Month 1 – Prioritizing Internal Listening
Letter to Faculty & Staff
Dear Colleagues,
As I complete my first month as president, I’d like to take a moment to share what a privilege it has been to begin this journey with you. I’ve spent these first weeks internally focused – listening, learning, and building relationships around campus and it’s been great. I’ve sincerely enjoyed saying hello to so many of you. As I reflect on the 45 engagement opportunities that filled my first month, I’ve been deeply inspired by the commitment, care, and energy I’ve seen at every level of the College.
I’ve met one-on-one with executive team members and deans to better understand their priorities and hopes for the future. I’ve popped into thirteen team meetings to better understand how our internal teams are working hard to meet the needs of our students and our region. I participated in my first interview as Virginia Western’s president, sitting down with a current student for a Q&A. Each conversation has helped shape my understanding of our college’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities. My commitment to listening is ongoing and I’m just getting started!
I’ve begun building strong relationships with the Educational Foundation and Local Advisory Board leadership. Their continued support and belief in our mission remain steady during this time of transition. We celebrated our strong partnership with Roanoke College by signing of a new articulation agreement – an initiative that was underway before my arrival, but one I was honored to formally sign on behalf of the College. At a state level, I’ve already traveled to Richmond to represent Virginia Western at the State Board meeting and have begun building strong relationships with VCCS leadership, including the Chancellor, system office vice presidents, and other college presidents. I’m also actively serving on two Advisory Council of Presidents working committees.
It’s been a busy and energizing first month that has reaffirmed that this is the right place and the right time to do meaningful work. I’m grateful to be back home in Virginia and I’m more confident than ever that Virginia Western is ready to achieve great things as we build a bold, student-centered vision for the future.
With appreciation,
Dr. Treanor
Highlights
- Participated in 44 meetings and engagements
- Met one-on-one with executive team members and deans to understand their priorities
- Popped into 12 team meetings across campus to learn how internal teams support students and the region
- Participated in a Q&A interview with a current student – her first as Virginia Western’s president
- Began building relationships with the Educational Foundation, Local Advisory Board, and community partners
- Formally signed a new articulation agreement with Roanoke College
- Traveled to Richmond to represent Virginia Western at the State Board meeting
- Met with VCCS leadership, including the Chancellor, system office VPs, and other community college presidents
