Blog 22: Welcome to Academic Year 2020-2021
Warm greetings to those that are returning from summer leave and a high-five to those that have endured this summer and navigated our COVID impacts and realities. For the past six months, whether it be personally or professionally, each of us have been required to make adjustments in our lives, and our virus environment has significantly altered our approach to our daily tasks and responsibilities.
Blog 21: Looking Ahead - COVID-19 Implications
Much has transpired since my last communication of 3/31/20. In terms of maintaining our students, supporting Barton employees, and continuing our enrollment functions and support services, Barton is performing at a high level of efficiency and effectiveness.
Blog 19 – Miscellaneous
The previously forwarded blog posting identified a number of legislative and State policy initiatives under consideration. In follow-up to that posting, the provided link identifies multiple initiatives that may impact western Kansas and provides further explanation as to the benefits of the Kansas Promise Act - HB2515. This past week, the HB was approved by the House and has been sent on to the Senate Chamber.
18th Blog – 2020 Policy Initiatives
State Government News –
The Kansas Legislature convened January 16, 2020 for Governor Laura Kelley’s State of the State address. A number of initiatives surfaced for discussion; along with new ones, prior initiatives continue to percolate and receive ongoing evaluation. Governor Kelley unveiled her proposed budget which included several points of emphases: Medicaid expansion, tax amendments, food sales tax relief, State Highway Fund, Foster Care, Corrections, re-amortizing KPERS, and rural economic growth.
17th Blog – Diversity
As I sit here on this icy morning I am reminded that February, the month we recognize the history and contributions of African-Americans, is fast approaching, Observance of Black History Month gives us an opportunity to consider what a profound effect African-American heritage has on American culture. This month long celebration of achievements by African Americans is a time to recognize the central role of blacks in U. S history. Observing Black History Month also allows for self-reflection and an opportunity to consider whether we as a society promote the value of diversity in this nation. Accepting diversity ask us to make a conscious effort to live in an inclusive and equitable manner toward all.
16th Blog – Looking Ahead
With the onset of spring courses before us, I welcome your return and trust that your holiday leave rejuvenated your spirit and renewed your energy.
In looking back to fall 2019, there were many internal communications that provided you with a broad array of information and updates concerning topics ranging from student matters to faculty/staff support, Barton administration and governance, and State/Federal funding and policy implications.
15th Blog – Best Neighborhood
It is likely that you have taken notice of the new screen play, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, starring Tom Hanks, and that you are familiar with Fred Rogers contribution to televised children’s programming. The Mr. Rogers series was an outstanding televised production that resonated with children and parents. The themes in the Mr. Rogers series and themes that are played out in the movie is that regardless of age, all people deserve respect, love, and positive attention. Mr. Rogers’ messages were real and filled with happiness. The themes present are deserving for all neighborhoods.
14th Blog – Communication
An age old criticism cited by employees within any work setting is that communication needs to be more effective and/or inclusive. You and I have heard this comment over the years and I believe there is a core recognition that yes, communication can always be more effective. I also believe that our actions of the past eight years has reinforced the recognition and desire to continually improve and establish effective lines of communication within offices/division and within the overall College. A document that has been commonly referenced since 2012, has been the PACE Survey (Personal Assessment of the College Environment).
13th Blog Entry – Accreditation Progress
Barton is entering year eight of a ten-year Higher Learning Commission Accreditation Cycle. Barton is accredited using HLC’s Open Pathway model. The Open Pathway is unique in that its improvement component, the Quality Initiative, affords institutions the opportunity to pursue improvement projects that meet their current needs and aspirations.