By Jordan Beaubois, News Editor
Ever graceful Academic building on the Aquinas College campus – Photo taken by Jordan Beaubois
Recently a state of the college was held, but what exactly is a state of the college and why is it important? The state of the college is held between all members of faculty to discuss a plethora of topics in and amongst; where is the college in current standing, what is the direction of the college, how did the college get to be at its current standing, and all the idiosyncrasies that are in each of them. All the while running through the various topics whilst reiterating the mission and vision of the college as a whole.
The Aquinas College mission statement is as follows: “Aquinas College, an inclusive educational community rooted in the Catholic and Dominican tradition, provides a liberal arts education with a global perspective, emphasizes career preparation focused on leadership and service to others, and fosters a commitment to lifelong learning dedicated to the pursuit of truth and the common good.” Coupled with the vision statement of: “Aquinas College will be regarded among the premier Catholic colleges in the Midwest, recognized for its excellence in preparing the whole person to lead a life of purpose and success in service to a just and sustainable world.”
The glory of Autumn on Aquinas Campus on a sunny day – Photo taken by Jordan Beaubois
To stratify these statements along with the five strategic goals (2024-2029) that were discussed being to 1) advance the Catholic and Dominican mission and identity, 2) design and deliver an exceptional and distinctive education, 3) foster an inclusive and engaging student experience, 4) demonstrate excellence and sustainability in operations and finances, and 5) increase the visibility of Aquinas College and strengthen its brand identity. More information on these five goals can be found online at Aquinas College’s website.
Unsurprisingly finances are a topic that was discussed in heavy detail regarding not only how the college intends to strengthen both mission and vision goals, but also the five strategic goals. From endowment, debt withholding, fundraising, annual funding from donors, and obviously student driven revenue. There have been issues regarding low enrollment in certain classes which is causing a flux in student driven revenue. Incentivising the college to potentially alter perceptions on how to attract potential new students. Whether that is streamlining institutions, campus beautification, building up/improving academic programs, and infrastructure.
Overall much of the nitty and gritty details discussed in the state of the college meeting is just that. Discussing finances, strategy, hypothetical application, potential implementation, and more. All the while keeping not only the mission and vision statements at the forefront, but of more paramount importance was the student experience. Students come first, and all work discussed with the intention of being done is at the attempt to improve the student’s quality of life on campus through learned and lived experiences in and around the college.
The Saint 