Carol Burton, Ed. D.Associate Provost for Undergraduate Studies

Douglas R Keskula, PT, PhD, LAT, ATCDean, College of Health and Human Sciences

Welcome

to undertake an inclusive planning process which results in the articulation of a strategic plan for Western Carolina University’s Biltmore Park instructional site which represents an appropriate, mutually beneficial vision both to meet the current and anticipated professional and graduate program needs of the greater Asheville-Hendersonville area and to strengthen Western Carolina University’s position as a cornerstone of economic and community development in Western North Carolina, generally, and the Asheville-Hendersonville area, specifically.

Chancellor’s Charge…..

1. What are the trends you see in the development of the region?

2. What does WCU and WCU’s BP instructional site mean to the surrounding community?

3. What are the most important contributions WCU can make to the current and future needs of the

Asheville- Hendersonville area?

Discussion

Population More retires and empty nesters (implications for health care)Less families moving to the area (related to cost of living and job opportunities)Livable cities and “walkable” communities are increasing Sectors• Advanced manufacturing requires a broad range of skills/technical talent• Entrepreneurial activities • Tourism and hospitality• Health care related to change in opportunities and increase in technical skills• Construction is coming back (related to tourism) Attractions to the area• Recreation/lifestyle Deterrents to the area• Increased cost of living not consistent with wages and salaries for much of the

workforce• Low paying, seasonal positions. Potential exists for advancement with appropriate

training.

 

Focus Group feedback…

NeedsTraining a workforce as the “old guard” retires Alternative medicineTraining creative arts/artists as entrepreneurs, business practicesLarge non profit sector and need for Continuing Education opportunitiesRegulation and compliance trainingClimate services Considerations for WCUHow do we fit with other educational institutions? Collaboration?Being unique in the areaNon traditional educational opportunitiesBecome quick to change and adaptable to the situationLeadership to develop a hub for business related learning across sectorsStimulate partnerships with other communities/organizations

Focus Group feedback…cont’d

• How should WCU take advantage of the Biltmore Park location to maximize enrollment?

• How will WCU organize its Biltmore Park offerings, faculty, and operations with those on the main campus in Cullowhee to ensure efficient coordination?

• How will WCU ensure that it meets the co-curricular needs of Biltmore Park students?

Discussion

WCU Biltmore Park Strategic Planning Committee

• Arthur Salido, Associate Professor – Chemistry & Physics• Craig Fowler, WCU Chief Information Officer• David Brown, Director of Fine Art Museum• Judy Neubrander, Director of School of Nursing• Kellie Monteith, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs• L. Alvin Malesky, Psychology Department Head• Lisen Roberts, Associate Professor – Human Services• Mimi Fenton, Dean of the Graduate School and Research • Patrick Gardner, Director of Center for Rapid Product Realization• Patsy Miller, Director of WCU Programs at Biltmore Park• Susan Fouts, Interim Director of Educational Outreach • Susan Swanger, Professor – Accounting• Todd Collins, Associate Professor – Political Science/Public Affairs and

Public Policy Institute Director

QUESTIONS???

THANK YOU!!!!

Discussion1. What does WCU and WCU’s BP instructional site mean to the surrounding community?2. What is the economic impact of WCU in your community? Other impact?3. Is WCU significant to a specific company/entity doing business in your community?4. What additional professional and graduate programs should WCU offer to assist the Asheville-Hendersonville area with its economic and community development agenda?5. How can WCU maximize use of the Biltmore Park location to best meet the needs of students and residents from the region?

Discussion

6. What are the trends you see in the development of the region?7. What are the most important contributions WCU can make to the current and future needs of the Asheville-Hendersonville area?8. In what areas/issues do you believe WCU and Biltmore Park may have the largest impact?9. In what capacity do you believe that WCU’s Biltmore Park location could be useful in your organization?