MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES CHAIRMAN
The Reverend Dr. Vernon C. Walton
|
Even as economic woes assail us, Ramapo College continues to grow in stature and reputation. That progress is due in large part to the people whose inspirational stories you will read in the following pages and the numerous others whose stories of giving are yet to be told. Their support, in all of its forms, is crucial to our students. Without it, Ramapo College could not do what it continues to do; to provide a high quality education at an affordable price that prepares students for whatever career path they choose.
Throughout the year, I have been impressed by the recognition and reputation that Ramapo continues to earn. When I meet with families and business leaders from Bergen County and beyond, the discussion is about the quality of our facilities, programs and people. Prospective students are enthusiastic about our offerings and employers cannot seem to get enough of our interns and graduates. To ensure we continue on a trajectory that places a premium on enhancing academic excellence, investing in the future and enriching college life and community presence, the Board of Trustees approved the Strategic Plan, which will guide the development of Ramapo College over the next five years.
Currently, both the number of applications for the class of 2013 and the academic caliber of those applications have increased. It is particularly important that, as a public college, we strive not only to increase the academic profile of our student body but simultaneously to reach out to underrepresented populations to provide opportunities to gain access to Ramapo College.
|
While student interest is a strong indicator of quality, the College is currently engaged in two external processes that will evaluate the strength of our academic programs. Ramapo's selfstudy for Middle States reaccreditation is well underway. I had the opportunity to meet with the Middle States representative when he visited earlier in the fall, and his comments about the work of our Middle States Steering Committee and the faculty and staff of the College were remarkable. Seven study groups, comprised of students, faculty and staff, are now engaged in the data collection and writing phases required by Middle States' 14 standards. The success we have achieved thus far again is a tribute to the work that all members of the College engage in daily.
Our goal of attaining Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation is within reach as AACSB recently approved the Anisfield School's progress report. A team visit should occur in 2010 as the last major step before formal accreditation.
These institutional successes cause me to reflect on the people who make Ramapo the place it has become. The hard work and expertise of the faculty and staff and the energy and enthusiasm of our students keep the campus abuzz while the generosity of all our partners ensures Ramapo's future. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I commend to you this edition of the Ramapo Magazine, one that highlights some of your stories - the ones that continue to make Ramapo a place I am proud to lead.
THE REVEREND DR. VERNON C. WALTON
Chair, Ramapo College Board of Trustees
