New Year, New Resolutions

The beginning of the New Year brings the desire to make changes or improvements in our lives and to continue the positive things we already do. Many people make a New Year’s resolution. And no, I’m not talking about resolution as in the quality of detail in a TV or computer image! I’m talking about a resolution which is the process of resolving an issue, a decision, determination, or a solution.

This year I resolve take an active role in continuing the growth and prosperity that the community has seen from LCC for so many years. In order to do this, we must continue with perseverance and focus on the number one priority, our students.

Any of you that have heard me publically address an audience; I introduce myself and respond “I am part of the best community college in the state of Kansas.” I truly believe that because the staff, faculty and administration work every day resolving issues, and creating ways to make the best possible learning environment for our students. They take our mission statement - Labette Community College provides quality learning opportunities in a supportive environment for success in a changing world - very seriously! Our faculty continues to seek ways to acquire new technology through grants and perform the latest teaching methods to engage students. Our chemistry instructor writes his own text books so students can save on the cost of their books. Our math department utilizes a math educating program on laptops and that allows students to interact with instructors and other students and track their progress in class. Our allied health departments have state of the art equipment in classrooms for excellent hands-on training.

This drive of growth has been possible because of the valiant efforts of students, top notch instructional staff, outstanding coaches and club sponsors, and our community. I truly appreciate the continued student- support from the community through employment opportunities, cheering them on at a ballgame, viewing their classroom efforts during a presentation, or art exhibits.

Enrollment numbers continue to climb as our current students re-enroll this semester in hopes of being accepted into the nationally known nursing program, to complete their certification in office technology or computer programming and gain fantastic employment close to home, or take one of the many online courses we offer in order to maintain family life and take a course of convenience.

Our Cherokee Center students realize the value of education by taking courses close to home at a reasonable tuition rate compared to universities. In fact, the Cherokee Center has far exceeded our expectations and business plan for the first year of operation. I am so pleased that our Board of Trustees and the Foundation Board had the vision and leadership to make the Cherokee Center a reality for our Cherokee county students.

Resolutions for the New Year; continue advancement in class-room technology, growth in enrollment, support of community initiatives, and maybe we can even work on that parking situation!

I look forward to the year ahead! Please feel free to come by and visit your College. I promise you won’t be disappointed. See you soon.