Board of Trustees | Photo by Abigail Abbott | The Wright State Guardian
On Feb. 16, the Wright State Board of Trustees met to discuss academic retention, Homecoming and the ongoing wetlands conservation program at the Lake Campus.
President’s speech
University President Dr. Sue Edwards addressed the happenings around Wright State University; however, she mainly spoke about the President’s Ambassador Student meeting that took place before the board meeting.
“Our future is incredibly bright,” Edwards said. “Not only did I meet students who were incredibly smart, but they were also personable and bright. They are incredibly talented.”
She also briefly spoke on the school’s partnership with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and how there has been a proposal signed that grants the base more access to Wright State’s Dayton campus.
Academic retention
Academic retention was a large topic present at the meeting Friday. Several board members discussed the topic and how important retention is to maintain.
In this, the board briefly discussed the removal of 34 academic programs. One of the reasons cited for this action was academic retention.
“The sunsetting of these programs are due to low enrollment and low retention,” Trustee Dawn Conway explained.
Conway also gave an update to the workload policy, one that would offer a more equitable approach to student success and present students with the potential for research projects.
Homecoming
President Edwards briefly addressed how the date for Homecoming was changed from fall to spring and how this change has improved attendance.
“Homecoming usually revolves around football. The decision was made to move our Homecoming to the spring to align with basketball,” Edwards said. “We have seen a change in attendance and enthusiasm since.”
Student Trustee Madisyn Crabtree also discussed Homecoming. According to Crabtree, there has been a real success when it comes to participation in Homecoming activities.
Wetlands project
Biology Professor Dr. Stephen Jacquemin is leading the way for a new wetlands conservation initiative at the Lake Campus.
Jacquemin explains that there are many different benefits to the project, including environmental benefits. In the small area that they have been working with, wildlife has increased exponentially. Water levels are also increasing.
Jacquemin explained that students who have participated in this project and others like it have seen better grades and are getting more hands-on experience.
“Our students are learning in the field,” Jacquemin said. “They are getting the tools they need to succeed in the programs they are in. It’s really beneficial to everyone involved.”
