By now we have heard and read about the unfortunate and difficult decisions coming from a pillar of education in our community, Kentucky Wesleyan College. As a current faculty member, it’s not been easy nor enjoyable to witness. However, I am both amused and confused by a recent letter to the editor written by a remote instructor writing about the current situation. I am concerned that Dr. Owen may not have the full picture, not being on campus and interacting with on-campus faculty, staff, and students on a regular basis.
In a time of higher-education upheaval it almost seems like “survival of the fittest.” I have witnessed the current KWC administration navigate the tumultuous waters that many small-private institutions now face, low enrollments, retention, the after-effects of COVID, and a public disenchanted with higher education. Personally, I have been impressed with how our current administration has handled these issues and propelled KWC forward. For instance, not a few months into Dr. Mitzel’s presidency at Kentucky Wesleyan, the nation was grappling with COVID. Educational institutions were fraught with unthinkable decisions on shifting to remote learning. I applauded KWC’s response then, and I applaud it now. The vast and immediate messaging demonstrated by the institutions’ leadership allowed for KWC to fight through the pandemic and in a few years, return to normal in-person instruction stronger and more robust.
Now, it seems KWC has its back up against the wall again. Budget concerns are never easy topics to discuss, especially with as many stakeholders at play at an institution such as Kentucky Wesleyan College. Not only does the administration have to think of the students, staff, and faculty involved, but the message needs to be disseminated to other stakeholders including Owensboro, Daviess County, Western Kentucky, and regions beyond…including a growing international student pool. This takes time. Time to formulate a plan of action that secures a future. Time to communicate to those directly and indirectly affected. Time to reflect and move forward.
The issues facing higher education are challenging for all institutions. Yes, some have seen incredible growth despite all the negative circumstances. Some of these institutions can easily maneuver to the growing desire for online course delivery, other colleges and universities have deep, healthy endowments that can cover budgetary concerns. However, lower enrollments, even by the smallest amounts can have catastrophic effects. These issues seem magnified when attributed to small, private institutions, like our own.
I am encouraged by the leadership of Kentucky Wesleyan. We can look to its response to the array of past issues and see a team that is devoted to the success and overall health of the College. Current circumstances need the same focused, determined guidance to elicit similar outcomes. This is no easy task. However, in order to remain successful, change is inevitable. Perhaps it’s a time for self-reflection as an institution, what does it mean to be a “liberal arts college”? It’s always a good idea to reconsider your mission, your purpose, and what you can offer to the community around you.
I agree, this is the beginning for Kentucky Wesleyan College. The beginning of a stronger future. It is the Wesleyan Way!
Written by
Andrew Bolin, PhD
