From the President Providing access to higher education and creating pathways for student success are two of our guiding principles here at Central Washington University. Above all, we believe everyone should have an abundance of opportunities to create a better future for themselves and their families. While our foundation is strong and our intentions are true, there continue to be too many barriers preventing current and prospective students from achieving their academic and professional goals. As we live into our Vision to be a model learning community of equity and belonging, our Strategic Plan provides us with a roadmap to overcome these obstacles and create a new trajectory for CWU and the communities we serve. First, we need to impress upon more people how a degree from Central can improve their lives. Washington currently has the third-lowest college-going population in the nation, and we intend to change this dynamic through increased community engagement and student success initiatives. Second, we must address the disparity in educational attainment among racial and ethnic minorities in Central Washington. We must also be a strong partner with school districts, community and technical colleges, other four-year institutions, and many of our partners across industry, government, and the nonprofit sector to enhance the pursuit of all opportunities available to students after they graduate high school.
As CWU looks to bridge these gaps, we have identified opportunities through our state-leading College in the High School program and a series of economic and community development initiatives. Informing more students about the financial assistance programs available to them will be another priority for us as we look to provide more opportunities to underserved communities and work toward becoming a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). We know there will be challenges ahead as we implement our new Vision, Mission, Values, and Strategic Plan. With an abundance mindset and a focus on adaptive leadership, we will expand culturally sustaining practices and invest in our students’ holistic well-being. CWU’s future is strong.
Vision Central Washington University will be a model learning community of equity and belonging.
Mission In order to build a community of equity and belonging, Central Washington University nurtures culturally sustaining practices that expand access and success to all students. We are committed to fostering high impact practices, sustainability, and authentic community partnerships that are grounded in meaningful relationships.
I look forward to doing the hard work it will require to put our plan into practice.
Sincerely,
Jim Wohlpart
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