Processes (P)

5P2 Seeking Future Opportunities and Building and Sustaining a Learning Environment

Western is a rapidly emerging institution (O1). The following key changes suggest how Western is maturing and some of the processes involved.

• After Western became a university (in 2005), the Faculty Senate set up the ad hoc Graduate Study Task Force composed of faculty and staff to begin the process of developing graduate policies and procedures in alignment with regional and state needs.
• Western sustains the learning environment through technology and faculty expertise. Faculty stays current in fields of expertise and contributes to their professions.
• Western combined the Academic Affairs and Student Affairs Offices in 2003 to support better student learning (1P9, 1P10, and 3P1).
• Western collaborates and partners with the community in research and development initiatives.
• In 2004, Institutional Advancement expanded to include a Director of Development and a Director of Alumni Services to enhance collaboration between potential donors, alumni, and the institution.
• Strategic Planning Implementation Fund (SPIF) funding from 2003-2006 has supported processes that included AQIP Projects and Strategic Initiatives.