Strategic Plan Progress Report

Strategic Plan

Progress Report Spring 2024 Dear students, employees, partners, donors and the general public, I am thrilled to share our Strategic Plan Progress Report; it is a testament to our institution’s commitment to continuous improvement, and reflects Western’s responsiveness to the ever-evolving needs of our communities. As we stand at the cusp of a new era, this document serves as an arrow, guiding us through a transformative journey that reflects our resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

Our strategic priorities are anchored in a commitment to cultural success, academic excellence, valuable partnerships and institutional efficiency. Emphasizing the dynamic intersection of disciplines and opportunity, we are fostering an environment that stimulates intellectual curiosity, encourages collaboration, and prepares our students for the complexities of an interconnected world.

This progress report highlights some of Western’s recent strategic projects which include: technological innovation, enhanced student services and program vitality. This report serves as an opportunity to reflect on the positive changes that are propelling Western forward. I extend my sincere gratitude to the entire campus community for your invaluable contributions to this collaborative endeavor. Together, we will thrive and shape a future that embodies the very essence of our shared aspirations and commitment to excellence.

- Dr. Kim Dale, President of Western Wyoming Community College

Steps to Creating a Culture of Success:

Strengthen Academic Excellence

ONLINE COUNSELING Contracted with Uwill Student Mental Health & Wellness platform. This initiative underscores our dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive environment that embraces innovative solutions for the holistic well- being of our student community.

HEALTH SCIENCE EXPANSION In 2024, Western is set to break ground on a new wing off our main campus dedicated to Health Sciences. This state-ofthe-art teaching facility was made possible by a grant under the Economic Development Administration (EDA), state, and local funds. This stands as a testament to our commitment to meeting the urgent need for a trained healthcare workforce.

The project, supported by a wide range of community partners in southwest Wyoming, exemplifies the collaborative spirit that fuels our progress.

LIBRARY & LEARNING COMMONS Western is transitioning the Hay Library into a collaborative learning space. By integrating traditional library resources with modern technology and collaborative spaces, the Learning Commons becomes a hub for academic exploration, research, and interactive learning. This innovative approach not only enhances students’ access to a wealth of information but also encourages a sense of community and engagement, promoting a holistic and modern educational experience at Western.

EXPANDED ACCESS TO HOUSING Expanding housing access for part-time students and families with children at Western is a strategic initiative fostering academic engagement and community integration. Affordable and convenient housing options not only enhance educational accessibility for part-time students but also provide a supportive living environment for families, ensuring a stable foundation for academic success. This initiative aligns with our commitment to inclusivity, addressing the diverse needs of our student population and promoting a strong sense of belonging within our campus community.

TESTING CENTER This new facility offers a range of testing services including proctoring tests for accommodations, online exams, make-up exams, and exams for external higher education institutions.

The center has six private testing rooms and 50 testing spaces.

The long-term vision involves the expansion of services, with a gradual growth plan aimed at achieving accreditation.

TUTOR & WRITING CENTER Within the framework of the Learning Commons Model, Western opened a new Tutoring & Writing Center. This space is strategically designed to foster a collaborative environment, facilitating interaction among peer tutors and English faculty.

For students needing help in specific subjects, the center offers an opportunity to meet with their peer tutors and secure a conducive space for focused study. Additionally, students requiring writing support have the option to consult with an English faculty member, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored approach to their academic needs.

GRADUATION (ACADEMIC YEAR 2022) ANNUAL FTE’S

FEDERAL, STATE AND INSTITUTIONAL STUDENT AID

87

ASSOCIATE OF ARTS DEGREES

37

1,696 $6,883,774

ASSOCIATE DEGREES IN NURSING

55

77

ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE DEGREES

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREES

123

54

PROGRAM SPECIFIC CERTIFICATES

38%

GRADUATION RATE (IPEDS)

HSE

(HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY)

Cultivate Valuable Partnerships CYBERSECURITY PROGRAM Offering both an associate of applied science degree and a certificate this program is aligned with industry needs, that goes beyond traditional education by fostering collaborations with key stakeholders. The curriculum not only equips students with essential cybersecurity knowledge but also integrates computer science and information systems courses, ensuring a holistic understanding of computer systems and networks. By actively engaging industry partners, we aim to establish a dynamic learning environment that enhances students’ readiness for cybersecurity roles.

POWERLINE AND SUBSTATION PROGRAM Graduates will have diverse employment opportunities in rural electric cooperatives, municipal and private utility companies, private contractors, and beyond. Recognizing the program’s impact, Wyoming Innovation Partnership (WIP) funds were awarded, affirming its status as an economic investment, highwage career path, industry necessity, and a driving force for increased enrollment. Building on this success, we are thrilled to announce the approval of the Substation program.

Operate Efficiently CYBERSECURITY PROGRAM REAFFIRMATION OF ACCREDITATION Western Wyoming Community College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. During its most recent reaffirmation of accreditation in the fall of 2023, the college met all the standards of accreditation. This result was without reservation and a reflection of the institutions commitment to maintaining high standards in all of its actions.

ONLINE PAYMENT PLATFORM The Business Office has successfully implemented the TouchNet Payment Gateway system, a strategic move that not only enhances compliance but also expands the range of payment options available to students. This progressive step ensures a smoother and more versatile payment experience, aligning with modern financial preferences and contributing to overall operational efficiency.

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT (CRM) REPLACEMENT Western’s integration of Element451 is designed to boost recruitment and retention endeavors by refining CRM and outreach strategies. The platform facilitates advanced communication and scheduling through texting and online appointment scheduling tools, elevating engagement levels. With its intuitive interface, personalized customization options, seamless data integration, and automated workflows, Element451 guarantees a smooth transition and enhanced performance.

EXPENDITURES BY PROGRAM Academic Support

FOUNDATION (ACADEMIC YEAR 2022)

$204,000

$461,904

IN NEW ENDOWMENTS

$125,189

ADDED TO EXISTING ENDOWMENTS

IN FOUNDATION AND EXTERNAL SCHOLARSHIPS

$26,629,067 AS OF JUNE 2023

$2,798,812 6.8%

Public Service

$36,006 0.1%

Instruction

$11,064,415 26.7%

Plant Operations/ Maintenance

$7,500

$50,000

WYOMING MACHINERY

DOMINION ENERGY

$10,000

$10,000

ROCKY MOUNTAIN POWER FOUNDATION

$2,417,822 5.8%

$4,044,701 9.8%

ASSETS TOTALING

$5,000

Auxiliary Enterprises

FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023

IN BOND MONEY AND GRANT PAYMENTS

Scholarships/ Fellowships

$6,519,137 15.8%

Institutional Support

$7,527,742 18.2%

UNITED STEEL WORKERS

Student Services

$6,978,660 16.9%

For updates on the progress of the strategic plan, please visit:

westernwyoming.edu/strategicplan

2500 College Drive, Rock Springs, WY 82901 307.382.1600 or toll free 800.226.1181

westernwyoming.edu l blog.westernwyoming.edu

Western provides equal opportunity in education and employment.

Learn more: westernwyoming.edu/NDS

Great Stories

“I joined the Powerline program because the industry will always be around. It’s a great line of work to be in. I have family and friends in the industry and they love it! I highly recommend this program if you’re looking to get into this great industry!”

Keegan Lester,

Powerline Technology Major

“Attending Western has been an amazing experience, and one of my favorite things about it is the marriage housing that Western offers! It’s so nice to be close to the college. It helps us save money on gas, and it makes it easier to become more involved! I think it’s a prime example of how Western works hard to consider every student in their decisions, and their actions have spoken louder than their words!

I’m so glad that we chose to attend Western, and I’m so grateful Western offers marriage housing.”

Skylynn Harmon,

Business Administration Major

“I was worried about going back to college and not having the finances to be able to get my degree. Thanks to the Wyoming Kickstart Scholarship I am able to go back to college and get my degree in Business Management. Now I can achieve my dream of getting my degree and working for a company where I can pursue my career.”

Kelly Ross,

“As a first-generation, non-traditional college student, Western’s Engineering faculty have guided me to become an outstanding engineering student.

The smaller class sizes have made it possible to obtain all the help needed to become a successful student. All of the professors are willing to go above and beyond for their students’ success. My time at Western is helping pave the road to a successful transition to University.”

Bachelor of Applied Science Major

Jose Martinez

Pre-Engineering Major, WBA scholarship recipient