I love it. There’s that special magic in the air. Stop by my office and the odds are favorable that you’ll hear holiday music. It’s a special time when both Joan and I play the same tunes. The music and seasonal continuity put me in a good holiday type of mood.
The holiday season yields a special opportunity to reflect on special events and special people. I believe the season is also a time when members of our campus community reflect on their obligation to serve our students through creative and responsive initiatives that inspire learning. The season also involves all types of end-of-semester activities. My seasonal reflection takes on a humble tone as I am honored to work with a committed group of talented individuals every day of the year.
It’s no secret that we’re experiencing dwindling financial support from traditional means. This condition has not caused us to retreat; conversely, it has inspired all of us to work harder to accomplish what we’re obligated to do. What we realize is that the economic conditions impact everyone in difficult ways, and while we work longer and harder, we keep a considerate mind on those who struggle and seek meaningful work.
For us at TCL, hard work has benefits with larger numbers of students attending TCL. In fact, those numbers have sustained us so far this year, and we have been able to survive additional state budget cuts without impacting staff reductions or service curtailment to students. It’s probable that more financial cuts are in the works, but the strength of the student enrollment looks very positive as we look toward the New Year and the start of a new academic semester. From a revenue perspective, we’re good, and we are not planning on scaling back by eliminating jobs or our continued commitment to customer service.
So, to employees, I say thank you for your hard work. We will continue to work hard in the coming year creating the magic that we all do so well. To our students, we are honored you selected TCL, and we pledge our continuing support. This is such a special place and I am honored to serve our community, internal and external, through the inspired leadership of the TCL Area Commission.
May the magic and majesty of this beautiful season fill your hearts with goodwill and peace.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Excitement Builds
There are special events happening at TCL, among them, registration is now open for the spring semester. It’s exciting to prepare to begin another academic semester. We are always eager to welcome new students to the TCL family as we continue to serve current students.
Registration is a time when I see the excitement building. The other day, as part of a report, I counted the major initiatives on which our leaders are working, and I counted 17. They are diverse. They are all important. Any single initiative could define TCL and our sponsor counties long into the future. I get excited about progress including those initiatives where there is physical evidence as some renovation projects begin.
At this stage in the life of TCL, I can safely proclaim that we turned a corner and we’re making major strides toward substantial changes. We’re having fun – and it’s great to be busy. We are fulfilling our mission with dedicated initiatives that have an impact through the jobs that skilled students fill as they graduate from the College. That’s how it works. Students arrive. Students learn new skills and they graduate with a new knowledge base that fulfills workforce needs in our community. It all begins with that time of registration and class selection. Dozens of people are involved, and I’m honored to work with a dedicated team who places students first.
In this season of thanksgiving, I’m grateful to my colleagues and our students who give us life in our academic setting. Frankly, it’s our students who provide us the opportunity to get excited about what we do. Thanks to all for helping shape TCL and for giving us the opportunity to offer our curricula as the necessary ingredient that allows change to occur.
Registration is a time when I see the excitement building. The other day, as part of a report, I counted the major initiatives on which our leaders are working, and I counted 17. They are diverse. They are all important. Any single initiative could define TCL and our sponsor counties long into the future. I get excited about progress including those initiatives where there is physical evidence as some renovation projects begin.
At this stage in the life of TCL, I can safely proclaim that we turned a corner and we’re making major strides toward substantial changes. We’re having fun – and it’s great to be busy. We are fulfilling our mission with dedicated initiatives that have an impact through the jobs that skilled students fill as they graduate from the College. That’s how it works. Students arrive. Students learn new skills and they graduate with a new knowledge base that fulfills workforce needs in our community. It all begins with that time of registration and class selection. Dozens of people are involved, and I’m honored to work with a dedicated team who places students first.
In this season of thanksgiving, I’m grateful to my colleagues and our students who give us life in our academic setting. Frankly, it’s our students who provide us the opportunity to get excited about what we do. Thanks to all for helping shape TCL and for giving us the opportunity to offer our curricula as the necessary ingredient that allows change to occur.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Extreme Sacrifice
November has importance on several fronts. We all quickly recognize the season as one that unites families for a secular celebration of thanksgiving. There is another occasion that we need to celebrate, also with a thankful heart. The specific date for this occasion is on November 11. The event is Veterans Day. Our friends in Canada call this day Remembrance Day.
Locally, we are reminded of the importance of the United States Marine Corps and its 234th birthday. There are many veterans in our community and beyond who sacrificed and still sacrifice to make sure we remain free.
Sacrifice occurs in many forms. We need to recognize what sacrifice means. I’m reminded particularly of the investment perspective that comes through sacrifice. Students, especially those who are more traditional in age, can benefit from studying the sociological implications of sacrifice. Some may call it a benefit of delayed gratification.
In our classrooms, faculty sacrifice. They dedicate their souls to encourage learning. Students benefit, and many delay personal gain in the short run for the opportunity to obtain future gains. So, with grateful hearts, let’s take this season to genuinely recognize and thank those who sacrifice for others as we hold tightly to the American value of freedom, including academic freedom, which inspires learning and preserves freedom that comes through serving our country to defend and protect life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Locally, we are reminded of the importance of the United States Marine Corps and its 234th birthday. There are many veterans in our community and beyond who sacrificed and still sacrifice to make sure we remain free.
Sacrifice occurs in many forms. We need to recognize what sacrifice means. I’m reminded particularly of the investment perspective that comes through sacrifice. Students, especially those who are more traditional in age, can benefit from studying the sociological implications of sacrifice. Some may call it a benefit of delayed gratification.
In our classrooms, faculty sacrifice. They dedicate their souls to encourage learning. Students benefit, and many delay personal gain in the short run for the opportunity to obtain future gains. So, with grateful hearts, let’s take this season to genuinely recognize and thank those who sacrifice for others as we hold tightly to the American value of freedom, including academic freedom, which inspires learning and preserves freedom that comes through serving our country to defend and protect life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Winners
There is always a good feeling about winning something, no matter the size of the reward. We’re all taught to be winners. It’s somewhat part of our culture. Today, more than ever, there are rankings: the number one auto dealer on the East coast, the number one travel destination, the best restaurant. Rankings and ratings are everywhere. Please do not allow me to pontificate on the BCS standings or on college football ranking. This is just not the season to discuss it, purely for personal reasons.
So how does an organization or a segment of the organization become recognized? Typically, there is some type of nomination process. To win the coveted Malcolm Baldridge quality award there is a huge qualification process. Those who have become involved in that process contend it is as beneficial to participate in the process as it is to win the actual top recognition. I like that. We could extend that same conversation to the academic accreditation process. In that spirit, I’m glad we recognize winning.
Today, we recognize winners at TCL. Our organization is very proud of our PILAU team. Take a look at the TCL website (www.tcl.edu) for the complete story. This group of committed leaders was recognized nationally by winning an award at a conference in Denver. What everyone does not know about this program, and perhaps others, is that there are a host of planned initiatives that led to the recognition and the reality of how this program is making a difference by encouraging African-American men to graduate from an academic program of study. Sounds simple. It’s not, and hence the deserved recognition.
The winners in this program are our students, and students are the core of our enterprise on which all activities are focused. Thank you, PILAU team, for your daily work which is now recognized by the world. We’re all proud of you for making TCL special and for reminding us why we are here: to build a better community through learning.
So how does an organization or a segment of the organization become recognized? Typically, there is some type of nomination process. To win the coveted Malcolm Baldridge quality award there is a huge qualification process. Those who have become involved in that process contend it is as beneficial to participate in the process as it is to win the actual top recognition. I like that. We could extend that same conversation to the academic accreditation process. In that spirit, I’m glad we recognize winning.
Today, we recognize winners at TCL. Our organization is very proud of our PILAU team. Take a look at the TCL website (www.tcl.edu) for the complete story. This group of committed leaders was recognized nationally by winning an award at a conference in Denver. What everyone does not know about this program, and perhaps others, is that there are a host of planned initiatives that led to the recognition and the reality of how this program is making a difference by encouraging African-American men to graduate from an academic program of study. Sounds simple. It’s not, and hence the deserved recognition.
The winners in this program are our students, and students are the core of our enterprise on which all activities are focused. Thank you, PILAU team, for your daily work which is now recognized by the world. We’re all proud of you for making TCL special and for reminding us why we are here: to build a better community through learning.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Dedication
Leaders matter. That’s a fact I consider every day. Leaders maintain an external focus and they constantly look for change opportunities that make a difference.
I watched how a dedicated group of leaders helped shape an institution’s focus this past week when TCL’s Commissioners assembled for their annual planning retreat. Leaders do matter, and in fact the dedication and commitment originates out of a heartfelt desire to serve.
Not long ago I was participating in a group activity with several international students and I had to depart due to a community obligation. Several students questioned me, and I had to explain that a large part of our American community-success model is heavily dependent on volunteer efforts. Some had difficulty grasping that concept.
America is filled with generosity. Teaching benevolence is something we all need to practice. I’m reminded of this, particularly during this time of year when some major community campaigns are in full swing. Giving of one’s time and money are important to many community agencies, including TCL. As I write this note, I am humbled by servant leaders who dedicate resources to community advancement. At the root of all success is an educated polity, and our collective aim is to dedicate to making sure we improve our standing through leadership efforts that keep us focused on the greater good. Thanks to all dedicated leaders who practice benevolence for the powerful leadership example it displays to the world.
I watched how a dedicated group of leaders helped shape an institution’s focus this past week when TCL’s Commissioners assembled for their annual planning retreat. Leaders do matter, and in fact the dedication and commitment originates out of a heartfelt desire to serve.
Not long ago I was participating in a group activity with several international students and I had to depart due to a community obligation. Several students questioned me, and I had to explain that a large part of our American community-success model is heavily dependent on volunteer efforts. Some had difficulty grasping that concept.
America is filled with generosity. Teaching benevolence is something we all need to practice. I’m reminded of this, particularly during this time of year when some major community campaigns are in full swing. Giving of one’s time and money are important to many community agencies, including TCL. As I write this note, I am humbled by servant leaders who dedicate resources to community advancement. At the root of all success is an educated polity, and our collective aim is to dedicate to making sure we improve our standing through leadership efforts that keep us focused on the greater good. Thanks to all dedicated leaders who practice benevolence for the powerful leadership example it displays to the world.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Saying Yes to Opportunity
Many times we are “called” to respond to requests that are outside of our zones of comfort. It’s not always easy to respond with engaged enthusiasm; however, when we avoid instances that extend us, our inner peace wins, and we regress to passive involvement. That’s easy and unfortunately too common.
This week I have the fortuitous opportunity to meet TCL’s new cadre of Student Ambassadors, a group of 10 students who were selected to the honorable post based on their academic success and their willingness to serve their fellow students as visible advocates for TCL and its vision and mission. When I meet with them, I’m prepared to challenge them to make a difference and, in short, consider a YES mentality: saying yes to sacrifice, to temptation, to complacency, and in general saying yes to service. Saying yes is positive. Saying yes is convicting. Saying yes, with full intention to deliver, is what produces results. Too many times I see people form the rejection position before adequately considering the benefits.
Students and faculty are the lifeblood of TCL. The classroom, dynamic with ample learning opportunities, is special. I guarantee there are life changing interactions happening in our classrooms/laboratories every day that encourage the YES posture. It is powerful and it is where change begins. Let’s strive to get that exchange outside of our classrooms where real change happens. It requires a shift from laboratory simulation to practice in the field or profession.
Saying yes to opportunity opens paths that challenge and make us stronger. It allows us to step into situations where we make new friends, face new challenges and display leadership that shows willingness. Give me a willing individual any day over a stubborn mind set. A willing nature is what exists in our students, and then one day, that willingness gets the fuse lit. When that fuse is lit, it won’t be long before the explosion happens. Stand back. Let’s always encourage and reward a willing attitude to say yes to opportunity, for the benefit of embracing the unknown and for the hope of making a difference.
This week I have the fortuitous opportunity to meet TCL’s new cadre of Student Ambassadors, a group of 10 students who were selected to the honorable post based on their academic success and their willingness to serve their fellow students as visible advocates for TCL and its vision and mission. When I meet with them, I’m prepared to challenge them to make a difference and, in short, consider a YES mentality: saying yes to sacrifice, to temptation, to complacency, and in general saying yes to service. Saying yes is positive. Saying yes is convicting. Saying yes, with full intention to deliver, is what produces results. Too many times I see people form the rejection position before adequately considering the benefits.
Students and faculty are the lifeblood of TCL. The classroom, dynamic with ample learning opportunities, is special. I guarantee there are life changing interactions happening in our classrooms/laboratories every day that encourage the YES posture. It is powerful and it is where change begins. Let’s strive to get that exchange outside of our classrooms where real change happens. It requires a shift from laboratory simulation to practice in the field or profession.
Saying yes to opportunity opens paths that challenge and make us stronger. It allows us to step into situations where we make new friends, face new challenges and display leadership that shows willingness. Give me a willing individual any day over a stubborn mind set. A willing nature is what exists in our students, and then one day, that willingness gets the fuse lit. When that fuse is lit, it won’t be long before the explosion happens. Stand back. Let’s always encourage and reward a willing attitude to say yes to opportunity, for the benefit of embracing the unknown and for the hope of making a difference.
Monday, September 21, 2009
There is a sense of magic in the air. Good things abound.
I am grateful and encouraged through educational partners in the community. This week, one of our local school superintendents, Dr. Valerie Truesdale and two of her top administrators, Dr. Sean Alford and Dr. Catherine Smith, presented a unique concept to two leadership bodies and won unanimous endorsement to move forward in their planning. On the TCL side, Dr. Gina Mounfield contributed to this bold plan. All deserve gold stars for their hard work.
Visionary leaders stepped up to endorse a concept that has core subjects at its foundation, and it takes a shot at blending high school and college instruction into an initiative that holds unique promise to participants. It involves lots of details, so I don’t want to go too deep right now. Instead, my point is to acknowledge the champions who care so much that they get involved in leadership initiatives through board service. My heartfelt appreciation goes to volunteers who serve on the TCL Commission, led by Chairman Angus Cotton and the Beaufort County School Board, led by Chairman Fred Washington.
When good things happen in our schools, both secondary and postsecondary, it is because of the efforts of people who are smart and who care greatly about their communities.
I sat and watched people process a concept called the Whale Branch Early College High School. I watched and observed how dedicated officials, some appointed (TCL) and some elected (Beaufort County), helped shape and endorse a concept that is unique. I asked myself, why do these people care so much? The answer is about leading and sacrificing. They sacrifice their personal resources, including countless hours of time, so that our students have opportunities and our community is uplifted to a higher level of regard through education.
The value of an education is not always dissected the way it ought to be. Nor is the element of sacrificial leadership, the kind that I saw firsthand this week.
My highest commendation goes to the servant leaders of boards of education for their sacrifice and their commitment to building a better community through education. We all need to recognize the commitment it takes to unselfishly serve so that others have a chance of making it as we transform our communities and the Lowcountry region. Yes, it’s indeed magical. Good things abound.
Visionary leaders stepped up to endorse a concept that has core subjects at its foundation, and it takes a shot at blending high school and college instruction into an initiative that holds unique promise to participants. It involves lots of details, so I don’t want to go too deep right now. Instead, my point is to acknowledge the champions who care so much that they get involved in leadership initiatives through board service. My heartfelt appreciation goes to volunteers who serve on the TCL Commission, led by Chairman Angus Cotton and the Beaufort County School Board, led by Chairman Fred Washington.
When good things happen in our schools, both secondary and postsecondary, it is because of the efforts of people who are smart and who care greatly about their communities.
I sat and watched people process a concept called the Whale Branch Early College High School. I watched and observed how dedicated officials, some appointed (TCL) and some elected (Beaufort County), helped shape and endorse a concept that is unique. I asked myself, why do these people care so much? The answer is about leading and sacrificing. They sacrifice their personal resources, including countless hours of time, so that our students have opportunities and our community is uplifted to a higher level of regard through education.
The value of an education is not always dissected the way it ought to be. Nor is the element of sacrificial leadership, the kind that I saw firsthand this week.
My highest commendation goes to the servant leaders of boards of education for their sacrifice and their commitment to building a better community through education. We all need to recognize the commitment it takes to unselfishly serve so that others have a chance of making it as we transform our communities and the Lowcountry region. Yes, it’s indeed magical. Good things abound.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Enrollment Soars
After the first week of classes, TCL’s enrollment is at an all time high. We exceeded last year’s full time credit enrollment by 25%. That is nothing short of amazing.
Did you know that college graduates earn about 30 to 40% more than high school graduates? Imagine what that means to the college graduate over a lifetime. At an average salary of $30,000, that amounts to well over a quarter of a million dollars. Education is indeed an investment. For many, that smart investment begins at TCL.
This year more than ever, we are placing an emphasis on student services and retention to encourage each student to finish their program of study and graduate. The curriculum planning function is intentional, and the instruction at all levels has relevance toward advancing our community toward new levels of acclaim.
TCL has a magical appeal, and it’s getting better. Our pledge is a new level of customer service and accommodating innovation that is changing the way we operate and deliver results, thus fulfilling our role in building a stronger, more educated and vibrant community. Experience our magic. Contact me if there is anything TCL can do for you.
TCL is your college. It is an investment in the region’s future.
Did you know that college graduates earn about 30 to 40% more than high school graduates? Imagine what that means to the college graduate over a lifetime. At an average salary of $30,000, that amounts to well over a quarter of a million dollars. Education is indeed an investment. For many, that smart investment begins at TCL.
This year more than ever, we are placing an emphasis on student services and retention to encourage each student to finish their program of study and graduate. The curriculum planning function is intentional, and the instruction at all levels has relevance toward advancing our community toward new levels of acclaim.
TCL has a magical appeal, and it’s getting better. Our pledge is a new level of customer service and accommodating innovation that is changing the way we operate and deliver results, thus fulfilling our role in building a stronger, more educated and vibrant community. Experience our magic. Contact me if there is anything TCL can do for you.
TCL is your college. It is an investment in the region’s future.
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