecticut State University is moving into the future stronger and offering more to students than ever before. Everyone on campus is part of this effort. Everyone will be part of the university’s success.
Outstanding Faculty
- Twenty new faculty positions over three years in business, nursing and other areas
- Increase in the courses taught by full-time faculty
- President’s Initiatives Fund — Phase II
- Library resources — $100,000 addition to library budget and the addition of two new professional library staff
Location
- Fundraising throughout the region
- Partnerships that enhance teaching and learning
- Incorporation of global perspectives and cultural diversity of the region
- Inclusion of academic experiences that take advantage of our location
Diverse University Community
- One of the fastest-growing public universities in the Northeast
- Partnership agreements with Sias International University in China and University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez
- Expanded study abroad programs
- Investment in recruitment and retention with new positions in financial aid, admissions and international affairs
- Project Impact, a program to attract and retain more students from underrepresented groups
Range of Quality Academic Programs
- Professional program accreditations
- First Year Experience
- Building a Bridge, a program to increase cooperation with high schools and decrease seats in remedial courses
- Every academic program assesses student learning outcomes
Enriching and Supportive Student-focused Environment
- Academic support services (e.g., orientation and programs to enhance students’ understanding of personal finances)
- More effective course scheduling
- Expanding technology in classrooms and wireless technology (e.g., Fairfield Hall, fitness centers, improvement to Midtown Student Center, 100 percent of classrooms technologically equipped)
- The Club, a new coffee bar in the Westside Campus Center
Affordability
- WestConn’s tuition is lower than all but one university/college in New England
- New staff positions funded through reallocation in support of the university’s strategic initiatives
- Investment in fundraising
- Significant savings achieved through energy conservation
- Student scholarship administration aligned with financial aid and recruitment
