Presidential Update: Latest Changes — Week of September 22

Dear Colleagues,

At the WSU Board of Regents meeting, I had the opportunity to share a vision for transforming our university system to meet the demands of the 21st century. I was heartened by the Board’s strong support and shared sense of urgency.

Changes in progress include:

• Strategic pillars adopted at regents meeting
  On Thursday, September 18, I made a presentation to the Board of Regent’s Executive and Governance Committee outlining a bold new course for the university built around six strategic pillars that will help guide our decision-making moving forward. These pillars are central to ensuring the long-term success of the university.
• Additional Board of Regents action
  The Board of Regents approved university leadership seeking to purchase the Ignite Faculty facility on the WSU Spokane campus for up to $8.25 million. The facility would give the campus more research space and serve as an incubator for the Spokane medical technology community. The regents also voted to establish a Bachelor of Arts in Economic Sciences for the WSU Pullman and Global campuses.
• System-wide redesign process launch
  We’re starting a WSU system-wide redesign to rethink how each campus serves students, communities, and the state. This effort will help us become the top choice institution of higher education that prepares students for the future, uses new technologies, and makes a lasting impact across Washington. To share ideas, contribute to strategic planning, and support the university’s continued success, join me for a Presidential listening session.

For more information on institutional changes, please visit the New Chapter website.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Cantwell
President, Washington State University