Terry Beattie

This Campus Master Plan for West Chester University provides a comprehensive framework for guiding near and long-term development, establishing evaluation criteria, and outlining an implementation strategy. The plan focuses on enhancing campus connectivity, improving the living and learning experience, and strengthening campus identity. Key initiatives include the upgrade and expansion of student housing, renovation and expansion of Sykes Student Union to incorporate a Welcome Center, development of a new Commons Building on the South Campus, and significant infrastructure improvements along Campus Walk and W. Rosedale Avenue.

This Campus Master Plan provides a long-term strategic roadmap for West Chester University, guiding near and long-term development through an integrated approach. The plan is structured around aspirational themes of Connectivity, Experience, and Identity, and functional goals to establish evaluation criteria and a framework for implementation. Key priorities include modernizing student housing and residential life services, enhancing dining and campus amenities, strengthening the WCU community, improving communications, and addressing deferred maintenance and facilities. The plan outlines a phased implementation strategy for various campus improvements and facility modernizations to optimize the student experience and reinforce the university's brand.

This document, presented as a Fall Address, outlines West Chester University's strategic direction to evolve from 'almost awesome' to 'awesome' through a new approach to strategic planning. The plan is structured around a '3-D' model, featuring four strategic priorities: Teaching & Learning, Student Experience, Alumni Network, and Stewards of Place. These priorities are interconnected by five key connectors: Experiential Learning (as the apex), R2 status, Student Success Metrics, Arts and Athletics Ambassadors, and Sustainability, all grounded in the university's mission and community engagement. Experiential learning is emphasized as a critical connector to ensure access for all students. The strategic approach encourages individuals and teams to 'Be Better,' 'Think Bigger,' and 'Foster Moments,' with the goal of achieving widespread recognition, stellar student success, integrated sustainability, and trusted community stewardship. The action plan is set to launch in Summer 2026, with a timeline extending through 2028.

The action plan for Westchester University aims to elevate the institution from 'almost awesome' to 'awesome' through a framework of 'Be better,' 'Think bigger,' and 'Foster moments.' Key strategic areas include individual and team improvement, addressing systemic issues, and enhancing impactful student experiences. A central priority is to provide universal access to experiential learning for all students, ensuring a competitive advantage regardless of financial status or major. The plan envisions all students thriving, integrated sustainability, and the university serving as a trusted community resource, with implementation scheduled over a two-year period.

The Council of Trustees granted authority to move forward with the change of the existing Master of Science in Health: Public Health to a Master of Public Health. The West Chester University Foundation is meeting its desired purposes and requirements and is in compliance with the conditions established by the Board of Governors for affiliated organizations.