Michael Acosta

President-elect Jose E. Coll outlines his foundational approach and key priorities for Western New Mexico University. His vision centers on fostering a comprehensive educational experience encompassing liberal arts, trades, and applied sciences. Key strategic areas include bridging education and industry to meet state workforce needs, providing holistic support for students, and upholding shared governance through transparency and collaboration. The overall aim is to position the university as a steward of regional identity and a powerful engine for social mobility.

This document outlines strategic opportunities for Western New Mexico University, focusing on rebuilding trust and institutional reputation through transparent leadership and shared governance. Key priorities include championing student retention and success, effectively navigating both online and traditional institutional identities, and fostering a culture of collaboration. The plan also emphasizes advocating for equitable funding, diversifying revenue streams through partnerships, and addressing critical infrastructure and IT modernization needs. The overall vision is to provide transformative leadership and guide the university's identity and sustainability in a changing higher education landscape.

The review focuses on the Special Education Program's role in training teachers for P-12 settings, its alignment with state licensure requirements, and its support for teachers in rural New Mexico schools. It emphasizes the importance of providing high-quality undergraduate and graduate Sped programming, including theoretical foundations, practical application opportunities, instructional supports, and partnerships with school districts. The review also addresses the need to recruit and retain qualified Special Education teachers, explore opportunities for GATE endorsement courses, and provide ongoing support for students pursuing Special Education degrees and licensure.

The strategic plan focuses on aligning programs with WNMU's strategic plan, increasing enrollment and graduation rates, and modernizing programs. Key areas include reinforcing ethics, multicultural fluency, and 21st-century skills, supporting local initiatives, developing cross-disciplinary curricula, and promoting experiential learning through internships. The plan aims to enhance data-driven decision-making, stakeholder relationships, and program efficiencies to meet ACBSP accreditation requirements and improve student outcomes.

The Kinesiology Program's mission is to prepare health and wellness professionals through a multidisciplinary approach that promotes lifelong learning and community quality of life improvement. The vision is to offer a rigorous, innovative curriculum fostering knowledge, leadership, social responsibility, holistic values, and cultural diversity. Key goals include instilling a strong work ethic, promoting the application of knowledge to diverse populations, fostering leadership, and inspiring community engagement for a meaningful life. The program addresses skills for fitness trainers, athletic trainers, and exercise physiologists, aligning the curriculum with ACSM standards and national certifications to enhance employment prospects.