Despite cuts, Coastal Carolina University remains strong and thriving
By now I am sure nearly everyone on campus has heard about the fiscal situation we face and the changes we have made. It is no secret that our economy and state appropriations continue to be problematic, but we are addressing the issues in a way that will position us well as we move forward.At issue for many was the cost savings our Board of Trustees required for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. Finding $4 million in operating funds was both a challenge and a review of efficiency and effectiveness for the Administration. I am so proud of the vice presidents who spent countless hours reviewing their operations, determining where areas of improvements could be made, and making recommendations to achieve this directive. These efforts paid dividends, as we are reducing bureaucracy and moving forward in creating an exceptional culture of a “personal touch.”
As a result of this process, several Coastal Carolina University staff members will be leaving the University. We want to thank them for their dedication to CCU and wish them well as they move on to new endeavors. While the past few months have been emotional and hectic for so many on our campus, let’s take a deep breath, move beyond the budgetary stress, and be positive about our future.
We have a thriving institution and we remain strong in our enrollment. Thanks to so many on our campus, we are an institution in demand. Why is this so? There are many reasons. We do offer highly sought-after quality educational programs. We are located in a wonderful, desirable and attractive part of the state. And we provide a “personal touch” that our students appreciate. I hear over and over again how thankful our students and their families are of the atmosphere on our campus. We not only talk about serving our students, we deliver. Rarely does a week go by that I don’t receive an e-mail or phone call from someone commending a member of our campus community for “going the extra mile.” It’s this culture, this attitude which defines us. Does that mean we are perfect and can sit back on our laurels? Of course not. It does mean that there are many individuals on this campus who care, and who teach us every day that we are here for one primary reason—to serve others. We are so very proud of them—and we need to emulate these individuals in all that we do.
As we move forward, let’s make a concerted effort to see the bright future that lies ahead for Coastal Carolina University. Let’s be thankful for the good fortune that many of our colleagues at other institutions would be delighted to have. And let’s celebrate and demonstrate the care and compassion for all those with whom we come in contact—our students, our colleagues and our community.
I wish all of you a wonderful, happy, productive and safe summer.
