The University of Lynchburg Board of Trustees has unanimously endorsed Vision 2020, an ambitious strategic plan that will guide the College as it expands undergraduate and graduate programs, updates facilities, and fosters engagement among alumni and friends.
Although several aspects of the plan, including its timeline, remain flexible, the board’s approval allows LC administrators, faculty, and staff to pursue the projects and initiatives outlined in the plan. Vision 2020 is available for review at http://vision2020.lynchburg.edu.
“Vision 2020 represents the best of what University of Lynchburg has aspired to be for decades — a college that offers students opportunities that enrich their lives and careers,” said Dr. Kenneth R. Garren, president of LC. “By executing this strategic plan, we will serve more students, provide them with an excellent educational experience, and prepare them for all aspects of life in a global society.”
The primary goal of Vision 2020 is student engagement, which is supported by initiatives such as a new general education program, improved diversity of the student body and faculty, and one of the top Division III athletic programs in the country. The College aims to score in the top 10 percent nationally in 10 areas measured by the National Survey of Student Engagement. Faculty and staff will ensure that every student participates in several high-impact educational practices, such as internships, simulation, and study abroad.
To support enhancements to the student experience, Vision 2020 outlines improvements for facilities and infrastructure. Renovation and construction projects will improve academic facilities, such as buildings for science, nursing, and psychology instruction; residence halls; and athletic facilities, such as Wake Field House and Turner Gymnasium. The College will reconfigure classrooms to support active learning teaching methods.
The plan also calls for the implementation of a new student information system that will enable the College to use data to improve processes, serve students better, and ultimately improve retention and graduation rates.
The College also will work to build a culture of philanthropy that involves alumni, students, and friends of the College to support the key aspects of Vision 2020. This includes building an advancement organization that understands and promotes the College’s needs, increasing alumni engagement in events as well as fundraising, and strengthening a network of alumni who assist each other and current students in career development.
“If we make the changes proposed in Vision 2020, we will look different, and we will operate differently, four years from today,” said Dr. Sally Selden, vice president and dean for academic affairs. “Our student population will grow, and students will have an even greater experience as we foster their intellectual and personal development. At the same time, we will preserve the important aspects of University of Lynchburg’s culture that engage students in a caring community.”