Ford at Convocation: Let us challenge ourselves

Chancellor Debbie Ford addresses Convocation Jan. 11.

University of Wisconsin-Parkside Chancellor Debbie Ford offered convocation attendees more than a dozen words and phrases to carry into the 2012 spring semester. During the Jan. 11 gathering in the University Ballroom, Ford said accountability, alignment, clarity, focused, forgiveness, forward-march, gratitude, humor, intentional, leadership, partnerships, patience, refresh, and synergy are words for the coming semester.

Earlier in the program, Ford recounted the encouraging words U.S. Senator Ron Johnson said about the university during a luncheon with business leaders in Kenosha.  Ford said Johnson told the group "...they should sit up and take note of the good work that is going on at both UW-Parkside and Gateway Technical College and to see these institutions as examples of not waiting around for help but taking up the initiatives and moving things forward! He also stressed the importance of education in any initiative to move the economy forward," Ford said.

"I am proud of the role we play in meeting our mission, educating students, and serving the region," she added. 

During the afternoon gathering that featured a keynote address by UW-Madison Chancellor David Ward (to read the article on Dr. Ward speech click here), Ford said UW-Parkside is making progress to improve retention and graduation of students. She cited the 100 more students who graduated in 2011 compared to 2010 as evidence. She also urged attendees to read the    semester highlights included in December commencement program and now available online.

            Ford said as the university works toward its outcomes in 2013, priorities include:

• A successful Higher Learning Commission visit in May 2013
• Completion of the 2010-2103 Strategic Plan
• Year II of the Academic Plan with new four college model and new academic programs aligned with regional needs
• Sustained enrollment growth and
• Fiscal stability to greater prosperity

"At the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, let us challenge ourselves and one another, reveal our vulnerabilities, enhance our strengths and aspire to achieve something great. We know our successes will be many and meaningful. Our successes will be measured by the bright futures and changed lives we touch through the power of education!" Ford emphasized.

During convocation, the university honored 66 employees with service awards. These employees' names are available on the web site.

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ABOUT THIS STORY:

Story Status: Archived
Publish date: 1/13/2012

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