Efficiency reviews precede strategic planning

For most of the past academic year, the college has been involved in a comprehensive efficiency review process, examining all key areas of the institution: athletics, administration and academics.

“This is part of our ongoing work to ensure that the college is poised to thrive in the years ahead,” said President Susanna Baxter. “Led by the Institutional Planning Committee, a thoughtful, collaborative and careful process has brought us to this point.”

In April, the Board of Trustees approved a series of recommendations growing out of these reviews. Among the changes was the removal of majors and minors that have shown very little demand from LaGrange students. While this will have a minimal impact upon the student population—and anyone now in a major program will be able to complete it—there will be consequences for staffing. However, no faculty positions will be affected until the 2022-23 academic year.

Other board decisions included discontinuing the swimming and women’s lacrosse athletic programs, which had not attracted great student interest, and realigning some staff areas, all with the aim to better serve LC students.

While the administrative review process is ongoing, the focus will now shift to crafting a new strategic plan. According to President Baxter, the goal is to have a complete plan ready for Board approval in April 2022.

“I am looking forward to beginning an inclusive strategic planning process that will propel us forward and help us become an even more student-centered institution,” she said.