Dear Campus Community,
Yesterday marked the fall meeting of the University Planning Council, and I wanted to share with campus a few of the thoughts and updates I shared there.
First, as I know some are already aware, there is a bittersweet transition to announce --- One of our favorite Longwood couples, Police Chief Doug Mooney and Assistant Vice President for Human Resources Lisa Mooney, recently let me know they are moving ahead with a retirement they have long looked forward to starting January 1. College sweethearts once upon a time here at the Alma Mater, Doug and Lisa are stalwarts of our community, wonderful colleagues, and true leaders who have made us stronger, safer and better in so many ways. They have more than earned this next chapter, and happily they will remain here in Farmville, but they will be missed very truly.
I’ve consulted the vice presidents and other campus leaders about succession plans and recommendations. On the HR front, I know many of you have gotten to work with and know Shannon Meador, who has broad and deep experience in the office. I’ve asked Shannon to serve as Director of Human Resources, to ensure continuity of good service and connections throughout campus, as well as important ongoing projects. Over the course of the spring semester, we’ll evaluate the best long-term structure and division of roles for HR. But I am confident the ship is in strong shape.
The same is true for LUPD. Continuity of operations is hugely important, and so is ensuring a good fit. Rather than attempt a recruitment mid-year, I’ve asked Lt. Stuart Raybold to lead the department after we return from the holidays. That will give us time to make sure we cast a wide net for the chief’s role, aiming to have someone in place before the start of the ‘22-23 academic year. In the meantime, here too we are in good hands.
Finally, I shared news that I’ve asked a small group of leaders from around campus to take a fresh look at retention. You’ve heard me speak frequently about retention over the years, and there are numerous parts of Longwood where there is already focused attention.
But with the obvious generational struggles many students are facing in the wake of Covid — we’re clearly seeing it here, and we’re seeing similar stories all across higher education — I believe the moment is right to try to bring some well-informed strategy to our priorities and work in this area. Jennifer Green and Wade Edwards will co-chair this task force, which will also include Quincy Goodine, Mike Mucedola, Cam Patterson, and Justin Pope. Director of University Analytics Melissa Shepherd will also play an important part.
Their role will be to synthesize data we already have, look at new data, learn from a range of people across campus about what they’re seeing, and ultimately help us get as clear a picture as possible as to why students leave --- and just as importantly, why they stay. We know the personal connections they make with faculty, staff and fellow students are the essential elements for retention, and thankfully those are Longwood’s great strength. But there’s a lot we can better understand and do. This moment calls for renewed effort.
At this very busy time of the semester, and amidst so much continuing anxiety and complexity in the world, I remain immensely heartened by the important work we undertake each day together. I’m deeply grateful to you all --- let’s finish strong through the semester.
Many thanks,
TR